What Major Should I Choose to Combine Engineering and Programming?

[Micard]

Happy Thanksgiving to you! I am a high-school student and I'm a senior. I'm very interested in engineering and programming, and also space. Could you please help me decide what profession or career to choose? I mean major in college. The first thing that comes to mind is Aerospace engineering, but it is different, there are different engineers in this field. Plus, it doesn't or almost doesn't involve programming. Before considering engineering I was completely sure I was going to become a computer programmer. I have skills in both programming and some engineering, I have done some projects with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, and did stuff myself like Tesla Coils (just for fun). I want my job to involve a descent amount of time programming and also engineering. I like making stuff or thinking about how to make stuff, like how to make an engine (I have a project of a rocket controlled by raspberry pi with a diy engine, that can stabilize the rocket etc). And I also like space. Well, this is more optional. If you can give me some suggestions that don't include space - it's fine. Thank you in advance!

 

[Timo]

A friend of mine recently came up with the theory: "If you are good with computers, no matter what field you do your degree in you will always end up programing". Sounds silly, but I did not have a counter-example at hand (in fact I actively try to get away from programming but always end up doing it). I am pretty sure that if you want to program you will find a lot of opportunities to do so in engineering.

 

[JakeBrodskyPE]

Programming is a necessary skill for most engineers. They usually don't have to be exceptionally good or organized about it, but they do need to be competent. What separates engineers from programmers is that along with basic programming skills, they have to know about the things they're programming for.

If you like both knowing about the things you build and programming for them, I suggest a focus on robotics, or control systems. This field is fairly heavy on math, but it can also be very practical, hands-on, and generally such engineers earn decent salaries.

Fair warning: I am a control systems engineer. I have an electrical engineering degree. That's my bias.

 

[Micard]

Thank you for the replies! Much appreciate it!

 

[Matrix0]

First of all, Happy Thanksgiving to you as well! It sounds like you have a lot of interests and skills in both engineering and programming, which is great. My suggestion would be to explore different majors and career paths that combine both of these interests. Aerospace engineering may not involve as much programming, but there are other engineering fields that do, such as computer engineering or mechatronics engineering.

You could also consider pursuing a degree in computer science with a focus on robotics or artificial intelligence, which would allow you to combine your interests in engineering and programming. Another option could be to major in mechanical engineering and take electives in computer science or programming to gain a more well-rounded skill set.

As for your interest in space, there are many career opportunities within the aerospace industry that involve both engineering and programming, such as spacecraft design, satellite operations, and space exploration technology. You could also consider working for a company like NASA or SpaceX, where you can use your skills in engineering and programming to contribute to space exploration.

Ultimately, my advice would be to continue exploring your interests and gaining experience through projects and internships. This will help you narrow down your options and find a career path that aligns with your passions and skills. Best of luck in your future endeavors!