A Comparative Analysis: Is Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) Harder Than Computer Science (CS)?
Engineering disciplines such as Electrical and Electronics Engineering (EEE) and Computer Science (CS) are often pursued by students eager for high-paying positions and intellectual challenges. These fields demand a strong foundation in mathematics, physics, and an analytical mindset. In this article, we delve into the comparative difficulty and study requirements of EEE and CS to help prospective students make informed decisions.
The Rigor of Computer Science Education
At universities like the University at Buffalo (UB), the curriculum for Computer Science majors is designed to provide a robust foundation in both theoretical and practical aspects of computing. For freshmen, the curriculum typically involves a workload of 14 credits. Over the four-year degree, students are expected to manage between 12 to 14 credits per semester. Course requirements are generally less demanding compared to EEE: only four math classes (Calculus I, II, Discrete Mathematics, and Linear Algebra) are required, along with two natural science courses (though biology is an option). The rest of the classes involve programming electives such as Web Design, Introduction to Java, etc.
The Challenging Curriculum of Electrical and Electronics Engineering
EEE, on the other hand, has a different set of challenges. At UB, the curriculum is more rigorous, with 18 credits per semester. Subjects include Chemistry, Physics, and a diverse range of math courses. Additionally, students are expected to take engineering electives such as Circuits and Digital Systems, which are inherently complex and require a deep understanding of mathematical concepts. Professors at EEE departments often recommend multiple textbooks, each with different explanations and author perspectives. This demands a level of self-study that is significantly higher than what is expected in CS.
Challenges in EEE Education
EEE courses are not only mathematically intensive but also highly practical. Lectures often dive directly into complex topics, skipping over foundational introductory chapters. For example, a Digital Logic class might start with complex circuit analysis and transition to advanced control system design within the first few days. Students are expected to complete extensive reading material, sometimes up to 60 pages in less than an hour, and cover multiple chapters within a day. Labs associated with these courses are also intense, often extending to several hours beyond the scheduled lab time. The demanding nature of the coursework often leads to a high volume of class hours, occasionally stretching from early morning to late evening.
Comparative Difficulty and Motivations for Choosing EEE
While the challenges of EEE can be daunting, many students find it rewarding due to the depth of knowledge and practical applications it offers. The curriculum covers a broad range of subjects, including advanced topics like robotics, automation, and machine learning, which are rarely found in other engineering disciplines like Civil or Mechanical Engineering. EEE students are also required to understand enough physics to design 3D solids and mechanical systems, making the field more interdisciplinary than CS. Students often pursue EEE because they enjoy the intellectual challenge and the opportunity to design interactive systems that operate continuously, such as robots and autonomous vehicles.
Support and Resources in EEE
It is important to note that most EE professors are dedicated to guiding their students to success. They encourage repeated attempts at difficult courses until satisfactory grades are achieved. Professors provide extensive resources and are available for assistance, which can be crucial during the challenging periods of the curriculum. Students should not be discouraged by the perceived difficulty; with the right support and mindset, EEE can be a rewarding field of study.
Conclusion
While both EEE and CS are challenging disciplines, EEE may indeed be perceived as more demanding due to its rigorous curriculum and the extensive multi-disciplinary knowledge it requires. However, the difficulties of EEE also contribute to its appeal, offering students the opportunity to work on innovative and cutting-edge projects. Ultimately, the choice between these fields should be based on a student's interests and long-term career goals.
Keywords
Electrical engineering, Computer science, Curriculum comparison, Hard degree, Engineering study