Is this a solid plan?
I’m considering enrolling in community college to major in Electrical Engineering and minor in Math as a backup plan for becoming a teacher. This will also support my future master’s studies. After earning my transfer associate’s degree, I plan to transfer to a Cal State University to obtain my bachelor’s in Electrical Engineering. During this time, I intend to self-study Computer Science through various online courses. This will prepare me for graduate school in CS, as I’ll have four years of self-study under my belt to meet the prerequisite requirements.
My ultimate goal is to earn both a BS in Electrical Engineering and an MS in Computer Science. This approach will allow me to be versatile in the job market, giving me the option to work in software, hardware, or a combination of both while pursuing my master’s. Does this sound like a good strategy?
Your plan outlines a thoughtful and strategic approach to your education and career goals. Here are some points to consider:
Community College Route: Starting at a community college to pursue your associate’s degree in Electrical Engineering is a great way to save money and adjust to college-level work. It also provides an opportunity to build a strong foundation in engineering principles.
Dual Focus: Majoring in Electrical Engineering while minoring in math, and having teaching as a backup plan is a smart move. Math skills will definitely enhance your engineering capabilities, and if you enjoy teaching, that can be a fulfilling career path as well.
Transfer to a Cal State: Transferring to a California State University to complete your bachelor’s in EE is a solid choice, especially if the school has a strong program in your field. Make sure to research articulation agreements between your community college and the CSU system to ensure your credits transfer smoothly.
Self-Studying CS: Taking the initiative to self-study computer science alongside your degree is an excellent way to broaden your skill set. Many employers value self-directed learning and the ability to pick up new skills on your own.
Graduate School Aspirations: Aiming for a master’s in CS after completing your bachelor’s in EE can make you a versatile candidate for both hardware and software roles. Make sure to also pay attention to the prerequisites for the grad programs you’re interested in; some may require specific coursework in CS.
Work Experience: Starting to work while pursuing your master’s is a practical approach. It can provide you with valuable experience, help you apply what you’re learning, and offer networking opportunities in both fields.
Overall, your plan looks solid and well-thought-out! Just be flexible and ready to adapt as you progress in your education and career, as opportunities can arise that may shift your path in exciting ways. Best of luck!