Chemical Engineering and Computer Science (together)

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

<p>I am a recent graduate of a B.A. in Chemistry (Focus on Physical Chemistry) and a B.S. in Applied Math (Focus on Numerical/Statistical Computation). I would like to realign somewhat and steer in the direction of Computer Science for Chemical Engineering Process Control/Simulations. </p>

<p>Here is a prime example from IIT: IIT</a> Science and Letters | Computer Science | Master of CS / Master of Chem Engr</p>

<p>I graduated with a 3.4 (also URM), strong recommendations, a few independent 300-400 level courses, and lead some research projects; however, prestige is not my focus. I wish to be in a program that allows me to do what I wish to do and be compensated accordingly after graduation. </p>

<p>I have taken all mathematical pre-requisites for CS and Chem E, as well as Fluid Mechanics and upper level math classes for the latter. I am currently learning C++ and have had classes in Computational Physics in C. I plan to supplement the need for C++ class and a Computer Architecture and Assembly Language class over the next semester at a University college. </p>

<p>My questions are:</p>

<p>1) Is it feasible to merge these two degrees and have a lucrative career utilizing both or either one (e.g. Game Developer since I would know more physics/math, and likewise, Process Engineer because I would know how to model better). </p>

<p>2) Is outside funding for Master's seeking to obtain degrees in Engineering fields for well-achieving URM's (African American Male) easy or should I anticipate loans?</p>

<p>3) My home school has offered me a position in the Spring, in which I'd most likely have time to make up deficits for undergrad classes in C.S. Should I use this as a Spring board to transfer to another school that offers the programs I want if the opportunity presents itself?</p>

<p>Thank you. Replies and suggestions are welcome.</p>

2

<p>1) I have browsed job postings at game developers’ websites before and they are often interested in more than just a degree. They want to see that you have some experience in game development of some kind, whether it be coding your own games or working on a small team to working with their content creation tools to create maps, models, or whatever. So, a CS degree may be adequate to get your foot in the door at such a company but I doubt you would get the job you are thinking of when you think “game developer.”</p>

<p>You would have much better luck at a process engineer type of job with just the degree going for you.</p>

<p>2) If you’re going to go to school full time they should be paying you to get a M.S. If they’re not going to pay you, don’t go there. Status as a URM is completely irrelevant here.</p>

<p>3) It would probably be to your benefit to do so, but some might consider such a move very unprofessional. If you can live with it, go for it, but just realize that some will frown upon it.</p>