Computational Applied Science vs. Mathematical & Scientific Computation vs. CE

College Majors Engineering Majors
1

<p>These majors are available at UC Davis. So what do you think about each one and future opportunities for employment?</p>

<p>Computational Applied Science (CAS) majors study the interplay between science and engineering models and learn numerical techniques for applying computers to the solution of problems. The major provides a comprehensive background in mathematics and physical sciences, and its specific objective is to train students to construct practical solutions to problems in science and engineering. Two strong components of the program are the development, analysis, and integration of numerical algorithms and an appreciation for the interaction between numerical simulation, theory and experiment.
Real World</p>

<p>Graduates of the program will be well prepared for careers in the information technology industry; however, the program's rigorous training in physical sciences will make graduates especially attractive candidates for employment in scientific and engineering fields. The exposure to cutting-edge research problems and techniques will also provide majors with excellent preparation for graduate study in computer science, engineering and physical science.</p>

<p>The mathematical and scientific computation major is the ideal choice for students who are interested in the interplay between mathematical theory and modern computational tools for applications. Students will attain an advanced knowledge of computer science, specifically programming. Moreover, they will gain a solid foundation in mathematics that will enable them to model or analyze complicated systems or problems, such as earthquakes, economic models or biological systems. The major has two emphases. The computational and mathematical biology emphasis is geared for students interested in using mathematics to model biological systems, addressing such questions as how proteins cluster, how populations grow, or how species and ecosystems interact and evolve. Students interested in other sciences, pure mathematics or engineering should choose the computation and mathematics emphasis.
Real World</p>

<p>A degree in mathematical and scientific computation provides entry to many careers, including teaching. Operations research, systems analysis, computing, actuarial work, insurance, and financial services are only a few of the careers that make extensive use of mathematics. A knowledge of mathematics can also form a solid intellectual basis for graduate work in a variety of fields, such as law, engineering and economics.</p>

<p>Computer engineers analyze, design, develop and program all types of information processing systems, commonly called "computers." Yet the application of these systems goes far beyond simple computation. Computer applications are central to modern communications, health care, education, entertainment and industry. As a computer engineering major at UC Davis, you'll get the fundamental skills you need to ensure your long-term employability in a rapidly changing field. You'll also work with cutting-edge technologies in electronics, digital systems, circuits fabrication and other areas.
Real World</p>

<p>Computer engineering graduates find employment in technology industries, filling positions ranging from design to production and quality assurance. Others work with companies or organizations in other sectors of the economy to implement new applications of computer systems. Graduates are also well prepared for graduate study in computer engineering and other technical fields.</p>

2

<p>All three fields are very promising and qualify the graduate for a wide range of jobs. They are, however, rather different from each other. I'm quite familiar with the concept of "computational solutions to mathematical and scientific problems", as well as "numerical" analysis. These are cutting-edge fields of operations research. There are applications across a wide range of domains: epidemiology, marketing, finance, anthropology, ecology, land-use policy,... the list goes on. </p>

<p>It's not for the faint of heart, however. Established science and engineers tend to reject these solutions. There is some controversy about the approach, and some resistance to this type of systems simulation.</p>

<p>I do believe, however, that the field has a lot of staying power. I believe it enough that I'm doing a dissertation in the field.</p>

3

<p>Thanks for the response redbeard. My son is a junior (actually will be a senior now) and trying to choose his major. He has jumped from CS to CE. These other two potential majors have caught his interest and he wants to know more. His interests lie mainly in physics, computers and math. Could you elaborate for us about the differences between each of these areas and how his interests might apply? I really appreciate your help.</p>

4

<p>Personally, I'd go for CE due to the infrastructure of the major, Extremely in-depth.</p>

5

<p>Hmm. Collegemom, you're posing a difficult question. A HS student interested in physics, math, and "computers" would have a world of learning and research opportunities in all three of those fields. Let me try to draw some distinctions--but remember I'm three time zones away and I suspect that the programs have their own idiosyncrasies at UCDavis. </p>

<p>Computational applied science is a process of writing computer simulations that imitate complex real-world systems. It can be traffic or epidemics or crystal formation. Google "Agent-based models" and you will find a discussion of these types of simulation. It's an exciting field with the potential for lots of new discoveries, new funding, and new research.</p>

<p>The "mathematic and scientific computation major" seems to be different professors--probably in a different department--working on very similar issues. I'm guessing that this is in the math department. For years, "operations research" and "applied mathematics" were the same subject. The former was taught in schools of engineering and the latter in "college of arts and sciences". The same thing may be going on here. </p>

<p>The best guide to this brave new world is Mitch Waldrup's book 'Complexity'. It's a great read, and gives you a sense of how new and interesting the field of complex adaptive systems really is.</p>

<p>Computer engineering has been discussed to death on CC. It's the hardware and networks of computers. Nothing says "help desk" like a degree in computer engineering. Yawn. (Just my bias, of course.)</p>