<p>I'm trying to figure out exactly what I want to do with my engineering, because it could make a big difference in what college i choose. I would like to do engineering, but very "sciency" engineering, if you take my meaning. Taking brand new scientific advances and making new products out of them (no idea what that would be called. I just want to do cutting edge things). I was thinking I would want a stronger math/science base...? Also I've taught myself a bit of Java and it really interests me. I figure computer science would only help.</p>
<p>What about a Engineering Physics/Science (universities use both terms) degree + a comp sci degree? Should be looking for say a physics degree instead? A math degree?</p>
<p>All suggestions/opinions are greatly appreciated.</p>
<p>Thanks!</p>
<p>actually probably computer engineering rather than comp sci. Seems more versatile.</p>
<p>I think either Engineering Physics or regular Physics would be good for you. As far as double-majoring goes, CS or Mathematics would be a fine addition. Any double-major in any two of those four subjects would be doable. I’m doing CS (primary) + Physics right now (about to graduate) and it’s rewarding and fun.</p>
<p>Engineering Physics might be more useful to you if you actually want to get into industry and be making things. I’m tending more towards academics as I get further along…</p>
<p>hmmm thanks that’s interesting. I had been leaning towards engineering just because… I want to build stuff!! But my hunger for cutting edge might leave me better served in academia.</p>
<p>Well, you’ll have all of undergrad to figure that out.</p>
<p>I am going to be biased and say do the Math/CS combo…either dual or double major. At some schools that Math and CS departments have a lot of cross-listed courses that are in both departments. It may be possible that the Math program may have to be Applied Math if the school offers it. Applied Math will usually allow more engineering and CS courses in place of a few theory courses (most times replacing Real Analysis and Abstract Algebra). Still, if you can take within your curriculum:</p>
<ul>
<li>Discrete Math (ex: Combinatorics & Graph Theory)</li>
<li>Numerical Analysis and/or Numerical Solution to Differential Equations (ordinary & partial)</li>
<li>Optimization, Operations Research, Mathematical Programming</li>
<li>Numerical Linear Algebra</li>
<li>C++ and Java Programming</li>
<li>Operating Systems</li>
<li>Database Systems</li>
<li>Analysis of Algorithms</li>
</ul>
<p>You will have the basis of a Math/CS combo major. You may have to take the “B.A.” version of the math degree to free up some credits to take more CS courses (B.S. in Math requires 2 or 3 more courses at some schools).</p>
<p>yeah that’s interesting. I’m mostly just concerned about picking schools where some have top level engineering programs (and some that lack a program in engineering physics/science) and some that have better science/math programs.</p>
<p>Many years ago I did EE/CS double major - both have helped my career. Then I went on to law school and became a patent attorney. You sound like you may have a passion for inventing and may be a great patent attorney! You should look into that option (although law school is NO FUN for engineers - we don’t think like lawyers).</p>