Electrical Engineering and Computer Science
From The Unofficial Guide to Engineering
What is Electrical Engineering and Computer Science?
Electrical engineering and computer science has become integral to nearly every aspect of modern society. These fields have given rise to such commercial technology as cellular networks, the MP3 and its players, peer to peer networks, and a variety of other products. Encompassing a large range of subjects, computer science and electrical engineering are often grouped together due to their close relationship. Each field depends on the other for the innovation and the stimulation of ideas. Electrical engineering typically refers to the hardware aspect, although it does also extend into communication theory. In addition to software development, computer science also includes areas such as algorithm optimization, human computer interaction, and artificial intelligence.
What careers are available in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science?
Electrical engineers and computer scientists are welcome in nearly every industry. The large-scale adoption of electronic equipment in the past few decades has created a diverse job market for the invention, improvement, and support of such equipment. There are many companies of all sizes devoted solely to the creation of technology. For the adventurous, small startup companies have been very abundant, especially near the Bay Area. Typical jobs include software development, research of new technologies, and circuit design and testing. Many have also gone on to pursue careers involving fields, combining their knowledge of electrical engineering and computer science with other disciplines.
Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Berkeley
Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences is the largest department in the College of Engineering and is thus able to provide students with a wealth of resources. Computing resources are readily available in a number of labs across campus. Although classes can be quite large, professors are routinely available to students through office hours and/or discussions. Many EECS professors have founded their own companies, making the department a hotbed of innovation and ideas. Students also have strong support from their peers through organizations such as the EECS Center for Undergraduate Matters, Eta Kappa Nu, and Tau Beta Pi. Currently, the Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences program is ranked third in the nation by U.S. News
