Should I switch from civil to electrical engineering?

Question

I just finished first year civil engineering and I'm debating transferring to electrical. I'm very much interested in mathematics and programming, and don't really like chemistry or mining, but I never liked the electromagnetism units in high school physics.

What I've noticed is that the prospect of doing research in civil is not that great... Electrical seems to be much better suited for research. Also, it seems that civil's market is stable but not very high in demand.

I always see smart people go into electrical. While I know I should never base my decision on what other people do, I'm just wondering, what is it that attracts them to electrical?

Answer 1

That's a very personal question. I would talk to the professors at your university. Explain your concerns and outline your desires. They should also be able to put you in contact with alumni who might offer some insight. You are also going to have to weigh that against where you want to live. Good Luck!

Answer 2

I agree with a lot of the comments on here. Electrical you are going to do alot more electromagnetism. I'm a a thrid year civil student so i' biased but civil is challenging but ts different there is more design involve. But another thing to think about is where you want to be in the future, this is your career, wel the whole idea of research means you might have to travel a bit. Could you do that if you had a wife and kids? I know i'm jumping the gun a bit but engineering is a serious and well respected profession  with that diploma you are bachelor/bachlorette material your priorities will change. So if you do civil you get job security  and you can work in central cities, then end up in corporate. So i'm just saying your choice will affect your lifestyle

Answer 3

Yes you should switch before you start the next semester. You can probably use the civil engineering hours you have completed as technical elective hours toward your electrical engineering degree. I believe electrical engineering will be more challenging and rewarding to you than civil engineering.

Good luck to you either way you decide to go.

Answer 4

You want to persue a career in research?

You may get an interesting subject in civil also to do research work.

If you are not able to find one, switch to elecrical engg. Form ur question its clear that you are not happy with civil engg.

Answer 5

It's an amazing theoretical field my friend. I would highly suggest it. ;)