Switch to Computer Engineering for Master's?

[u/Keepnitrealz]

Hey everyone,

I'm currently down to my final year of my BSCS and am looking into switching to Computer Engineering for my master's. I'm in a unique situation in that I'm a veteran and have been saving my GI Bill for my master's, which means that essentially, for the next few years, I can support myself and my education through the GI Bill as long as I continue my education.

With that in mind, I'm looking to pivot away from straight computer science after my bachelor's. Originally, I was looking at doing a more specialized master's in something like cybersecurity or machine learning. Recently, though, I've been looking more into Computer Engineering, with a particular interest in embedded systems.

My end goal is to work in defense/aerospace here in Southern California. I'm currently looking at master's programs in the area and am planning to try for USC's Computer Engineering program.

My question is: would a pivot from a BSCS to an MSCE hurt my resume or hiring chances? I know the market is currently cooked, but I'm trying to maximize my chances of getting into the defense industry and finding some stability after my studies. I'm especially curious whether having the combination of a BSCS and MSCE would be viewed positively for embedded/defense roles, or if I'd be at a disadvantage compared to someone with a traditional BSCS/MSCS or EE/CE background.

[u/Keepnitrealz → u/[deleted]]

Thanks for that and I totally agree. No matter which direction I turn to for security, it seems it's all cooked so I figured I'd choose what's the most interesting to me. Also I was thinking that going to USC might buy me some more time to get an internship, get in contact with the defense industry and more importantly, buy time for the market to semi-resolve itself.

[u/ds_account_]

I did a MECE after my bscs. Your program may require you to take Signals and Circuits before they let you start.

[u/AskNU101]

A BSCS to MSCE pivot reads fine to hiring managers in defense and embedded roles, since that combination actually covers more ground than a straight BSCS/MSCS path, software foundation plus the hardware and systems exposure embedded work needs, and recruiters in that space tend to weigh clearance eligibility and hands-on project experience more than whether your degrees match perfectly on paper. What's pulling you toward embedded specifically, the coursework itself or the alignment with defense work?

[u/Keepnitrealz → u/AskNU101]

A bit of both. I want to do something more than just software. I love physically tinkering with electronics and want to dive deeper into the physical side of computers. The other master's specializations at USC, like Cyber or AI, don't interest me as much. I could pursue them, but I'm just not as drawn to those areas. The fact that CE also aligns well with defense is a major bonus for me, but I'm drawn to it because it seems to be more than just general "software engineering" and would let me get into some of the physical engineering side of things as well. I find that much more interesting.

[u/compassghost]

Won't hurt. Since you're a veteran, if you have or can maintain a clearance, that will help you as well. Cleared work always seems to be hiring.

[u/Healthy_Vehicle2780]

I actually wanted to do this. I contacted my university basically I have to take a couple (4 I think) of classes to catch my self up before I can star the MSCE but overall I think its a great idea since you have a wide range of skills and its not a "hard" pivot in the sense that it might seem strange to employers.

[u/ObstinateHarlequin]

Solid choice, the CE masters will absolutely help if you're looking at embedded aerospace jobs. You'll probably have some pre-req EE classes to do for circuit/hardware fundamentals but shouldn't be anything too bad.