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I went with geomatics/GIS (through geography, so I also had a practical understanding of what I was actually working on)
Over at r/gis , among the most common pairings suggested for geography/GIS majors is Computer Science, and many people in the field would like to have a better understanding of programming.
GIS can be programming heavy, but most people I know right now have either learned by themselves and/or are paired with programmers/systems administrators. Of course, this depends on where you are in the world. Being a developer for GIS solutions all the while being a GIS specialist is pretty rare in my network, for example.
It's a field that is growing really fast, with all the location data being produced, web mapping/delivery/location oriented apps, etc. There's also satellite and lidar imagery that are becoming increasingly available and in demand. Throw in some machine learning/AI and big data and you'll be in a field with lots of room for research if you decide to do a masters after.
All in all, it really depends on what kind of work you want to do and what kind of company you want to work for. I'd ask myself where I want to be and what kind of life I want for myself, and then aim for the things/fields that'll get me there.
Best of luck!
The double major in Electrical Engineering and Computer Science is an intensive program in which students study both fields in depth.
Learn the fundamentals of both electrical engineering and computer science while completing a single degree.
Engineering students who wish to take on a second major that is offered by the College of Engineering or by another college must formalize this intent by the start of the junior year. Learn about the requirements for declaring a double major.
Degree Pathways
Degree Pathways are a semester-by-semester sequence of courses recommended for successful completion of a degree, diploma, credential or certificate from the university. The most current degree pathway is:
- Double Major in Electrical Engineering/Computer Science
Frequently asked questions about double majors in Computer Science & Software Engineering (answers are based on the most current requirements, and may vary depending on your catalog year):
"How many hours of coursework are required to double major?"
The College of Engineering and Computing (CEC) has the following rule regarding double majors within CEC: Students with two majors in the College of Engineering and Computing must take a minimum of 15 unique, additional credit hours in their second major beyond the requirements of the first major.
The total number of credit hours for the double major depends on several factors, and should be discussed with your CSE advisor. However, it is possible to complete the requirements of the double major in roughly 130 credit hours. This total can be affected by:
- Your choice of Computer Science and Software Engineering electives
- Your choice of math, science, and statistics courses
- Other factors such as AP credit, transfer credit, study abroad plans, and so on
If you are thinking about a double major, you should contact your advisor in CSE to discuss your short- and long-term academic planning.
"I'm a computer science major. What additional work do I need to do to get both majors?"
In addition to your computer science requirements, you will need to take the following:
- CSE 211, 212, 311, 321, 322 (at most two of these courses would count toward your 21 hours of Computer Science electives)
- Additional Software Engineering electives that are not already counting toward your Computer Science requirements or electives.
"I'm a software engineering major. What additional work do I need to do to get both majors?"
In addition to your software engineering requirements, you will need to take the following:
- CSE 381 and CSE 465
- Additional Computer Science electives that are not already counting toward your Software Engineering requirements or electives.
"Is it a good idea to get a double major in Computer Science and Software Engineering?"
That really depends on you and your interests. The double major requires at least an additional 15 credit hours of coursework, which requires extra time and dedication. If you have the flexibility to consider this double major, you should weigh your options. What else could you do with that flexibility?
- Get a minor in an area outside of CSE that interests you
- Study abroad
- Get involved in CSE-related research with one of your professors
- Become a teaching assistant
- Or just take classes in areas that interest you
A double major in Computer Science and Software Engineering might be a perfect choice for you, but you should discuss your academic and career goals with your advisors before making the decision.
"What should I do if I am interested in a double major?"
Speak to your CSE advisor, who can discuss your plans and help you with submitting the necessary form for the double major.