Top 3 universities that will give you an impactful engineering and computer science education

Mechanical engineering is used in every aspect of our lives, from our air conditioning systems, to refrigerators, computers, and aircrafts. It is one of the broadest engineering disciplines, with numerous technological advancements further widening its scope and reach today.

This means graduates are no longer confined to traditional industries but are now being employed in emerging fields like artificial intelligence, robotics and machine learning. Which brings us to the connection it has with computer science. Recognised as the study of computation, automation, and information, computer science can be applied to a range of disciplines for graduates to forge dynamic and fulfilling careers in. 

Automotive, construction, manufacturing, and biotechnology are some of the areas they can venture into. Careers can be lucrative and fulfilling, and graduates have a chance to make a difference as well. Think combating climate change or inventing systems that use greener strategies. All of these are within the power of a graduate with an advanced degree in engineering or computer science.

If you are looking for a programme that can kickstart an impactful career in these two fields, consider these three universities:

Oklahoma Christian University

Oklahoma Christian University (OC) is where engineering and computer science students get the degree they need for the career they want. At the Graduate School of Engineering and Computer Science, convenient programmes, which can be completed in as little as one year, empower working professionals to gain the career advancement to become team and project leaders.

The Master of Science in Engineering (MSE) provides the practical and theoretical knowledge to increase students’ grasp of mathematics, engineering, computer science and project leadership. With these, they set forth to undertake individual or group projects dealing with the design, verification and reporting of an engineering system — all with the flexibility to study anywhere, on their own schedule to balance work, family and school.

“The Master of Science in Engineering emphasizes both practical application and increased knowledge, placing our graduates in high demand within an everchanging workforce” says Dr. Byron Newberry, Chair of the Graduate Engineering Program.

Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) students can choose to take classes in the evening, giving them the flexibility to stay on the job while pursuing an advanced degree. The four areas of emphasis offered are: Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data Science, Software Engineering. Electives offered include Big Data Management, Human Computer Interaction, Machine Learning and Mobile Application Development, to name a few.

“Our students learn and experience skills that they immediately use in their job. Hands-on lab experience sets our graduates apart,” says David North, Director of Computer Science. To learn more about the Graduate School of Engineering and Computer Science’s affordable, career-focused and convenient degrees, click here.

Source: University of Rochester (Facebook)

University of Rochester

Students at the University of Rochester learn to think differently. They are encouraged to push the boundaries in learning, question the unknown and cultivate creativity at this highly-rated private university in New York with 12,000 students and over 1,000 faculty.

At the Hajim School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, one of the nation’s top engineering schools housed in a first-rate research university, students learn through engaging experiences and environments that promote critical thinking, ethics, leadership and creativity. 

Teachers are well-equipped to help students with lessons and give support through its many facilities available. Their strong research ties with the Laboratory for Laser Energetics, the Rochester Centre for Biomedical Ultrasound, and departments within the School of Medicine and Dentistry provide students with various real-life challenges. Their work has proven successful, and scientists and researchers have made waves in the news with their discoveries and experiments.

Programmes by the Department of Mechanical Engineering lead to an MS and PhD degree in mechanical engineering and in materials science. To be eligible to join these programmes, applicants must have a general background in one of the following areas: engineering, physics, applied physics, applied mathematics, materials science, mechanics, metallurgy and chemistry. 

The Department of Computer Science offers an MS and PhD in computer science. The programme features more than 40 years of research in artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, software systems, and the theory of computation research. The MS is designed for students who have undergraduate degrees in fields other than computer science, while the PhD allows students to explore study areas like AI, systems and theory.

Source: University of Idaho (Facebook)

University of Idaho

The College of Engineering offers an MEngr Mechanical Engineering, an MS Mechanical Engineering, and a PhD Mechanical Engineering. These advanced degrees let students model, design and lead experiments to verify thermal systems, mechanical systems, components and processes. Real-world constraints are considered and impactful solutions are thought of — both of which prepare students for the vast opportunities in mechanical engineering.

Programmes by the Department of Computer Science lead to a BS, MS or PhD in computer science and cybersecurity. Here, students benefit from practical lessons and cutting-edge research, all supported by faculty members who are always ready to help. Whichever programme you choose, classes are kept small with one-on-one mentoring and interaction with lecturers. The faculty comprises experts within the field, and all hold PhDs.  

There is guaranteed hands-on experience for all students. The interdisciplinary Senior Capstone Design Programme lets students collaborate on creative projects sponsored by industry partners or other departments — a feature that places the college among the top seven  in the nation for “infusing real-world experiences into engineering education” as ranked by the National Academy of Engineering. 

At the annual Engineering Design EXPO students can showcase their professional work and technical presentations as well. The result of such experiences? Students who evolve into problem-solvers and experts at identifying, formulating, and finding solutions to engineering problems. Graduates also earn lucrative salaries of between US$54,000 to US$108,000, according to Payscale.