Choosing Between Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at Top Indian Institutes of Technology
When deciding whether to pursue Electrical Engineering (EE) at Indian Institute of Technology Kanpur (IITK) or Computer Science (CS) at Indian Institute of Technology Roorkee (IITR), myriad factors come into play. One of the primary considerations is the expectation of placement and package, which is a significant factor for many prospective students.
Why CS at IITR Could Be a Smarter Choice for Placement and Package
Placement and Package Precedence
If your top priority is securing a strong placement with a decent package, then CS at IITR might just be the path to take. According to Tanuj and my own experience, a significant number of students placed in the software industry, with many of them from core electrical backgrounds even finding their way into the coding realm. In this context, CS at IITR provides a much better chance of achieving high placement and package targets compared to traditional EE roles.
IITK EE for Future Ambitions Elsewhere
Opportunities for Further Education
On the other hand, if your long-term goal involves pursuing higher education such as a Master's or a PhD, then EE at IITK might be more advantageous. IITK is renowned for providing strong platforms for international studies, making it easier for students to secure admission to top-tier universities across the globe.
Highlighting the Challenges in Non-CS Engineering Fields
Industry Realities
If you are truly passionate about electrical engineering, you might still find yourself opting for a CS profile at IITR due to the challenging placement scenarios in core electrical roles. Strictly speaking, a CS profile can often promise higher starting salaries and better job security in today's tech-driven industry landscape.
When many of my batchmates from the EE background were struggling to secure placements, many of the CS students not only found jobs but also received offers that could significantly outstrip what their electrical counterparts were earning. This disparity can be highly demotivating and might lead to a sense of regret for those who chose the less lucrative path. Therefore, CS appears to provide a more robust Return on Investment in terms of career prospects.
Conclusion and Final Recommendations
Based on my experience and insights, CS at IITR seems to offer a stronger advantage in terms of immediate job placement and starting salaries. However, if you are inclined towards a career that extends beyond the immediate placement phase and includes international academic pursuits, then choosing EE at IITK could be more beneficial.
Examples of Dual Degree Programs
For those who are looking for a more integrated approach, securing a dual degree program in CS at IIT Kharagpur (KGP) might be a compelling option. The dual degree program offers a blend of both technical depth and practical industry exposure, making it a flexible and promising choice.
To summarize, the decision between EE at IITK and CS at IITR should primarily revolve around your immediate career goals, particularly in the context of placement and package. However, don’t ignore the long-term benefits that different degrees can offer, especially when it comes to pursuing further studies.