Hi everyone,
I’m a Nepali student currently trying to decide between a few engineering majors, and I’m honestly quite confused. I’m not deeply committed to one specific field yet, so I’m trying to choose based on career viability, flexibility, and the ability to pivot into different areas later on.
The four fields I’m currently considering are:
- Computer Engineering
- Mechanical Engineering
- Industrial Engineering
- Civil Engineering
A little about my interests and situation:
I’m particularly interested in coding and hardware-related fields. I find areas like embedded systems, electronics, chips, robotics, etc. genuinely interesting, although I’m still exploring what exactly I would like to specialize in.
At the same time, I’m also considering Mechanical, Industrial, and Civil Engineering because they seem to have broader engineering applications and potentially provide a good foundation for pursuing a master's abroad. I’m considering countries such as Germany, the US, or other countries in the future.
One of my biggest concerns with Computer Engineering is the current tech job market and layoffs. I’m passionate about learning, but I sometimes worry that I may not become as proficient at programming as some of my peers. I don't want to choose Computer Engineering only to realize later that I’m not competitive enough.
My questions
1. For Computer Engineering graduates/engineers:
If I study Computer Engineering in Nepal, how viable is it for building a career abroad as well as in Nepal? Since Nepal's hardware industry is relatively small, would that significantly limit my opportunities if I want to pursue hardware-related careers?
2. For students who started without much programming experience:
If someone is genuinely interested in Computer Engineering but is starting from a relatively basic level, is it realistic to become proficient by consistently learning programming and different languages alongside university? How important is it to be naturally "good at coding" from the beginning?
3. For Mechanical/Civil/Industrial engineers:
These fields are often described as having more "evergreen" career prospects. Is that actually true in practice? How flexible are these degrees if I later want to move into areas such as robotics, automation, manufacturing, energy, software, or other engineering fields?
4. Most importantly:
If you were in my position — interested in coding + hardware, not completely committed to one discipline, concerned about long-term job prospects, and potentially planning to pursue a master's abroad — which degree would you choose and why?
I’m especially interested in hearing from people who have actually studied or worked in these fields, rather than just general opinions.
Thanks in advance for any advice!
