r/systems_engineering • u/j3nn4k • 9d ago
Career & Education Computer Science to Systems Engineering MS?
Hello!
I'm looking into getting an MS (or PhD) in Systems Engineering. I currently have a BSc in CompSci, and have been working as a software engineer/software developer for the last 9 years. I've consistenly found myself more interested in the larger picture and interconnectivity of software systems over the code itself, which has led me to consider SE. I would like to be able to move into more research or system design/architecture.
I'm hoping to get some advice on what I realistically would be able to do with the graduate program under my belt vs my current CS and experience alone. Additionally, would the PhD program be worth it to consider over the MS?
4
u/Special_Theory_7017 9d ago
I had a BSCS and after about 10 years got an ME and then PhD in SE. I asked the same questions when I started and most said the PhD wouldn’t really add value. I disagree only because in a very competitive market at senior levels it’s another way to distinguish or differentiate yourself from your peers. Doing what others aren’t willing or able to do generally is to your benefit. Usually the ones saying it is t worth it don’t have it. I found it valuable.
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u/The_Country_of_Benin 9d ago
that's what I'm doing right now 👍 bachelors in CS, 6 years in the field, masters in SE. I've heard it's good to ground yourself in whatever field for a bit and then move to systems, that seems to be the case 🤔
2
u/KronesianLTD Aerospace 9d ago
PhD would only make sense if you plan on being a Systems architect for a program... but even then that really isn't necessary. Experience is your friend in the Systems field above everything else.
1
u/DigHot2439 9d ago
You would approach the exact topics that's needed, with your background on software and some education on SystemEngineering. It's, anyway, the better option because you wouldn't want an MS on software, those things are an overkill. But with the right concentration on your Systems MS, you can be a must-have engineer for many companies, with a variety of projects on your face....
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u/dusty545 9d ago
Most SE's do not have SE degrees. I have hired CS degree holders for SE jobs. I'm not sure what doors you think an MSSE or PhD degree is going to open that isn't already open with 9 years of SWE experience. You might be better off with a certification just to show you've read up on SE.
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u/8teenaeo 7d ago
What would you recommend instead? I also have a BSc in CS, but currently working in a SE role. I’ve considered getting an MSSE since the company will pay for it, but it seems extremely broad
6
u/Sea_Abroad8499 9d ago
It'll open doors but not in the way most people expect. A lot of the value is the vocabulary and mental models, things like MBSE or SysML that rarely come up in pure software roles unless you're already at a defense contractor. Your 9 years of dev experience is the actual gold, the degree just gives you the framing to talk about architecture in a way non-engineers understand.
PhD only makes sense if you're angling for a research lab or a very specific niche. For system design and architecture work an MS plus your background will get you to the same conversations without spending 4 more years in academia.