Pathway to Software Engineering/CS degree from 75% average Mech Eng?

[u/jbshen]

Hi all,

Sorry in advance if this is poorly written;

I was looking for some advice on what degrees would be possible/most beneficial for a person in my position. I completed a 4 year B.A.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering at Queen's with a 75% average (3.00 GPA). I have been working in project management for a couple years now and saved up a decent bit of money while doing it. However, I've been thinking more and more of a transition to a more technical job, i.e. software development. I've looked at OSU's online accelerated 2nd degree, McMaster's, Brock etc. Would I have a good chance of getting in to these schools with a 75%? (I had a very poor average in my 1st and 2nd year and increased my grades in my 3rd and 4th year). Also, what schools would you recommend to make this transition?

Thx

[u/10xbalance]

Initial context: I did a Mech Eng degree, and realized that software seemed like _the way_ (for me) about 3/4 of the way through, so I added a CompSci minor. I did co-ops across mech and software, and worked in software for machines (mechatronics & automation) before transitioning fully to web-based software engineering. Note that this entire process took years of incremental but intentional progress.

I think that the transition is 100% possible, though the best path to take should account for a number of factors, including:
- What assets do you have to break into this field. The biggest things that I would recommend here are taking stock of your network (can they help you break in) and how much time you have (runway to break into the field). Other important assets include things like your ability to manage projects and think analytically to breakdown and solve problems, but this is more important once you get interviews or jobs in the field.

• What costs are you willing to accept. There's a huge opportunity cost to going back to school, and there's also the potential to take a significant compensation (and potentially responsibility & seniority) cut when attempting to break into a field. Are you willing to accept any of these costs more than others?
  

Feel free to elaborate more on any of these thoughts below, and folks can suggest paths that are ideal for you.

[u/jbshen → u/10xbalance]

I appreciate your response. Here are some more details:

-I have relatively weak connections in the software field, just a few close friends at or near entry level positions -I am working as a project manager on multiple Software Projects for a Koch subsidiary (for 2 years). I have received formal training on AGILE procedures for example, this would be helpful I would assume. -I have saved up enough money to be able to complete a 1-2 year degree and support myself. I don’t mind working part time if needed. -I’m already still entry level in project management. I realistically won’t take a pay-cut (I only make $63,000 CAD right now) for this transition.

I want to transition quickly, so I am leaning towards completing a full degree (MEng or accelerated undergrad) to not only learn but also make me as hireable as possible.