CS PhD or Leetcode to switch?

Apr 6, 2021 12 Comments

Hi all,

Background:
I have my MS is Material Sci. I have been working as a hardware engineer at WD.
At the same time I have been doing a lot of data mining and coding at my current position. I have learned data structures and some algorithms on the way.

I can see the Software/Data people making so much more at the same level and their future seems brighter. (+WFH)

Question:
To make the switch from HW to SW, is it better/easier to get PhD in CS or should I just Leetcode and learn data structures?

Will FAANG ever consider me for a position considering my background?

TC:120
YOE:1
No visa needed

Let me know if this has been answered in another post. Thank you!

#phd
#leetcode
#switch
#hardware
#software

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 TOP 12 Comments
  • Ford
    XDXo57

    Go to company page Ford

    XDXo57
    Gatech omscs
    Apr 6, 2021 0
  • How are you comparing 5yrs vs couple months? What's easier? Couple months of course....
    Apr 6, 2021 2
    • OP
      You are right; they are not compatible time wise at all. But can I be considered as serious candidate with my background?
      Let say I leetcode hard and learn the fundamentals of CS. Would that get me in the door at FAANG? Probably junior level? (Which I am okay with)
      Apr 6, 2021
    • Realistically speaking - you could lower your bar and go to any software company that may be easier to get into than faang, learn for a year while preparing the switch. Not saying you shouldn't aim for faang, and you absolutely could get in, but this would be much easier of a path than phd. Also would be an incremental approach from 0. Might be easier mentally too, instead of faang or nothing approach.
      Apr 7, 2021
  • Google
     

    Go to company page Google

     
    Have you already applied to grad school? Admissions at CS PhD programs are no cakewalk, especially without a relevant undergrad degree.

    Even if you receive offers to attend, in the same amount of time it takes to finish first year and prepare to pass qualifying exams, you can read through CLRS, EPI, and solve every leetcode problem.
    Apr 6, 2021 3
  • Intel
    Si_tech

    Go to company page Intel

    Si_tech
    No PhD needed. Grind away leetcode, build some CS 0projects.
    If you really want some formal degree, try part time programs like Georgia Tech's OMCS on the side, but dont wait until you finish the program to begin applying. Apply wherever you feel confident in LC.
    Apr 6, 2021 1
  • Amazon / Eng
    xDesi

    Go to company page Amazon Eng

     xDesi
    Amazon hires material scientists for applied scientists positions. Pay is the same as SDEs. WLB probably way better. Some positions are space related - exciting stuff and limited competition (need to be a US citizen for some).
    Apr 7, 2021 0