Student Profile
Semester Admitted: Spring 2014
Current semester: Fall 2014
Major: Electrical Engineering
Specialization: Digital System Design (VLSI)
My Rating: 6/10
University review:
The university is well reputed and located in the heart of the silicon valley which means there are a hell lot of companies which attracts thousands of students every year. Being in silicon valley gives you plenty of opportunities. Although what you just heard is a generic description, don't forget you are thinking of VLSI.
Major specific review:
+ves
-> Some of the courses in Digital System Design are really good. These courses will give you the skills required for the industry.
-> Few good professors: Thuy le and Morris Jones
-ves
-> A class of almost 80 students?? That's too much for master class in case you are wondering. The university is having a financial crisis and to cover up it gives a high number of admits since a couple of year.
-> Ratio of job opportunities and the number of students admitted would not impress you. A huge number of students with same skills and projects really kills the demand.
Current Job Scenario:
-> There is nothing wrong with the major and specialization at the university but the market trend, number of students and opportunities are factors to consider. If you have even a year's experience you are good to go.
->Students who came in Fall 2013 found it really difficult to land a internship unless they had experience or good references. To give you an approximate number, around 20/80 students got internships. Looking at their seniors, many students who came in Fall 2014 changed their specialization to networking.
Suggestions:
-> If you are from India, certifications are very cheap there and there are some really good institutes. That would not only be a factor that can separate you from other candidates but would also help you during your masters.
->If you really want to get into VLSI, I would suggest you get some good experience before coming here.
I created this blog to give you honest reviews about US Universities with respect to the points that matter to students the most.
So let me be honest. If you are a fresher coming right out of your undergraduate college to pursue your masters things are going to be a lot different than you think. Doesn't matter if it's silicon valley, you have to struggle. Moreover, specializing in VLSI is not a piece of cake; I am in my second semester right now and I have seen many students changing to Networking as their specialization.
So that was my review on San Jose State University with focus on VLSI (Digital). Hope that helps! If you have any other questions related to the major and university feel free to post your comments below.
