If you are fascinated by technology and eager to join a fast-paced and innovative corner of the job market, there are numerous pathways that allow you to pursue your passion and leverage your natural talents. This versatility is appealing, but with so many options available, how can you know which degree or niche is right for you?
As you begin exploring the range of possibilities, two programs, in particular, may stand out: computer science and computer engineering. These highly respected subjects have long captured the attention of analytical, tech-driven students. If you find these options compelling, you may be wondering, “Which should I choose: computer engineering or computer science?”
There is no singular or simple answer. After all, these programs (and their associated career paths) share much in common and tend to attract similar students. Still, there are a few clear distinctions that may sway your decision. To guide you in this journey, we discuss the difference between computer science and computer engineering, revealing how these fields differ in terms of curricular focus and career opportunities.
Defining Computer Science and Computer Engineering
Computer science and computer engineering have distinct definitions that play into their differing coursework and career trajectories. What is the difference between computer science and computer engineering, then? We detail each below:
What Is Computer Science?
Computer science centers on the study of computation — both its theoretical frameworks and practical applications. This field delves into software and computer systems, also uncovering the many ways in which humans interact with computers, programs, and applications.
This discipline draws its theoretical foundations from mathematics, and after identifying specific problems or challenges, abstract models are created to represent these issues. As such, computer science requires strong analytical skills and the ability to work with mathematical models.
What Is Computer Engineering?
Blending elements of computer science and electrical engineering, computer engineering revolves around hardware, albeit touching on integrations involving hardware and software. As an applied practice, this field emphasizes the strategic design, development, and testing of computer systems. Devices designed or tested by computer engineers may be used in products that require processors or internet connectivity.
Career Paths: Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering
Strong training in computer science or computer engineering can open up a wide range of compelling career opportunities, and the outlook is promising in both fields.
While there may be some overlap — because aligned college programs often cover similar ground through foundational coursework — computer science jobs tend to involve a greater reliance on mathematical models and analysis, whereas computer engineering focuses on the practical, often hands-on aspects of designing or developing computer systems.
Careers in Computer Science
A solid background in computer science can open the door to exciting career options, including several that involve cutting-edge platforms and technologies. In addition to the expected position of computer scientist, this field encompasses various specialty roles, some of which integrate computation with business intelligence or other management competencies.
Some careers may be more data-driven, while others highlight the practical aspects of developing software or applications. Opportunities and roles worth exploring include:
- Software developer
- Business analyst
- Systems analyst
- Data scientist
Computer Engineering Careers
The most apparent distinction between computer science and computer engineering careers involves the names of key positions: Although some computer science experts may be referred to as analysts, many hold positions that incorporate the term ‘scientist.’ Meanwhile, those with computer engineering expertise tend to gravitate toward positions in which they are referred to as ‘engineers.’ Examples include:
- Systems engineer
- Network engineer
- Hardware engineer
- Embedded systems engineer
As engineers, these professionals bring a hands-on approach to their day-to-day work, with design, development, and troubleshooting typically cited as central areas of focus.
Which Career is Right for You?
Many people have the skills, interests, and general mindset suited for success in both computer science and computer engineering careers.
Ultimately, this decision hinges not on whether you’d like to make your mark in a tech-driven field but rather how you intend to work with advanced technologies. If you are fascinated by theoretical possibilities and appreciate the nuances of software or even artificial intelligence, you could be well-suited to computer science. If you desire a hands-on approach and are fascinated by the physical nuances of hardware or embedded systems, computer engineering may prove preferable.
Similarities Between Computer Science and Computer Engineering
Despite the numerous differences highlighted above, computer science and computer engineering share much in common. Both fields draw on a similar skill set and emphasize technical competencies.
Programming Skills
Programming skills form the basis for success in both computer science and computer engineering. In computer science, these are necessary for developing software applications and, often, for implementing complex algorithms. In computer engineering, programming skills can be helpful for navigating the intersection between software and hardware components. In both fields, this begins with learning key programming languages like C, Python, or Java.
Problem-Solving Focus
Both computer science and computer engineering aim to solve problems related to hardware, software, and computing systems — but how these problems are addressed can vary considerably. With computer science, problem-solving efforts center on theoretical concerns, with a strong emphasis placed on algorithmic or abstract thinking. Additionally, mathematical strategies form the foundation for problem-solving efforts.
In computer engineering, hands-on projects encourage problem-solving in an applied capacity, though theoretical knowledge may be applied to resolve these practical concerns. Often, core problems emphasized in computer engineering involve the integration of hardware components and software systems.
Crossover in Careers
Several positions are available to job candidates with either computer science or computer engineering expertise. For example, due to the interdisciplinary nature of cloud computing, organizations could potentially hire professionals well-versed in computer science or computer engineering for roles such as cloud solutions architect.
It is also possible to shift from one field to the other, though it may first be necessary to address skill gaps or even to take additional coursework in areas not covered by previous college programs. In addition to making lateral moves, professionals can leverage either computer science or computer engineering skills to thrive in management roles, such as IT manager or technical project manager.
Key Differences: Computer Engineering vs. Computer Science
The differences between computer engineering and computer science are often evident long before entering these distinct career fields. Such distinctions emerge while enrolled in relevant degree programs; despite sharing some commonalities, these practices tend to emphasize different aspects of computation while also using differing strategies to introduce students to core concepts.
Focus on Hardware vs. Software
Although understanding hardware and software is valuable in both computer engineering and computer science, these are prioritized differently between these fields. In general, computer science delves more into software, whereas hardware plays a more significant role in computer engineering.
These differences are reflected in the curricula; with computer science programs, a substantial portion of classes are dedicated to software, including not only a strong overview of programming languages but also software-related insights into computer-human interaction or software security.
Theoretical vs. Practical Focus
It would be an understatement to refer to computer science as a theoretical practice. This is built into the very structure of computer science, in which computational theory is a clear priority. Meanwhile, computer engineering involves more of a practical focus, with students spending much of their time engaged in targeted design projects. Both programs incorporate theoretical and applied learning to some degree, however — but with computer engineering, practical learning is more likely to involve hardware or embedded systems.
Job Market and Salary Differences
The computer science job market is in excellent shape, with various new opportunities driven by advancements in artificial intelligence and machine learning. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) highlights a job outlook of 26% for computer and information research scientists, for example, along with median annual wages of $140,910. A similarly promising outlook (and strong salary potential) can be found in aligned occupations such as data science.
Growth in computer engineering is comparatively modest, though wages remain strong. For this field, the BLS reveals a job outlook of 7% and median annual earnings of $155,020. Demand is somewhat higher for similar roles such as computer network architects.
Educational Requirements
Both computer science and computer engineering offer a wealth of career opportunities at all levels. That being said, a bachelor’s degree is increasingly regarded as a must-have for entry-level positions, with employers strongly favoring relevant graduate degrees as employees seek to move into senior or management roles.
Educational expectations tend to be elevated in computer science, in part due to the expanded theoretical focus of this field. For instance, the BLS references a master’s degree as the ‘typical’ level of education for an entry-level role as a computer and information research scientist.
How to Determine Which Degree Is Right for You
Now that you understand the difference between computer science and computer engineering, it’s time to choose and take the next step in your college journey. Keep these key considerations in mind as you determine which path is right for you:
Consider Your Background and Interests
An interest in technology can drive success in computer science or computer engineering, but this passion may be more focused than you realize. Consider what exactly you love about exploring or working with technology: Are you fascinated by the theoretical possibilities, or do you prefer hands-on projects that provide tangible evidence of your skill set?
Your previous experience matters, too, as this could help set you up for success. If, for example, you plan to pursue a master’s degree, you’ll want to be mindful of your bachelor’s program — and how graduate-level coursework can help you build upon previously developed skills or even address skill gaps.
Compare Curriculum
We’ve discussed the general curricular differences between computer engineering and computer science programs, but it may be helpful to dive into the specifics of these degrees.
To begin, take a close look at each required course, along with electives or experiential learning opportunities. Do the listed courses capture your interests or relate to skills you hope to develop? Do you have the ability to keep up with rigorous coursework? Be mindful of these concerns as you assess related career opportunities as well.
Computer Science Curriculum
Computer science curricula dedicate a significant portion of classes to software, detailing not only programming languages but also software-related insights into computer-human interaction or software security. Other key areas include computational theories and systems, including operating systems and distributed systems.
Computer Engineering Curriculum
Software and computational theories are far less of a priority in computer engineering programs than in computer science degrees. Instead, computer engineering programs encourage students to take electrical engineering courses. However, students enjoy significant leeway in selecting these courses and can draw on personal interests, such as microprocessor-based digital systems or engineering electromagnetics.
Shared Courses
Both computer science and computer engineering students have the opportunity to take several similar courses, including classes that explore compiler design or cloud computing. While these programs offer guidance for specific categories that students should explore (or even classes they are not supposed to take), they both encourage students to select courses that align with personal goals and interests. In both programs, seminars and directed studies encourage practical learning and the synthesis of previously covered concepts.
Online Learning Considerations
If you prefer a flexible program that accommodates your busy schedule, you could be the ideal candidate for an online computer science master’s — or for studying computer engineering online. Thankfully, both programs are available in a virtual format, drawing on immersive learning opportunities to bring core concepts to life.
Start Your Graduate Degree in Computer Science or Engineering at Texas A&M University
No matter what you envision for your tech-driven career, you can count on Texas A&M for guidance and support. We offer multiple programs that may be of interest — including, most notably, our Master of Computer Science and our Master of Engineering in Computer Engineering. If you’re still trying to decide which program is right for you, don’t hesitate to get in touch to learn more.