Computer engineering vs computer science - Key Differences

Mar 21, 2024

What is Computer Engineering?

Computer engineering is nothing but the process of designing and building connected computer hardware. Computer engineers are solely and completely responsible for the creation of hardware systems that are used throughout the world. Everything that involves computer components such as laptops, desktops, cell phones, and even gaming systems falls under the category of computer engineering.

Apart from designing and developing computer hardware here are some of the other responsibilities that a computer engineer needs to fulfill:

• Testing and analyzing computer system
• Ensuring both software and hardware work together

Computer engineers tend to integrate both software and hardware and work with output devices and memory chips. As a computer engineer, you might also come across speech processing or artificial intelligence and its usage.

What is Computer Science?

When you compare computer engineering vs computer science, computer science can be said to be the study of all modern aspects of computers, however, the main focus will be on software. In simple terms, you can also say that computer scientists innovate complex software systems, machine-based algorithms, and more such aspects.

As a computer scientist, you will design large-scale software systems, and ML algorithms and use multiple advanced programming skills to innovate and solve problems. As a computer science student, you will also learn more about hardware, software, and computer system performance. Some of the courses that are included in the computer science major can be included as follows:

• Web design
• Robotics
• Game design
• Programming
• Algorithms
• Data analysis

Educational Background

At first, when you look at computer engineering vs computer science it may seem like the same. Both disciplines require an in-depth understanding of software and hardware programming based on their respective computer engineering vs. computer science difficulty. Students also need to have proper knowledge of various OS and networks apart from having a critical eye for solutions using cutting-edge technology. However, both of them have various academic requirements and prerequisites. Here is a detailed idea of how the requirements vary and what the curriculum consists of.

Computer Engineering program

There can be varying levels of difficulty when you compare the Computer engineering vs. computer science difficulty levels in the course. There are hence certain eligibility criteria that need to be followed in order to get admission to a computer engineering program. The list of the same can be provided as follows:

With its main focus on computer architecture, computer engineering degrees require specialized courses in the areas mentioned below:

• Physics and calculus
• Artificial intelligence and Machine learning
• Cybersecurity and information security
• Project management
• Electrical circuitry

Computer engineering undergraduate degrees tend to build the learners’ technical skills. These degrees may also include courses that are similar to those in computer science degree programs such as computer networks and seminars in programming. Students are also challenged to critically think and address societal problems via computer technology.

Master’s and Ph.D. programs on the other hand offer theory-based coursework while also emphasizing hands-on application of the same. Learners in these programs often take part in research projects or thesis completion. 

Computer Science program

The eligibility criteria for pursuing a computer science program based on the computer engineering vs. computer science difficulty levels can differ from one course to another. Here is a detailed list of the same which specifies the eligibility criteria and gives you an idea of the list of courses.

Computer science coursework tends to be varied and much broader while covering topics such as follows:

• Web applications and graphics
• Design thinking
• Operating systems and computer networks
• Programming including Python, C++, and other coding languages
• Software development and software engineering

At the undergraduate level, a computer science bachelor’s degree will typically include a set of core classes. These courses mainly cover computer organization, algorithms, general mathematics, and programming. Computer science students may also select specific topics such as artificial intelligence, network security, and machine learning.

Students who later on enroll in master’s in computer science or higher can expect coursework related to the areas mentioned above. They must also select an area they want expertise in. 

Core Focus Areas

While both the fields of computer engineering and computer science tend to focus on computer-based applications certain computer engineering vs. computer science curriculum components may differ in both of these courses. Here is a detailed outline of what the focus areas are in both the cases of computer engineering and computer science courses while also indicating the difference between computer engineering vs computer science curriculum.

Computer Engineering

A computer engineer fuses both computer science and electrical engineering to develop new technology. Computer engineers design, build, and maintain hardware in modern computers. These engineers also focus on integrating both software and hardware in a unified system efficiently and safely.

Apart from being a part of this integration process, computer engineers also have a hand in creating robotics, networks, and other computer-based systems. This role also tends to include a large amount of research work and development apart from taking part in testing and quality assurance. When you compare computer engineering vs. computer science curriculum, computer engineering is a great option for those who are technology enthusiasts and problem solvers.

Computer Science

Computer science in general is the study of computers and computational systems. Unlike computer engineers, computer scientists tend to deal with software and software systems which also includes their theory, design, development, and application.

Principal areas of study within computer science courses mainly include computer systems and networks, artificial intelligence, security, database systems, vision and graphics, human-computer interaction, programming languages, software engineering, numerical analysis, bioinformatics, and theory of computing.

Although the knowledge of programming is essential to study computer science it is only one of the elements needed in this field when you compare the computer engineering vs. computer science curriculum. Computer scientists design and analyze various algorithms to solve problems that are quite abstract. They initially determine what problems can be easily solved with computers and how complex the algorithms are that help in solving these problems. Later they are converted to tangible data and are used to design applications that perform well on handheld devices that are not just easy to use but also uphold multiple security measures. 

Career Paths and Opportunities

Both computer engineering and computer science allow you to pursue various career paths with varying pay grades. The explosion of data has also significantly increased the impact software can have on a business. This is exactly why there have been many working professionals who have been turning to computer science where they find in-demand career options. Let’s find out some of the differences in career paths between Computer engineering vs. computer science jobs.

Computer Engineering:

There are cases where entry-level employment is more accessible for computer engineering when there is a comparison between computer engineering vs computer science jobs. Advanced education credentials also give greater value to computer engineering candidates and potentially boost their earning capacity. Once computer engineering is completed there are multiple career options such as follows:

1. Computer Programmer

Compared to software developers who tend to ideate and manage the development of applications and programs, computer programmers are mainly responsible for writing the code and scripts that make the applications functional. A bachelor’s degree however is a must for entry-level computer programming jobs.

2. Computer Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts work in a field where both business and engineering join hands. They aim to improve computer systems by understanding various organization’s personal needs. This role however requires high engagement with business trends and good research skills. Analysts also often train others in the usage of computing tools. Employers typically prefer entry-level employees who have obtained a bachelor’s degree.

3. Computer Hardware Engineer

Computer hardware engineers are tasked with testing and developing computer systems while also working with computer processes, circuit boards, memory, and storage. They aim to make computers more efficient and work in varied industries such as medicine, transportation, and telecommunications. Entry-level professionals should have a bachelor’s degree.

Computer Science

The field of computer science has sure been booming and it now includes roles for programmers, analysts, developers, managers, and coders among other professionals. Here are some of the best career options based on the computer engineering vs. computer science jobs list once you have completed your computer science course.

1. Computer Scientist

Computer scientists tend to create new tools and technologies that help solve any computing problems that exist. Employment mainly varies based on the industry that professionals are working in. However, opportunities also exist in government work, private organizations, and also in academia. Most employers prefer people who hold master’s degrees.

2. Software Developer

Software developers need to strategize how to create computer applications, programs, and operating systems. This role will require an overview of the design, test, review, and troubleshooting stages to guarantee that the programs are working properly. Entry-level jobs for professionals who are in this role usually require a bachelor’s degree.

3. Information Security Analyst

This type of cybersecurity career requires a bachelor’s degree as the minimum education standard. This career also offers an important and ongoing defense against any security breaches and hacking threats. Information security analysts work to develop various preventative measures that protect the integrity of computer networks, systems, and technologies. 

Interdisciplinary Areas

Both computer engineering and computer science are tech-intensive fields that are oriented around computers and their information systems. For example, both majors will need foundational skills such as testing computer software and coding. In such cases where these two majors tend to overlap, there are new and upcoming interdisciplinary areas that can be explored for better opportunities in the future.

1. Cyber Security

Cybersecurity is such an interdisciplinary area that is designed to address the increasing demand for skilled security professionals in both private and public sectors. This is now available in both Network/Cloud Security and Data security domains.

The program also covers various computer science subjects as well as some of the cybersecurity-specific courses. The main aim of the program is to nurture the students with the knowledge and skills required to secure computers, detect threats, and analyze these attacks while also responding to them. This course also involves the development of security policies, procedures, and standards.

2. Robotics

The recent increase in the need for intelligent and automated systems in private and public sectors along with government organizations has led to the new field of robotics. The design of these systems involves the technology of robots, interdomain skills, and extensive knowledge of computing and robotics designs. The students who take part in this course also have multiple career opportunities in private manufacturing and design companies, military and defense, education, agriculture, government institutions, and healthcare industries

3. Biomedical Engineering

Biomedical engineering aims to bridge the gap between technology, medicine, and biology. It integrates computational sciences, mathematics, chemistry, and physics along with engineering principles. The ultimate aim of this integration is to improve the healthcare industry. Biomedical engineers are mainly involved in designing, constructing, and developing health and monitoring devices and computers, implantable devices, diagnostic systems and therapeutic systems, pharmaceuticals, and cell and tissue engineering.

Salary and Job Market Trends

The computing and IT sector has been high in growth rate and hence the computer engineering vs. computer science salary range for both computer engineering and computer science jobs has been quite competitive and above average. Due to such competitive salaries, there have been many more students choosing these courses. Here are some of the computer engineering vs. computer science salary ranges in each of the fields that indicate your earning potential.

Computer Engineering

When you compare computer engineering vs. computer science salaries, computer engineers have several career options. They can work anywhere from software development to hardware development or even choose to work in a field where both software and hardware development blend in together.

• Multimedia programmer - $55,910 per year
• Technical support specialist - $63,195 per year
• Computer programmer - $73,428 per year
• Game developer - $78,413 per year
• Computer systems analyst - $82,278 per year

While these are the general salary ranges for roles associated with computer engineering courses, various factors may affect the overall pay. Some of the factors which play an important part in this are as follows:

• Location of organization
• Cost of living
• Industry-specific coding
• Experience in the field
• Technical and soft skills
• Certifications.

While the salaries might change due to the above factors, there is always enough space for growth in these fields as they are still up and coming. You might also want to upskill yourself with each new technological advancement to keep yourself updated with the changing industries.

Computer science

The computer science field definitely assures some of the highest-paying jobs however these would require multiple technical and non-technical skills. Aside from a thorough knowledge of computer hardware all of the below jobs will also require high-level skills in multiple programming-based languages, OS, and current technology trends. Here are how some of the roles vary in their salary ranges based on computer engineering vs. computer science salary comparison in the market:

• Programmer Analyst - $71,666 per year
• Technical support engineer - $72,224 per year
• Systems analyst - $79,823 per year
• Database developer - $84,946 per year
• Software Developer - $86,470 per year

These roles and their salary ranges can definitely differ from the mentioned ranges as these are the general range. The actual pay for each role in an organization will be affected by various other factors such as the experience a candidate has and the skills they consist of.

Personal Considerations and Decision Making

Before you start to decide whether you want to pursue a course in computer engineering vs computer science you might want to pinpoint what you wish to achieve from your degree program. This also means that you might want to consider your desired salary, your long-term goals, and the things that you are actually interested in.

Computer science is a field where there is more theoretical content and is a better fit for people who love doing research, analyzing, and strategizing. On the other hand, computer engineering is a field where most things are practical. It is much suited for people who love to build things with their hands.

Conclusion

Even if all of this information indicates the difference between computer engineering vs computer science, there is one thing that still remains common for both. And that is, no matter which field you end up choosing you are sure to have a promising future despite the highly competitive market. You will also have a well-paid job and your salary will also keep on increasing as you keep on updating yourself. Also, since you are now aware of the key differences between computer engineering vs computer science it will now become easier to check where your interest lies. This in turn will also help you choose the right field for you.

FAQs:

What is the main difference between computer engineering and computer science?

Although most people tend to connect both computer engineering and computer science as the same field, both are quite different. While computer engineering is related to all things hardware where the focus is on designing and building. Whereas computer science is related to secure software systems.

Can I switch from computer engineering to computer science or vice versa during my studies?

Since both the programs, computer engineering and computer science consist of similar prerequisite classes, it is easy to switch between both programs. Multiple students choose to major in both of these programs.

What factors should I consider when deciding between computer engineering and computer science?

When deciding between a computer engineering and computer science degree it is very important to consider several key factors to make sure that the program is well aligned with your career and academic goals. Here are a few factors that may help you choose the right field:

• Check the focus areas of each discipline
• Assessing the curriculum of each of the degrees
• Review the coursework for the skills you wish to acquire.

How can I stay updated with the latest advancements and trends in computer engineering and computer science?

You can stay updated with the latest technology trends with the help of various ways mentioned below:

• Following various reputable technology news sources
• Attending webinars and conferences
• Subscribing to industry newsletters
• Engaging in continuous learning and upskilling
• Participating in online communities.

What are some common misconceptions about computer engineering and computer science?

Here are some of the most common misconceptions that people often encounter when it comes to computer engineering and computer science fields:

• Computer engineering is the same as computer science
• Computer engineering course is all about coding and coding languages
• Computer engineering is a boring field
• You have to be good at math for pursuing a degree in computer science
• You need to have proper knowledge of computer science to enter the technological field.