Computer systems engineering vs computer science

Computer science studies the theory and application of computing technologies. Computer scientists construct new algorithms to analyze big data, design machine learning programs, and work on artificial intelligence projects. They work in computer science careers as software developers, database managers, or network architects.

Bachelor's degrees in computer science and computer science bootcamps prepare graduates for entry-level opportunities as software developers, computer programmers, web developers, and systems analysts. Common computer science courses include computer networking, database administration, information security, and computer engineering. Most computer science programs include experiential learning components like internships, project-based assignments, and labs.

With a master's degree in computer science, professionals can advance into supervisory and research positions as a data scientist, while an individual with a Ph.D. in computer science can pursue employment in research, academic, and leadership roles as a computer science professor or chief technology officer.

What Is Computer Engineering?

Computer engineering overlaps with computer science. Majors in this field learn to design and test computer systems, including networks and hardware devices. For example, they apply electrical engineering training to research or develop processors and circuit boards.

When computer engineers design software or hardware, they often create engineering-based schematics of their plans. They test the finished product to implement any changes. Unlike most computer scientists, computer engineers may also contribute to the manufacturing process of computer hardware.

Common computer engineering courses include software engineering, microprocessors, electrical engineering, and systems programming. Computer engineering majors also study topics like microcomputer architecture, systems design and programming, and operating systems. Many programs incorporate a practical component, such as an engineering lab or internship, to build the practical skills required for jobs in computer engineering.

Enrollees can earn a bachelor’s in computer engineering or a master’s. Some organizations offer bootcamps or certificates in computer engineering for individuals seeking a faster career path. These options provide more focused training without general education requirements. After completing their computer engineering training, graduates with a degree or certificate can pursue careers in computer engineering.

Computer information systems focuses on the application of computing technologies in business settings. Computer information systems specialists design more efficient ways to store or secure information. They also work in areas like database management, network administration, and operations research analysis.

Thanks to the field's emphasis on data analysis and analytics, computer information systems specialists often work with large data sets, specializing in areas such as big data and data visualization.

A computer information systems degree trains students in computer science, information technology, and information management. After earning bachelor's degrees in computer information systems, graduates can pursue entry-level roles as information managers, information security analysts, and computer systems analysts.

This field may appeal to professionals with tech skills who prefer career paths that overlap more with business. Like information technology, computer information systems degrees emphasize the applied side of computing. Professionals also bring strong programming, database administration, and data analysis skills to the job.

Computer Engineering vs. Computer Science Careers

Computer scientists and computer engineers work in similar fields and receive high earnings. While computer scientists report a slightly higher average salary, the major differences between computer engineering vs. computer science come down to job responsibilities and focus areas.

Computer scientists can pursue careers as software developers, data scientists, systems analysts, and database administrators. In more theoretical roles, they conduct research and develop new computing languages, algorithms, and problem-solving programs. Other computer scientists work in applied computer science to create and test new software programs, including operating systems.

Computer engineers work in roles as software engineers, hardware engineers, network engineers, and telecommunications engineers. They also work as network architects and software developers. In these positions, computer engineers apply their engineering training to solve computing problems. They might redesign software that does not meet an organization's goals or conceptualize better ways to organize information.

Computer scientists and computer engineers work closely with other computing specialists. They often work in teams with software developers, software testers, computer programmers, web developers, and web designers. Computer engineers and computer scientists often work in the tech industry, though they can also find job opportunities in business, telecommunications, and manufacturing.

15%
Job Growth (2019-2029)

Source: BLS

2%
Job Growth (2019-2029)

Source: BLS

Computer Engineer Career Snapshot

Computer engineers specialize in building hardware, software, and computing networks. They bring strong engineering skills, particularly in electrical engineering, while training in computer science.

Within the field, software engineers create software applications, mobile apps, and other programs. They conduct tests and determine how different parts of software fit together. Hardware engineers design and build physical computing tools like smartphones, laptops, and tablets. Finally, network engineers create systems that connect computers to each other.

Computer engineers require strong technical and problem-solving skills. They often work in teams, where they must communicate ideas effectively. Employment typically requires a bachelor's degree.

Computer Scientist Career Snapshot

Computer scientists explore the many problem-solving uses of computers. They design computing systems, research the best ways to analyze or store digital information, and create algorithms or codes to achieve specific goals. Computer scientists make computers more efficient by designing new ways to transmit material. They also make networks more secure by applying cybersecurity principles.

When comparing computer engineering vs. computer science, the engineers focus more on physical products, while computer scientists study abstract computing topics. However, both fields explore the real-world applications of computing systems. A computer scientist typically needs a bachelor's degree to pursue entry-level roles.

Can I Get a Computer Science Job With a Computer Engineering Degree?

Computer engineering majors qualify for many of the same jobs as computer science majors. For example, graduates with either degree can work as network architects, software engineers, and software developers. Many computer engineering majors take computer science courses, indicating the overlap between the fields.

However, when applying to computer science jobs as a computer engineering major, applicants should highlight their experience with the specific job area by discussing their software testing experience or showcasing their hardware engineering work. Professionals with computer engineering degrees can create resumes that highlight their strengths in computer science.

If you're having a hard time differentiating between a computer science degree vs. a computer engineering degree, you're not alone. These degrees have overlapping curricula but also important differences.

A computer science degree focuses more on computer theory and a computer engineering degree is generally focused on physical computer hardware. 

Each degree has benefits that will help you fine tune skills for a future career in tech. Read on for a more detailed breakdown.

What is a computer science degree?

A computer science degree is a great choice for anyone wanting to learn the software side of computer technology. This degree will prepare students to specialize in hardware or software systems, A.I., data science, cybersecurity, or even video game development.

What can you expect in a computer science degree program? 

The courses for this degree build on a foundation of theory and math. Students learn about programming and algorithms. Computer science courses teach students to use mathematical models to solve real-world problems and create software. 

Choosing computer science as a degree may lead to careers designing apps and programs in any industry.

What is a computer engineering degree?

A computer engineering degree combines electrical engineering and computer science. This degree focuses on hardware and firmware, preparing students to build computing systems. 

As with computer science degrees, you may earn a computer engineering degree online, in person, or in a hybrid format.

Students who complete a degree in computer engineering may qualify for computer engineer, computer architecture developer, or network engineer jobs.

Subdisciplines of computer engineering include mobile device engineering, sustainable "green" energy, game hardware design, or user interface design. 

This field might be the right degree for you if you're interested in computer hardware and building computer systems from scratch.

Computer science vs. engineering: Courses

Computer science courses

Computer engineering and computer science courses overlap. Both programs require similar prerequisite classes. Some students choose to double major in both computer science and computer engineering. 

Someone pursuing a degree in computer science should expect courses in theory of computation, database administration, computer graphics, algorithms and data analysis, calculus, linear algebra, and information security. These courses feature mathematics and programming theory and hands-on practice.

Computer engineering courses

Students start with introductory courses to teach mathematics and basic programming languages. This foundation will support students as they learn the functionalities of operating systems. 

Computer engineering courses feature practical assignments and labs. A computer engineering degree requires courses in mechanics, electricity, physics, electric circuits, thermodynamics, and machine design. 

Computer science vs. engineering: Skills you'll learn

Computer science

A degree in computer science or computer engineering may be a good fit if you already have skills like analytical thinking, attention to detail, technical writing, and creativity.

You can expect to develop skills for programming, writing quality code, and designing effective algorithms in these programs.

Technical skills taught in a computer science degree

• Computation theory
• Creating efficient algorithms
• Problem-solving
• Writing code
• Learning programming languages

Computer engineering

In this degree program, you can expect to learn about a computer's wiring and architecture. Computer engineers need analytical and critical thinking skills to create and test operating systems. 

Technical skills taught in a computer engineering degree

• Circuit design
• Device creation
• Computer architecture design
• Microprocessor design

Computer science vs. engineering: Careers after graduation

Computer science students and computer engineering students can expect some overlap in career options. Both can seek jobs in telecommunications, manufacturing, and business. Additionally, both groups enjoy the possibility of earning a high salary. 

Many computer science and computer engineering graduates begin their career in software positions because of high industry demand. 

Computer science careers

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports the median salary for computer scientists is $126,830 as of May 2020. Competition for high paying computer science jobs can be intense, especially at prominent tech companies.

To improve your chances of landing an interview and potentially your dream job, you may want to research tech internship opportunities. Now may be a great time to enter a computer science degree program, as the BLS projects change in employment to grow 22% from 2020 to 2030.

Popular computer science careers include: 

• Computer scientist
• Web designer
• Data scientist

Computer engineering careers

If you're looking for a degree that teaches skills demanded by high-paying engineering and information technology roles, look no further than a computer engineering degree. 

The BLS reports the median salary of a computer engineer at $119,560 as of May 2020. It projects computer engineering jobs will grow 2% from 2020 to 2030. 

A computer engineering graduate could pursue a career in robotics, aerospace tech, or telecommunications. The computer engineering career is often competitive, but offers average pay more than twice the national mean.

Popular computer engineering careers include: 

• Computer engineer
• Systems engineer
• Quality control engineer

Computer science vs. computer engineering: Which degree is right for me?

Don't worry if you're still stuck deciding between a degree in computer science or a degree in computer engineering. As overlapping degrees, neither will confine you to a specific career. 

Employers typically see the degrees as interchangeable. Both prepare graduates with in-demand skills for tech jobs.

To help guide your decision, consider whether you prefer working with software vs. hardware. Review core courses and possible electives for both degrees and see which better fits your interests.