The terms “computer science” and “computer engineering” are often used interchangeably, but they are actually separate fields that focus on different aspects of computer technology. While computer science is the study of all aspects of computers with an emphasis on software systems, computer engineering focuses more on designing and building hardware systems.
Whether you choose to major in computer science or computer engineering, some — but not all — of the coursework will be the same. However, the types of jobs you will be best-suited for will differ. Which path is best for you will depend on your skill set and career interests. Here’s what you need to know about computer science vs. computer engineering.
Table of Contents
- What Is Computer Science?
- What Is Computer Engineering?
- Similarities and Differences Between Computer Science and Computer Engineering
- Computer Science vs Computer Engineering Job Outlook
- Computer Science vs Computer Engineering — Which One Is Better?
- The First Step to Becoming a Computer Scientist or Computer Engineer
- FAQ
Key Points
• Computer science emphasizes computing theory, algorithms, and software, while computer engineering focuses on hardware design and integration.
• Both fields share foundational coursework in mathematics, programming, and computer systems and typically high salary ranges.
• Computer science job growth is projected at a significant 26% from 2023 to 2033, with diverse career paths.
• Computer engineering can offer specialized career paths in hardware, robotics, security, and embedded systems.
• Financial aid options include scholarships and grants, work-study, and federal or private loans.
What Is Computer Science?
Those working in computer science focus mainly on computing theory, programming algorithms and models to develop software or computer systems that people utilize around the globe. A computer science program will typically cover topics like design and analysis of algorithms, data analysis, an introduction to operating systems, and different programming languages. Computer scientists generally focus on software and are typically the ones to create algorithms that make programs like artificial intelligence, machine learning, cloud computing, and even video games work.
What Is Computer Engineering?
Computer engineers generally focus on creating, testing, and evaluating the technology for hardware and software interfaces. If you choose computer engineering as your major, the program will likely cover topics like computer architecture, computer networks, and physics. It is a computer engineer’s job to develop new processors, microchips, and other components that physically go into computers and smartphones to make them work each and every time someone clicks the “on” button. This field may often require a combination of electrical engineering skills and computer science knowledge.
Similarities and Differences Between Computer Science and Computer Engineering
While computer science and computer engineering are two distinct areas of study, there are similarities between the two. Both professions, for example, involve working with computers. Both also involve data and math and work to advance the field of computing. Because of these similarities, both areas of study could share prerequisites and coursework at your chosen college or university.
Computer Science vs Computer Engineering Job Outlook
Individuals with a computer science or computer engineering degree may be qualified for a variety of different types of tech positions in a wide range of industries. Here’s a closer look.
Computer Science Job Outlook
There’s some good news for those looking at becoming computer scientists in the near future. According to the most recent data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) , the employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 26% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
What’s more, computer and information research scientists earned a median of $140,910 per year in 2024.
The types of jobs you may be able to get with a computer science degree include: software developer, database administrator, web developer, project manager, full-stack developer, engineering manager, user interface designer, information security analyst, information technology specialist, mobile application designer or developer, and more.
Computer Engineering Job Outlook
According to the BLS, the employment rate for computer hardware engineers is projected to grow much more slowly over the same timeframe. From 2023 to 2033, the job market for computer hardware engineers is expected to grow 7%, which is as fast as the average occupation.
The positive? The average salary for computer hardware engineers is high, sitting at a comfortable $155,020 per year in 2023. And while many entry level jobs in computer science require a master’s degree, entry-level computer engineering positions may only require a bachelor’s degree, which can save both time and money.
As computer scientists, those with a computer engineering degree could qualify for roles under a variety of job titles. These include telecommunications engineer, computer architect, communication engineer, network systems engineer, systems architect, and simply computer engineer.
Recommended: Return on Education for Bachelor’s Degrees
Computer Science vs Computer Engineering — Which One Is Better?
The question of “which is better, computer science or computer engineering?” really comes down to personal choice. To make this decision for yourself, it may be a good idea to consider what your dream computing job looks like.
Computer scientists can typically specialize in the following areas:
• Artificial Intelligence
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Software Engineering
• Mobile and Web Computing
• Game Design
• Computer Graphics
• Data Science
• Programming Languages
Computer engineers can typically specialize in the following areas:
• Hardware Systems
• Robotics and Cybernetics
• Computer and Network Security
• Distributed Computing
• Embedded Systems
As you can see, both computer science and computer engineering are related. However, each comes with unique and exciting specialty areas. Which one is better will depend on your skills, interests, and goals.
The First Step to Becoming a Computer Scientist or Computer Engineer
While computer science is expected to experience more growth in the coming years than computer engineering, both fields can lead to a varied, lengthy, and well-paid career. Both also generally require at least a four-year college degree, which can be a significant financial investment. Once you pinpoint some schools and programs that interest you, you’ll likely need to figure out how you’ll manage the financial side of getting a computer science or computer engineering degree.
Fortunately, there are a number of ways to cover your college costs. A great place to start is by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form puts you in the running for grants, scholarships, work-study positions, and federal student loans.
If financial aid and savings aren’t enough to cover the full cost of attendance (COA) for college, you might look into getting a private student loan.
Unlike federal student loans, which are provided by the government, private student loans are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates tend to be higher than federal student loans, but borrowing limits are typically higher. These loans are not need-based and generally require a credit check. Borrowers (or cosigners) with excellent credit tend to qualify for the lowest rates.
Keep in mind that private student loans may not offer the same borrower protections that federal student loans offer, such as Public Service Loan Forgiveness or income-driven repayment.
The Takeaway
While there is some overlap between computer science and computer engineering, the terms refer to two different majors and tech specialties that lead to different types of jobs after you graduate. Computer science tends to focus on computer theory and software, whereas computer engineering is more focused on computer design and hardware.
A career in either field can be rewarding, both financially and intellectually, though job growth is expected to be higher in computer science than computer engineering over the next eight years. Either major could be worth studying, perhaps with scholarships, grants, and federal or private student loans helping to fund your degree.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
FAQ
Which is better, computer science or computer engineering?
Neither computer science or computer engineering is inherently better. It’s a matter of which one is a better fit for a given student. Computer science tends to focus more on software and applications, while computer engineering trains students to design and build the hardware of computer systems.
Do computer engineers do coding?
Computer engineers often do coding. Understanding coding languages can help them as they work on designing computer hardware and test its capabilities.
Is computer science oversaturated?
Some industry observers feel that entry-level jobs for computer science grads are harder to come by. However, overall, the field has very strong projected growth, with a 26% increase in jobs between 2023-33, which is well above the norm.
Photo credit: iStock/SeventyFour
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