Computer science vs Computer engineering – What is the difference?

In today’s article, we will discuss computer science and computer engineering and which course is best for you by discussing the similarities, differences, future job prospects, and salary. Let’s jump right into the article.

Introduction

If you are someone who gets fascinated by and has a passion for technology and computers, choosing a computer-related degree would be best for you and your career field, but with the variety of degrees a college or university offers like computer science, computer engineering, software engineering, etc. you must be confused about which one to take up. Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Let’s get started.

Computer science vs Computer engineering – The Difference

I know you may be wondering that since computer engineering and computer science sounds similar, they must be the same, right? You are indeed half right. Their duties, responsibilities, and a few courses are similar, but there is one major difference: Computer Science focuses more on the software side, whereas Computer Engineering focuses more on the hardware side. This is just a rough idea of the difference between the two. Let’s discuss them in more detail.

Computer Science

What is computer science?

Starting as a branch of mathematics, computer science is the study of the theoretical foundations of computing and the design of computer systems, which include solving real-world problems using computers and a variety of other topics like programming, algorithms, operating systems, storing databases, mathematical computing, etc.

What are the goals of computer science?

Courses you Learn

Following your decision to major in computer science, you’ll learn a handful of the following courses:-

• Basics of Software and computer technology
• Programming Languages like C, C++, Java, Python etc.
• Data Structure and Algorithm (DSA)
• Operating Systems (OS)
• Cloud Computing
• Object Oriented Programming (OOPs)
• Software Development
• Web development
• Machine Learning
• Game Development

Skills Developed

As you become a computer scientist, a variety of skills can be developed that improve your logical and creative thinking, along with how to design new software, write codes, learn multiple programming languages and algorithms, solve real-world problems, and devise new software technologies.

What are the applications of computer science?

Job Prospects and Salary

Now that we are familiar with the curriculum and skillsets of a computer science degree, you might wonder what will be the best for my career goals. Let’s find out by reviewing what types of jobs and salaries the degree has to offer.

• Principal Software Engineer: They are responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of software applications. They collaborate with other engineers, programmers, and analysts to create high-quality software products. In addition, principal software engineers often mentor junior staff and provide technical guidance to other departments within an organization. The average salary of a principal software engineer is ₹24,70,777 per year.
• Computer Scientists: They are the professionals who write, develop, and improve computer software programs. They work with IT professionals and software engineers. The average salary of a computer scientist is ₹19,997,195 per year.
• IT Project Manager: They are responsible for overseeing and coordinating all aspects of an organization’s information technology (IT) projects. They work with other managers and staff to ensure that projects are completed on time, within budget, and to the satisfaction of all stakeholders. The IT project manager may also be responsible for developing and implementing new IT systems and applications. The average salary of an IT project manager is ₹16,38,049 per year.
• Data scientists: These are professionals who specialize in collecting, analyzing, and interpreting large data sets to find trends and patterns. Data scientists use their findings to improve business processes, make predictions, and drive decision-making. The average salary of a data scientist is $8,74,113 per year.
• Web developer: A web developer is someone who creates websites and applications using web technologies. They typically work with a team of other developers and designers to create a complete product. A web developer should have a strong understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. The average salary of a web developer is ₹3,44,058 per year.

Note: All the credits for the salary information go to www.payscale.com

Computer Engineering

What is Computer Engineering?

Starting as a branch of electrical engineering (still considered by some), computer engineering is the application of engineering principles to the design, development, prototyping, testing, and implementation of computer systems (both hardware and software). They make use of circuit knowledge to improve the efficiency and potential of the hardware aspects of a computer system.

What are the goals of computer engineering?

Courses you learn

Following your decision to major in computer engineering, you’ll learn a handful of the following courses:-

• Computer Networks
• Digital Electronics
• Basic Electronics
• Engineering Physics
• Microprocessor Designing and interfacing
• Robotics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Pattern Recognition
• Web Technology
• Network Security

Skills Developed

With experience, a variety of skills are developed as a computer engineer, including fluency in programming languages like assembly, C, and Perl, etc. in-depth knowledge of computer hardware. strong command over mathematical concepts. Designing and implementing Integrated circuits, microprocessors, computer architecture, and computing systems.

What are the applications of computer engineering?

Job Prospects and Salary

After getting a computer engineering degree, you get the experience to work for both software and hardware-related jobs. This gives them an extra edge over computer science. Some of the jobs and salaries you can get as a computer engineer are:

• Computer Engineer: A computer engineer is responsible for researching, designing, developing, and testing computer systems and components. They work on everything from microchips to routers to circuit boards. The average salary of a computer engineer is ₹6,11,315 per year.
• Network and System Engineers: These professionals design, upgrade and maintain the network and computer systems in an organization. A Network and System Engineer’s annual salary is ₹3,25,991 per year.
• Game developer: A game developer is someone who creates video games. This can include everything from designing the game and its physics and mechanics to developing the code that makes the game work. The average salary of a game developer is ₹4,88,900 per year.

Note: All the credits for the salary information go to www.payscale.com

Conclusion

It’s time we conclude this article. Today we discussed two major degrees: computer science and computer engineering. If you’re still confused about which one to pick, see there is no clear answer to that. Both degrees focus on the theory and application parts of computers; everything narrows down to your own interests. If you like coding and software stuff, go for computer science, and if you like robotics and computer hardware stuff, you can choose computer engineering. Both degrees provide dynamic and growth-friendly career options.

I hope you found this article helpful. If you have any queries, feel free to comment down below.