Computer Engineering vs Computer Science: What’s the Difference?
Computer Engineering vs Computer Science
Are you a computer whiz ready to advance your education? Computer engineering and computer science degrees are both in-demand STEM-related programs of study that offer strong earning potential in the rapidly growing computer and information technology sector. If you have an interest in computers and how they work and you desire a career with strong job prospects, you may be interested in exploring the biggest differences between the two degrees in greater detail. Read on to determine which option makes the most sense for you.
What Is Computer Science?
Computer science is the broad study of computers and computational systems, encompassing everything from the algorithms designed to perform a task to the steps taken to design software. Computer scientists design, develop, and test computer hardware and software systems, developing models that facilitate interaction between technologies and their end users.
What Is Computer Engineering?
Computer engineering combines electrical engineering with computer science, studying how computer systems work in their entirety, working to bridge the gap between hardware and software. Computer engineers design and develop hardware and software like computer scientists, though they are more involved in creating the operating systems and hardware components and integrating computer networks.
Key Differences Between Computer Science and Engineering
Both computer science and engineering deal with computation, or the study of computers. Computer science is a more theoretical field that focuses primarily on operating systems and applications, while computer engineering focuses more on the design and development of the computer components themselves. Computer science majors typically spend more time learning programming languages and taking classes related to cybersecurity, computer networks, and algorithm development.
Computer engineering majors take classes related to data structures, databases, networking, and operating systems, with less of a theoretical basis. Both majors take core math and science classes, which might include (but are not limited to) calculus, linear algebra, discrete math, chemistry, physics, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and computer ethics. They can expect to acquire a broad range of skills, including problem-solving, data analysis, operational knowledge, networking, project management, machine learning, critical thinking, and teamwork.
Future computer scientists can expect to become knowledgeable in programming languages like Python and Java, information system design, technical writing, statistics, and software development. Computer engineers will become well-versed in systems integration, program design, circuit design, operational analysis, and database administration and management. Upon graduation, computer science majors can apply for a wide range of jobs in web design, software design, video game development, cybersecurity, IT consulting, data science, and UX/UI design. Computer engineering majors can find employment in hardware engineering, automation and robotics manufacturing, telecommunications, systems design, cloud computing, signal processing, and information security, among other industries.
Are Computer Science and Engineering Good Majors?
Computer science and engineering are excellent fields of study thanks to exceptional outlooks and high rates of employment. The field of computer information technology is rapidly growing; according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for this group was $105,990 in 2024, which is significantly higher than the average across all other occupations. Employment for computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 26 percent from 2023 to 2033, which also beats out most other occupations.
While these paths are highly lucrative, it’s important to keep in mind that both fields are tech-intensive and require a high level of comfortability with technology. To find out more about the key differences between computer science and engineering, their individual concentrations or specialties, and how you can prepare yourself academically for the rigors of a computer science or engineering program, meet with an academic advisor or coach.
Earn Your Computer Engineering or Computer Science Degree at Regent University
At Regent University, we value providing leading-edge instruction in exceptional facilities to prepare you for some of the fastest-growing careers in the nation. Our B.S. in Computer Engineering is designed to advance your knowledge of computer hardware and software systems, enabling you to solve complex problems, while our B.S. in Computer Science prepares you to apply your computational knowledge to a range of disciplines.
Whichever you choose, our award-winning Computer Engineering & Science Department can equip you with the knowledge and skills to be effective in the engineering and technology sectors. Request information today to learn more about these programs and get started on your journey.