Computer science vs. computer engineering
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With the development of artificial intelligence and machine learning technology, computer scientists and engineers are in high demand. And while there's much overlap between the two fields of study, they're two distinct career opportunities that can open many doors to employment.
Do you know the difference between computer science and computer engineering? Read about the distinctions and decide which aligns with your desired career.
Find the right computer science degrees for you
What is computer science?
Computer science is the study of computers, computation, and automation. This field connects the theoretical side of computers to the practical, translating inputs, outputs, and mathematics into meaningful information. As a computer scientist, you may create algorithms and data structures and implement them into hardware and software.
Many people who become computer scientists have a deep interest in problem-solving using logic and mathematics. Computer science degree programs may help you build skills like:
- Programming
- Algorithmic development
- Data analytics
- Computational problem solving
- Logic
While there are many job opportunities for those interested in becoming computer scientists, most roles require you to hold a degree in computer science or a similar field. Computer science jobs also commonly require fluency in a programming language like Python, JavaScript, or C++.
What jobs can you get in computer science?
- Computer network architects
- Median annual salary: $130,390 (Bureau of Labor Statistics [BLS], 2024)
- Computer and information research scientists
- Median annual salary: $140,910 (BLS, 2024)
- Database administrators and architects
- Median annual salary: $123,100 (BLS, 2024)
What is computer engineering?
Computer engineering combines electrical and software engineering to make software work with computer hardware. As a computer engineer, you might design computer hardware and test custom software to work with the hardware's capabilities for technology like robotics, operating systems, and artificial intelligence models.
People who study computer engineering are often interested in coding, electronics, and mathematics. In a computer engineering degree program, you have the opportunity to gain skills like:
- Statistics
- Software construction
- Signal and system processing
- Computer architecture
- Circuitry
Computer engineer jobs usually require a degree in computer engineering or a related field, such as electrical engineering, data science, or information systems and analytics. You may also qualify for computer engineering jobs if you're fluent in low-level programming languages like C or machine code.
What jobs can you get in computer engineering?
- Computer hardware engineers
- Median annual salary: $155,020 (BLS, 2024)
- Electro-mechanical and mechatronics technologists and technicians
- Median annual salary: $70,760 (BLS, 2024)
- Computer programmers
- Median annual salary: $98,670 (BLS, 2024)
What is the difference between computer science and computer engineering?
Computer science is the theoretical study of computation and software. Computer engineering, however, focuses on the interactions between software and hardware. Hardware includes the physical elements of the computer, and software is the system that interacts with the hardware and makes it respond to inquiries.
Computer science and engineering degree programs often have a significant overlap in curricula.
Study computer science if you…
- Enjoy research and theory
- Want to design algorithms
- Know one or more high-level coding languages
- Are looking for jobs in web development, cybersecurity, and data analytics
Study computer engineering if you…
- Prefer engineering to analytics
- Enjoy low-level coding projects
- Want to understand circuitry and semiconductors
- Are looking for jobs in electrical engineering, robotics, and machine learning
How much do computer science and computer engineering programs cost?
The cost of computer science and engineering programs depends on the type of program, the issuing institution, and additional expenses like textbooks, room and board, and travel.
According to National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data, the average tuition and fees for a bachelor's degree at a public, four-year institution were $9,800 in the 2022–23 academic year. The average cost of tuition and fees for a master's degree at a public university in 2022–23 was $11,554. Computer science and engineering degree tuition costs generally align with these average figures.
Learners looking to earn a computer science or engineering degree may find scholarship opportunities to help finance their education through their school or related organizations.