03/19/2025
Choosing between computer science and computer engineering depends on your career goals and technical interests. While computer science focuses on software development, computer engineering integrates both hardware and software to design and optimize computing systems. This guide breaks down the key differences in skills, careers, and education paths to help you make an informed decision.
What Is Computer Science?
Computer science is a broad field that explores computers, systems and application of various principles, theories, and techniques related to computation and information processing.
Computer science focuses on computing theory, cybersecurity, algorithms, and computer networks. It explores the foundations of computing, how algorithms solve problems, and the design and implementation of software systems.
Computer science professionals typically solve complex problems and develop software applications used across various industries.
What Is Computer Engineering?
Computer engineering is one of the five computing disciplines that combines hardware and software, with a greater emphasis on building and using operating systems and optimizing physical systems.
Computer engineering is a combination of electrical engineering and computer science principles to design, develop, and maintain computer hardware and software systems.
The field advances the information technology sector by innovating and optimizing the performance, efficiency, and reliability of computing systems.
Key Differences Between Computer Science and Computer Engineering
Computer science and computer engineering are technically separate fields that focus on different aspects of computer technology.
Computer engineering typically prioritizes computer design and development, while computer science emphasizes on computing theory.
Both fields require technical expertise, problem-solving abilities, and continuous learning in fast-paced, evolving fields.
| Aspect | Computer Science | Computer Engineering |
|---|---|---|
| Focus | Software, algorithms, data structures | Hardware and software integration, system design, embedded systems |
| Primary concern | Solving problems with software and programming | Designing and building computer systems and hardware components |
| Core subjects | Algorithms, databases, programming languages, AI | Circuit design, computer architecture, hardware and software development and integration |
| Work environment | Software development companies, tech firms, research labs | Hardware manufacturing, tech companies, network systems, R&D labs |
| Skills | Programming, data analysis, algorithm design, problem solving | Hardware design, system integration, electrical engineering, coding |
| Tools | Integrated Development Environment, software frameworks, programming languages | Circuit simulators, hardware design tools, embedded software tools |
| Overlap | Both involve programming, problem-solving and working with technology | Both work with technology systems and collaborating on system designs |
Computer science and computer engineering share some courses. However, computer science emphasizes machine learning, software troubleshooting, and algorithms, while computer engineering focuses on hardware and software design.
Typical Career Paths for Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering
Both computer engineering and computer science majors provide different types of roles and career paths that may provide opportunities to contribute to technological advancements. Some career paths may require additional certifications or advanced degrees beyond a bachelor's in computer science or computer engineering.
Computer science professionals may become software developers, data scientists, AI engineers, systems analysts and more.
For example, the job outlook for computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 26% in the next decade.
Computer engineering professionals may become hardware engineers, embedded systems developers, computer network architects, engineers, firmware developers and more.
For example, the job forecast for computer graphics and hardware engineers is projected to increase 7% between 2023 and 2033.
Education and Skills: Computer Science and Computer Engineering
Most computer science and computer engineering jobs require a bachelor's degree. American Public University's online bachelor's in computer science is a four-year program that offers general education courses along with specific courses and electives so students can customize courses.
Computer science programs include topics related to computing, algorithms, data structures, and software development.
Computer engineering programs may include topics related to hardware and software systems, such as digital logic, computer architecture, and microprocessors.
Common Skills
Skills that are typically useful for computer scientists may include software development, information system design, data storage, and having a strong theoretical mathematical background. Computer scientists may also learn about computer science algorithms and data structures.
Skills that are typically useful for computer engineers may include software engineering, computer hardware, and having a strong general mathematical background. Computer engineers may also learn about digital logic, computer architecture, and microprocessors.
Choosing the Right Field
When deciding between a computer science degree and a computer engineering degree, it’s important to consider several factors to ensure the program aligns with your personal interests, academic and career goals. Evaluate the primary focus of each discipline and how it may relate to your career aspirations.
Examine each program’s curriculum and select a program that resonates with your specific interests and professional objectives. Also take time to consider the job outlook and growth opportunities in each field.
Think about the goal of each field and how it might align with your own:
- Computer Science: Create software, optimize algorithms, and solve problems.
- Computer Engineering: Design and optimize computer systems and hardware, and how it integrates with software.
Getting Started with a Computer Science Degree
If you're considering a future in computer science or computer engineering, choosing the right degree program is an important first step. Understanding the educational pathways available can help you build the skills needed for success in these fields. Learn more about how to get a computer science degree and take the next step toward your academic journey.