Computer Engineering vs. Computer Science
If you are trying to decide between earning a computer engineering vs. computer science degree, you need to first think about your career aspirations. Both types of degrees offer potential pathways to various career opportunities and meaningful work experiences. Your first step is to learn more about computer science vs. engineering to figure out which choice will best equip you for your career goals.
In This Article:
- What Is Computer Science?
- Skills and Knowledge Needed in Computer Science
- What Is Computer Engineering vs. Computer Science?
- Skills and Knowledge Needed in Computer Engineering
- Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering Degrees and Salary
- Should I Pursue an Advanced Degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering?
What Is Computer Science?
As a scientific field, computer science involves the study of software and hardware systems and components that comprise computers. It is a broad umbrella field that features numerous subfields, including computer engineering, software development and artificial intelligence. Computer science is both a theoretical science (e.g., the study of computers) and an applied science (e.g., the design and application of hardware principles in order to build computers).1
One of the unique and exciting aspects of computer science is that it’s highly versatile, as computers are used in nearly every sector, industry and niche. From law enforcement to automotive manufacturing to healthcare to consumer goods, computer science is relevant to virtually all aspects of modern life.1
If you enroll in a computer science degree program, you will examine how computer systems work, exploring areas such as data storage and information processing.
As a computer science student, you will:
- Be taught a variety of programming languages to use in different computing environments
- Gain exposure to creating computer graphics and developing numerical algorithms to solve problems
- Practice managing operating systems and manage and analyze databases
Skills and Knowledge Needed in Computer Science
Computer scientists need a combination of hard (technical) and soft skills to do their jobs well. It’s advantageous to know how to use a variety of programming languages, including Python, Java and JavaScript, as strong programming skills are a must-have. In addition, the following skills are useful to have for computer scientists:1,2
- Software development
- Hardware engineering
- Technical writing
- Analytical reasoning
- Mathematical proficiency
- Teamwork
- Time management
- Critical thinking
- Creativity
What Is Computer Engineering vs. Computer Science?
Now that you understand the basics of computer science, you may be wondering, What is computer engineering vs. computer science? In other words, what are the key differences between computer engineering and computer science? These two disciplines are quite similar, but there are important differences to be aware of.
In general, computer science is more theoretical. It explores ways of solving problems using technology. It’s a broad field that involves competencies in software development, programming, web applications and even graphics.3
Whereas computer science seeks to use technology to solve problems, computer engineering involves designing and building that technology. There is a strong emphasis on computer architecture — both hardware and software. In addition, computer engineering explores electrical engineering competencies and computer science does not.3
A degree in computer engineering is ideal for students who are interested in computer science but also are leaning toward an engineering-related career. This includes students interested in robotics.
While earning a degree in computer engineering, you will:
- Work with systems operations and computer architecture
- Focus on the integration between hardware and software
- Explore how to physically manufacture electronic equipment, including circuit boards and computers
Skills and Knowledge Needed in Computer Engineering
Computer engineers need skills similar to those held by computer scientists. For example, they can benefit from having coding knowledge and skills. In addition, the following skills are important for this career path:4,5
- Cybersecurity
- Information technology
- Software development
- Real-time operating system (RTOS) competencies
- Microprocessors and microcontrollers
- Hardware design and development
- Remote and local debugging capabilities
- Communication
- Creativity
- Problem-solving
Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering Degrees and Salary
After earning a degree in computer engineering or computer science, graduates will be able to apply for work in any industry that relies upon the use of technology. If you are deciding between computer science and computer engineering in order to become a programmer, then a computer science degree may be a good choice, as it focuses more on programming languages. To support your future employment prospects, consider looking for an internship while in college to gain hands-on experience. After graduating, you might look for an entry-level role, such as a support technician or quality assurance role.
Do computer scientists or computer engineers earn more money? Salary expectations can differ according to your specific subfield, your employer, your level of experience and additional credentials you may have.
In general, however, the salary expectations are quite similar. As of May 2023, the median annual wage for computer hardware engineers was $138,080 and the median annual wage for computer and information research scientists was $145,080, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).6,7
Should I Pursue an Advanced Degree in Computer Science or Computer Engineering?
Choosing between these two fields is really a matter of personal preference. Would you prefer to use technology to solve problems (computer science) or would you prefer to design and build that technology from the ground up (computer engineering)?
While a graduate degree is not always needed to enter a computer engineering field,8 earning a master’s degree is typically needed for entry into computer science or a related field.9 Additionally, some employers may prefer to hire candidates who have a PhD, while others, such as the federal government, may hire those who have their bachelor’s degree.9
Consider looking for job shadowing opportunities to get a closer look at the day-to-day life of computer scientists vs. computer engineers. An internship in one or both disciplines may also help you choose between these two majors.
No matter where your career aspirations lie, you can find a STEM degree program at Grand Canyon University to suit your educational goals. Explore our computer science and computer engineering degree programs today to find your fit.
1 Coursera Staff. (2024, March 22). What is computer science? Meaning, jobs, and degrees. Coursera. Retrieved April 15, 2024.
2 Indeed Editorial Team. (2023, Feb. 3). Computer scientist skills: Definition and examples. Indeed. Retrieved April 15, 2024.
3 Callahan, I. (2024, Jan. 1). Computer science vs. computer engineering: Which should you major in? Forbes. Retrieved April 15, 2024.
4 Indeed Editorial Team. (2023, March 10). 10 important skills for computer engineers (with tips). Indeed. Retrieved April 15, 2024.
5 Coursera Staff. (2023, Nov. 29). What are embedded systems (+ how to work with them). Coursera. Retrieved April 15, 2024.
6 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Computer Hardware Engineers, as of May 2023, retrieved on July, 18, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 maybe atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as Computer Hardware Engineers, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
7 The earnings referenced were reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), Computer and Information Research Scientists, as of May 2023, retrieved on July, 18, 2024. Due to COVID-19, data from 2020 to 2023 maybe atypical compared to prior years. BLS calculates the median using salaries of workers nationwide with varying levels of education and experience. It does not reflect the earnings of GCU graduates as Computer and Information Research Scientists, nor does it reflect the earnings of workers in one city or region of the country or a typical entry-level salary. Median income is the statistical midpoint for the range of salaries in a specific occupation. It represents what you would earn if you were paid more money than half the workers in an occupation, and less than half the workers in an occupation. It may give you a basis to estimate what you might earn at some point if you enter this career. Grand Canyon University can make no guarantees on individual graduates’ salaries. Your employability will be determined by numerous factors over which GCU has no control, such as the employer the graduate chooses to apply to, the graduate’s experience level, individual characteristics, skills, etc. against a pool of candidates.
8 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). How to Become a Computer Hardware Engineer. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved May 6, 2024.
9 U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2024, April 17). How to Become a Computer and Information Research Scientist. Occupational Outlook Handbook. Retrieved May 6, 2024.
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author’s and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Grand Canyon University. Any sources cited were accurate as of the publish date.
