Choosing between Computer Engineering (CE) vs Computer Science (CS) can be a challenging decision.
Both fields offer exciting career opportunities and the choice largely depends on your personal interests and career goals.
Here’s a comparison of both fields to help you make an informed decision.
What is Computer Engineering?
Computer Engineering is a discipline that integrates several fields of electrical engineering and computer science required to develop computer hardware and software.
Computer engineers typically learn about electronic engineering, designing software, and integrating hardware and software
Skills that is needed for Computer Engineering
Computer Engineering is a field that needs a mix of different abilities.
Here are some important skills you should have for Computer Engineering:
- Knowing Operating Systems
It’s important to understand how operating systems work because they control the computer hardware and create the environment for applications to run.
- Understanding Computer Networks and Hardware Architecture
This involves knowing how computers and networks collaborate, how data moves around, and how information is accessed and shared.
- Designing Digital and Microprocessor Engineering
This includes creating and testing microprocessors, understanding digital systems, and using systems based on microprocessors.
- Fixing Problems (Debugging and Troubleshooting)
Being able to find and solve issues in both hardware and software is a really important skill.
- Good Communication Skills
Since engineers often work in teams, it’s crucial to express your ideas and designs clearly and effectively.
- Problem-Solving and Analytical Skills
Engineers often have to find solutions to difficult problems. They need to analyze what users need and create effective solutions.
- Critical and Creative Thinking
Being able to think creatively and come up with new and innovative solutions is highly valued.
- Solid Knowledge of Software Development, Network Protocols, and Internet Connectivity
This means understanding how to create software, how data moves on the internet, and how different types of software work together.
- Basic Programming and Code Writing Knowledge
Even though computer engineering is more focused on hardware, having a basic understanding of coding and programming languages is useful.
- Knowing Electrical Engineering, Networking, Secure Coding, Cryptography, Code Reviewing, and Databases
These skills are crucial for creating and building computer systems.
What is Computer Science?
Computer Science is the study of computers and computing technologies.
It’s a broad field, encompassing areas such as computer programming, algorithms, data structures, artificial intelligence, databases, graphics, networks, and more.
Skills that is needed for Computer Science
Computer Science is a big field that needs a mix of different skills.
Here are some important skills you should have for Computer Science:
- Programming
This is super important. You need to know how to write code to make computer programs that can do specific things.
- Understanding Different Programming Languages
Besides the basics, it’s good to know different languages like Python, C, and Java.
- Digital Marketing Basics
Knowing a bit about digital marketing can be really helpful in your professional journey.
- Data Analysis
You’ll often have to understand and make sense of complicated data in any IT job.
- Software Development
Understanding how software works and is made is a great skill to have on your resume.
- Technical Writing
This is about writing technical documents to explain and guide in IT situations.
- Good at Math
Being good at math and using formulas will make you do well in computer science.
- Communication
This is super important among the softer skills. You need to be able to explain things well.
- Problem-Solving
As a computer scientist, you’ll spend a lot of time figuring out how to solve problems.
- Critical Thinking
Being able to think smart and come up with new solutions is really valued in this field.
What’s the Difference Between Computer Science and Computer Engineering?
Computer Science and Computer Engineering are two distinct areas of study, and the choice between the two depends on your personal interests and career goals.
Here’s a brief comparison:
Computer Science (CS) is primarily concerned with the theory of computation and the design of computational systems.
Its main focus is software, and it covers topics such as:
- Programming languages
- Algorithms and data structures
- Software engineering
- Computer graphics
- Artificial intelligence
- Databases
On the other hand, Computer Engineering (CE) is a discipline that integrates several fields of electrical engineering and computer science required to develop computer hardware and software.
It’s more focused on the hardware aspect of computers and covers topics such as:
- Digital logic design
- Computer architecture
- Microprocessor design
- Electronics
Which One is Better Computer Engineering vs Computer Science?
The answer to this question largely depends on your personal interests and career goals.
If you’re more interested in hardware and electronics, CE might be a better fit for you.
If you’re more interested in programming and software development, CS might be a better choice.
Remember, both fields are rapidly evolving and offer exciting career opportunities.
It’s important to choose a field that aligns with your interests and career goals.
Jobs and Salaries between Computer Engineering vs Computer Science
Let’s break down the job and salary info for Computer Science and Computer Engineering grads:
Computer Engineering:
- Multimedia Programmer: National average salary is $55,910 per year.
- Technical Support Specialist: National average salary is $63,195 per year.
- Web Developer: National average salary is $67,799 per year.
- Forensic Computer Analyst: National average salary is $71,307 per year.
- Computer Programmer: National average salary is $73,428 per year.
- Software Engineer: Starting salary is $73,000 per year.
- Hardware Engineer: Starting salary is $77,000 per year.
- Senior Software Engineer: Starting salary is $86,000 per year.
- Computer Engineer: Average salary in the Philippines is ₱26,197 per month.
Computer Science:
- Cloud Developer: A job at World Vance Inc. in Central Visayas.
- CSR Hiring: Full-time position at Neksjob Philippines near Cebu.
- Junior Data Analyst: Average salary is around PHP 86,000.
- Software Developer: Average salary is about PHP 37,002.
- System Engineer: Average salary is approximately PHP 29,882.
- Software Test Engineer: Average salary is around PHP 46,911.
- Application Developer: Average salary is about PHP 41,377.
Please take note that these are just average numbers, and actual salaries can vary based on where you work, your experience level, and the company.
Job availability can change quickly, so it’s good to stay updated on the current job market.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the decision between Computer Engineering and Computer Science depends on personal interests and career goals.
If you prefer working with hardware and electronics, Computer Engineering might be the better fit.
On the other hand, if you enjoy programming and software development, Computer Science could be the more suitable choice.
Both fields offer exciting opportunities, so it’s essential to choose the one that aligns with your interests for a fulfilling career.
