If you are considering a computational masters program you have probably come across the terms computer science and computer engineering. Though these terms have substantial overlap, understanding the differences between computer science masters degree programs and computer engineering programs is essential to picking a program that will be a good fit for you. In this article we will shine some light on how these two fields differ, and what you might want to consider when deciding between a career in computer science or computer engineering.
Computer science focuses on the theory of computation. This includes writing code that integrates data, data structures, algorithms, statistical models and more in the most efficient way possible. This field also focuses on how to create algorithms that efficiently achieve complex tasks, whether that task is emulating a human brain or determining the best route for your Uber pool.
Computer engineering, on the other hand, is a field at the intersection of electrical engineering and computer science. Computer engineers research how to build all varieties of computing systems from smartphones to integrated circuits.
It could be easy to get confused by the variety of computational programs available. These degree programs have substantial overlap. In addition, differing terminology is often used between schools. Some schools even combine these two fields into one department or major. It is important, however, to understand the distinctions when comparing graduate programs.
What is Computer Science?
Computer science focuses on topics in computational theory. These include the virtual aspects of computers, focusing on software, rather than hardware. As a field that is closely aligned with mathematics, computer science applies theoretical ideas to solve real world problems. Computer science degree programs require courses including analysis of algorithms, operating system principles, computer architecture and software engineering, so an interest in math, puzzles, and problem solving would suit a student well. A degree in computer science will cover essential hardware and software topics, including computer organization and architecture.
Computer science is often described as more abstract and less hands-on than computer engineering. As a computer scientist, you will focus on using computational theory, mathematics and data structures to write effective codes. Some of the most popular careers for computer scientists are software engineering, UI/UX design, web design, data science, and machine learning.If this sounds like a good fit for you, take a look at some online computer science graduate programs computer science vs engineering.
What is Computer Engineering?
Computer engineering focuses on how to build devices. It is a field that combines physics, electrical engineering and computer science. The focus of computer engineering is on hardware, rather than software. Closely related to physics and engineering, students who want to understand how things work and apply that knowledge to build something new could thrive in a computer engineering program.
The work of a computer engineer works in the physical world and involves understanding how we can harness the laws of physics and electronics to create better computer components. They are more likely to spend more time at a lab bench than writing code. Your computer engineering degrees will most likely cover a wide array of topics including computer architecture, computer networks and physics.
Computer engineers still need solid programming skills. A degree in computer engineering will cover programming topics such as software design. There are many different career options for computer engineers, such as: aerospace, life sciences, mobile devices and robotics. If computer engineering is a field that interests you, start researching today by looking at some online computer engineering programs.
What is the difference computer science and computer engineering degrees?
A degree in computer science and a degree in computer engineering consist of different core curriculum. Courses in a computer science degree focus on the theory of computation, languages and environments. A degree in computer engineering, on the other hand, focuses on physics, electronics and computer architecture. Below is a summary of some of the standard core curriculum in these two degree programs.
Computer Science Courses
Design and Analysis of Algorithms
This course teaches students how to analyze the efficiency of algorithms using concepts from the theory of computation such as big O notation. Through this course students learn to write code that is optimized for its use case and analyze the efficiency of code.
Introduction to Operating Systems
This course covers the way operating systems manage and execute code in order make software run. This course will cover topics including process and thread management, concurrent programming, resources management and distributed services.
Software Engineering
This course teaches students to apply the theory of computation to practical problems by creating software solutions. This includes topics such as effective design and testing, engineering compromises and team based development.
Data Analysis
This course provides students with the tools and skills to apply statistical methods to large datasets using computational methods. This includes topics such as data creation, storage, access, processing and presentation.
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