Computer Science vs Software Engineering

If you want to learn more about Computer Science and Software Engineering, we have good news: you're in the right place. This article aims to make our readers more familiar with these two fields of study by providing descriptions, real-life examples, and our honest opinions.

What is Computer Science?

Wikipedia describes Computer Science as “the study of algorithmic processes and computational machines”. This definition itself suggests that Computer Science is a broad scientific discipline which encapsulates a number of different study fields. Computer Science stands at the theoretical and mathematical side of the field and it focuses on aspects like:

• Computation
• Data Science
• Programming Languages
• Algorithms
• Artificial Intelligence & Machine Learning
• Databases
• Networking
• Security
• Human Computer Interaction
• Graphics
• Software
• Hardware

In other words, it is a collective study field which aims to solve a given technical problem using theories, computational techniques, algorithms and other available knowledge. If you would like to learn more about Computer Science and other related fields we suggest you to read book by Glenn Brookshear.

What is Software Engineering?

According to Wikipedia, Software Engineering is "the systematic application of engineering approaches to the development of software." In contrast to Computer Science, Software Engineering stands more on the technical side of the field. Software Engineers excel in learning engineering principles which are then used to design, develop, test, maintain, and evaluate computer software. In other words, Software Engineering is a field of study that solves technical problems by analysing user requirements and combining engineering principles with technical skills and knowledge (programming languages, application security, databases, and many more). If you would like to learn more about Software Engineering and other related engineering principles, we suggest you read the book by Ian Sommerville.

Which One To Choose?

This ultimately comes down to your personal preference. It’s essential to keep in mind that there’s significant overlap between these two fields, and your choice should align with your interests and career aspirations. If you’re drawn to theory and have a curiosity for topics like algorithms, artificial intelligence, or computational problem solving, then Computer Science might be the better fit for you. This field often dives deep into abstract concepts, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with technology. On the other hand, if you’re more inclined toward the practical, hands-on aspects of computing, such as understanding user needs, designing, and developing software and applications from start to finish within the software development life cycle, then Software Engineering could be the ideal path. It focuses on applying structured methodologies to create robust and scalable software systems, often with a strong emphasis on collaboration and real world problem solving.

If you are a prospective university student deciding between Computer Science and Software Engineering, it is essential to check the curriculum of the university you are considering applying to. Some universities only offer one of the mentioned subjects, while other universities offer both subjects at the same time. If both subjects are offered simultaneously, it is very likely that there will be some overlap in the course content. Therefore, it is important to get yourself familiar with the course content before applying to make sure it will align with your liking and future career aspirations.

Job Prospects

As Software Engineering and Computer Science have many things in common, their job prospects are also very similar. Depending on their experience level, Software Engineers and Computer Scientists may have various jobs at different seniority levels. Here is a summary of jobs that Computer Scientists and Software Engineerd may end up pursuing:

• Software Engineer or Developer
• Mobile Application Developer
• Web Developer
• UI/UX
• IT and Technology Consultancy
• Networking
• Cyber Security
• Artificial Intelligence

These are just a few of the jobs that a Software Engineer and a Computer Scientist may have. Depending on your areas of interest, you can also move into fields like Data Science, Applied Research, DevOps, QA and so on. But it is very unlikely that the choice you make between the two subjects will have a major impact on your future job prospects.

Conclusion

Although these two fields of study have different names, they have many similarities. In practice, a person with a Software Engineering degree should have most of the skills a person with a Computer Science degree may have, and vice versa. However, this does not mean they are completely the same. In theory, they are two different disciplines, and there are differences in their underlying theories and principles. Broadly speaking, Computer Science is about algorithms and theories, while Software Engineering is more about engineering principles and software development. When it comes to choosing between Computer Science and Software Engineering, use this article as a guide, but do not forget to do your own research as well. It is very important to take your areas of interest and future career expectations into account when making your decision.