Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering: How the Jobs Differ

Computer science and computer engineering are both dynamic, high-growth career paths with many overlapping skills and responsibilities. However, computer science jobs often focus on computer theory and software. You may pursue a computer science degree if you want to research how to use computational resources to solve problems or develop software. Computer engineering instead emphasizes designing computer systems and hardware. You may enjoy computer engineering if you like to build things or you're interested in creating the blueprints for computer architecture and infrastructure.

Gain foundational knowledge in both fields to help you identify the best career path and prepare for more advanced classes with Rice University's online program, Fundamentals of Computing Specialization. In as little as two months, you'll master the basics of theoretical computer science, programming principles, and algorithmic thinking, all while earning a shareable certificate for your study.

Computer science vs. computer engineering

If you're considering a career or degree in tech, comparing common fields of study with your own skills and interests can help narrow down your options. As you compare these fields, remember to consider key differences aside from the area of focus such as educational requirements, job outlook, and salary potential to gain a full picture of what your career path could look like.

What is computer science? 

Computer science is the study of technology and how it can be used to solve problems. As a computer science student, you’ll learn about hardware, software, and computer system performance, similar to a student of computer engineering. Computer science coursework can also include artificial intelligence, network architecture, and more abstract concepts like how computers are used in society. It’s a broad field with many job titles. Examples of courses you might study as a computer science major include:

• Programming

• Game design

• Web design

• Robotics

• Data analysis 

• Algorithms 

Read more: Is Computer Science Hard?

Explore the field of computer science for free with Princeton University through their beginner-friendly online course, Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose. You'll gain foundational knowledge of key computer science skills like mathematical theory and analysis, algorithms, programming, and problem-solving, all at your own pace.

What is computer engineering? 

As a computer engineer, you’ll design and build hardware for computer systems and may also design and coordinate software infrastructure. Computer engineers integrate hardware and software and work with hardware components such as memory chips and output devices. As a computer engineer, you might also work with artificial intelligence tools or speech processing software. A computer engineer’s job duties include:

• Designing computer hardware 

• Testing and analyzing computer systems

• Ensuring hardware and software work together 

Read more: Is Computer Engineering Hard?

Skill sets: Similarities and differences

While the basic concept of working with computers and computing-based technology is standard across both computer science (CS) and computer engineering (CE), you'll find some critical differences in each field's academic and practical focus.

For starters, both CS and CE are tech-intensive fields that focus on the study of computers and computer information systems. As either a computer scientist or a computer engineer, you will need to understand both the inner workings of a computer's hardware system and the complexities of computer software. You will also need to build your skills in programming, including learning how to "speak" a variety of computing-based languages.

When it comes to differences, the most apparent contrast between computer science and computer engineering is found in how you put your computing knowledge to work each day. CS is more concerned with theory. In fact, many university computer science departments originated as subdisciplines within mathematics departments. As a result, computer scientists tend to focus more on analysis and theory surrounding computers and programming.

Essential skills for computer scientists include:

• Software development

• Information system design

• Knowledge/fluency in languages such as Java, JavaScript, and SQL

• Strong theoretical mathematical background in linear algebra and statistics

• Technical writing skills for publishing findings

On the flip side, CE programs are developed as part of many universities' engineering schools and are often connected or bundled with electrical engineering degrees. Therefore, like other engineering fields, CE is more hands-on.

Critical skills for computer engineers include:

• Software engineering (coding, testing, program design)

• In-depth knowledge and skill with computer hardware

• Knowledge/fluency in languages such as Assembly, C++, and Perl

• Strong general mathematical background 

• Problem-solving and communication skills for working in teams

Read more: 7 Tips for Sharpening Software Developer Skills

Job outlook for computer science and computer engineering roles

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that information technology fields, including CS and CE, are projected to grow much faster than average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033 [1]. While the job outlook is similar, the specific jobs best suited for individuals in computer science vs. computer engineering differ.

Examples of computer science jobs

Because of its more theoretical focus, jobs in the computer science industry tend to focus more on development and research. Examples of popular jobs for computer science majors include:

• Database administrator

• Data scientist

• Systems analyst

• Software developer

• Software quality assurance manager

• Web developer

• Computer programmer

• Computer support specialist

• AI research scientist

Examples of computer engineering jobs

Computer engineering combines the basic theory of computer science with elements of electrical engineering. As a result, many computer engineering majors find work in hardware and software design and application. Popular job titles for computer engineering majors include:

• Computer architect

• Circuit designer

• Communications engineer

• Network systems engineer

• Network architect

• Systems programmer

• Systems architect

• Systems engineer

• Hardware engineer

• Game developer

• Forensic computer analyst

• Computer research scientist

Who gets paid more, computer science or computer engineering?

The computing and information technology sector is rapidly growing; therefore, the salary range for both computer science and computer engineering jobs is competitive and above average. According to the BLS, the median US salary for computing and mathematical fields such as CS and CE is $113,140 [2]. Additionally, the median salaries for the following CS and CE-related jobs [1]:

• Computer network architects: $129,840

• Computer systems analysts: $103,800

• Database administrators and architects: $117,450

• Network and computer systems administrators: $95,360

• Software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers: $130,160

• Web developers: $92,750

Read more: Computer Science Salary: Your 2025 Guide

How to start or advance a career in computer science or engineering

Whether you already work in computer science or computer engineering or want to enter these fields, there are things you can do to advance your career. Since computer systems and programs are ever-changing, building new skills, completing regular training, and earning various certifications in computer-based fields can help you stand out as a job candidate. You can also use these new skills and knowledge to negotiate a higher salary.

Build new skills. 

While computer science and computer engineering professionals use their knowledge and skills differently, one critical similarity is the need to renew and refresh that knowledge constantly. Building new skills as a computer scientist or computer engineer can mean anything from taking a course in a new programming language to updating your knowledge on specific fields such as web design or cybersecurity. You can also build your skills in various settings by completing in-house training at work or taking an online course such as Python Data Structures. 

Pursue certifications or degrees. 

If you are looking for a more comprehensive way to increase your opportunities as a computer scientist or computer engineer, consider pursuing certification or a degree in either field. Build skills and more in-depth knowledge that can lead to a higher-paying job in the future with a computer-related certification, bachelor's, or master's degree.

Take the next step in your tech career with Coursera

Whether you are interested in computer science or computer engineering, building your skills is a must in these constantly evolving fields.

Ready to get started? Enroll in Rice University's online program, Fundamentals of Computing Specialization for an introduction to theoretical computer science, programming principles, and algorithmic thinking that will strengthen your expertise and prepare you for the next step in your computer science or engineering career.

If you're unsure where to start, consider browsing skill-building courses in popular programming languages, such as SQL for Data Science from the University of California Davis or Duke University's Java Programming and Software Engineering Fundamentals Specialization.