To begin, it is beneficial to understand how these two fields of study are similar. Ultimately, both are concerned with computer software and virtually everything related.
For example, those with degrees in either computer science or software engineering may specialize in programming language development, systems software, software architecture, or application development. The focus of these two fields of study overlaps in that both require the student to develop an intimate knowledge of computers, especially computer software and its various applications.
| Featured CS & Software Engineering Programs | ||
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Computer Science (BS) | Visit Site |
| Arizona State University | Engineering Science (MSE) in Software Engineering | Visit Site |
| Arizona State University | Software Engineering (BS) | Visit Site |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Online BS - Computer Science (BSCS) | Visit Site |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Online BSCS - Software Engineering | Visit Site |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Online MSIT - Software Application Development | Visit Site |
| Syracuse University | Online MS - Computer Science (No GRE Required) | Visit Site |
| Stevens Institute of Technology | Online MS - Computer Science (No GRE/GMAT Required) | Visit Site |
| University of Denver | AI Strategy and Application (Graduate Certificate) | Visit Site |
sponsored
×
When you click on a sponsoring school or program advertised on our site, or fill out a form to request information from a sponsoring school, we may earn a commission. View our advertising disclosure for more details. |
||
Of course, there are differences between the two paths, although no two computer professionals explain those differences in the same way. One way to understand the differences is to examine two specific words within the given nomenclature; namely, ‘engineer’ and ‘science’ (or ‘scientist’).
Engineers, by nature, are tasked with developing solutions to problems or creating more efficient processes by using tools already in existence. By extension, software engineers often create new software by utilizing existing languages or established practices already in use.
Contrary to this, scientists often hone their expertise in research and developing (and pushing) the boundaries of their given field. As such, computer scientists may assist in creating new algorithms or language types that will eventually be used to create software.
Many agree that a degree in computer science best prepares a student for abstract problem solving and research on the development of computer technology, while a software engineering degree provides a student with knowledge regarding the software development process and how to apply this as an engineer.
That said, the two fields of study are overlapping circles on a Venn diagram, where each does indeed emphasize different areas of software development (one more practical, the other more theoretical), with a common focus on achieving a depth of computer and coding knowledge.
Beneath this paragraph is a side-by-side comparison of software engineering and computer science, including information regarding their status in universities and colleges, the topics students should be prepared to study, the specializations students may pursue, and more. Individuals who are interested in pursuing a software-related career would be wise to review the following information before selecting a major.
| Computer Science | Software Engineering | |
|---|---|---|
| How do the fields define themselves? | Computer science takes a broad approach to the study of the principles and use of computers that covers both theory and application. This field involves the understanding and application of both abstract and concrete knowledge. |
Software engineering is a field largely concerned with the application of engineering processes to the creation, maintenance, and design of software for a variety of different purposes. |
| What department is the program typically part of within the educational institution? | The computer science program is generally contained in the engineering department in four-year universities. | The software engineering program is most often housed in the engineering department in four-year universities. |
| What bodies of knowledge will students focus on in pursuit of this degree? |
In general, curriculum courses may focus on different knowledge areas such as:
An example would include an online bachelor’s program in computer science offered by Oregon State University, where they offer courses in programming fundamentals, network security, software engineering, databases, computer forensics, operating systems, and cryptography. |
Software engineering students may focus on core topics such as:
An example here would be the Pennsylvania State University, which offers an online master of software engineering (MSE) program. It includes courses such as software construction, requirements engineering, software systems architecture, software system design, software project management, and software testing. |
| Is hardware training part of the curriculum? | Understanding the interaction between hardware and software will be included in curricula; however, specific training on hardware development generally will not. | In general, students in this field will not receive training on hardware development; however, they will gain knowledge of the interplay between hardware and software. |
| Is algorithmic training part of the curriculum? | Algorithmic training would most likely be part of a computer science curriculum. | Students will likely take classes on algorithms; however, it will not be a focal point of the degree. |
| Is project management of software development part of the curriculum? | Project management is often included in the computer science curriculum, sometimes as part of a software engineering course. | Students studying software engineering will likely take courses on project management, both in undergraduate and graduate programs. |
| What specializations, if any, are formally available as part of the program? | Depending on the institution, many specializations may be available, including a focus on artificial intelligence, mobile and internet computing, security, real-world computing, and theory. | While pursuing a degree in software engineering, students may have the opportunity to focus on several different specializations, including network-centric systems, modeling and simulation, games and entertainment systems, digital and embedded systems, and other areas. |
| What established occupations will students be prepared for after receiving a degree? | A degree in computer science may prepare students for careers as computer and information research scientists; computer network architects; computer programmers; computer support specialists; information security analysts; software developers; or web developers, all of which are described in detail by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. | According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, established positions related to software engineering may include careers in software development; computer network architecture; computer systems analysis; web development; and information research. |
| What emerging occupations will students be prepared for after receiving a degree? | Emerging positions in the field of computer science may include careers in cloud computing; robotics and artificial intelligence; application development; and forensic analysis. By nature, this list will continue to grow in the future. | Emerging occupations related to software engineering depend on the state of software and technology in the future. That being said, those with a degree in software engineering may find work in artificial intelligence, app development, and software development for any future technologies that arise. |
| Name eight schools that offer online degrees in these fields. |
The following is a list of eight schools that offer online degree programs in computer science:
|
The following is a list of eight schools that offer online degree programs in software engineering:
|
| Bottom Line: Specifics of Each | Ultimately, while it is impossible to place a single label on this field of study, largely due to the ever-changing nature of technology, those studying computer science should expect to become familiar with computers, their functions, and their general application. While some software programming may play a part in this area, computer scientists may also be tasked with developing new coding languages or researching new technology to extend the boundaries of the industry. Overall, computer science mixes both concrete and abstract concepts as they relate to computers and technology. | Software engineering, much like other engineering disciplines, aims to utilize general applications of computers and software to create efficiencies or solve problems. As such, software engineers can expect to create and maintain existing software for several different purposes. While software engineers will generally not find themselves in research-based positions, they should expect to become extremely familiar with the development of software, as well as how to use the variety of tools in their arsenal to create useful finished products. |
Farheen Gani has researched a wide array of topics related to engineering since 2018. She has written about electrical and computer engineering programs, structural engineering programs, mechanical engineer salaries, environmental engineering programs, and many other subfields of engineering. She...
Data science, as described by University of California, Berkeley, involves the analysis and management of large quantities of data. The discipline requires professionals who can ask the right questions, chart out what information is needed, collect the data, and analyze it effectively.
Meet several leading professors of computer science, and learn more about what makes them standout educators and innovators.
Software powers a large part of today’s world. From hailing taxi cabs to ordering food, there is an app for everything. As a result, there is a growing demand for software engineers to develop new applications and websites.
An online bachelor's degree in business data analytics provides students with a strong foundation in data analytics and prepares them for a promising career in this burgeoning field. Students become well-equipped in data mining, data storage, and data analytics.
A master’s degree in data science trains students to expertly analyze data, as well as in other important disciplines such as machine learning, programming, database management, and data visualization. This degree is ideal for aspiring data scientists, data analysts, and pricing analysts.
