If you enjoy working with computers and technology, then you may be considering a career in either computer science or software engineering. Although these fields do have some overlap, they are distinct industries with significant differences, so how can you decide which path is right for you? With a better understanding of the differences between computer science and software engineering, as well as the potential career paths you can explore with each, you may be able to make a better-informed decision regarding your future profession.
What Is Computer Science?
In its simplest terms, computer science is a field that focuses primarily on the study of computers, computing, and their practical applications. Within this overarching field, there are many subfields, ranging from artificial intelligence to computer architecture. Working in computer science requires an in-depth understanding of not only how computer systems work but also mathematical and analytical thinking skills.
What Is Software Engineering?
As a subfield of computer science, software engineering does share some similarities in the sense that this field often involves designing, developing, and building computer programs and applications. However, software engineering tends to be more focused on using specific tools to build, test, and maintain software systems and applications for clients. Working in this field requires an extensive knowledge of common programming languages (like Python and C++) as well as critical thinking skills and extreme attention to detail.
Key Differences Between Computer Science and Software Engineering
Software engineering and computer science differ in several ways, from their overall focus and scope to the unique skills needed for success.
Focus and Scope
It can be helpful to think of software engineering as a smaller field within the overarching discipline of computer science. In this sense, computer science looks more at the "big picture," including niche fields like software design, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity. On the other hand, software engineering has a much narrower focus that centers specifically on designing, testing, and maintaining computer systems, programs, and applications.
Skills
Both software engineers and computer scientists need to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills, plus a great deal of technical proficiency. However, computer scientists will benefit more from understanding data structures and data analysis, working with algorithms, and other field areas like cloud computing and cybersecurity.
The skills of a software engineer are much narrower in focus, with professionals needing to be proficient in common programming languages and knowing how to test, troubleshoot, and debug software programs. Software engineers must also be adaptable and flexible, as projects can change quickly.
Approach to Problem-Solving
Problem-solving skills are a must in both computer science and software engineering, although these skills may be applied in different ways. Software engineers, for example, may use problem-solving skills to troubleshoot and debug software programs and applications. Meanwhile, computer scientists may need to use problem-solving strategies to find solutions to a wide range of issues or even in developing an algorithm.
Tools and Technologies
It's no surprise that both computer scientists and software engineers rely on computers to carry out a great deal of their work. However, computer scientists tend to focus on using tools and resources like databases, algorithms, and version control systems. Software engineers, on the other hand, may work more with programming tools, software development tools, and cloud computing platforms to do their work.
Similarities Between Computer Science and Software Engineering
Although computer science and software engineering are two very distinct fields, they do share some similarities in terms of their core knowledge, problem-solving focus, and contribution to innovation in the tech world.
Core Knowledge
First, software engineers and computer scientists must have a comprehensive understanding of basic computer systems, computer architecture, and software applications. It is also not uncommon for professionals in both fields to work with different types of programming languages and markup, such as JavaScript, Python, and SQL.
Problem-Solving Focus
Both career paths are also centered around anticipating and solving problems as they arise. Whether it's a computer scientist responding to a cyber threat or a software engineer troubleshooting a problem with a new software release, professionals in both fields must be creative problem solvers.
Contribution to Technological Innovation
Finally, both software engineering and computer science are important fields when it comes to their contributions to technological innovation. Software engineers can help design and manage some of the most groundbreaking software applications in the world. Meanwhile, computer scientists have the potential to improve the computer systems we rely on with new technologies and other innovations.
Computer Science vs. Software Engineering: Career Paths
Now that you better understand the similarities and differences between computer science and software engineering, you may be wondering what kinds of careers are available in either field.
Careers in Computer Science
Some of the most common career paths in computer science include:
- Data scientist
- Machine learning engineer
- Systems analyst
- Software developer
- Artificial intelligence specialist
- Research scientist
- Cryptographer
- Database administrator
Careers in Software Engineering
Meanwhile, some of the most common software engineering career paths include:
- Software engineer
- Front-end developer
- Back-end developer
- Mobile app developer
- Project manager
- Quality assurance engineer
- Systems architect
- DevOps engineer
Computer Science vs. Software Engineering: Education
Whether you want to work in computer science or software engineering, there's a good chance you'll need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree to land even an entry-level job in the field. A software engineering degree or computer science degree can prepare you with the foundational skills and knowledge that you need to enter the field and work your way up the ladder.
A bachelor's degree in software development will cover critical topics such as networking, programming languages, web development, usability testing, and database systems. Meanwhile, common coursework in a computer science degree program may include relevant topics such as operating systems, database design, computational logic, and data structures and algorithms.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Between the Two
If you're still unsure whether a career in software engineering or computer science is right for you, there are some considerations to keep in mind that may help you decide.
Most importantly, take some time to think about where your unique interests and strengths lie. Do you enjoy tinkering with computer code and brainstorming ideas for new apps and software programs? If so, then you may be suited for a career in software engineering. Conversely, if you have a more general interest in computers and computing systems, opting for a computer science degree will allow you to study the field as a whole and potentially narrow your focus later on.
Also consider your professional and career goals. Where do you see yourself working five years down the road? What about ten years? If you know you want to work your way into a senior software engineer position, then pursuing a bachelor's degree now can set you up to enter a master's degree program that could help you achieve those goals in the future.
If you need more guidance in selecting the degree program and career path that are right for you, you can always reach out to our friendly admissions team for help, and learn more about the programs we offer.
Interested in Learning More?
Whether you're more interested in computation theory or dream of designing the next big software program, careers in both computer science and software development can be incredibly rewarding. The key, of course, is to consider your unique interests and strengths as you choose between these two paths. From there, you can pursue the formal degree that will best prepare you for the realities of your chosen field.
At Champlain College Online, we're proud to offer bachelor's degrees in both software development and computer science, so we're here to support you no matter which path you take. Plus, because our programs are offered in a 100% online format, you can enjoy the flexibility you need to complete your degree in as little as 14 terms.
Contact us to learn more about any of our degree programs, or get started filling out your online application for admission!
