Difference Between Computer Science and Software Engineering

Updated on 08 November, 2023

Pragya Sharma

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

If you are among those who believe that computer science and software engineering are the same, this article will clear your confusion. Knowing the difference between computer science and software engineering will help you clear your basics and make a better choice when choosing a program for higher education.

Many institutions offer diverse courses in both these disciplines. Here is a basic guide to understanding the difference between computer engineering and software engineering, considering how both these fields are highly sought-after for aspirants, each offering ample professional growth opportunities. 

What is Computer Science Engineering

Is computer engineering and software engineering the same? The answer is No. You must  understand more about both disciplines before coming to any conclusion. 

Computer science covers the study and learning of computational systems and computers. Computer science professionals know the overall working of computers. They deeply understand how the computer works on a fundamental level.

Computer scientists may work in segments emphasizing computer networks, machine learning, artificial intelligence, monitoring systems and security networks, user interaction, database systems, mathematical analysis, theories on computing and procedures, and programming languages. Computer scientists may also study software engineering principles, which is the sole similarity between the two fields.

What is Software Engineering

Before knowing the difference between software engineering and computer science engineering, you should understand some aspects of software engineering beforehand. 

Software engineering is about applying the core engineering principles and standards for designing, maintaining, developing, and evaluating computer software. A software engineer is also called a software developer or software designer. Knowledge of designing and developing software along with programming languages is a prerequisite. 

Software engineers may also be programmers who perform QA (quality assurance) checks and testing while developing software to ensure its efficiency across applications in the real world. 

Difference Between Programmer and Software Engineer

You can reconcile the computer engineering vs. software engineering debate by understanding the core differences between these two fields. 

  • Both are computer science professions that emphasize developmental languages and coding. 
  • Software engineering is about designing software, troubleshooting, and enhancing applications. It also encompasses testing, resolving software issues, and other functions.
  • Computer science programming is about understanding and writing across several languages, including Java, C++, Python, and SQL, updating and building existing software programs, testing code, debugging code, using code libraries to streamline the procedure, etc. 
  • Most companies require bachelor’s degrees for both programmers and software engineers. However, some companies may require programmers to have some experience or associate certificates/degrees. Software engineers may also go for master’s degrees to enhance their knowledge. 
  • Generally, software engineers earn around $91000 on average per year. In comparison, computer scientists may earn $94,369 per year on average. When talking about the computer science vs software engineering salary, there is not much difference since the remuneration depends majorly on the company, job-specific requirements, and an individual’s experience.  
  • Programmers and software engineers often collaborate on projects, although they have varying responsibilities. Software engineers have higher involvement in development, right from conceiving software to the launch. On the other hand, programmers are coding experts working on particular aspects of the entire process of development. 

Is computer science harder than software engineering? This is one of the questions that often comes up in every CSE vs software engineering debate. However, the difficulty is subjective, depending on the candidate’s knowledge, interests, and areas of interest. 

Computer Science vs Software Engineering: Subjects

Computer Science 

Software Engineering

  • Computational systems and computers
  • Software and software systems encompassing design, theory, development, and application
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Computer networks and systems
  • Database systems
  • Cyber and information security
  • Human-computer interaction
  • Numerical analysis 
  • Graphics and vision
  • Theory of computing
  • Programming languages
  • Software engineering
  • Bioinformatics
  • Software architecture 
  • Software design, construction, and development
  • JavaScript, SQL, Java, Python, PHP, C+, and more 
  • Algorithm design and analysis
  • Computer organization and architecture
  • Data communications
  • Fundamental mathematics
  • Human-computer interaction
  • Operating systems
  • Programming languages
  • Project management and professional ethics
  • Robotics and machine learning
  • Social responsibility and ethics

Computer Science vs Software Engineering: Job Roles 

Job Roles in Computer Science 

Job Roles in Software Engineering 

  • Programmer analyst- $71,666 per year
  • Technical support engineer- $72,224 per year
  • E-commerce business analyst- $74,919 per year
  • Systems analyst- $79,823 per year
  • Business continuity analyst- $74,919 per year 
  • Software developer- $86,470 per year
  • Database developer- $84,946 per year
  • Database administrator- $92,553 per year
  • UX designer- $90,207 per year
  • IT project manager- $93,372 per year
  • .NET developer- $94,161 per year
  • IT auditor- $98,822 per year
  • Front-end developer- $102,697 per year
  • Java developer- $103,461 per year
  • Network security engineer- $115,197 per year
  • Mobile Developer- $115,817 per year
  • Data scientist- $121,897 per year
  • DevOps engineer- $121,996 per year
  • Software architect- $139,099 per year 
  • Systems administrator- $77,515 per year
  • Web developer- $79,517 per year
  • User interface developer- $83,930 per year
  • Application developer- $84,986 per year
  • Database administrator- $90,402 per year 
  • Front-end developer- $102,082 per year
  • Full-stack developer- $102,445 per year
  • Back-end developer- $115,312 per year
  • Development and operations engineer- $119,717 per year
  • Software developer- $122,588 per year
  • Software architect- $134,936 per year 

Computer Science vs Software Engineering: Top Universities 

Here are some of the top universities for computer science, per the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2023: Computer Science and Information Systems. 

University Name 2023 QS Ranking by Subject* Location 
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) 1 Cambridge, USA
Carnegie Mellon University 2 Pittsburgh, USA
Stanford University 3 Stanford, USA
University of California, Berkeley (UCB) 4 Berkeley, USA
University of Oxford 5 Oxford, UK
National University of Singapore (NUS) 6 Singapore 
University of Cambridge 7 Cambridge, UK
Harvard University 8 Cambridge, USA

*www.topuniversities.com 

Here are some of the top universities for software engineering, per EduRank.

University Name Ranking Location 
Carnegie Mellon University

1

Pennsylvania, USA
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)

2

Massachusetts, USA
Eindhoven University of Technology

3

Eindhoven, Netherlands 
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign

4

Illinois, USA
University of Southern California

5

California, USA
University of California - Irvine

6

California, USA
Stanford University

7

Stanford, USA
University of Maryland - College Park

8

Maryland, USA

Computer Science vs Software Engineering: Skills Required

Here are some of the skills needed by both programs: 

Computer Science Software Engineering
  • Computation & Algorithms
  • Coding and Programming
  • Database Management
  • Machine Learning
  • Cyber Security & Information Security
  • Artificial Intelligence 
  • Cloud Computing
  • Computer Architecture
  • Project Management
  • Software Design and Development
  • Software System Maintenance
  • Software Engineering
  • Computer Programming
  • Testing
  • Architecture
  • Operating Systems

Computer Engineering vs Software Engineering: Which is Better for You 

Both computer science and software engineering make excellent options for aspirants. Those inclined towards a more technical approach may opt for software engineering, while those who are more into a broader and more theoretical approach can choose computer science. The article shows that software engineering degrees are more suited to those who wish to build practical and technical skills in this domain. Computer science degrees are more suited to those looking for information and skill-building on a broader range of topics, from information security to machine learning. These degrees are ideal for pursuing a more comprehensive mix of careers and leadership roles. 

Conclusion

Now that you have a basic idea about computer science and software engineering and what they entail, choose per your interests. Do you wish to specialize in a technical field? Then go for software engineering. Do you wish to cover a broader spectrum of knowledge and career opportunities? Opt for computer science. Take your time and do your research before deciding.  

Disclaimer: The costs, salaries, and tuition fees mentioned are indicative only and subject to change at any time at the concerned authorities' discretion.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is computer engineering and software engineering the same?

Computer engineering is a broader study and practice area involving several aspects. Software engineering is one subset or facet of computer engineering. It is more focused on designing, developing, and maintaining software. For instance, computer engineering can cover everything from programming to cyber-security and machine learning. 

Is computer science harder than software engineering?

It all depends on the experience and skill levels of aspirants. Software engineering can be easier for those with experience in software development and coding. 

Can I work as a software engineer with a degree in computer science?

A bachelor’s degree in computer science may help you work as a software engineer. Yet, a specialized major or graduate degree in software engineering will be necessary for scaling up your competitiveness in the market.

Did you find this article helpful?

Pragya Sharma

Sr. Content Editor

Pragya Sharma is a content developer and marketer with 6.5+ years of experience in the education industry. She started her career as a social media copywriter for NIELIT, Ministry of Electronics & IT, and has now scaled up as a 360-degree content professional well-versed with the intricacies of digital marketing and different forms of content used to drive and hook the target audience. She is also a co-author of 2 stories in an anthology based on the theme- women empowerment.

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