Written by Jay Zhang, CEG college counseling team
It's no secret that artificial intelligence (AI) and technology are advancing at a rapid pace, and many students want to be a part of that growing innovation.
But many students also are confused about the varied pathways, college majors, and opportunities that are out there. One example of this is Computer Engineering (CE) vs Computer Science (CS)a—ttwo college majors and fields that have many similarities, but also some key differences.
So below, we’ll dive into what those differences are, what jobs the different degrees tend to allow for or focus on, pros and cons of each, and how AI will impact things, followed by an in-depth FAQ.
Here we go.
What is Computer Engineering?
Computer Engineering is a field of study that combines electrical engineering and computer science. In this major, students learn how to design, build, and maintain computer systems. They work with both the physical components of electronics and the software that makes them run.
Essentially, computer engineers bridge the gap between hardware and software, ensuring that computers and computer-controlled systems function effectively and efficiently
Key Aspects
Hardware Design:
Computer engineers work on the physical components of computers, including microprocessors, circuit boards, memory devices, and networks.
Software Integration:
They also design and implement software that interacts with the hardware, such as firmware, operating systems, and application software.
System Integration:
They focus on how different hardware and software components work together as a whole system, ensuring efficient and reliable performance.
Problem-Solving:
They apply their technical knowledge to solve complex problems related to computer systems and network
What do Computer Engineers do?
There are a lot of career options for Computer Engineers. Here are some of the more common ones:
Hardware Engineer: Design and develop computer hardware parts.
Circuit Designer: Create electronic circuits for different devices.
Firmware Engineer: Create and develop the software that controls hardware.
Embedded Systems Engineer: Design systems for electronics like cars and appliances.
Network Engineer/Architect: Build and manage computer networks.
What is Computer Science?
Computer Science is the study of computers and computer systems and their theoretical and practical applications. It's a broad field that covers everything from computing theory to software development, including algorithms, data structures, hardware design, and artificial intelligence.
Computer scientists use technology to solve problems: expense-tracking phone apps, financial cybersecurity tools, AI-powered cancer detection, and more.
Key Aspects
Computation and Information:
Computer science explores how computers can process and store information, which is fundamental to many aspects of modern life.
Algorithms:
At the heart of computer science are algorithms, which are sets of instructions that computers follow to perform specific tasks.
Software Development:
Computer scientists design and develop software, the set of instructions that tells a computer what to do.
Hardware Design:
They also study and design the physical components of computers, such as processors and memory.
Applications:
Computer science has numerous applications, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, cybersecurity, and software engineering.
Theoretical Foundations:
Computer science also delves into the theoretical foundations of computing, exploring concepts like computability, the theory of computation, and information theory.
What do Computer Scientists do?
Computer scientists also have a lot of career paths. Here are some examples:
Software Developer/Engineer: Create, write, and test software.
Web Developer: Build websites and web applications.
Data Scientist: Analyze data to find trends and insights.
Cybersecurity: Protect computer systems from outside threats.
Key Differences: It's About Focus (Hardware vs. Software)
What are the main differences between these two fields? It essentially comes down to focus:
Computer Science: Focuses on software, algorithms, data structures, and the theoretical aspects of computing.
Computer Engineering: Focuses on the design and building of computer hardware and its interaction with software.
Here’s a useful analogy: Computer scientists are like the architects who design the blueprints for a building, while computer engineers are the construction workers who build and make sure everything works together.
Which is "better" or "harder"?
“Better” or “harder” aren’t great terms here, since they lack a ton of nuance and case-specific detail.
To illustrate why:
Some students might find either field “harder”, depending on what kind of foundation they’ve developed. And do you mean “harder” course work? “Harder” to get the job you want after?
And “better” depends a lot on how exactly you’re defining it—better pay? More fulfilling or intriguing or inspiring? More social prestige?
So we’ll try to break down some “Pros” and “Cons” of both fields that might make one “better” or “harder” for you.
"Pros":
It can be argued that Computer Engineering is “better” because there are options for stable career opportunities in both software and hardware.
However, some believe Computer Science is “better” because of the many high-paying jobs available right out of college at big prominent companies like Google and Facebook.
"Cons":
Computer Engineering can be challenging due to the demanding coursework from both computer science and electrical engineering.
Computer Science can also be difficult, not only due to the high number of students pursuing it for lucrative career opportunities but also because the field is highly saturated and competitive.
How Will AI Impact These Fields?
This is probably one of the most important questions for students to consider, since Computer Science (CS) and Computer Engineering (CE) heading forward probably look pretty different from what the fields have been up until now.
AI is already transforming CS and CE in profound ways, and this trend will only accelerate.
Here's some of how:
Education and Skill Requirements
Programming paradigm shifts: Focus is moving from writing every line of code to prompt engineering, model fine-tuning, and effectively directing AI coding assistants
Interdisciplinary knowledge: Greater emphasis on statistics, ethics, and domain expertise alongside traditional CS/CE skills
Abstraction layer: Many programming tasks are becoming more accessible to non-specialists through AI interfaces
Research and Development
Accelerated discovery: AI can rapidly test hypotheses and explore solution spaces far beyond human capacity
AutoML and architecture search: AI systems are actually designing other AI systems (though that may seem a little wild to you) and optimizing computing architectures
Hardware co-design: Custom chips (ASICs, NPUs) specifically for AI workloads continue to evolve rapidly
Industry Changes
DevOps transformation: AI-powered continuous integration, testing, and deployment pipelines
Democratization of development: Low-code/no-code platforms making software development accessible to more people
Specialized roles: New positions focusing on AI system integration, prompt engineering, and AI ethics
Challenges and Opportunities
Technical debt: Managing increasingly complex AI systems will require new methodologies
Energy efficiency: Growing focus on sustainable AI computing and optimization
Ethics and governance: Greater responsibility for engineers to build safe, fair, explainable systems
For CS/CE professionals, this will mean continuous learning is and will be more and more important. Those who can effectively work with AI tools rather than compete against them will have tremendous advantages in productivity and innovation capacity.
CS or CE: Which One Should You Choose?
Choosing between computer science and computer engineering depends on your interests, working style, strengths, and career goals.
So to get clear(er) on those, here are a few questions to help you reflect:
1. What are you passionate about?
Do you love coding and solving problems with software? Or are you more intrigued by how hardware works and how devices are built?
2. How do you like to work?
Do you enjoy spending hours writing and debugging code? Or do you prefer designing circuits, building prototypes, and working with physical components?
3. What are your long-term goals?
Do you see yourself developing apps, working in AI, or diving into cybersecurity? Or do you envision designing microprocessors, working in embedded systems, or developing next-generation hardware?
4. What are your strengths?
Are you drawn to abstract, theoretical thinking—like algorithms, logic, and data analysis? Or are you more energized by practical, hands-on challenges in physics, electronics, and design?
Still have questions? Check out the FAQ section below.
FAQ on CE vs CS
Q: Can a CS grad get a hardware job, and vice versa?
A: There's some overlap and sometimes graduates from both majors will be applying to the same positions after college. That said, Computer Engineering provides more direct training for hardware jobs.
Q: What courses should you take in high school?
A: Students interested in studying either Computer Science or Computer Engineering should build a strong foundation in mathematics and the sciences. It can be a good idea to prioritize taking physics early on in high school and to be on track to take calculus.
Typically, a competitive applicant for either major will have completed the highest level of math offered at their school, with AP Calculus BC by junior year being preferred. Furthermore, students often benefit from taking the most advanced science courses available, such as AP Chemistry, AP Physics C, AP Computer Science A, and any available engineering courses.
If advanced math or science courses are not available at your high school, you can consider taking it online or at a community college.
Q: What kinds of clubs and organizations are good for high school students interested in CS or CE?
A: There are many options for students. The following are a few examples:
Coding Club: Exploring CS concepts and coding.
Robotics: Hands-on design, building, and programming of robots.
Cybersecurity Club: Learn about online safety and network security.
Math Club: Develop problem-solving and logical reasoning.
Science Club: Learn broader STEM foundations.
Girls Who Code/Black Girls CODE: Participation of girls and Black girls in computer science.
Q: What are some relevant competitions for high school students interested in CS or CE?
A: There are many STEM competitions available for students to participate in. Here are some to consider:
Programming Competitions: USACO, ACSL, HP CodeWars, Harker Programming Invitational
Robotics Competitions: FIRST Robotics, VEX, Botball, RoboRAVE
Cybersecurity Competitions: CyberPatriot, PicoCTF
App Development Challenges: Congressional App Challenge, Technovation Challenge
Maths and Science Competitions: AMC, Science Olympiad, Biology Olympiad, Chemistry Olympiad, F=ma
Q: Is it harder to be admitted to CS and CE programs than to other college majors?
A: Some universities have “direct admit” majors, which means a student is evaluated for that program of study at the time of application. Others prefer that students study more broadly for their first year, take prerequisite classes, and then apply to their major.
Direct-admit programs are often highly competitive and expect that students have very strong academic and experiential preparation in high school.
Because Computer Engineering is almost always part of a university’s School of Engineering, students may be admitted to a First Year Engineering program or direct to major.
Computer Science is often housed in a university’s Division of Arts and Sciences or its own College of Computer Science.
It is very important for you to look at these differences between universities to see which are a good fit for you and not out of reach in terms of the competition for admission.
Don’t hesitate to reach out to an Admission Counselor at a university that interests you to talk about your background and fit for different academic programs.
Q. What’s the best way for me to apply to college if I’m not sure which one I prefer, but I know I want to work with computers?
A: Highlight your general interest in computing and any related projects or activities in your application.
Apply to programs that offer a flexible first year, allowing you to take introductory courses in math, computer science, and engineering before declaring a major.
Additionally, consider colleges known for allowing students to easily switch into Computer Science and Computer Engineering programs later on. (Not every college will do so.)
Q. If I don’t love math, what’s an alternative to these majors in the tech field?
A: There are several tech-related fields that require less emphasis on advanced math. Here are some options:
User Experience (UX) Design/User Interface (UI) Design: Create user-friendly interfaces. Relies more on design and user research.
Web Development (Front-End): Build visual parts of websites. Primarily uses HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Digital Marketing: Uses online strategies for promotion, focusing on data analysis and online platforms.
IT Support/System Administration: Maintains computer systems and networks.
Project Management: Organizes tech projects, using organization and leadership.
Hopefully, this helps you get a better handle on the differences between Computer Science and Computer Engineering. Both are great fields to study with lots of opportunities in the future!
Jay Zhang is a counselor at CEG, holding an MA in School Counseling from NYU, a BS in Microbiology from UCLA, a PPS credential, and certification as a Strong Interest Inventory practitioner. With over a decade of experience as an Independent Educational Consultant (IEC) and school counselor, he specializes in guiding students in STEM fields and UC admissions. As a former UCLA scholarship reader and interviewer, Jay offers keen insight into crafting unique and standout applications. He employs a strength-based approach, focusing on students' overall development to help them create tailored college plans, build skills for a bright future, and successfully gain admission to a wide range of selective institutions. A Southern California native, Jay enjoys beach days and hiking.
Top Values: Authenticity | Balance | Compassion
