Computer Engineering vs Computer Science

Computer Engineering and Computer Science as subjects have a lot of overlap. However, this does not detract from the things that make them distinct. The overlap is, of course, because both disciplines are aiming to further computer technology and are in turn using computer programs to achieve that objective. Here is a small overview of both to help understand the differences.

Computer Engineering

Computer Engineering is an amalgamation of sorts between some aspects of Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. It seeks to understand the way in which the various components of computing interact with each other and process data. These devices could be at the level of a single microprocessor or anything that has one or more of these devices embedded in them. In today’s scenario that could be a phone or maybe even a supercomputer. Specialization in semiconductor electronics is a major part of Computer Engineering.

One of the misconceptions that a lot of people seem to have is that Computer Engineers do not write software and only work with hardware. This misconception is far from the truth since they are required to design software optimized for hardware to ensure that they can process the instructions efficiently. Designing chipset design, device modules and customized pieces of hardware also come under the purview of a Computer Engineer.

Computer Science

This branch of computer studies requires the students to understand how the data is processed through the entire chain of computing. Computers have specific computer languages that are designed by Computer Scientists so that they can instruct the various components to behave as they want them to. All the algorithms that are written for data processing, data storage, security or communication protocols come under the job description for Computer Scientists.

Computer scientists also do the basic framework for building and publishing applications on top of a computing platform or even the applications themselves.

Complimentary Branches

It is easy to understand why both these disciplines have a considerable overlap since they are required to work extremely closely on most projects. Even the jobs that graduates from these specializations would apply for are sometimes common. Data management, which is one of the most exciting fields nowadays, requires Computer Engineers to design an efficient design for huge servers that are reliable and dependable. All of this data is managed by algorithms that Computer Scientists design to help make sense of it and retrieve it as and when required. This is only one example of a close working relationship. Take any device that you use in daily like and it would have the imprints of Computer Scientists and Computer Engineers working closely in tandem.

While there is no doubt that Computer Engineers will deal more with hardware and Computer Scientists will deal more with software and interface, both the fields require knowledge and implementations of each other’s areas of expertise. This ensures students passing out from either discipline are eligible for a wide variety of jobs in the industry.

An Overview Analysis Of Computer Science Careers

Computer science primarily involves addressing fundamental questions and issues about the nature of computing and designing programs (computer software). It also involves many different aspects of hardware and the architecture of computer systems that form the infrastructure of government and commercial enterprises. Therefore, computer scientists can work in many different ways; programming work, theoretical work on foundations and fundamentals of computing and collaborative teamwork in solving problems and research.

Core areas of computer science

The main areas of computer science include graphics networks, software engineering, artificial intelligence, networks, graphics, and multimedia. The most exciting new topics in computer science are also occurring in the connection between computer science and various other fields. For instance, computer science has changed the way scientists conduct biological research through the intersection of computer science and biology creating a new field called Bioinformatics. Moreover, computer simulations have made it possible to study complex problems in economics, geology, physics and chemistry which were quite difficult especially without computers.

Top ten computer science careers

1. Software Applications Developer

The main duties in this field include customizing or designing computer application software and modifying existing application software to correct errors or optimize operational efficiency. Software developers also evaluate user needs and requirements to determine software feasibility.

2. Business Intelligence Analyst

They usually analyze market trends and strategies by analyzing competitors. They also correct data from industry reports, purchased sources and public information to produce trend data and business intelligence to support a recommendation for any plan of action.

3. Computer Systems Analyst

Their role is analyzing various data processing problems so as to improve computer systems and develop system design procedures. Easy sharing of information is enhanced by the systems compatibility.

4. Computer Systems Engineer

Daily duties include developing solutions to complex network concerns and application problems. They also provide technical assistance for troubleshooting different computer systems to confirm security and stability of system architecture.

5. Web Developer

Duties include writing, editing, and designing web page content. They also identify problems that are uncovered by user feedback or testing.

6. Network systems administrator

Main duties include installing and supporting network systems and examining website functions to ensure performance without any interruptions. They also perform disaster recovery and data backup operations.

7. Database Administrator

Duties include testing and administering computer databases and enhancing security to safeguard information. This is also vital for correcting errors and coordinating changes to computer databases

8. Computer programmer

They are tasked with creating and testing codes that allow computers to function properly and analyzing user needs so as to develop effective software solutions. Besides writing computer programs, they can also locate and retrieve data.

9. Software quality assurance tester

Duties include developing test plans that can help identify software defects and creating a database to track software errors. Therefore, they must review software documentation to mitigate risks and confirm accuracy.

10. Software systems developer

Their duties mainly include designing, developing and testing software for different industries. Software system developers can also correct errors and improve performance of existing software.

Computer science careers open numerous doors to the thrilling world of technology. On the other hand, understanding what the different careers in this field will help you validate your decision to pursue a degree and career in computer science.