What Is the Difference Between Computer Science and Computer Engineering Technology?
Computer science is a theoretical discipline that focuses on the design, development and management of software and database systems, while computer engineering technology is more concerned with hardware systems and how they integrate with software to optimize performance.
University of Grantham offers both an online Bachelor of Science in Computer Science and a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology. Understanding the difference between computer science and computer engineering technology will help you decide what’s right for you and your professional development goals.
Defining Computer Science
The key focus of computer science degree programs is on programming, algorithms, and data management. While you will learn about hardware in this program, your focus will be on software, with courses designed to build core skills in major programming languages such as Java, Python, and C++.
This programming knowledge serves as the foundation for more advanced skills in software development, including Agile and RAD methodologies; database design and management; cybersecurity; and machine learning and artificial intelligence.
Students graduating with a computer science degree often proceed to specialize in roles including software engineer, data scientist, systems analyst and security analyst.
Defining Computer Engineering Technology
The major difference between computer science and computer engineering technology is that while computer science is generally all about software, computer engineering technology programs focus more on hardware.
If you choose Computer Engineering Technology as your field of study, you will build proficiency in networking protocols and architecture, operating systems, and embedded systems, which are dedicated systems that integrate into larger devices, such as the engine control unit in a modern car.
Coursework in your computer engineering technology program will help you develop core skills and knowledge in electronics, circuits, microprocessors, and networking – all critical components of modern computer systems. With a degree in computer engineering technology, you may be ready to explore professional paths including hardware engineering, systems design, or network architecture.
Key Differences Between Computer Science and Computer Engineering
If you’re debating which degree is best for you, here’s a more detailed breakdown of the difference between computer science and computer engineering technology degrees.
Focus
Computer science degree programs focus more on the design, development, and management of software and databases. If you wish to learn about hardware and electrical systems and how they integrate with software for seamless system performance, a degree in computer engineering technology may be more suitable for you.
Approach
Computer science programs take a more theoretical approach to the material, exploring how software systems and algorithms can solve problems. Because computer engineering technology programs focus more on hardware, they often have a more practical, hands-on approach.
Curriculum
In a computer science degree program, you might encounter courses on programming, algorithms, data structures, computer networks, operating systems, and web design, as well as database and information management. You’ll also take math courses such as statistics, calculus, and discrete math.
Your computer engineering technology degree program will also include mathematics, programming and data structures coursework. However, you’ll also learn about topics like AC and DC circuits, electronics, signals, computer networks, and cloud computing.
Roles and Industries
Computer science degree program graduates serve in roles with technology companies as software developers, security and systems analysts, and data scientists, to name a few.
Computer engineering technology graduates are well-versed in electronics and hardware systems; with this knowledge, they often serve as systems or network designers, engineers, and architects at manufacturing and tech hardware companies.
How to Choose Between Computer Science and Computer Engineering
First, think about your interests. If you’re more passionate about concepts related to programming and computing theory, you may thrive in computer science. However, if your interests lie with circuitry and hardware, computer engineering technology may be right for you.
Additionally, you’ll need to think about your strengths. Computer science requires skills in logic, coding, data analysis, and mathematics. You also need to be adept at communication, as the field involves many collaborative projects where you will be working with other professionals. You may also need to communicate ideas, data, and findings to stakeholders, so you’ll need technical writing and data visualization skills.
Finally, consider your long-term goals. If your dream is to work for a tech company as a developer, scientist or analyst, a computer science degree may be best. If you are more interested in manufacturing or hardware engineering, computer engineering technology may be a more suitable choice.
Choosing the Right Path With UA Grantham’s Computer Science and Computer Engineering Technology Programs
The path you take to fulfill your professional development potential is personal. It’s important to consider your goals and gather the facts about the difference between computer science and computer engineering so you can make a fully informed decision.
Fortunately, UA Grantham offers a variety of degree programs to suit your educational needs and future plans. If you want to learn foundational concepts and practical application skills, consider an Associate of Science in Computer Science or an Associate of Science in Electronics and Computer Engineering Technology.
Those who wish to take their education a step further can earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science or a Bachelor of Science in Computer Engineering Technology. All programs are completely online and offer convenient eight-week terms and weekly assignment due dates so you can work at your own schedule throughout the week.
As a military-friendly institution, we also aim to make your education affordable, offering reduced tuition rate for active duty personnel and veterans. All students can take advantage of our low cost per credit hour and the complimentary laptop included with degree enrollment.
Are you ready to learn more about technology? Start your application now at no cost and see what a UA Grantham degree can do for you.