eli5: What is the difference between a computer science and a computer engineering degree?
In: Technology
Computer Science (CS) is more about the software side of things—programming, algorithms, data structures, and understanding how software operates. It’s kind of like learning the magic spells that make computers do incredible things.
Computer Engineering (CE), on the other hand, bridges the gap between electrical engineering and computer science. It’s more hardware-focused but still dips into software. CE covers the design and development of computer systems themselves—how to build the actual machines and circuits that run the software CS guys create.
So, if you like the idea of writing code and designing complex software systems, CS might be your path. But if you’re interested in creating the gadgets and gizmos that use that software—think robotics, embedded systems, microprocessors—then CE could be the way to go. It’s all about whether you want to craft the spells (CS) or the wands (CE)!
Computer Science: Learn how computers work so that / and how you can use and program them. Mostly software focus.
Computer Engineering: Learn how computers work so that / and how you can program and build them. Split focus between software and hardware.
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