10 Aug 2020

Is Computer Science the Same as Software Engineering?

Coding Technology
Is Computer Science The Same As Software Engineering? - thinking gif | Stemettes Zine
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What Is Computer Science? 

Computer science is the study of computation and information. Computer science deals with theory of computation, algorithms, computational problems and the design of computer systems hardware, software and applications.  

What Is Software Engineering? 

Software engineering is the systematic application of engineering approaches to the development of software. Software engineering is a branch of computing science. A software engineer uses mathematical analysis and the study of Computer Science to design and create and further develop computer software. Software Engineers have the ability to create many different types of software such as operating systems, computer games business applications, middleware and network control systems. 

Studying 

A strong recommendation for both is taking Computer Science and Mathematics, as both require strong knowledge in both.  

Skills 

Some key skills required are maths skills, computer and technology knowledge and skills, the ability to analyse problems and trace them to their core causes, a systematic approach to work and problem solving. 

Skills needed for a Software Engineer are similar including communication, teamwork, computer programming, coding and problem solving. 

Jobs 

Some jobs that you can achieve with a Computer Science degree include: 

  • Data scientist. 
  • Software tester. 
  • Web developer. 
  • Systems analyst. 

With a software engineering degree: 

  • Solutions architect. 
  • Web developer. 
  • Computer games developer. 
  • IT project manager. 
  • Robotics engineer. 

Role Models

Ada Lovelace is the world’s first Computer Programmer, she was the first to recognise that the machine had applications beyond pure calculation, and published the first algorithm intended to be carried out by such a machine. 

Grace Brewster Murray Hopper was an American computer scientist and United States Navy rear admiral. One of the first programmers of the Harvard Mark I computer, she was a pioneer of computer programming who invented one of the first linkers. 

Here are some differences between the two.
Check this website here for a detailed summary of both. 


This piece was written by Stemette, Manjit Somal. 

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