A computer-focused degree can open a lot of doors: not only in the tech world but in healthcare, retail, entertainment, and other industries as well. The market for computer scientists is growing much more quickly than the aggregate job market; the same is true for jobs in cyber security, information systems management, and niche tech fields like machine learning and robotics. Computing jobs may no longer be the number one source of new wages in the US, but qualified computer experts remain in high demand. And, all those jobs in computer science and computer engineering are among the most lucrative out there.

Filling roles in technology jobs often means specializing in computer science or computer engineering. While there is some overlap between these disciplines, there are also ways in which they are very different.The same is true for computer science and computer engineering degree programs—and the jobs for which they prepare you. Computer science is a broad discipline that encompasses programming, architecture, and computing theory. In contrast, computer engineering focuses primarily on computer hardware and software systems and how they align in form and function.

If you love computers, choosing between these two disciplines can be tough. The key to making the right choice is understanding the difference between them. In this article about computer science vs. computer engineering, we cover:

What is computer science, and how does it differ from computer engineering?
Is there any overlap between these disciplines?
Do computer science and computer engineering degrees lead to the same careers?
How do the skills associated with computer science and computer engineering differ?
Do computer scientists or computer engineers earn more money?
Is the job outlook better for computer scientists or computer engineers?
How can you decide which career path is the right one for you?