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What should I consider to choose whether to study computer science or software engineering?

I want to program and develop software, applications, websites, video games. I would like to work in a company already fixed but independently develop and create my own things. #computer #technology #computer-software #software-engineering #software #science

technology science computer computer-software software software-engineering
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Walt’s Answer

Before I answer the question, I would like to talk about something you said in your question. You said that you would like to work in an established company, but create and build your own things. You may already know this, but in almost every company, you will be part of a team of software developers working on a project together. Companies hardly ever have people working alone on projects, just so you know.

Having said that, software engineering sounds closer to what you are saying you want to do. Computer Science is much more theoretical and involves developing new ways of computing, or systems that do things differently than they are done today. Software Engineering teaches much more practical skills in developing and delivering software. The attached article may help you further.

Hope that helps.

Walt Smith

Walt recommends the following next steps:

https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/computer-science-vs-software-engineering
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Gillian’s Answer

That's a great question. The reality is probably that you can get to your desired career using either path. Personally I went the Computer Science route and spent 12+ years as an applications/web developer and SQL database administrator. I coded in languages like C#, Java, SQL, HTML etc. and really enjoyed it as a career. My advice would be to look in depth at the modules in each discipline, compare these to open roles on job websites (roles that sound like what you want to do) and make your choice based on the proximity of both.

Best of luck! I don't think you can go wrong with either choice.
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Harini’s Answer

Hi Emily,

Looks like you are interested in developing software applications. Software Engineering would be the best choice if you want to understand the life cycle of the applications which includes requirement gathering, design, development, and testing.

However, if you want to get specialized in a particular area like Game development (for video games) then the best choice is computer science.

I wish you good luck!!
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Matt’s Answer

You must also consider the degree programs (majors and minors or specializations) and courses offered by a university in your college search. My daughter, for example, recently graduated from RIT with degree in "Interactive Media & Design" (a.k.a., game dev) which was under the CS department. The CS department at RIT offers specialized areas such as "game dev", "software engineering", "cyber security", etc that align with areas of specialization the software industry hires. Other universities she considered just had CS department and that was under the engineering school and to do a "game dev" type of focus would have required a "self directed study" as there were no direct course offerings for "game dev".

Also, check out https://www.indeed.com/career-advice/finding-a-job/computer-science-vs-software-engineering as well.
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