There are several differences between computer science (CS) and electrical engineering (EE) disciplines.
Understanding the distinguishing features of each option might assist you in making the best choice before you begin your career journey.
Computer science vs. electrical engineering: which is for you? This post will show you the main similarities and differences between the two fields.
Let’s scroll down to learn more!
What is Computer Science?
Computer science refers to the investigation of computers, encompassing computational theory, algorithms, software and hardware design, and human-technology interaction.
In general, it is a broad field. In today’s technologically reliant world, the essential abilities are practical and in demand in virtually every business.
Why is this engineering field important? There are many good reasons why people pursue this career path.
Scientists in this area work on issues including anticipating natural disasters, charting virus outbreak patterns, enhancing the healthcare systems, and making education more accessible.
Most businesses are involved with computers somehow, and technologies have enhanced access.
The following are some of the most important fields of research in this career:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Vision and Graphics
- Security
- Database Systems
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Numerical Analysis
- Programming Languages
- Software Engineering
- Bioinformatics
- Systems and Networks
- Theory Of Computing
What is Electrical Engineering?
This domain involves studying, designing, electronics, and implementing electrical devices, electromagnetism-based equipment, and systems.
This field has evolved into a diverse set of disciplines. So, the engineers in this area perform in many sectors, with broad specific skills needed.
They assist in powering the globe by producing, designing, and managing electricity.
They work as problem solvers to research and use the mathematics and physics of electricity, electronics, and electromagnetic to big and smaller networks to process data and convey energy.
This industry has been subdivided into a variety of areas, including:
- Computer Engineering
- Systems Engineering
- Power Engineering
- Telecommunications
- Radio-Frequency Engineering
- Signal Processing
- Instrumentation
- Photovoltaic Cells
- Electronics
- Optics And Photonics
Detailed Comparison
Below are comprehensive comparisons between the two fields.
Similarities
The domains of computer science and electrical engineering share many commonalities as they share beginnings in mathematics and physics.
1. Computer expertise
Both careers need large computer operations and a thorough understanding of coding languages.
Computer science concentrates on computing devices’ algorithms, systems, and programs using programming languages to develop, develop, and verify code.
The engineers in this area deal with power systems and electric light and create and automate equipment using several programming languages.
2. Specialized skills
Technical, math, analytical, critical thinking, and communication skills are compulsory in both disciplines.
3. Education level
A bachelor’s degree is essential for employment in these sectors.
In these professions, higher degrees and certificates are available for greater specialization.
Differences
While the responsibilities of electrical engineering and computer science are comparable in specific ways, their daily duties are based on a particular expertise.
1. Responsibilities
Scientists tackle issues using technology and plan for the long term.
Their primary mission is to verify and build models for connection between humans and computer systems or systems and devices.
Electrical engineers design electrical items and systems using electricity, electromagnetic, and electronics.
They conduct risk evaluations and assure compliance with security regulations and electronic engineering rules.
2. Educational focus
A bachelor’s degree in computer science will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of basic computer systems.
You’ll gain a broad understanding of computer sciences while honing your software expertise.
You’ll learn practical math, physics, and computing science skills during your education.
The following are some of the crucial modules you could cover in computer science:
- Algorithms & Data Structures
- Programming & Design
- Architecture & Organization
- Analysis And Design Of Algorithm
- Operating Systems
- Project Management & Software Engineering
- Programming Practice
On the other hand, electrical engineering covers the large-scale production, transmission, and use of electricity.
You will focus on creating, developing, analyzing, constructing, and fixing electrical parts for usage in several industries during the electrical engineering education.
A degree in this field may comprise the following modules:
- Electric Circuits Analysis
- Digital System Configuration
- Electromagnetic Theory
- Analog Electronics
- Electrical Machines
- Generation
- Transmission
- Distribution
- Electrical Instrumentations And Measurements
3. Required skills
As a computer scientist, you need to have these skills:
- A solid background in math and physics
- Problem-solving skills
- Analytical skills
- Critical thinking skills
- Creativity
If you work in electrical engineering, you must achieve the following skills:
- Understanding of mathematics and physics
- Inquisitive skills
- Analytical skills
- Problem-solving skills
4. Career path
Typical computer science career paths include:
- IT consultant
- Database administrator
- Cyber security consultant
- Games developer
- Information security analyst
Typical jobs for electrical engineers include:
- Design engineer
- Process engineer
- System analyst
- IT consultant
- Programming engineer
- Research and development engineer
- Control and maintenance engineer
5. Salaries
While both disciplines may be profitable, computer science professions tend to pay more than electrical engineering positions.
According to our report, computer scientists had a median pay of $140,914, while the median income for electrical engineers was $118,530.
Comparison Table
| Computer science | Electrical engineering | |
|---|---|---|
| Responsibilities | – Tackle issues – Plan for the long term – Verify and build models for connection between humans and computer systems or systems and devices | – Design electrical items and systems – Conduct risk evaluations – Assure compliance with security regulations |
| Educational focus | Computer systems | Large-scale production, transmission, and use of electricity |
| Required skills | – A solid background in math and physics – Problem-solving skills – Analytical skills – Critical thinking skills – Creativity | – Understanding of mathematics and physics – Inquisitive skills – Analytical skills – Problem-solving skills |
| Career path | – IT consultant – Database administrator – Cyber security consultant – Games developer – Technical analyst | – Design engineer – Process engineer – System analyst – IT consultant – Programming engineer – Research and development engineer – Control and maintenance engineer |
| Salaries | $140,914 | $118,530 |
Which Career is Better for You?
Computer science and electrical engineering are interesting career choices for people who want to use technology to develop new things.
While creativity and development are fundamental to both occupations, you should consider the following:
- Look for jobs that interest you and conduct some study to see what skills are generally necessary to execute the requirements.
- Knowing responsibilities, duties, and work situations you prefer will assist you in selecting a master’s degree course.
- Speak with the specialists in the two fields about their job to discover what to anticipate in careers.
- Before enrolling in a graduate course, take stock of your inherent skills.
- By specifying your abilities, you may match them to the requirements of the jobs you’re looking for.
- Before deciding on a degree, thoroughly investigate both options.
The Bottom Line
Both these sectors will be in demand in the long term. So, whichever path you choose, you will have a good career path if you invest much effort.
Choosing a career field is the first step. Before making a decision, you should thoroughly analyze your interests and the characteristics of each sector.
Thanks for reading!