FIELD ENGINEER
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Engineers
by
Kaushik Bhaumik
|
May 9, 2019
If you love all things tech and computer related, a Computer Science or Computer Engineering degree may be right for you. But what’s the difference between the two subjects? It may seem like a daunting decision to make so to make it easier for you to decide between the two, we’ve created a list of the core curriculum and potential career paths you could take!
Firstly, when it comes to learning materials, Computer Science and electrical students are taught how to build computer systems, how to utilize data storage and how to fix any issues that arise in the software. Throughout the course, they will discover how to code through a selection of computer languages, from Python, Javascript to HTML and C ++ programming languages. This can be used to create innovative computer graphics, operating systems and complex computer IT networks.
They will also learn how to develop and analyze a variety of numerical algorithms (a more advanced form of mathematics involving calculus, probability and algebra) and defensive programming. A more theoretical approach, it’s mathematical and scientific focus makes it a subject that can offer a diverse range of career paths.
Computer Engineering takes a different approach in its curriculum, blending the latter with electrical engineering. A more practical subject in some ways, it focuses on the development of hardware and software through designing and architecture.
Computer Engineering students will also learn about robotics and AI (Artificial Intelligence), the principles of modern physics, how to design microprocessing software, integrated circuits, speech processing and more.
Pursuing higher education after completing your degree might not at first seem that appealing. You’ve worked for four solid years on Computer Science or a degree in Computer Engineering programs after all. But by choosing to take on a master’s degree in the field, you have a higher chance of advancing in your career (and therefore your potential salary) in the long term.
A master’s degree offers a far more specialized take on both subjects. Computer Engineering graduates can choose to specialize in networking, product development, aerospace dynamics, the development of wireless networks and other topics which will hugely advance your knowledge.
For Computer Science graduates that take on a master’s degree, there is an opportunity to focus on information systems and security, development of databases, AI and more.
No matter which bachelor’s degree you choose, you can alternatively take on a master’s in business administration, with the core focus being on technology. This has the benefit of opening up many doors to more senior roles, such as a Chief Technology Officer – which will not only pay a higher salary but also allow you to develop further within your chosen career.
Graduating with a Computer Science major or a Computer Engineering major can lead to a plethora of career paths. Opening the doors to automation, telecommunication, and other roles, there are no limits of what you can do with your degree.
When comparing the two, however, Computer Science’s most popular job opportunities are Website Designer or developer, Systems Analyst, Computer Programmer/App Programmer, Data Scientist and UX/UI Designer.
A lot of industries require the skills that come with completing a Computer Science degree. With the development of technologies, there are is an abundance of roles opening for app and website developers, software development and more.
For Computer Engineering, the most popular career paths are QC (Quality Control) Engineer, Mechanical Engineer, Electrical Engineer, Computer Architecture Developer, Mobile Device Engineer and Computer Hardware Engineer. Computer Engineering graduates, similarly to Computer Science graduates will have the training to work within software development if they want to.
Also, as much of the course focuses on telecommunication development, it will allow them to keep up to date with technology – ensuring that your skills do not become outdated and making them seem more appealing in comparison to those who started in the field years ago. There is also good job security and the chance to travel around when doing a job.
Going to university is a great expense, no matter what your age. Therefore, if you’re looking for an alternative to a Computer Science bachelor’s degree, why not have a look at an associate degree? Taking you 2 years to complete and far less in terms of tuition costs you have to pay, it includes much of the same curriculum as a bachelor’s degree does, albeit the work is crammed into less time.
An associate degree is a good consideration in terms of time and money, but many positions may require you to also complete a bachelor’s or master’s degree in order to fit the role. If you’re looking to advance your career and take on this degree, just keep in mind the intensity of the work that comes with it and the possibility of taking on further education.
When you have completed your Computer Science programs or Computer Engineering degree and it comes time to look for jobs, Field Engineer offers a personalized platform that you can use to search through an array of freelance jobs.
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An innovative job site, it has the benefit of matching your experience to roles (helping you to narrow down jobs that fit), allows you to request payments through the app, work hours that are convenient to you and keep in contact with your employers through a messaging platform. All of these features will help you to grow your career and to get an extensive portfolio that will appeal to more employers in the long run.
There is a high demand for Computer Science and Computer Engineering jobs globally, therefore by building a strong knowledge in the field through your degree and experience, you can stand out from the crowd an impress potential employers.
Both degrees carry their own benefits, an extensive and diversified curriculum and a variety of career paths for you to choose from. See which ones are right for you in terms of your interests and you will undoubtedly be successful no matter which one you choose!
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