Software engineering or computer science: which should you study?

In a technology-driven world, choosing the right postgraduate path between software engineering and computer science can shape your career for decades to come. Both fields are deeply intertwined with the study of computers, but they emphasise different skill sets, approaches, and career trajectories.

Whether you’re looking to specialise your knowledge after a bachelor’s degree or retrain to move into a different career path, understanding the key difference between a postgraduate computer science degree and a software engineering degree is crucial in ensuring you pick the right programme for you.

In this blog, we explore the fundamentals, specialisation options, career paths, and more to help you decide which degree best aligns with your career goals.

Understanding the fundamentals: what do these degrees cover?

Computer science programmes focus on the theoretical underpinnings of computing. Topics like algorithms, data structures, computational theory, and computer architecture form their foundation. These programmes are designed for those who want to deeply understand how and why computers work.

A software engineering programme, on the other hand, takes a more practical application-oriented approach. It’s built around applying engineering principles to develop, maintain, and evaluate software systems and software applications. You’ll explore the software development lifecycle, software design, project management, and software architecture in depth.

Computer science vs. software engineering: what’s the difference?

The distinction between computer science and software engineering often boils down to theory and practice.

Computer scientists often work as research scientists, exploring the workings of artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics, and cybersecurity.

Software engineers typically work on building software solutions and applications that solve real-world problems in fields like healthcare, information technology, and finance.

While both may involve programming languages like Java, Python, and JavaScript, the contexts are different. A computer scientist may develop new algorithms, while a software engineer might implement those algorithms into production-ready systems using frameworks and modern methodologies like Agile or DevOps.

Master’s degree options: what will you study?

A computer science master’s degree will often cover:

• computational theory

• data science

• artificial intelligence

• operating systems

• computer systems

• database management

This programme is ideal for those interested in the scientific and mathematical foundations of computing, those aiming for academic and R&D roles, and those looking to work in information technology roles.

A software engineering master’s degree will often cover:

• programming languages

• software development

• quality assurance

• software testing

• project management

• software architecture

The emphasis is on developing software solutions in collaborative, real-world settings. These programmes are often more hands-on, involving team-based projects, case studies, and direct industry applications.

Which degree fits your skill set?

If you enjoy problem-solving, understanding abstract systems, and have an interest in machine learning, data science, or robotics, a computer science degree may be your calling. You’ll be equipped with the skills and knowledge to become a research scientist, data scientist, or a specialist in cybersecurity or artificial intelligence.

If you see yourself as a programmer, web developer, product manager, or someone building real-world apps and platforms, software engineering is a better fit. On this degree, you’ll develop deep expertise in the software development process and engineering principles.

Career outlook and demand

When it comes to career outlook and demand, both software engineering and computer science offer strong, stable, and rapidly growing opportunities in today’s digital-first economy. However, the types of roles, industries, and growth trajectories vary depending on which field you pursue.

Software engineering jobs: ubiquitous and growing fast

The demand for software engineers continues to rise sharply as nearly every sector, from healthcare to finance to entertainment, relies heavily on tailored software applications and scalable software systems. 

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, software developer, quality assurance analyst, and tester jobs are projected to grow by 17% between 2023 and 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.

Industries are hiring software engineers not only to build applications but to lead entire software development lifecycles, from software design and testing to quality assurance and deployment. Startups and multinational corporations alike need engineers who can create efficient software solutions using languages like Java, Python, and JavaScript.

Roles in high demand include:

• Web Developer

• Mobile App Developer

• Product Manager

• Software Architect 

Computer science careers: expanding with technological frontiers

For those more inclined towards innovation, research, and emerging technologies, a computer science degree unlocks opportunities in cutting-edge fields. 

As new technologies continue to be adopted in both our personal and professional environments, computer science experts are highly sought after.

The growth in this area is largely fuelled by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning, robotics, data science, cybersecurity, and computational biology.

Roles in high demand include:

• Data Scientist

• AI Researcher

• Cybersecurity Analyst

• Systems Developer

Computer science graduates may also pursue careers in academia or research, working for universities, government labs, or think tanks.

Can you switch between the two fields?

It is possible to switch between computer science and software engineering if you decide to take another path. A computer science graduate might take a bootcamp in software development to pivot into engineering, while a software engineering graduate may pursue a PhD to dive into AI research. What matters most is your career goals and the skill sets you build along the way.

There are other crossover areas you may also be interested in. Both degrees increasingly intersect with fields like electrical engineering, data science, and information technology. Some programmes may even offer interdisciplinary tracks. Whether it’s applying engineering principles to build robust systems or using computational theory to model biological processes, the options with these two degrees are limitless.

Making the right choice

Choosing between a software engineering degree and a computer science degree depends on how you want to apply your knowledge. If you’re focused on the practical application of building software systems, managing projects, and delivering real-world solutions, go for software engineering. If you’re fascinated by the theoretical side of computing, new technologies, and want to become a research scientist or lead in AI, then computer science is the better fit.

Both fields offer lucrative career paths, dynamic job markets, and the opportunity to shape the future of tech. The only question left is: where do you see yourself making the biggest impact?

Take the leap into software engineering

If software engineering is the path for you, develop in-depth skills and knowledge that will take your career to the next level with Aberystwyth University.

Our 100% online, part-time MSc Computer Science (Software Engineering) degree is taught flexibly, enabling you to fit your studies around your personal and professional commitments. What’s more, with the option to pay-per-module, you can spread the cost of your master’s degree across the programme, making it an affordable choice.