Software Engineering VS Computer Science: How Is It Different?

What is a Computer Science Degree, and Why is it popular for Software Engineering?

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Computer science degrees cover the understanding of algorithms, data structures, and programming languages for students undertaking the discipline. It emphasises theoretical knowledge and problem-solving skills, which makes computer science degrees seemingly ideal for aspiring software engineers.

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However, there are a few caveats to take into account when considering a computer science degree to pursue software engineering. 

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What Can I Do With A Computer Science Degree In Singapore?

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A Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science in Singapore can enable you to explore various career paths such as software development, cybersecurity, data analysis, and IT consultancy, leveraging your technical expertise to contribute to diverse industries. As more industries are taking on machinery and tasks on the computer, IT expertise is needed in more than just the tech industry. 

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The degree covers computer science principles to develop computer programs and what makes up a computer, which means a graduate will be provided with the fundamentals of computing knowledge including machines and appliances.

It is different from computer engineering which is focused on the hardware building and development aspect of computers, but those with computer science fundamentals can specialise in this path should they choose to.

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Meanwhile, software engineering is focused solely on all things related to programming, which is working with a computer to study computer software design and similar iterations including mobile app software.

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Though Software Engineering degree holders have massive opportunities in software or programming language-related fields, some might consider it “limiting” their career down the line.

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According to one lengthy Reddit discussion, a Bachelor of Science (BSc) in Computer Science is massively more flexible. 

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They quoted “What if you want to go into Bioinformatics, Numerical Computation, Data Science, or any of a zillion other speciality niches for Computer Science? It is 100 times easier to tailor your BSc degree for this than it is for the poor Software Engineering student stuck in the much stricter structure of the engineering regulations.” 

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However, it is important to take into consideration that they might be speaking from a different cultural context in which Software Engineering is a general degree, and not for Science.

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Do I Need a Computer Science Degree to Be a Software Engineer?

While a computer science course provides a strong foundation for software engineering, it is not a prerequisite to enter the software engineering industry! There are various pros to obtaining a computer science degree, however, the path to software engineering is not limited to just graduating.

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Many successful software engineers work despite coming from diverse educational backgrounds, through self-learning, coding bootcamps, and practical experience.

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Strong foundations, though time-consuming 

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Studying computer science focuses on in-depth knowledge of fundamental concepts like algorithms, computer systems and data structures, laying a robust groundwork for software engineering careers. 

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However, completing the degree typically requires a significant time commitment, which extends up to four years at least. Computer science graduates would have spent money for four years recurringly depending on each year’s requirements to graduate.

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Less practical exposure‍

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Computer science programs may focus more on theoretical concepts rather than practical applications. 

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This can offer less hands-on experience in real-world software or web development scenarios.

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Appealing for entry-level jobs

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Employers often value candidates with computer science majors for entry-level software engineering positions. Many computer science graduates can also enter similar positions that are related to their degree, making them generally versatile for entry-level positions. 

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This is due to their strong theoretical understanding and problem-solving abilities.

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Institution reputation matters

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The institution's reputation from which you earn your computer science degree can significantly impact your job prospects and career advancement opportunities.

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It’s important to research the institution’s reputation first, especially at the global level. 

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Career switching may be difficult

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It’s possible to apply for software engineering jobs without a computer science degree, but transitioning from a non-technical field may pose challenges in terms of skill acquisition and credibility in the eyes of employers. 

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However, dedication, self-learning, and practical experience can mitigate these obstacles! 

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Can I Become A Software Engineer Without A Computer Science Degree?

Yes, you can!

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Becoming a software engineer without a computer science degree is feasible through hard work and diligence. Many software engineers have backgrounds in fields like mathematics, physics, engineering, or even humanities, simply because they paved their path. One of those ways is to join our coding bootcamp!

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With dedication, self-study, and practical experience, individuals can develop the necessary skills to thrive in software engineering. There are also various other knowledge and skills that would benefit the software engineering profession, such as familiarity with artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning. 

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It is a matter of knowing where you want to go and what you want to do. 

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According to one Quora contributor, Computer Science programs also contain elements of software engineering. For those who invest free time in learning software engineering, one can become a good software engineer while reaping the benefits of a computer science degree.

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“Are you more interested in algorithms and programming language theory? If that is the case then definitely go for Computer Science. 

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“If you want to build, and I mean build, then go for software engineering. In general, software engineering is more practical, and Computer Science is more theoretical and research-oriented.” 

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If you’re still unsure of how to go about making a decision, feel free to contact us and we’d be happy to help!