<p>What're the main differences between Computer Science & Engineering and Computer Science? Is CSE what it sounds like and incorporates both CS and CE kind of like a double major? Which is the better path for someone wanting to get into software developing/engineering?</p>
<p>CSE would be more suitable for you.</p>
<p>But what're the main differences between the two majors? This is in terms of both the curriculum and the job opportunities that open up.</p>
<p>Have you looked at the courses in their respective degree plans at the university you wish to attend?</p>
<p>Computer Systems Engineering is Electrical Engineering with Computer Science. Basically, CS dives into theory in their upper classes with AI, data structures, algorithms and a bunch of other stuff like that, whereas CSE deals with the application of computer science to solving problems and building systems. Just think of CSE = Applied CS - Theory + Electrical Engineering Classes.</p>
<p>They train you to be more applied as supposed to "hey, let's try to optimize this algorithm to make things run smoother, or let's examine new ways to approach this." That's not to say you don't create things, since that's the essentially what engineering is; it's just engineering is the more practical one. It's the Scientist vs. Engineer debate whereas scientist is trying to figure out things just to figure it out, where the engineer is trying to figure out things so they can build new things...so if you're into hardware and software engineering, CSE is good for you. If you just want to get a breadth of knowledge into programming languages and thinking like a computer scientist, CS is for you.</p>
<p>Thanks, that made perfect sense. </p>
<p>One of the universities I'm looking at only has Electrical Engineering & Computer Sciences. Is this essentially the same thing as CSE?</p>
<p>Yes, that should essentially be the same. Some schools like MIT even go further to allow you to more heavily specialize in either engineering or computer science. I think their Electrical Engineering and Computer Science track branches out into 3 different ones, either taking more engineering classes, taking more CS classes, or i guess a 50/50 track.</p>
<p>But yea...CSE = Electrical Engineering + Computer Science</p>
<p>Which one would be the better path for you depends on the school. Look at the curricula for the individual schools.</p>