Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Computer Science, Computer Engineering, and Software Engineering?

Traditionally, Computer Engineering focused on hardware and systems software (operating systems and compilers) while Computer Science focused on programming and theory. Software Engineering focuses on programming and process. In this context process refers to the complex process of developing large software systems. This includes analysis, design, implementation, testing, deployment, source control, configuration control, and maintenance.

At SJSU Computer Engineering and Computer Science are essentially competing programs. Software Engineering is managed jointly by Computer Engineering and Computer Science. It is a new program, which means that it is less mature and less stable than either of its two parent programs. All of the SE courses and faculty are actually CmpE or CS courses and faculty.

The following table gives some idea of the approximate number of required courses in each of the major areas of computing: