Should You Choose Computer Engineering Over Computer Science if You're Not Going to a Top School?

Entering the tech industry as a competitive software engineer can be daunting, especially when your educational background is not from a prestigious institution. Many wonder if pursuing a degree in Computer Engineering instead of Computer Science could make them more attractive to potential employers. However, the key to landing a software job often lies not in the prestige of your school, but in your outside-of-the-classroom activities and actions.

What Recruiters Look For

When it comes to software engineering roles, recruiters don't just focus on your alma mater. They care deeply about your skills and projects, your participation in events like hackathons, and your genuine passion for technology. Do you actively work on projects? Have you attended hackathons and networked with professionals? Do you regularly code or just occasionally? These are the aspects that set you apart as a competitive candidate.

The Importance of Hackathons

For aspirants who are not attending top-tier schools, hackathons can be a game-changer. Many tech companies, from startups to big giants like Google and Microsoft, actively participate in hackathons to find talented individuals. By attending hackathons, you can:

Connect with recruiters Form connections Gain valuable experience

Moreover, consistently attending hackathons and networking with recruiters can help you build a robust professional network. This can be particularly important because it can give you access to employers who might not otherwise consider candidates from non-top-tier institutions. Suddenly, not going to a top school is not as significant of a drawback.

Choosing Between Computer Engineering and Computer Science

Deciding between Computer Engineering and Computer Science largely depends on your interests and career aspirations. As a Computer Science major:

Focuses on software development, which is a good fit if you are passionate about coding and software. Offers a wider range of specializations within software engineering, such as algorithms, data structures, and machine learning. Is generally more targeted towards the software-side of tech jobs.

On the other hand, Computer Engineering involves both software and hardware aspects. If you:

Are interested in understanding how computers work on a hardware level, Enjoy building and tinkering with physical components, Are curious about the intersection of software and hardware,

then pursuing a degree in Computer Engineering could be more beneficial for you. The hardware-related skills you acquire will give you a unique perspective and make you a more well-rounded software engineer. However, if you have a strong dislike for hardware, it might be wiser to major in Computer Science and delve into hardware topics through self-study.

Perspectives on Specialization

The choice between Computer Engineering and Computer Science ultimately depends on the type of college experience and life you want to have. While Computer Science can provide a more specialized focus on software, Computer Engineering can offer a broader, more versatile skill set.

Conclusion

Consider your interests and goals before making your decision. If you are more focused on software development and highly motivated, Computer Science might be the better choice. If you are interested in a more holistic approach, encompassing both software and hardware, then Computer Engineering could be the way forward.

Remember, the tech industry values passion, capability, and practical experience over where you studied. Stay engaged, work on projects, and participate in hackathons to build your professional network and strengthen your skills. With the right mindset and actions, you can secure a successful career in software engineering, regardless of your educational background.