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How Computer Engineers Differ from Computer Scientists

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University student Matthew (Matt) Kafker is working toward a degree in physics. To this end, he has taken courses such as biophysics and electromagnetic physics. Beyond physics, Matt Kafker maintains an academic interest in computer science and has taken several courses in the subject.

Computer engineering and computer science overlap in several areas. Both are applicable in IT settings, and both focus heavily on solving problems with the use of advanced computing technology. Despite this overlap, the two disciplines function on different levels.
Computer engineers must understand the hardware of computers. Computer engineering teaches students about computing in all forms, from microprocessors to supercomputers.
As engineers, these professionals understand how computer components are designed and optimized. They also understand how electronic systems are designed and integrated, and how electrical components share data. Computer engineers are a combination of electrical engineers and computer scientists.
While computer engineers blend electrical engineering with computer science, computer scientists blend science with math. Computer scientists focus on building computer systems and understanding different computer environments and languages. Skilled at creating computer graphics, computer scientists also develop operating systems and build databases.