More info. They create computer interfaces, operating systems, new programs and applications such as desktops, smartphones, tablets. They ensure that their hardware work properly with the latest software technology. So how can you determine which best aligns with your personal skills and interests? Designs and customizes computer applications software, Modifies existing software to optimize operational efficiency or correct errors, Evaluates software requirements and user needs to determine software feasibility, Analyzes data processing problems to improve computer systems, Develops and tests system design procedures, Enhances system compatibility so information can be shared easily, Installs and supports an organization’s network system, Examines website functions to ensure performance without interruption, Performs data backups and disaster recovery operations, Installs software and firewalls on an organization’s computers, Performs safety tests to determine any vulnerabilities in a network, Creates disaster recovery plans for IT employees to follow in event of an emergency, Writes, designs and edits webpage content, or directs others producing content, Identifies and corrects problems uncovered by testing or user feedback, Backs up website files for immediate recovery in case of problems, Researches, develops and tests the manufacturing and installation of electrical systems, Creates technical drawings or topographical maps to help guide installation and operations, Directs efforts to ensure compliance with specification, codes and customer requirements, Designs, plans and develops materials used in a range of products, Oversees a team of technologists, technicians, scientists and other engineers, Calculates technical specifications, economic factors and impact of materials on the environment, Oversees installation, operation, maintenance and repair of mechanical equipment, Reads and interprets blueprints, computer-generated reports or technical drawings, Investigates equipment failures or issues to diagnose faulty operation and recommend solutions, Designs, develops and evaluates integrated systems for managing industrial production processes, Estimates production budgets and cost-saving methods for management review, Maps out the layout of equipment, materials and workspace to achieve maximum efficiency, Oversees the overall integration of technical activities in architecture or engineering projects, Consults with various stakeholders to discuss project specifications or procedures, Prepares and presents proposals, reports or findings to clients, Financial Aid and FAFSA (for those who qualify). Computer engineering graduates might want to get a master’s degree in the field of computer engineering’ to advance their career or get higher salaries. This piece of ad content was created by Rasmussen College to support its educational programs. They wield digital technology as well as computing languages to create, improve and build software and applications. For those who are looking to enter the workforce as soon as possible, this area is essentially a push. 2 The median annual earnings for computer science and technology-related positions in 2018 was $86,320. As you can see, the line between these two worlds is very thin, and there are a few professions that straddle the intersection completely. Let’s take a closer look at how these two fields differ in other ways. Overall, the average pay for a hardware engineer is 5% higher than for a software engineer. Computer hardware engineering. This could be anything from computer languages, software design, or hardware architecture. Chemical Engineering. The average salary for a Computer Engineer is $93,904 per year in United States. Before choosing a career, you should know about career opportunities, working conditions, work environment, insurance and especially the salary aspect. Network engineers have the best options, and while you may not NEED a degree, the better the education, the more of a salary that can be commanded. Browse all careers in the computer & information technology industry. You may have an idea of what each of these fields entail, but it’s important to have a fundamental understanding before choosing your path. Comparing Average Salaries of Computer Engineering Majors. © 2020 Rasmussen College, LLC. Filter by location to see Research and Technology Computer Scientist/Engineer salaries in your area. By selecting "Submit", I authorize Rasmussen College to contact me by email, phone or text message at the number provided. All Rights Reserved. For comparison, keep in mind that the average projected growth in employment for all occupations is 7% through 2026, according to the BLS.2, The BLS reports that computer science-related careers boast optimistic growth projections, with employment for positions like software applications developers projected to grow 31%.2 The average projected growth in employment for all positions in the field is at 13%.2 On the other hand, engineering jobs are expected to grow as fast as the average for all occupations, with an average projected employment growth of 7%.2. Computer software engineer and computer hardware engineer, average computer software engineer salary, average computer hardware engineer salary, Basic Information about Computer Engineering Colleges, Infographic: Computer Engineer vs. Computer Scientist, Computer Engineer Job Description, Education, Career, Tips. ranks number 1 out of 50 states nationwide for Computer Engineering Technology salaries. Other computer engineers work for the government, research firms, and system design companies. Learn more about the many opportunities available in our article “What Can You Do With a Computer Science Degree?”. In addition to strong job prospects, qualified IT professionals command median salaries of $85,000; computer hardware engineers topped $115,000. They ensure that their hardware work properly with the latest software technology. The program you have selected is not available in your area. There is no obligation to enroll. Computer engineering technologists begin their careers by enrolling in a bachelor's degree program in computer engineering technology or a related field. Your initial research suggests either route can lead to a bright future. Bachelor of Science - Computer Engineering vs Bachelor of Science - Computer Engineering Technology First of all, I didn’t know the 2nd degree existed. You’ll learn many of the same skills in IT, but your intentions will be different. Judging by this category, it’s clear that computer science-related positions look to be growing at a faster rate. In Computer Science, you’ll be learning how computers work. Our latest research found that new college graduates can earn an average salary range of $61,000 to $76,000 per year. 2Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, [information accessed May 8, 2019] www.bls.gov/ooh/. 2 Professionals in the engineering field earned a … It’s just you and the computer having a conversation. This was higher than the mean wages for applications engineers and for programmers. The typical computer engineer earned a six-figure salary as of May 2012, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Read on to learn more about this area of study and the career opportunities that may present. A critical part of the computer science vs. computer engineering discussion is what options are out there in case you want to pursue further higher education after your bachelor’s degree. Both industries offer a variety of positions that could potentially intrigue you. Salary estimates are based on 41,822 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor by Electrical/Computer Engineer employees. The typical tenure for a Computer Engineer is less than 1 year. Mid-career pay: $124,500. Knowing what you’ll be doing day in and day out is important, but the practical side of you also needs to know more about the strength of these career fields. Another title for this occupation is hardware engineer. Employment conditions in your area may vary. The information above should help you weigh your options in order to determine which best aligns with your specific abilities and aspirations. Average Salary For a Computer Engineering Technology Major As with other factors, choosing the right industry can change the salary for computer engineering technology majors drastically. The list of job titles shows the variety of careers available in the fields of computer science and engineering. Students see both the hardware and software aspect of technologies in their classes. Computer engineers may be interested in work as an electrical engineer. Engineering as an industry tends to focus on building and designing things out of tactile materials. We’re here to help with this side-by-side comparison of the two fields. One career is that of a computer hardware engineer. Computer hardware engineer research, develop and test hardware or computer equipment including chip-set, mainboard… etc. But you’re having trouble weighing computer science versus engineering. This data helped us identify the top five job titles in each industry. Computer hardware engineer research, develop and test hardware or computer equipment including chip-set, mainboard… etc. California Institute of Technology. Below you’ll find a helpful breakdown of the two fields—from education requirements to job titles to earning potential and more. Overall, the average pay for a hardware engineer is 5% higher than for a software engineer. Silicon Valley (San Francisco Bay Area, California) is the best place to be a computer engineer; the median salary is around $131,500 per year. This is a relatively new field of engineering and some… As far as classroom experience goes, computer engineering majors get more hands-on experience in the last two years of their undergraduate career than computer science majors do. 10.19.2020, Hannah Meinke | I understand that Computer Engineering majors get a higher starting salary, but I cannot find a source that shows the mid-career salary or what the top 75% of workers earn. Fill out the form to receive information about: There are some errors in the form. Use this information to help you decide whether you’re destined for a career in either computer science or engineering. As you can see, it’s clear that education is a critical component of finding employment in computer science or engineering. What skills should I have to get a computer engineering job? According to the BLS, Job Outlook employment for computer hardware engineers, the expected ten-year growth from 2014 to 2024 for computer hardware engineering was an estimated 3% and there was a total of 77,700 jobs that same year. Average salary: $74,700. Filter by location to see Computer Engineer salaries in your area. Rasmussen College does not guarantee, approve, control, or specifically endorse the information or products available on websites linked to, and is not endorsed by website owners, authors and/or organizations referenced. 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