Interested in Computer Science, not Engineering

AI Thread Summary
Understanding computer engineering is not essential for success in computer science, as the two disciplines are distinct, with computer science focusing on software and computer engineering on hardware. A solid grasp of discrete math and logic is more critical for computer science studies. While knowledge of networking basics can be beneficial, especially for software development, it is not mandatory. Students can specialize in various areas within computer science, and personal interest in programming and data analysis can guide their focus. Ultimately, pursuing computer science for personal enjoyment is valid, and foundational knowledge in related areas can enhance understanding without being a strict requirement.
Rocket50
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I'm quite interested in computer science and that's why I'm taking several courses in it. However, my interest in computer engineering is very little, apart from computer architecture/compilers.

How much will my lack of understanding of computer engineering harm me in learning computer science?
 
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Computer science and computer engineering are separate disciplines, at least at my university. Computer science is software focused and computer engineering is mostly hardware focused. Anybody studying one should probably know a little about the other, but it won't hinder you. A good handle on integer math/discrete math and logic is probably more important for learning computer science.
 
esuna said:
Computer science and computer engineering are separate disciplines, at least at my university. Computer science is software focused and computer engineering is mostly hardware focused. Anybody studying one should probably know a little about the other, but it won't hinder you. A good handle on integer math/discrete math and logic is probably more important for learning computer science.

Yes, it is a separate program here as well. As far as knowing a little bit about the other discipline, I'm definitely going to take a few courses on computer architecture and compiler design.

I also have another question. Is it really necessary for a computer science major to know the basics of things like networks?
 
Rocket50 said:
Yes, it is a separate program here as well. As far as knowing a little bit about the other discipline, I'm definitely going to take a few courses on computer architecture and compiler design.

I also have another question. Is it really necessary for a computer science major to know the basics of things like networks?
It can never hurt to have that knowledge. If you are going into software devel. it is possible that you will need to know a bit about networking (at least that is what I was told.

I am not an expert as I am only in my second year of undergrad work so my focus has been largely on math, physics, and various programming languages. From what I have gathered, computer science is a pretty versatile field and you can specialize in a number of different areas of computer science. I really enjoy programming and data analysis/modeling so that is what I focus on (also I am dual majoring in astronomy- so those areas fit well together). Sorry I don't have more insight to share, but since you weren't getting a lot of responses I thought I would give you what little I did have. =)
 
TehCylons said:
It can never hurt to have that knowledge. If you are going into software devel. it is possible that you will need to know a bit about networking (at least that is what I was told.

I am not an expert as I am only in my second year of undergrad work so my focus has been largely on math, physics, and various programming languages. From what I have gathered, computer science is a pretty versatile field and you can specialize in a number of different areas of computer science. I really enjoy programming and data analysis/modeling so that is what I focus on (also I am dual majoring in astronomy- so those areas fit well together). Sorry I don't have more insight to share, but since you weren't getting a lot of responses I thought I would give you what little I did have. =)

I'm not going into software development. Only reason I'm studying it is for personal enjoyment. As for a little networking, I know the basics of it - not 1% enough to get Network+ certification or anything though. Honestly, I find it boring and see little need of it.

Thanks for your reply.
 
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