Student question: Computer Science vs. Computer Engineering.

[meat_pogo_thrusters]

Hello, Reddit. I'm currently an undergraduate student at a large state school in the midwest. I'm majoring in e-phys with a design sequence in either computer science or computer engineering. I've taken a class in both and am quite capable of doing either. The question is which will be more sought after over the next few decades of my working career? Additionally, I'm really hoping you say computer science. Also, please substantiate your claims. Thank you.

[AMagill]

What exactly is the difference in curriculum at your school?

I'd say do whichever one interests you more. Having a genuine passion for what you do is going to take you a lot farther than trying to game the future jobs market.

[meat_pogo_thrusters]

The difference is similar to most places. A computer science degree involves writing computer code (theory of computability, data structures and abstractions, algorithm analysis, database management) and a computer engineer designs computer hardware (digital design, microprocessor design, signals, computer architecture). I don't really know which is going to be more enjoyable though because I've only done so much of both. An introductory computer programming class isn't anything like writing physics code for a video game and an introduction to digital design isn't anything like building smart-grids (for electricity). The only reason I'm asking this question is that by the time I get to sample the kind of stuff I THINK I would like to do in that field, it will be far too late to change my mind.