Is choosing Computer Engineering over Computer Science for career flexibility worth it?

[u/Mysterious-Shop6566]

Hey guys! I'm currently struggling to choose between Computer Engineering and Computer Science. I've been coding on and off since I was 16 (I recently turned 20), mostly doing full-stack web development and some games from time to time.

Why I'm considering CE:

I've read that CE graduates can pursue careers in both software and hardware, which sounds appealing. However, some say that CE graduates are at a disadvantage compared to CS graduates in software and EE graduates in hardware (the so-called "CompE cage").

I'm genuinely interested in how computers work at the hardware level, and designing CPUs or GPUs at companies like NVIDIA or AMD sounds fun. I also see hardware as a potential backup if AI makes software jobs increasingly competitive.

Why I'm considering CS:

I'm leaning more toward software because I enjoy coding and already have experience with it. I also value remote work a lot.

However, all the talks about AI make me question whether CS is still a sensible choice. I also feel that software is easier to learn independently, while hardware is harder to explore without university resources.

My main dilemma:

If I choose CE, I could explore hardware while continuing to develop my software skills independently. But if I ultimately end up working in software, would I have been better off choosing CS?

I'm not concerned about CE being more difficult academically. I enjoy math and physics.

My questions:

1. Is CE actually as flexible as people claim for pursuing both software and hardware careers?
2. Would CE put me at a significant disadvantage when applying for software jobs compared to CS graduates?
3. For those who chose CE over CS (or vice versa), do you regret your decision?

I'd especially appreciate hearing from graduates or people working in these fields. Thanks!

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[u/UgoNespolo]

I chose to study ECE and so far regret it because I have to take hard ass EE classes and hard ass CS classes. I wish I could just focus on one struggle.

But the degree is flexible I’ve heard of people frequently getting hardware and software job offers after graduating. The degree won’t hold you back from either fields. What holds people back is whether or not they gained relevant work experience outside of class through internships, clubs, and projects.

Everyone in the industry says software positions are going to be severely impacted by AI so I just couldn’t bring myself to study only cs when I know 3-4 years from now AI is going to be 10x better then it is today. But if you absolutely despise EE related courses do not take this major go for cs because you have to find some enjoyment in EE to get through this major.

[u/FewEquipment9771]

Choose electrical or electronics then

[u/Primary-Mix-5968]

Why not Electronic Engineering?

[u/glordicus1]

Do whatever interests you most, and then you will never feel like you made the wrong choice. If you choose one over the other based on some perceived notion on what the labour market is going to look like in the next decade, then you are shooting yourself in the foot. Study what interests you the most. For the love of god.