Imagine the technology you use every day: your smartphone, the internet, social media. Behind the scenes are specialists trained in computer science, software engineering and computer engineering. But what’s the difference between these similar, yet distinct, university programs?
Selecting the right technology program is a key decision in your academic journey. At the University of Ottawa, our computer science, software engineering, and computer engineering programs each offer unique perspectives and skillsets.
What are the main differences between these programs?
Computer science
Our computer science programs focus on the theory and principles behind computing. In practice, this involves programming languages, data structures and algorithm design.
Computer scientists also enable interactions between people and machines. Think about how your GPS finds the fastest route or how TikTok seems to know what you want to watch next — that’s computer science. Simply put, it’s the science of how computers think, learn and solve problems, and it powers almost every digital experience we have.
Computer science is ideal for students who love solving complex problems, thinking logically and imagining how technology can make life better.
Compared to some engineering programs at uOttawa, you have more freedom to incorporate computer science in your studies. You can take it as a minor, a major, an honours with specializations or a joint honours with mathematics. However, it doesn’t automatically qualify you for a professional engineering licence (P. Eng.).
Core topics: programming, algorithms, modelling and simulation, cryptography, AI and machine learning, cybersecurity and ethics, parallel computing and data structures.
Career opportunities: cybersecurity analyst, UX/game designer, data analyst, information systems analyst and consultant, web developer, robotics specialist and more.
Software engineering
Our software engineering programs teach you how to design and build the software that allows computers and apps to function. From the social media apps on your phone to the massive systems behind online shopping, banking and video streaming, software engineers build the tools that shape the modern world. Unlike computer scientists, who focus on theory and algorithms, software engineers apply that knowledge to design real-world software that’s scalable, secure and easy to use.
If you like to code but also want to build complex systems with real users in mind, software engineering might be your path.
At uOttawa, the software engineering program is accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board. It emphasizes both technical depth and teamwork, preparing you to lead large-scale software projects from start to finish. With mandatory co-op and hands-on courses in areas like cloud computing and real-time systems, you graduate with industry-ready experience.
Core topics: software construction, cloud systems, UI/UX design, embedded systems, user interfaces, enterprise architecture and real-time systems.
Career opportunities: software engineer, mobile developer, systems analyst, video game or multimedia designer, security engineer and more.
Computer engineering
Our computer engineering programs combine hardware and software learning. Computer engineers design the physical components that make up our digital world, like processors, memory and embedded systems, while also developing the software that runs on them. Imagine designing the microchips inside your phone and the code that makes the camera work. That’s computer engineering.
Computer engineering an ideal field for those who want to bridge the gap between computer science and electrical engineering.
At uOttawa, the computer engineering program is accredited by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board and offers a powerful mix of hardware and software learning. With access to cutting-edge labs in embedded systems, communications and machine learning, you’ll gain hands-on experience designing everything from microprocessors to intelligent devices. Optional co-op allows you to apply your skills in real-world settings before graduation.
Core topics: computer architecture, networking, embedded systems, control systems, electronics, wireless and optical networks, and applied machine learning.
Career opportunities: computer engineer, hardware engineer, network engineer, embedded systems developer, QA analyst, systems integrator, satellite communication systems engineer and more.
Honourable mention: Electrical engineering
Electrical engineers create the sensors, systems and power networks that make all modern tech possible, including aerospace, renewable energy and telecommunications. If you’re interested in circuits, motors, communication systems and energy, our electrical engineering programs might be your path.
How to choose the right program for you
Interested in one of our computing technology programs, but aren’t sure which one? Here’s an overview of the three most popular:
Computer science is ideal for students who love solving complex problems, thinking logically and imagining how technology can make life better. It covers everything from building smarter systems to keeping data secure, and even the math behind video game physics or social media algorithms.
If you like to code but also want to build complex systems with real users in mind, software engineering might be your path. You’ll learn how to design every part of a program, from the user interface to the underlying databases, and how to manage full-scale software projects in teams.
Computer engineering looks at the design of the physical components that make up our digital world — processors, memory, embedded systems — and also develops the software that runs on them. If you’re fascinated by how computers are built and communicate, or you’re drawn to areas like smart devices, robotics or networking, computer engineering will give you the best of both worlds.
At uOttawa | Computer science | Software engineering | Computer engineering |
|---|---|---|---|
Type of program | Bachelor of Science, or other options such as a minor, major or honours | Bachelor of Applied Science | Bachelor of Applied Science |
Accredited engineering program? | No, but accredited by the Computer Science Accreditation Council of the Information Processing Society (CIPS) | Yes, by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB) of Engineers Canada | Yes, by the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB) of Engineers Canada |
Admission average | Low to mid 90s | Mid 80s to low 90s | Low to mid 80s |
Is co-op available? | Yes (optional) | Yes (mandatory) | Yes (optional) |
Is French immersion available? | Yes | Yes | No |
Understanding program differences through a real-life example
Curious how these programs work together in practice? Watch this video to see how computer science, software engineering and computer engineering each contribute to building an autonomous drone for a high-stakes search and rescue mission.
The three programs overlap in key areas like programming, data structures and problem-solving — but they each emphasize different strengths. If you’re drawn to logic, AI and computational theory, computer science may be your path. If you love building software that real people use and enjoy tackling large, collaborative projects, software engineering could be right for you.
If you want to work with both hardware and software and design real-world systems, consider computer engineering.
Why choose uOttawa Engineering
At uOttawa Engineering, you don’t just study technology — you shape it. Our programs combine hands-on learning, co-op opportunities and access to cutting-edge labs in AI, cybersecurity, robotics and more. Based in Canada’s capital, we’re connected to Kanata North, Canada’s largest tech park, offering you strong industry ties, internships and future job prospects.
Explore our engineering programs in more detail.
Learn more about undergraduate studies at uOttawa.
Choosing the right tech degree is the first step toward an exciting, high-impact career.
