I have been thinking about the different computing undergraduate degrees offered at Sydney University: software engineering (SE), computer science (CS) and information technology (IT). Each of these are offered by a different department: School of Electrical and Information Engineering, Faculty of Science, and School of IT respectively.
So here’s what I think are the difference between them:
Software engineering
Deals with techniques for design and construction of software products. Looks at design patterns, tools, and the properties of different ways of making software. Also covers the way we analyse the performance, evaluate the effectiveness of software that is constructed in a particular way. May relate the building of software to hardware architecture.
(Bachelor of Software Engineering)
Computer science
Looks at reasons behind the design of a computational method. Considers the fundamental differences between data structures and algorithms. Introduces the major classes of classical computational problems. Interested in determining why a particular computational method works – how it is able to solve the problem.
(Bachelor of Science, majoring in Computer Science)
Information Technology
Focuses on the processing of data. This may include data mining, parsing, natural language processing. Concerned with strategies collect data and also how to make use of data that is collected.
(Bachelor of IT, Bachelor of Computer Science and Technology)
With regards to career opportunity, I don’t believe it makes much difference between the degrees since there is enough opportunity within Sydney Uni to undertake studies across those fields no matter which degree a student is enrolled in.
Just a thought.