Information Technology vs Computer Science vs Software Engineering : What's the Difference?

For students planning to enter the tech field, Information Technology (IT), Software Engineering (SE), and Computer Science (CS) are three popular but often confused majors. All involve computers and programming, but their course focus, skill development, career paths, and industry roles are quite different.

This article will comprehensively compare the definitions, curriculum, career outcomes, suitable candidates, and recommended universities for these three majors, helping you make the best academic and career choice.

1. What is Computer Science?

Computer Science is the most fundamental and theoretical computing discipline, focusing on the nature of computation, algorithm design, artificial intelligence, programming languages, data structures, operating systems, and more.

It emphasizes "how to make computers smarter," with courses often involving mathematics, logic, and theoretical computation models.

2. What is Software Engineering?

Software Engineering focuses on "how to develop high-quality software systems." It is an applied discipline combining computer science principles and engineering methods, emphasizing teamwork, development processes, software architecture, and project management.

Compared to the theory-driven Computer Science, Software Engineering is more about practical development processes and team projects.

3. What is Information Technology?

Information Technology (IT) is a discipline focused on system implementation and technology management, covering cybersecurity, information systems management, IT support, database management, server maintenance, and more.

IT is closer to business and management, aiming to help companies "leverage technology to solve business problems."

4. Comparison Table: Key Differences

5. Career Pathways

Computer Science graduates can become:

• AI Engineer
• System Developer
• Data Scientist
• Programmer Analyst
• Computer Science Researcher

Software Engineering graduates can become:

• Software Engineer
• App Developer
• System Architect
• QA Engineer
• Technical Project Manager

Information Technology graduates can become:

• IT Support Engineer
• Network Administrator
• IS Analyst
• IT Project Executive
• Enterprise Systems Admin

6. Job Prospects & Salary

According to tech industry trends in Malaysia and globally:

• Computer Science and Software Engineering offer relatively high starting salaries, especially in AI, big data, and system development.
• IT roles are stable but may have slightly lower starting salaries, though there is great potential for advancement in management.
• Cross-disciplinary talent (tech + business) is highly sought after in large companies.

7. Recommended Universities & Courses (Malaysia/China/International)

• Malaysia: Multimedia University (MMU), Taylor's University, Asia Pacific University (APU), Sunway University
• China: Tsinghua University, Beihang University, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, Huazhong University of Science and Technology
• International: University of Melbourne/UNSW (Australia), University of Toronto/UBC (Canada), University of Manchester/Imperial College London (UK), Carnegie Mellon University (USA)

8. FAQ

• Q1: I'm not good at math. Can I study Computer Science?
  If you like logic, you can try, but consider your comfort with abstract concepts.
• Q2: Does IT mean no programming?
  IT courses include basic programming, but less than CS or SE.
• Q3: Which is easier to get a job: Software Engineering or Computer Science?
  Both have good prospects. CS is for research/tech depth, SE is for practical projects/industry.
• Q4: Can I switch between the three majors?
  Some schools allow early transfers, but you may need to take extra courses. Decide early if possible.

9. Summary: Which Should You Choose?