How to become a Computer Science Engineer

Computer Science Engineering is one of the most popular, sought after and favourable career choices in India as well as across the globe due to its high demand and handsome salary. It is a field of engineering that encompasses computational concepts such as computer networks, computer graphics, database management systems, operating systems, programming languages, artificial intelligence and algorithms. Computer science engineering heavily overlaps with electrical engineering and management science. When addressing computer engineering VS computer science, it can be said that where computer engineering is more about hardware, computer science engineering emphasizes software. When determining the right course, aspirants must consider their career goals. The computer science engineering syllabus is better designed to educate aspirants who wish to work in cybersecurity or as a systems administrator, software architect, or developer.

A computer science engineer works in a constantly evolving environment due to technological advances and must constantly brush up on the technical skills and abilities to keep abreast with the trends. Computer science engineering, being a broad and diverse field, offers aspirants the opportunity to choose from a wide range of areas to specialize in, such as database management, web development, system designing, system testing, machine learning software development, etc. Another thing, computer science engineering is a versatile domain that finds applications in Specialist IT firms, the Manufacturing industry, Financial Services, and Public Utilities, which is why computer science engineers have great employability opportunities. Skills required for relevant job positions and the corresponding computer science engineer salary vary, but professionals can increase their earning potential and career options with advanced education and credentials.

The role of a computer science engineer typically depends on the educational background, experience, skill sets and area of specialization. Generally,  it comprises of the following tasks: 

• Assess and analyze user requirements to create technical specifications
• Write the software program code using complex programming languages such as JAVA, C, Python and so on. 
• Investigate new technologies
• Perform testing and debugging processes to identify bugs, errors and areas for modification in existing software systems. 
• Consult clients, project managers, graphic artists, systems analysts and sales and marketing professionals concerning the performance of software systems and the potential to better its performance. 

A computer science engineer must have specific requisite skills and inclinations along with a relevant educational background in order to excel in the field. Aspirants are expected to be excellent problem-solvers, have great communication skills and have a sharp, analytic mind. A computer science engineer also tends to work in highly challenging work environments with individual project work as well as team interaction which is why aspirants must have leadership skills,  team working skills and the ability to work well under pressure. In addition, aspirants must have a keen passion for building systems and having an intense interest in coding. Computer science engineer jobs require a fair contribution of Mathematics, creative, innovative and logical concepts, have a natural affinity for technology gadgets. Thus, candidates must exhibit these traits to at least some extent.

In order to enrol into a Bachelor’s program at an esteemed university, aspirants are expected to clear the JEE main and subsequently, the JEE Advance exam which makes the aspirant eligible to apply anywhere in India. It is a very difficult and challenging exam to crack that requires hard work as well as rigorous and consistent preparation. Some states have their own entrance exams that are admissible in their respective universities. Many educational institutes conduct their own entrance tests.  

Depending on one’s educational background, experience, and skillsets, aspirants may apply for the following computer science engineering jobs:

• Software application developer.
• Web developer.
• Computer systems engineer.
• Database administrator.
• Computer systems analyst.
• Business intelligence analyst.
• Security Analyst
• Security Architect