Computer science and engineering is focused on making computers faster, adaptable, helpful, and accessible for everyone to use.
If you are interested in working with computer technology, you have several majors to choose from:
- Computer Engineering
- Computer Science
- Cybersecurity
- Electrical Engineering
- Software Engineering
- Web Design & Development
With these options, you can work from the systems that power computers to the products displayed on them.
Computers are as diverse as they are useful. You can work with them in several different ways.
If choosing one of these options seems overwhelming, you’re not alone.
The Computer Toolkit: What They Share in Common
Across the department of Computer Science and Engineering, all six majors share a common toolkit of computer essential skills and learning outcomes:
Essential Skills:
- Programming: Understand and write code with logic and error debugging. You’ll learn several programming languages.
- Web Fundamentals: Learn web architecture with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
- Data Structures: Learn how data is structured, sorted, and stored.
Learning Outcomes:
- Problem Analysis: Deconstruct computing problems and map out technical solutions.
- Collaborative Teamwork: Work inside technical environments and system designs.
- Ethical & Legal Judgment: Recognize professional and compliance responsibilities.
Which Major Fits Your Goals?
These degrees use similar tools, but they study different things.
On one end, you focus on using computers to focus on human-to-computer relations. On the other end, you focus on building and designing advanced technology.
Whichever major you choose depends on whether you want to focus on using computers as tools for communication, protecting data and privacy, or building those same computers.
Web Design & Development
Write, design, and develop engaging and high-quality websites focused on user experience. You create websites through coding and presentation, work on projects, and improve web accessibility.
A Good Fit for You If: you enjoy combining graphic design and content creation with computer coding and website development.
Cybersecurity
Use your knowledge of computer science to defend privacy, data, and system integrity. You concentrate on protecting digital environments and operating systems.
A Good Fit for You If: you want to work with structured teams and ensure data moves without exploitation.
Software Engineering
Work on the production of software applications for industry-level usage. You will focus on the practical application of database design, cloud systems, and team-based development.
A Good Fit for You If: you want to build industry-standard software products.
Computer Science
Focus on computer theory, data structures, and algorithm optimization. You will use advanced math and high-level computation.
A Good Fit for You If: you enjoy problem-solving, mathematics, and working on code.
Computer Engineering
Develop the connection between physical circuitry and digital logic. You focus on designing microchips, computer hardware, and writing low-level firmware.
A Good Fit for You If: you want to build physical hardware and work with foundational code.
Electrical Engineering
Operate electric systems and analog electronics, focusing on power generation and distribution to communication systems, electronics, and information processing.
A Good Fit for You If: you want to work in physics and build tangible devices that have a wide array of applications, especially in analog systems.
Still Deciding? How to Start Your Journey
If you like one of these degrees, you’ll probably like them all. Here is how to find the right fit:
- Compare Classes: Review the specific courses for each major to see which sound most exciting.
- Mix and Match: If a class you want isn't in your major, you can often take it as a minor or a cluster. These degrees are very flexible.
You don't have to figure it out today. Pick the major that interests you right now. You can always adjust as you learn.
You have six great paths to choose from. No matter which one you pick, you'll be ready for a successful future.
Sources:
Web Design and Development
Web Design and Development (B.S.) | Majors | BYU-Idaho
Web Design & Development (A.A.S.) | Majors & Degrees | BYU-Idaho
Department of Computer Science and Engineering | BYU-Idaho
What Is Web Design? A Comprehensive Guide
Learn Web Development and Design: From Basics to Full Stack
Top Web Design Courses - Learn Web Design Online
Web Development Company – Andersen
Top Web Design Companies - May 2026 Rankings | Clutch.co
Web design - Wikipedia
Web development - Wikipedia
Outline of web design and web development - Wikipedia
What is Web Design? - GeeksforGeeks
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Web Development Technologies - GeeksforGeeks
What Is Web Technology? Definition & Examples 2026
Web technology for developers | MDN