A Comparison of Software Engineering and Computer Science Undergraduate Programs in Pakistan

Computing field has been revolutionized in last three decades throughout the world. A large number of universities are offering undergraduate Computer Science and Software degrees in Pakistan. It is an imperative for high school students to know convergences and divergences between both degree programs before securing admission. The trend of introducing undergraduate Software Engineering degree in universities is growing with the passage of time throughout the world. The key question for selection of Software Engineering degree is how to differentiate it from undergraduate Computer Science degree which has already much success and market share. Due to new emerging degree of Software Engineering in Pakistan, there is still confusion and debate about the distinction of Software Engineering and Computer Science roadmaps for undergraduate studies. This paper presents comparison of undergraduate Software Engineering degree with undergraduate Computer Science degree. The comparison will help academic institutions, parents, students and other stakeholders to analyze and evaluate both degree programs. We present our observations and suggestions to improve current practices regarding representation, management and improvement in Software Engineering and Computer Science domain of academia.