About the Computer Science and Engineering Department

The Computer Science and Engineering (CSE) Department is dedicated to advancing knowledge in computing while educating the next generation of technology innovators. Our programs provide a comprehensive and rigorous education spanning both computer science and computer engineering, combining strong theoretical foundations with practical design and implementation skills. Faculty and students in the department engage in teaching, research, and innovation across a wide range of areas, including software engineering, embedded systems, distributed and cloud computing, cybersecurity, and artificial intelligence. Through research collaborations, industry partnerships, and experiential learning opportunities, students gain exposure to real-world challenges and emerging technologies. As Egypt’s technology ecosystem continues to expand and integrate with the global digital economy, the need for highly trained computing professionals continues to grow. In response to this demand, and following a comprehensive feasibility study, the department established its Master of Science program in Computer Science in 1995, providing a platform for advanced study and research in a rapidly evolving discipline. Today, the CSE Department continues to play a vital role in advancing computing education, fostering innovation, and supporting the development of the regional and global technology ecosystem.  

Computer Science vs Computer Engineering at AUC

At The American University in Cairo (AUC), Computer Science (CS) and Computer Engineering (CE) programs are designed to provide students with a strong foundation in computing while offering distinct pathways that reflect the breadth of the discipline. Both programs prepare graduates to meet the evolving demands of local and global technology sectors.

A Shared Foundation in Computing Excellence

Students in both CS and CE develop core competencies in programming, algorithms, data structures, operating systems, and cybersecurity. Through rigorous coursework and experiential learning, graduates are equipped to design, analyze, and implement innovative computing solutions.

Understanding the Difference

The distinction between CS and CE reflects the broader relationship between science and engineering:

• Computer Science focuses on the theory, design, and development of software systems and computational solutions.

• Computer Engineering focuses on the design and integration of computing systems, combining software with hardware components.

Computer Science (CS)

CS is ideal for students interested in:

•  Software development and system design

• Artificial intelligence and data science

• Algorithms and computational theory

• Programming languages and advanced software systems

Computer Engineering (CE)

CE is ideal for students interested in:

• Embedded systems and robotics

• Artificial intelligence

• Computer architecture and hardware design

• Networking and distributed systems

• Performance optimization and system-level design

Career Pathways

Graduates of both programs are highly competitive in fields such as software engineering, artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and technology innovation. Computer Engineering graduates also gain additional preparation for roles involving hardware systems, embedded computing, and integrated technologies.

Which Program Is Right for You?

Use the following guide to help inform your choice:

• Do you enjoy building software, working with algorithms, and developing intelligent applications?
    → Computer Science may be the right fit.

• Are you interested in how computing systems work at a deeper level, including hardware and system integration?
    → Computer Engineering may be the right fit.

• Do you want flexibility to pursue careers across software, AI, and cybersecurity?
    → Both programs provide strong pathways with overlapping opportunities.

Our Perspective

Computer Science and Computer Engineering at AUC are complementary programs that together span the full spectrum of computing—from foundational theory and software development to hardware and integrated systems. Students are encouraged to choose the path that best aligns with their interests while benefiting from a shared ecosystem of excellence in computing education.

Our senior projects over the past three years have been co-supervised by:

• Microsoft
• Siemens
• Careem
• Google
• IBM
• DELL
• University of Alberta Faculty
• University of Waterloo Faculty
• NYU Faculty

Computer Science

The Computer Science (B.S.) program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission's General Criteria and the Program Criteria for the Computer Science and Similarly Named Computing Programs.

Computer Engineering

The Computer Engineering (B.S.) program is accredited by the Engineering Accreditation Commission of ABET, https://www.abet.org, under the commission's General Criteria and the Program Criteria for the Electrical, Computer, Communications, Telecommunication(s) and Similarly Named Engineering Programs.