What is the difference between a computer engineer and a computer programmer?

Chemical engineer vs Computer programmer?

• I am a licensed chemical engineer. I am thinking of having a job as a computer programmer. Do you think I can be successful in this field? I have very few subjects on computer but I ...show more

• Answer:

  If you have the mental skills for problem solving and researching solutions, you can be a computer programmer. As a chemical engineer I imagine that would be a yes! It is simply a matter of learning code, and gaining experience. Mostly you must enjoy it... have you ever coded before? Solving a computer problem is not being a computer programmer, and writing programs for your own needs is a big step away from joining a company where you write what you are told with no view of the bigger picture. I have a degree in software engineering, which covers both computer programming but also project and people management - yet my job is as a project manager rather than a computer programmer. Honestly if I were you I would stick with chemical engineering - it is a much broader field and will provide better long term job satisfaction that programming will. Also - the salary is likely to be better as anyone can train to write code!