Hi Mani,

Interesting question.

But the answer lies exactly at the titles given to each of them.

They are just a play of words.

Firstly let me tell you, organizations just to add on designations or titles have come up with something called as " Application Developer", but mind you it is the same as a Software developer.

Now, as the term Engineering means, to create or design something using engineering principles, which means merging technology principles with algorithms and redesigning stuffs.

So a Software engineer, is a person, who uses technical assistance to design a software and lays out the plans. Though he is also well versed with coding and other computer languages, which he keeps in the back of the mind while designing a software in relation to computer advancements.
Software Engineer is responsible to write the code of a computer program. It will imply that you should know how to write a code, can understand an algorithm and follow specifications.

software_engineering.png397x510 43.9 KB

Next steps in the Software developer, who with all his coding knowledge, language and system knowledge and application knowledge goes ahead and develops the software making it more user friendly.
As we as layman would not understand the technical language of the engineer, the developer eases it out making or designing it as user friendly.

So in short,. they are one team. The engineer does the algorithmic application and passes it on to the developer, who then designs it in a way that makes it user friendly.

But please note, A software engineer can work as a Designer, because of his knowledge of coding and computer languages. But a developer cannot work as an engineer, since he lacks technical know-how.

Other difference is in their degree. An engineer, comes from a B.E / B.Tech background, whereas a Developer, comes from a B.SC IT or a BCA or a B.Sc Computer science background with added certificates to his qualification.

Now coming to your next question web developer.
I will explain you this difference in comparison to a web designing.

A web designer is the one who with the help of graphics, illustrations, coral draw and other applications makes the website look approachable and attractive.
Whereas a Web Developer, is the one who controls the website functionality with the help of coding and other software applications.

Though a Developer, to be complete, best would be to also have knowledge regarding designing, but not the other way round.

To be a web developer, one needs to be well versed with computer hardware, networking, software and its applications and computer languages.

Hope this helps.

Wish You good luck.............

Dear Aspirant,

As far as hierarchy is concerned between them, actually their roles are apart and distinct. However generally this is the hierarchy:

Software Engineer >>> Software Developer >>>> Application Developer >>>> Web Developer >>>> Web Designer

Best wishes

Dear Sir / Mam,

Thanks for your response. it is really helpful.

But i have small query that a candidate (MCA background) can apply for software engineer post because you write that it is "degree difference" in your answer.

if he/she can apply then please tell me how to prepare for a software engineer post.

Hi Mani,

I like the way you framed your question.

Please note that the titles are just a means and ways of attracting the candidate.

Employees generally look for 2 things while in job.

1. Title / Position
2. Compensation

So as the position says and we have already mentioned that an engineer and developer works hand in hand, as an MCA graduate, you get the title of a Software engineer, since you would be the engineer who is into the application of the software.

As far as your question is concerned, to be ready for the said postilion, please note that eligibility for an MCA course is any graduate, and they would have to clear the entrance exam.
Though saying it on a continuous basis, you need to be well updated with the latest languages and systems available in the market, whether or not it is covered during the MCA course.
Also experience counts.
Thus after BCA, you could get into a job gain experience and depending on the need of the job, pursue MCA and certifications from the market.

Hope this helps.

Wish you good luck...............