Those are the two majors I'm leaning towards currently to choose when I'm a sophomore. They both have aspects I like, which is why I'd prefer computer engineering but it's not offered. So my question is, does anyone know which major is harder at USMA? I've heard that it really varies on the school so I'd like to know if anyone has any idea when it comes to USMA. Thanks.
Asking which major is harder is really the wrong question. IMO, the better question is, "Having an interest in computing, why would I choose to major in EE over CS?"
Since I have an EE degree with a very strong Computer Engineering bent (most elective classes in my major had both EE and CE numbers), here is my take:
Comp Sci - focuses much more on the application of computers with less focus on the theory of how they work. Like Comp Sci, Computer Engr also tends to focus on the design and application of algorithms. The main difference between these two degrees is generally a Comp Sci degree does not require the same Chemistry and Physics foundation as a Comp Engr degree does. In contrast, most Comp Sci degrees require more math and math theory than many Comp Engr degree programs require. At USMA, Chem and Physics are required regardless of major so your "comp sci" major will be more like a Comp Engr degree program is at many universities.
Elec Engr - is a much broader subject than just computers and it has several sub-disciplines within it. The focus in an EE curriculum is understanding the theory and application of physical principles - of which switching circuits controlled by gate logic (which when combined intricately can become a CPU, memory, a FIFO circuits, communication circuits, etc. - in other words a computer system) are just one of many potential applications. EE includes power and distribution of power; it includes telecommunications theory, including the use of satellite transmissions; it includes computer systems design, and the theory and use of computers for control; it includes field theory and a broad understanding of electro-magnetics and waves.
Both disciplines will have you writing programs (algorithms) and both will include basic digital circuit design. Both will probably include basic computer control, and basic circuit analysis. Computer Science will have you design and write Operating Systems and Compilers while Electrical Engr will have you designing analog and digital circuits.
Both require a lot of math (but my opinion the math in EE tends to be much more complex than that required of CE, CS, or any other engineering field [with the possible exception of Nuclear Engr; OK - I admit I'm probably biased]). EE requires a lot of wave and electo-magnetic Physics theory, whereas CS requires a lot of data structure theory (of which I have never had any).
Both will be great preparation for a future career as both require you to think logically and approach problem solving in a disciplined manner.