collageComputer science is the scientific, practical, and theoretical approach to computation using computers.
As problem solvers, computer scientists and professionals use their unique understanding of computers and computation processes to design computational systems with real-world and theoretical applications.
Computer and information scientists are needed across multiple areas of employment, including, science, medicine, government, education, and business. They employ advanced modeling and use computers to analyze problems and design solutions. Computer science requires the ability to think logically, but good computer scientists are also very creative.
Within the discipline of computer science, there are several sub-disciplines of both a practical and theoretical nature. Computer science disciplines and specialties can be abstract (e.g. computational complexity theory), practical (e.g. computer graphics) or a combination of the two (e.g. programming language theory).
The more practical applications of computer science can be seen in just about every facet of today’s computer driven world. Some of the more important disciplines within computer science include software engineering, application development, artificial intelligence, computer networking, computer-human interaction, computer graphics, computer architecture, operating systems, numerica and symbolic computation, database systems and computational science.
Computer science is one of the few disciplines that includes experimental methods, engineering design and theoretical studies. This is very different from most other fields of science that tend to separate the understanding of science of from its application in real-world engineering settings. In computer science the theoretical concepts of computation are intermingled with modern practical advancements in electronics and engineering technology which in turn help to advance the discipline.
When wondering what degree to get for an IT job, you should definitely consider these seven popular computer degrees:
- Information Technology and Information Systems
- Computer Science
- Information Science
- Systems & Network Administration
- Software Engineering
- Computer Engineering
- Cybersecurity
For each of these areas of study, you have the option of earning certifications or an associate, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. You may even have the option of earning these in a traditional classroom setting at a university or online.
There was a time when getting a four-year degree wasn’t necessary for getting a good IT job. Simply having experience and certifications was more than good enough to get hired. That’s not the case anymore, even though there are more IT jobs available than ever before. Employers now require advanced education for qualification. But that’s okay, all you have to do is continue your education, and then you can count on becoming gainfully employed!
Types of Computer Science Degrees
What degree should you get for an IT job? With so many different computer degree options available, how do you know which is the right one for you to pursue? Well, we can’t answer those questions for you. Instead, we’ll go over the following seven computer degrees in detail so you can find the answers for yourself.
1. Information Technology and Information Systems
This is definitely the top computer degree choice if your goal is to excel in dealing with end-user computing, systems administration, and/or systems engineering because it covers all those aspects.
Classes include:
- Introduction to UNIX
- Windows Server Networking
- Database Concepts
- Web Design I & II
- Fundamentals of Business Systems Development
2. Computer Science
Budding IT professionals commonly pursue this degree. That being said, a CS degree is not for everyone because it can be a difficult program, focusing on mathematics, programming, and computer theory.
Courses include:
- Programming Principles
- Algorithms
- Logic & Computation
- Data Structures
- Calculus
3. Information Science
If you have a degree in Information Science, you’d be able to know (in great depth) how to manage and store data. Skilled professionals are needed by the government and private companies to electronically care for large quantities of confidential and highly valued data.
Courses include:
- Intermediate Programming
- Relational Database Concepts and Applications
- Web Database Development
- Computer Systems and Architecture
4. Computer Animation
Students in this discipline learn how to use algorithms and data structures to animate everything from online games to medical- and technical-related graphics and movies.
Courses include:
- Linear Programming and Convex Operations
- Algorithmic Languages and Compilers
- Lighting and Shading for Three-Dimensional Graphics
- Video Game Production
- Advanced Film Production
5. Software Engineering
Majoring in software engineering is a good move if you want to design and develop computer programs that meet users’ needs and solve real-world problems.
Courses include:
- Real-Time Operating Systems
- Software Design
- Web Programming
- User Interface Software
- Database Modeling Concepts
- Testing, Analysis, and Verification
6. Computer Engineering
Computer engineers are primary contributors to advanced developments in communication and network technology. Their job is to design systems and devices that have a significant impact on the world, such as in the manufacturing, medical, transportation, and economic industries.
Courses include:
- Circuit Analysis and Laboratory
- Software Design
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Large-Scale Distributed System Design
- Electromagnetic Fields and Waves
- Calculus of Several Variables
7. Cyber security
A cyber security degree teaches you how to create, operate, analyze, and test the security of computer systems. It also includes areas of interest like ethical hacking and digital forensics investigation.
Courses include:
- Information Assurance
- Penetration Testing
- Cyber-Physical Systems
- Mathematical Cryptography
Which Type of IT Degree Should I Get?
There is a range of IT degree types you can aspire to get, each of which offers different benefits:
- Certification
- Associate degree
- Bachelor’s degree
- Master’s degree
- Doctoral degree
Once you know the area that interests you most, you still need to decide which type of degree you should get. Can you just get a certification? Is an associate degree enough to get you in the door? Do most employers require a bachelor’s degree? How much more advantageous is a master’s degree? Is there any reason to think about getting a doctoral degree?
Let’s break down each of these types so you can have a clearer idea of what you want.
IT Certification
IT Certifications can help anyone, anywhere in their career, progress in their skills, or learn entirely new ones. Certificate programs generally take weeks to complete and don’t have high associated costs. The downside is that certifications are typically not enough to stand on their own when trying to qualify for a specific job position.
Examples of certificates in computers and technology are:
- CompTIA A+
- Ethical Hacking
- Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect
- Program Management Professional
- And many more
IT Associate Degrees
An associate degree in IT allows graduates to qualify for entry-level tech jobs, such as in desktop publishing. Learning even the basics can help you get in the door at some companies, giving you valuable work experience in your chosen discipline.
Jobs often available to those with an associate degree are often in the gaming or graphic design sectors. There are many online associate degrees in the information technology realm, so it’s important to choose a college that is accredited and respected in the industry.
IT Bachelor’s Degrees
Earning an IT bachelor’s degree opens a lot of doors, as this is usually the preferred minimum education required to qualify for many jobs. Whether you have a general computer science degree or a more specialized degree, you’re sure to get a job you want at a competitive wage.
Your options are endless when it comes to majors in information tech and computing. Whatever area you want to focus on, there is a degree for it.
IT Master’s Degrees
There aren’t as many IT master’s degree programs as bachelor’s programs, but holding a master’s degree in tech shows current and potential employers that you are serious about taking on advanced projects and managerial positions. Of course, along with having more responsibility comes a higher paycheck.
IT master’s degree programs usually require two to three years to complete, but you can count on the investment paying off.
IT Doctoral Degree
If you have a doctoral degree in computers and technology, you are qualified for high-level research careers within education, government, and data-driven corporate organizations. Earning this degree is not quick, easy, or inexpensive, but if you want to be a professor or executive in the field, this is the path for you.
Doing More Research for your type of Degree
These are just a few examples of top degree choices for IT-related career fields. There are many others out there that would also further your education and help you land your dream job.. At that juncture, you’ll need to:
- Decide what you love doing. Is there a particular subset of skills you want to focus on?
- Plan out your career and financial goals. Will a bachelor’s degree suffice. or do you want to climb the career ladder?
- Select a respectable and accredited school. Don’t choose a school just because you can get through the program quickly or because it has low tuition costs. The time and money you spend is an investment in your future.
- Get started and work hard!
In the end, when you walk across that stage to accept your diploma and head out into the job market, you can rest assured knowing your resume will sit at the top of the candidate pile.
Certificates in Computers and Technology
Obtaining a certificate can help individuals advance their career or transition to a new field. Certificate programs help students gain key skills and often lead to salary increases. Whether acquired independently or as part of a degree, certificates typically take far less time to complete than a degree and are generally less expensive.
Many professional associations and nonprofits deliver certificate programs. For example, Microsoft offers several certificates, including the IT professional certificate and the certified technology specialist credential. Network design, system, and sales engineers often pursue the Cisco certified design associate credential.
CompTIA offers several vendor-neutral certifications for systems administrators, security managers, and network administrators. Unlike company-sponsored certificates, these credentials are not based on specific technology products or platforms.
Short-term boot camps are a popular option for professionals who want to quickly acquire or strengthen computer skills. Participants typically complete these accelerated learning options within three months.
Accreditation
Accreditation demonstrates that a school meets set standards of educational quality. Before enrolling in any computer science and technology program, prospective students should verify that the school holds regional accreditation. Seven independent accrediting agencies award regional accreditation to higher education institutions in the United States.
The other type of institutional accreditation, national accreditation, typically applies to vocational and career schools. Regional accreditation is more prestigious and typically requires institutions to meet more rigid standards. Credits earned from regionally accredited schools usually transfer easily. However, most regionally accredited institutions do not accept credits or degrees earned from nationally accredited schools.
In addition to institutional accreditation, students can look for programmatic accreditation from field-specific agencies. This type of accreditation demonstrates that a program prepares learners to succeed in the profession. ABET, the major accrediting organization for computer science-related fields, evaluates postsecondary programs in applied and natural science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology.
Reasons why Computer Science is a great degree to pursue
1. Students requested the course, it is a student-inspired initiative!
MIUC students recognize the value and importance of computing in their day-to-day lives so they requested it! Computing is at the cutting edge of innovation – often right across the board but especially in the science fields but also its shaping engineering, business, entertainment and education. If you want to make a positive difference in the world computing is where things are at.
2.Computing is everywhere in our lives today – and in the future there’s AI and the IoT!
Computing is ubiquitous in our everyday lives. We use laptops, phones, social media, digital data, smart apps and websites without batting an eyelid. A Computer Science graduate develops the skills of analytical, creative and critical thinking to assess all the latest developments in our professional and personal lives. We are now facing into huge challenges in Artificial Intelligence, Robotics, Big Data and the Internet of Things!
3.Computing expertise solves challenging problems
Everything that is measurable can be digitally stored. Therefore huge amounts of data is being generated every single day. Being able to analyse and learn from all this data is a real challenge in the IT sector and students will be able to identify how to address and solve real-life problems based on data, as well as create value through innovation and technology management. Why study computer science? It requires and develops capabilities in solving deep, multidimensional problems.
4. Self esteem and job satisfaction
There is quite an exciting feeling you’ll experience when you see your code flop and you have to improvise and experiment to solve the bug. Once you see your website or app in its finished state you’ll feel serious accomplishment and it’ll be a great confidence booster. What’s more for people who like computing challenges you not only get a kick out of doing this but you will be really well paid for it too.
5. Lucrative careers
Computing jobs are among the highest paid in the world and employees report some of the highest job satisfaction.
Graduates in professional roles earn on average £23,144 a year in the UK. Compared to other degree majors.
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