Computer Science Course: Why Do You Need To Enroll In One?


It has almost become a cliche to talk about the relentless advancement of technology and how it is a must in our daily lives. However, there is no denying that this has resulted in the expansion of the technological sector, the development of associated specialties, and the emergence of new jobs. 

In recent years, the field of computer science has grown significantly. Studying computer science is still popular among students because it offers many specializations and excellent employment opportunities. This article goes into the subject, exploring your options, explaining why you need to enroll in a computer science course and what you’ll learn if you choose to study it.

What is computer science?

Computer science is essentially the study of transforming computer language into a language that people can understand and use. In questioning and calculating information, the field employs information and computing theory.

This enables effective and efficient communication, analysis, processing, and representation of information. To generate elegant and practical solutions, the field employs logical thinking methodologies. Computer science is classified as a STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subject.

Computer science also includes the design and development of new computer technology, including hardware and software that may be used in various ways. For example, the user interface on your phone or computer that you presumably use everyday results from computer science. Other fields of study included in the subject include computational thinking, artificial intelligence, machine learning, mathematics, and diagnostics.

What are the entry requirements for a degree in computer science?

Different entry requirements may apply depending on your destination and university of choice. As always, there are some basic requirements that you must meet to be approved. The first is an A-Level or high school qualification (or similar) with a high level of mathematics achievement. A minimum of a B grade is usually required.

If you want to study in the United States, you may need to take the SAT exam, which requires a strong overall score of more than 1,100, with a math component score of more than 550.

You also have to present proof of English language competency. This may be accomplished by completing a series of standardized examinations and submitting your exam results. Universities differ in terms of which English exams and results they would accept, so you must verify with each institution individually before applying.

The IELTS and TOEFL tests are the most often recognized. However, Duolingo, IELTS Indicator, Pearson, and Cambridge English examinations may also be approved. You must also have an IELTS (or equivalent) score of 6.0 to 6.5 with no section score lower than 6.0.

If you are unable to fulfill the English language criteria for admission, keep in mind that many universities offer pre-sessional English courses and route courses. These will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to enter an academic degree course. This is also true for postgraduate studies that include pre-master’s courses.

How long will a degree in computer science take? 

The university you choose to study in determines the length of time it takes to complete your degree. The curriculum at most institutions is structured to last three or four years. In most cases, you will pursue a three-year BSc Computer Science degree with the possibility of a fourth-year honors qualification. Some universities, however, do offer four-year professional degrees in the subject.

If you opt to pursue a postgraduate qualification at the master’s or doctorate level, you must set aside extra time. Depending on full-time or part-time study a master’s degree in the course can take between one or two years, or in rare circumstances, three years. On the other hand, a Ph.D. in the field typically takes four to five years to complete.

What will you study for a computer science degree?

The curriculum for a computer science degree differs per institution, but you may generally anticipate studying essential foundations shared by all. During your first year, you will study the following subjects:

  • Computer science foundations
  • Mathematics for computer science
  • Programming languages
  • Software engineering 
  • User and interaction design
programming languages
Image by 1315674 from Pixabay

In your second year, the focus changes to subjects such as:

  • Algorithms and operating systems 
  • Computational theory
  • Network architecture
  • System architecture

When you reach your final or penultimate year of study, you’ll be studying a variety of subjects, some of which may need specialization, such as:

  • Advanced algorithms
  • Artificial intelligence
  • Bioinformatics
  • Data science
  • Ethics of computing
  • Language processing
  • Multivariate analysis
  • Robotics
  • Software engineering 
  • Virtual reality

Suppose you’ve enrolled in a four-year professional degree course. In that case, the final year of your studies will normally be focused on a specific field or topic that will require you to present a research paper or project for evaluation. To do research, you may need to engage with or work in an industrial setting at times.

If you pursue a Master in Computer Science or Ph.D. in Computer Science, you will conduct research, coursework, and practical work. Your research can focus on a wide range of computer science-related topics.

Is computer science hard?

Learning computer science can be a challenging and time-consuming course. Most students, however, can successfully learn the discipline and pursue successful careers in Computer Science fields. That is, if they are willing to invest the time and learn significant time management skills. All you need to do is have the right mindset from the beginning.

Why study computer science?

The Association of Computing Machinery has established the following list of reasons to study computer science:

We live in the digital era

Through the advancement of this industry, astonishing discoveries in hardware and software have resulted in a revolutionized worldwide behavior and society. Computer science has produced smartphones, the internet, tablets, social media, and more. It is hard to imagine a lifestyle where material (news, information, entertainment, communication) is not consumed through screens.

High incomes

The IT industry will continue expanding and providing more jobs in all areas. Computer science is a difficult subject hence a degree in it is highly valued across the world. There is a great demand for computer science professionals across all businesses and sectors. The chances for career advancement and high income are plentiful for graduates who have just joined the workforce.

According to a Payscale survey, the typical compensation for a Software Development Director is 143,000 USD per year, whereas a Security Consultant makes 85,600 USD per year.

A wide range of specialties

As computer science is employed in many aspects of life and business, competent professionals have a wide range of options. When you finish your computer science degree, and even while you’re still in university, you’ll be presented with a range of specialties and positions, including:

  • Artificial intelligence and machine learning engineer
  • Computer network architect
  • Computer science researcher
  • Computer scientist
  • Computer systems analyst
  • IT manager
  • Mobile application designer or developer
  • Research and development (R&D) scientist
  • Software developer

Transferable skills

A wide range of skills, of which many are transferable to other fields of work and study will be at your fingertips when you have a degree in computer science. For example, studying computer science will assist you in developing problem-solving, critical thinking, and complex analytic skills. These skills are especially valuable for professionals who develop instructions and analyze design patterns using complicated algorithms and massive data. 

They are, however, interchangeable and transferable to a wide range of professions, both inside and outside of IT.

Ongoing technological advancements

While the world’s IT infrastructure continues to grow across all major economic industries, new languages, frameworks, and development environments are being created at unprecedented rates. For example, big data disrupts many, as huge companies consume vast pools of organized information to serve consumers better and analyze consumer behavior. 

Other examples include automated payment systems that enhance and streamline financial transactions and fitness facilities that aid in tracking health and heart rates. Virtual reality technology is now far more than entertainment technology. Real estate agencies utilize head-mounted displays to allow potential homeowners to walk around a living area before purchasing to fashion retailers offering digital avatars and surroundings to try on clothes.

Use your creativity

Unlike mathematics, where there is only one solution to a problem, computer science allows for infinite solutions to the same issue; the purpose is to identify and use the most efficient solution. 

Furthermore, computer programs may be built and developed in various ways to accommodate any goal or user experience. 

As a result, it offers a fantastic window of creative opportunity for a professional. Once you’ve obtained the information and abilities from your computer science degree, you’ll be able to employ both your creative and scientific minds in your day-to-day job.

creativity
Image by ElisaRiva from Pixabay

How can computer science help the world?

The question, “How can computer science help the world?” may appear straightforward at first. Still, it rapidly becomes complex when you consider the numerous benefits computer science provides us in our personal and professional lives. 

Computer science is involved in the process of problem-solving, and every part of our world has some kind of difficulty that has to be solved. It’s also a field with a variety of job options. The following are a few examples of how computer science benefits the world.

Improves healthcare

Healthcare appears to be at the top of the list when it comes to ways to improve people’s lives. Doctors, hospitals, and health care institutions all strive for the same goal: to deliver better healthcare to people all around the world. 

Through the internet, computer science has the potential to improve healthcare. Computer science has resulted in technological developments such as electronic medical records or electronic health records. 

Healthcare informatics, or the practice of integrating healthcare and information technology, is one of the most important disciplines in the healthcare sector. Computer science enables healthcare institutions to network and collaborate to give the best possible treatment to patients.

Educational advances

Years ago, students in younger grades, such as kindergarten or first grade, learned their ABCs and counting. These same grades are now using computers, learning to type, and accessing the internet for many of their learning resources. 

In addition, e-learning programs and platforms are giving students new tools for studying and problem-solving, bringing about beneficial change in the academic environment. 

However, let us not overlook distant education and how it has enabled students to get degrees online. Even at home, we can Google something to get additional information. The term “Google it” has become a household phrase, and it would not be possible without computer science.

Builds careers

As there are so many opportunities in computer science, it can develop numerous careers. 

According to the Association for Computer Machinery, computing careers are among the highest-paid and the most satisfying jobs. Those who are interested in computer science can pursue degrees in various fields such as computer science, computer programming, systems analyst, software engineering, and engineering. 

As expected, computer science graduates have gone on to work for companies such as Microsoft, JP Morgan Chase, Google, Price Waterhouse, and Eli Lilly.

Can predict and avoid disasters

When we see a meteorologist forecast a terrible storm, we witness computer science in action. Every tool used to monitor weather via satellites and radar results from some form of computer science. We can anticipate storms, tornadoes, and even the breakout of a potentially lethal illness using these technologies. 

It may even be used to forecast human behavior, which can aid in crime prevention. Computer science tends to deliver us life-saving tools and work.

Who should study computer science?

Students who are creative and have strong critical thinking, analytical, and mathematical skills should study computer science.

mathematical skills
Image by athree23 from Pixabay

What can you do with a computer science degree?

Studying computer science opens up a wide range of job possibilities, some of which may surprise you. With graduates in computer science in great demand for their technical skills and analytical thinking skills, you may find yourself working as:

  • App developer
  • Artificial intelligence engineer
  • Cybersecurity analyst
  • Data analyst
  • Information security analysts/consultant
  • Mobile developer
  • Network architect
  • Software developer
  • Systems analyst
  • Teacher
  • Web designer

Computer science salary

According to Payscale’s 2019 College Income Report, computer science graduates earned an average early career salary of $68,600 and a mid-career salary of $114,700.

What is the difference between computer science and information technology?

Computer science is concerned with creating and testing software and software systems. It involves working with mathematical models, data analysis and security, algorithms, and computational theory.

The field of information technology is concerned with the development, implementation, support, and administration of computers and information systems. Information technology entails working with hardware (such as CPUs, RAM, and hard drives) and software (e.g., operating systems, web browsers, mobile applications).

Computer science course in Malaysia

The Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) program at UOW Malaysia KDU provides students with a solid basis for accepting and adopting new technologies and ideas. The curriculum emphasizes the essential areas of the dynamic computing sector through specializations in the following disciplines. It moves from theory through programming to the cutting-edge development of computing solutions.

  • Computer Security
  • Data Science  

The degree program is designed to prepare students for a fulfilling career in computer technology. At the end of the course, students will have:

  • A strong grasp of computer science concepts, principles, theories, and practical applications.
  • A comprehensive understanding of one or more computer science specializations.
  • Competence in analyzing application challenges, designing suitable solutions, implementing them, and assessing their efficacy.
  • Ability to operate both independently and in groups.
  • Ability to experiment with others and investigate new technology, as well as engage in professional development.
  • Understanding of the legal, social, and ethical concerns associated with computing.
graduation
Image by Gillian Callison from Pixabay

Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons)

UOW Malaysia KDU University College, Utropolis Glenmarie

Key highlights

  • The Best Streamlines Syllabus
  • Strategic Partnerships with Top Technological Companies
  • Certification Ready
  • Wide Selection of Career Options in Computer Security, Mobile Computing, Data Science and more

Conclusion

After you’ve reviewed your computer science knowledge, there’s no better time to begin researching your course and university choices using a course matcher tool. Then, if you’re still undecided, check out the guides on matching your studies and career route, degrees to suit your personality, and what qualities companies seek for in graduates. For enquiries on computer science courses, feel free to get in touch with us.

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01 March 2022

CATEGORY

Science and Technology