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Is computer science the right fit for me?

Written by Fort Hays State University | 6/13/22 2:57 PM

Discover What a Rewarding Career in Computer Science Is Like

Computer science is vital to many of the essentials and conveniences of modern life. It's the study of how computers and computational systems operate. It also deals with the theory of how computer systems work and how applying engineering principles and mathematics helps develop software. It is a foundational science that involves using computing technology through protocols and algorithms to enable information processing.

 

Everything You Need to Know About Computer Science

You do not have to be a genius to excel at computer science. Most people who write computer code are not prodigies. Coding is a skill that you can develop over time with hard work, dedication, and creativity.

To be a good computer scientist, you need to have the zeal to learn continually since a career in technology involves learning throughout your life. Technology is constantly changing, so you should be ready to update your knowledge frequently.

In computer science, your ability to solve problems is more important than the number of programming languages in which you are fluent. A competent programmer should be able to analyze issues and solve them step by step. While it may seem nice to know many programming languages, the best quality that top companies look for when hiring is problem-solving ability.

 

Courses for Computer Science Program

  • Computer science certification: These are short programs to equip learners with specific skills and usually involve an external examination body to test them.
  • Bachelor's degree in computer science: This usually takes four years to complete and provides a comprehensive knowledge of computer science basics. It is helpful to have a solid background in mathematics.
  • Master's degree in computer science: This is an advanced program you take after completing your bachelor's degree. The minimum requirement for qualifying is a relevant bachelor's degree from a recognized institution.
  • Computer science boot camp: This short alternative to a computer science bachelor's program lasts about six months on average. Boot camps are vigorous and help learners gain practical skills in specific areas of interest, such as software development or cybersecurity.

Fun fact: Modern movies use computer science. Producers use computers to edit movies, animate films, and generate additional characters in digital film production. Big production companies like those in Hollywood hire computer scientists to troubleshoot their computers when anything goes wrong.

 

How to Know if Computer Science Is for You

Computer science may be the perfect choice for you if you can relate to one or more of these statements:

  • You are good at solving puzzles: If you excel at puzzle games, love tasks with defined measures of success, or can describe yourself as practical and logical, you may be fit for technical jobs like web development.
  • You are detail-oriented: Computer science involves attention to detail, especially if you are interested in coding. Developing software also requires you to be well organized.
  • You like analyzing: If you naturally find yourself being analytical about everything, then machine learning and artificial intelligence (AI) could be perfect for you.

Fun fact: HP, Microsoft, and Apple all began in some computer science enthusiastic's garage!

 

Is Computer Science Hard?

The difficulty of computer science depends on your perspective. Computer science involves theories and areas like machine learning and AI and applying mathematical concepts like calculus, algebra, probability, and statistics.

Computer science also involves learning data structures, algorithms, and cryptography. These are not difficult, but you need a lot of focus and concentration to understand the concepts and how to apply them.

Thanks to the high demand for technology, computer science is one of the most sought-after careers. While it requires a lot of dedication, grit, and commitment, its rewards are great and well worth the effort.