Computer Science, abbreviated as CS, is the study of the fundamentals of information and computation procedures and of the hands-on methods for the execution and application in computer systems. Computer scientists formulate algorithmic techniques that generate, define, and transform information and devise appropriate concepts to represent complex systems. Computer science has several branches and sub branches, these include computational complexity theory that focuses on computational techniques, computer graphics that focuses on particular aspects of computational methods. Yet, others focus on the application of computational methods, these include programming languages and human-computer interaction (University of Cambridge, para. 3).
Many people tend to confuse computer science with other careers or courses that deal with computers such as IT, or think that it follows on their interaction with computers, which usually involves activities such as gaming, internet access, and document processing. CS offers a deeper comprehension of the inner workings of the programs that enable us to use various computer applications and programs, and using that knowledge to design new applications or improve the current ones.
Preparations Required of a Person Intending to Major in Computer Science
Before majoring in Computer Science, a student needs to prepare adequately in order to have a background on the topics and concepts covered. The first preparation expected of a student is to undertake a general reading in order to have a broad background and loose understanding of topics and issues covered in this Major. This will also increase interest towards having a deeper understanding of these issues. Since the study of Computer Science considerably depends on mathematical techniques, a person should develop a mathematical background, both technical and on a recreational level such as games and puzzles. Students are also advised to have basic knowledge of coding and cryptography, fields that have a strong link to this Major. For general reading, students can refer to various journals such as New Scientist that has articles relating to advances in computer science (Williams College, para 1).
Apart from reading widely, students are expected to have good study skills as they will have to manage their own studies, schedule their time, arrange classes, and still find time to attend to other non-academic activities such as recreational activities. Computing equipment is an integral element in understanding computational techniques, there fore, students are advised to have, or plan to purchase a computer, as this will assist in completing class projects and in undertaking personal studies and projects (My Majors, para. 4). Students will also be expected to have a fair typing speed as this will improve their working speed, this can be achieved by using the various training programs available at low prices.
Courses Required of a Computer Science Major
The compulsory and elective courses required for a Computer Science major differ significantly among various universities, however, certain courses are common. The courses include computer based courses and non-computer courses, and students must be careful that they do not fail non-CS courses such as business courses or language development courses just because they are boring. This is because these courses will count to the final grade, besides, they may become useful in future.
The most common courses expected of a CS major are listed below (Williams College, para. 5):
- Algorithms
- Artificial Intelligence
- Calculus
- Compiler Design
- Computer Architecture
- Computer Graphics
- Computer Organization
- Computer Science Theory
- Computer Theory
- Data Logic
- Data Management
- Data Structures and Advanced
- Programming
- Design Physics
- Device Utilization
- Discrete Mathematics
- Distributed Systems
- Electronic Design
- Files and Databases
- Information Management
- Introduction to Calculus
- Introduction to Computer Science
- Logic Design
- Machine Language
- Network Fundamentals
- Operating Systems
- Programming Languages
- Statistics
- Theory of Computation
Some of these courses are elective while others are compulsory, again, this varies from institution to institution. In addition to the computer courses, students will be expected to take non-CS courses (Spolsky, para. 6). These courses offer the student an all-rounded perspective and can be of importance in both work and non-work environments and include Business Development Skills, Entrepreneurship Skills, and Communication Skills. However, other courses assist the students in the various computational techniques and include the various level of Calculus, Discrete Mathematics, Algorithms, Theory of Computation, and Computer Graphics.
List of Potential Jobs in Computer Science
A Computer Science major can land a vast range of jobs depending on the courses taken during the study. Some majors are more marketable than others, therefore, students must choose their courses wisely, probably at the advice of human resource experts. However, students should not only look into being employed by various firms, rather, they can opt for other prospects such as self-employment or establish consultancy firms. According to Spolsky (2005), a major in Computer Science can land the following jobs:
- Application Developer
- Business Analyst, IT
- Computer / Network Support Technician
- Computer and Software Sales
- Computer Game Developer
- Computer Graphics Design
- Computer Hardware Technician
- Computer Networking/IT Systems Engineer
- Computer System Developer
- Database Administrator
- Information Technology Consultant
- Information Technology Director
- Information Technology Project Manager
- Information Technology Specialist
- Network Administrator, LAN / WAN
- Network Engineer, IT
- Network Manager
- Programmer
- Programmer Analyst
- Senior Software Engineer
- Software Architect
- Software Developer
- Software Development Manager
- System Manager
- Systems Administrator
- Systems Analyst
- Web Developer
Works Cited
My Majors. Computer Science Major. No Date. Web.
Spolsky, J. Advice for Computer Science College Students. 2005. Web.
University of Cambridge. Preparing to study Computer Science. 2010. Web.
Williams College. Computer Science: Major Requirements. Web.