Information Technology and Computer Science are sometimes confused as the same topic. However, it is far from the truth.
What is Information Technology?
Information Technology is a broad field that includes many aspects. It deals with the design, development, application, support, and management of information systems. It encompasses every aspect of computer technology, including hardware, software, networking, data communications, storage devices, artificial intelligence, software engineering, and so on.
Information Technology also deals with the management of digital information, its storage, and retrieval.
What is Computer Science?
Computer Science is the study of processes that interact with data. It represents data in the form of programs. Computer scientists study how to store, retrieve and communicate digital information efficiently to solve problems efficiently.
Computer Science is a younger discipline than information technology. As computers evolved from large mainframes to small personal computers used in offices and homes, it became necessary to understand how these computers worked and how to use them in ways that best served users’ needs.
These two uses – understanding computers and using them effectively – came together in computer science.
Computer scientists today do involve in many areas of technology innovation. Also, it ranges from designing new types of computers to inventing new applications for existing technologies.
A computer scientist has to understand both software engineering (the practical aspects of writing programs) and computer science (the theoretical aspects of designing programs) because software is the product of computer science applied by engineers.
Computer scientists must be able to do both wells to design high-quality software.
IT vs. computer science: The Fundamentals
Though both an IT and a computer science degree can prepare you for careers in the tech industry, they generally appeal to different sorts of people due to slightly distinct skill sets.
Computer science entails more autonomous work in the creation of computer programs and applications and the use of algorithms and the writing of code. On the other hand, IT workers are more focused on leveraging technology to support business goals while regularly dealing with people to solve technical difficulties over the phone, in person, or via email.
Autonomous Work
Those who like autonomous work behind a desk do draw to computer science, but those who prefer hands-on work aiding others may find more pleasure in IT.
contrasting computer degrees
A bachelor’s degree will serve you well in both the computer science and information technology fields. Time spent in a formal school context will assist you in developing the specific talents and traits that companies desire. According to our research of job advertisements, 89 percent of computer science roles require applicants to have a bachelor’s degree. 2 The same for 84% of IT jobs. 3
Though the road to a bachelor’s degree in any field will differ slightly, here’s a sample of what to anticipate.
Overview of Information Technology Degrees
If you decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree in information technology, you may expect to take several interesting classes, such as:
- Management of IT Operations
- Hardware and Infrastructure
- Support for Enterprise Applications
These and other courses can help you obtain the information and hands-on experience you’ll need to land jobs like:
- Specialist in Computer Support
- Project Manager for Information Technology
- Administrator of Networks
