While both offer career paths that are relevant to modern technology, each field is a bit different. This article will explore what these differences are and how they may impact your study options.
What is computer science?
Computer science is a field that focuses on computers and computational systems. It combines both theoretical ideas and practical techniques for the creation of new computer hardware and software programs. It’s a broad subject that encompasses all aspects of information processing, including data structures, algorithms and programming language theory.
In terms of technical details, computer science focuses on the physical and functional architecture of computers, such as how the hardware components work together to process data. It also focuses on the development of mathematical models for computation, as well as the study of computer security and software engineering.
As the first electronic computers became available in the 1940s, it was recognized that their power and utility would require a new scientific discipline unlike any other. It was in this period that a close collaboration between IBM and Columbia University led to the formation of one of the world’s first computer science departments.
Computer scientists are concerned in part with the design and organization of computer hardware, but they are mainly interested in the development of software. It’s this software that tells the hardware what to do; in turn, the hardware carries out these instructions. The creation of high-level languages that are closer to natural languages and support efficient execution of the underlying programs is at the heart of this discipline.
What is information technology?
Information technology is a vast field of expertise that uses computer systems to manage and process information. It encompasses a broad range of subfields and specializations, such as cybersecurity and IT project management. The primary function of IT is to create, store, manage and protect data and information assets.
IT professionals can work in many sectors of the economy. They are responsible for building communications networks for a business, safeguarding important company information, and helping employees troubleshoot problems with their computers or mobile devices. In addition, IT professionals are often involved in developing new software or applications for use in the workplace.
Because computer technology changes so rapidly, IT professionals must stay abreast of a large number of different topics. Some of the most important computer science topics include expert systems, artificial intelligence and machine learning. Expert systems are software programs that can make decisions based on knowledge and logic. They are composed of a knowledge base, an inference engine and a user interface. The inference engine queries the knowledge base and applies if-then-else rules to solve real-world problems. Machine learning is a branch of artificial intelligence that uses statistical techniques to improve the performance of computers in specific tasks.
Another critical topic is the development of computer programming languages. These are the software tools that programmers use to write code for computer programs and systems. Computer scientists study how to design and implement high-level languages that are easier to read than assembly language. They also study how to build compilers that can translate these high-level language programs into computer code.
What is the difference between the two?
Computer science is the study of computer software and hardware, while information technology is the practical application of technology. Most businesses employ teams of IT specialists who manage their IT infrastructure and assets. These professionals are often CS or CIS grads, or at least have significant CS/IT experience.
Information technology encompasses all technologies that distribute, process or store data or communicate information. That includes everything from telecommunications to laptops, smartphones and the software used for them. It also includes the networks and systems that provide the infrastructure for sharing that information with others. Computer scientists are concerned with the technology behind these systems, including how they work and what they can do for people.
There is a lot of crossover between IT and CS, but the two are not the same thing. In fact, they are very different and have a few unique responsibilities that set them apart from one another. Knowing what the differences are can help you decide which field better fits your skills, interests and career goals.
Are there any career options in information technology?
There are many career options in computer science, and those who are considering a degree in this field should think about which paths might be best for them. Careers within this field range from the theoretical — designing software for new computer architecture and technologies — to the practical, like creating applications that perform well on handheld devices or upholding security measures.
IT professionals often work to develop hardware systems, applications software and OS software, but their duties also include overseeing the IT infrastructure in an organization. They may also work with a team to troubleshoot problems and identify the best solutions for clients. IT professionals are also required to keep up with the latest tech advancements and maintain a high level of technical proficiency.
Both fields require post-secondary education, but IT is a broad subject that encompasses numerous specializations. IT professionals should consider which areas of the field are most relevant to their interests and goals, and whether they are suited to working with people and interacting with others.
The best careers in computer science are those that allow for continued learning and a focus on problem-solving. Students who wish to start a career in computer science should enroll in an online IT program that offers internships or co-ops so they can gain hands-on experience and build their resumes before entering the workforce.