Computer science focuses more heavily on the theory and mathematical foundations that serve as a basis for programming languages. From a bird’s eye view, it’s possible to think of computer science as a more theory-approached degree. Essentially, computer scientists create the building blocks that information technology professionals use to construct an operational technological system. Data Science vs. Computer Science: The Basics. One is available to students enrolled in the College of LSA and the other is for students enrolled in the College of Engineering. However, a degree in either Computer Information Systems or Computer Science opens the door to a multitude of growing career opportunities. Read more in our article, "What makes St. Scholastica's computer information systems degree different from the rest? Interpersonal Vs. Intrapersonal: Keys To Communicate. Some of the coursework within the degree includes: Algebra, Statistics, Programming 1 and 2, Software Engineering, Databases 1 and 2, Data Mining and Machine Learning, Discrete Mathematics, Calculus and more. No matter your preference, both computer science and computer information systems majors can lead to some impressive and in-demand career opportunities. While the two fields do share some overlap, they also have their fair share of differences. Many schools feature a comprehensive curriculum that merges computer science and computer information systems. Generally speaking, front-end development places more emphasis on design-related skills like user experience design, HTML5 and CSS. Computer information systems professionals then implement those solutions to increase efficiency or otherwise solve business problems. The work of a software developer will depend heavily on the employer. Why You Might Like It:This major requires significantly less math when compared to Comp Science degrees. The Department of Computer and Information Science (CIS) at Penn Engineering is uniquely positioned to propel future intellectual leaders, entrepreneurs, thinkers and innovators to success. It focuses on how to apply technology and systems to help businesses operate, so it places a computer science knowledge within its commercial context. Back-end developers focus on ensuring the data and technical infrastructure 'behind the scenes' is set up efficiently. Stanford is No. With roots in math, physics and engineering, a degree in Computer Science provides students with the knowledge of coding, programming, computer architecture, database design and more. Analysts need a strong base of technical skills as well as business acumen to properly conduct cost-benefit analyses of technology initiatives. CIS is actually one of the business degrees we don’t recommend at GradLime. If you have your sights set on finding a career in the growing field of technology, you've still got some decisions to make — there are several education and employment options that fall under that umbrella. Software Engineer: Develop and maintain new software that is used on computers. Let’s take a look at some position titles that can be gained with each degree: Regardless of which degree you choose, the field of computing and technology is continuing to grow and expand, so career prospects, as well as salary expectations, are high for both. For most entry-level positions, a bachelor’s degree is recommended, and as such, the program can be completed in about 4 years if studying full-time. Through your computer science courses, you will learn how to design, analyze, and implement algorithms and programs, computer systems, and programming languages. As we enter the new decade, let’s put the age-old “Computer Science vs Information Technology” debate to rest. IT vs Computer science. One strategy for determining which path is right for you is to consider your career goals. The department offers two program paths to a degree in computer science. ICS in Europe is called informatics. Computer information systems vs. computer science. According to the job outlook between 2016-2026, the CIS field is projected to grow by 9%. It still covers basic programming yet gives insight into other facet… Generally, IT careers involve installing, maintaining, and improving computer systems, operating networks, and databases. Computer Science vs Computer Engineering: Roles and Responsibilities. On the other hand, computer information systems focuses more on solving practical problems or improving processes with computing technology. While CIS is more focused on the application of computer systems for business uses, computer science is more about the ways in which computing systems are programmed and designed. 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