Cracking the Code: Lessons Learned in Computer Science Degrees

If you are interested in joining one of the fastest growing fields in the world, you may be considering a degree in computer science. This article will tell you what to expect if you enroll in a program, will answer some frequently asked questions, and can even help you choose the program that is right for you! 

What Lessons Will You Learn in a Computer Science Degree?

The computer science field is evolving rapidly thanks to both industry and user demands. The curriculum of a good computer science program should include the following lessons:

• Programming fundamentals
• Computer architecture and systems
• Database systems
• Software engineering principles
• Operating systems
• Computer networking
• Artificial intelligence
• Cybersecurity
• Mathematics
• Ethics

The computer science degree program at UoPeople will prepare you in all of these skills and more. Our program will teach you to debug, code, and test new programming solutions; manage design projects from conception to implementation; create solutions to problems using mathematics; and expand your critical thinking skills beyond the classroom.

A degree in the computer science field will prepare you for a wealth of career opportunities. Industries including financial firms, software houses, health organizations, government agencies, and consultancies compete to hire qualified computer scientists.

Is Computer Science All About Coding?

Writing code is a significant part of computer science. This skill enables you to create software, applications, algorithms, and systems using programming languages like Python, C++, and JavaScript. However, the field itself is much broader and also requires an understanding of computer theories and methodologies.

One of the major skills you learn in your computer science curriculum is how to solve problems with algorithms. This process involves systematically breaking down complex tasks into smaller, more manageable steps, which are then encoded in algorithms. Computer scientists solve diverse challenges in this way.

Computer science courses will also teach you the fundamental theories and concepts you need to be successful in the workforce. Theoretical concepts like data structures, algorithms, computational theory, and discrete mathematics will all be covered.

Your curriculum will also teach you the physical components of computers, as well as how they are designed and organized. You will discover how software interacts with its hardware. Understanding this interaction is crucial to your success as a computer scientist.

You will also explore database management, where you will learn to design, manage, and query databases to store and retrieve information. Most industries use databases today, making these skills critical for a successful career.

Should I Learn Coding Before Starting a Computer Science Degree?

No, you don’t have to learn coding before beginning a computer science degree. Most programs will begin with the basics and will teach you the programming languages you will need to know to progress through the curriculum. However, if you are unsure if computer science is the career path for you, learning a programming language before enrolling in a program may be a smart step. This way, you can become familiar with the basics, decide if computer science is a career path you enjoy, and gain confidence in your skills.

How are Computer Science and Programming Related?

Programming is a practical skill that involves coding in a language like C++ or Python to create software, applications, algorithms, and other systems. It is an essential tool used by computer scientists to implement solutions to problems.

Computer science is a larger academic discipline in which programming is just one component. As we discussed above, the computer science curriculum includes a variety of other lessons, including theoretical concepts, hardware and software components, database management, networking, artificial intelligence, and more.

What Do You Need To Be Good At To Study Computer Science?

Besides a true love for the field of computer science, people who are successful in this field have some or all of the following attributes:

• Logical thinking: As we discussed above, computer scientists are problem solvers who use logical thought processes to break down complex issues into manageable components.
• Aptitude for mathematics: To understand algorithms and computational theory, proficiency in areas like algebra, calculus, and mathematics is beneficial.
• Persistence: The field of computer science involves a lot of trial and error as you attempt to solve problems. Being persistent will help you deal with challenges that arise.
• Curiosity: Being curious about how things work will enable you to effectively solve problems with your computer science skills.
• Creativity: A creative mindset and being able to look at problems from multiple angles will bring you success with the problem-solving aspects of this career.
• Adaptability: The computer science field is constantly evolving. Being open and adaptable to learning new technology is crucial.
• Communication: Communication skills allow computer scientists to explain complex technical concepts both verbally and in writing.

What are the Degree Options in Computer Science?

The University of the People is committed to assisting its students to overcome financial, geographic, political, and personal constraints that may obstruct them from obtaining higher education. We currently offer three types of computer science degrees:

• Associate in Computer Science: UoPeople’s Associate of Science degree in Computer Science is perfect for students hoping to obtain an entry-level position in the field. It can be completed in as little as four months.
• B.S. in Computer Science: For students wishing to pursue higher-level computer science careers, UoPeople’s Bachelor of Science degree will go more in-depth on the important technical skills necessary to advance in your career. 
• M.S. in Information Technology: UoPeople’s Master of Science degree in Information Technology will prepare you to become a leader in computer science and serve in a management role in many industries.

Many other universities also offer degrees in computer science, as well as PhDs in specialized subject areas like cybersecurity, data science, artificial intelligence, software engineering, computer graphics, and more. A quick Google search will give you a list of universities to research.

What are the non-degree options in computer science?

If you are not quite ready to commit to a degree program, UoPeople also offers computer science certificates in Network and Application Security and Data Science. You can earn these certificates as a first step into the computer science field, or you can add them to your existing degree as a way to level up in your career.

Other options to expand your education in computer science include:

• Coding boot camps
• Online courses and massive open online courses (MOOC)
• Tech workshops
• Internships and apprenticeships
• Professional certifications

As you can see, the opportunities to expand your education and experience in the computer science field are endless. The U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics projects the field to increase by 15% in the next decade, so jobs will be plentiful. Now is the time to expand your skill set in the lucrative field of computer science.