What’s the Difference between Computer Science , ICT and Information Technology?
- Category: Commercial
- Date 05-09-2017
We live in a world that is greatly dependent on technology, and it is an essential part of any business. For this reason, science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) professions are in extremely high demand.
In order to enter these industries, individuals must have specialized skills in the technology field. Today, a wide variety of greatlink are offered, each one specializing in a particular area.
So, how do you know which STEM degree is right for you? It is important to understand the difference between computer science (CS) and information technology (IT), which are two majors that provide you with the knowledge and skills to achieve success in the technology field.
What Is Computer Science?
Computer science is a broad field that focuses on understanding and using algorithmic and mathematical processes that are applied to computer systems. Artificial intelligence, software engineering, programming language theory, computer engineering, computer security and computer graphics are all subfields within computer science.
Computer science majors may work in a variety of fields, such as software engineering, research and development, scientific computing and software development. Computer scientists design and develop software for end users, embedded systems, and IT professionals. In addition, they work with computer architectures and operating systems, and are passionate about writing computer programs.
Students earning a computer science degree gain valuable knowledge about the principles of computation and the problem-solving process.
What Is Information Technology?
Those who earn an IT degree aim to meet the technology needs of organizations. In ways, information technology addresses the business side of computer science. It focuses on computers and software to store, protect, process, transmit and retrieve data. In addition, technology infrastructures like networks, servers and databases are also focuses of IT.
Information technology majors learn to identify, create, build and configure complex computing systems and platforms to solve human and business problems. For example, they learn to keep a business’ technology up-to-date so they can be efficient in their practice.
What Is The Difference Between Computer Science and Information Technology?
The primary difference is that computer science professionals use mathematics to develop and improve computer programs. IT professionals install, implement, and maintain these programs and apply them to businesses. Computer science professionals use skills in mathematics and theories to make information technology possible, and IT professionals use skills to communicate with businesses to meet their needs through technology.
So what’s the difference between computer science and IT? If you are interested in learning the behind-the-scenes of computer software development, consider a degree in computer science. If you enjoy working with others and finding technological solutions to problems, consider a degree in information technology.
The future is promising for both computer science and IT professionals. As technology is continuously becoming more integrated into society, exciting opportunities arise for those who seek a STEM degree.
Sample Computer Science Career Paths
- Web Developer – Code and implement original web content.
- Computer Systems Engineer – Ensure that computer systems operate correctly and conduct necessary troubleshooting.
- Computer Programmer – Write coded programs to create functional computer systems.
What Is Information Technology?
Information technology (IT), sometimes termed information systems, is the application of the aforementioned computer science principles. IT professionals master the use of technology, employing existing systems to support business strategy and solve problems. As masters of technological systems, IT professionals are more likely to interact with others, providing instruction as to how to utilize a given system. A career in information technology requires the application of critical thinking skills, strong communication abilities, and a sound understanding of computer system design.
Sample Information Technology Career Paths
- IT Support Specialist - Maintain and assist all computer systems and hardware within an organization.
- Information Security Analyst - Protect and maintain an organization's computer networks and systems.
- Computer Network Architect - Build and maintain data communication networks, such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets.
Information Technology Degree vs Computer Science: What’s the Difference?
Professionals in computer science work to develop computer systems, while information technologists master the use of these systems. Essentially, computer scientists create the building blocks that information technology professionals use to construct an operational technological system. The two fields require different skills and typically appeal to different types of people.
Simply put, computer scientists build computer systems and information technologists operate and maintain computer systems. Both sets of professionals are essential to today’s technology landscape.
The Similarities Between CS and IT
Despite their differences, the fields of computer science and information technology share a close working relationship to create the technological systems that our society runs on from day to day. Without the specialized computer systems for which computer scientists develop coding and structure, IT professionals would have little to work with when creating and becoming proficient in operational systems. Conversely, advances in computer science would mean little without specialists to apply these findings.