How difficult is studying computer science really?
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Computer science is becoming an increasingly popular subject to study, and for good reason. A bachelor's degree in computer science is the first step to a number of well-paid positions in the tech industry. If you choose to study computer science and combine it with some programming skills, you have a good chance of landing a number of dream jobs.
Computer science is not for everyone. Those who enjoy problem solving, logic puzzles and math will feel most comfortable with this degree program and the career paths that come with it.
But even if that applies to you, it doesn't mean that studying computer science will be a breeze. There will be moments of frustration. As with any field of study, you will be challenged. But if you keep at it, it will all pay off in the form of a lucrative and rewarding career.
How difficult is it to study computer science?
Computer science is not that difficult as long as you can handle the basics of math and statistics and are willing to take the time to read the course material. With a little perseverance and dedication, you can excel in this degree program.
And once you get through those four years, you'll be well on your way to excelling in a whole host of coveted positions in the technical field.
What is computer science?
In contrast to IT and hardware engineers, who deal with hardware, a computer scientist specializes in the development of software and software systems.
Computer science includes subjects such as software engineering, bioinformatics, programming languages, computational theory, AI, mathematics and data analysis. Most people who choose to study computer science will not actually become "computer scientists". They will likely earn degrees in web development or data science - but more on that later.
Is computer science the right subject for me?
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The prospect of well-paid jobs in the technical field entices many students to study computer science. (And we get it: salary does matter.) But that shouldn't be the only deciding factor.
A computer science degree is right for you if you're not afraid of math, have a good eye for detail and are comfortable with a little abstract thinking and logic.
Keep in mind that studying computer science requires a lot of problem-solving and analytical skills. You will need to find creative ways to come up with a solution.
This is not a bad thing. Many professional web developers love their jobs because they enjoy the satisfaction of finding an elegant solution to a tricky business challenge.
But think about whether that applies to you. Ultimately, you will be successful in your computer science degree if you enjoy most of your work and if you are committed to making it a long-term career.
Why is computer science so popular?
A degree in computer science is a stepping stone into the technology industry, which means excellent job security, above-average salaries and diverse career prospects. Many technical careers come with other benefits, such as the ability to work from almost anywhere in the world. Even if you have to go to an office, the high demand for skills like data analysis and programming means you'll likely have a range of jobs to choose from in every major U.S. city.
Computer science deals with man-made and natural information processes in computer systems and machines. These processes can include communication, control, perception, learning and intelligence. You will also become familiar with algorithms, computational problems, computer hardware design, software and applications. Many students choose to study computer science because it covers such a broad range of knowledge and disciplines.
A typical computer science course will teach you how to develop and use new technologies. This area of study will help you sharpen your computational skills, mathematical reasoning, logic and critical thinking.
All of these skills will prepare you for long-term success in a variety of career challenges, regardless of what field of work you ultimately pursue.
Another reason why computer science is a popular field of study is the good career opportunities and high salaries. A 2017 report from the Bureau of Labor Statistics shows that the median annual salary for computer science professionals is $84,850. By comparison, the median salary for all workers in the U.S. is less than half that at $37,690.
But there's one more important question you need to answer for yourself: What do you want your future career to look like? Here are some of the most popular career paths among computer science students.
Careers in information technology
Once you have completed your studies, you can obtain one of the following professional titles:
- Solution Architect
- App-Entwickler
- .NET-Entwickler
- Software-Ingenieur
- Programmierer
Before you decide on a course of study, you should gather some background information. Software engineering or web development is one of the most popular professions. In short, a web developer is responsible for planning, designing and programming a website to meet the client's requirements. But before you decide if this is the right path for you, you should find out what a software engineer actually does and consider whether this is a career you can see yourself in for the next few years.
If you want to be a top candidate for any of the above jobs, you need to learn to program. If you can master a few key programming languages, you can get into this field with a high salary and even be on your way to an executive position like Chief Technology Officer. (If you need some extra motivation, read how much you'll earn as a software engineer).
So be sure to take some programming classes as part of your computer science degree or supplement your skills with a coding bootcamp.
If you are primarily interested in learning how to code and getting a job, and feel that you can skip some of the theoretical background, then you should enroll in a more streamlined online course that focuses on making you a professional software engineer. A computer science degree is usually much broader and may not be suitable for your career goals.
Is IT a stable industry?
The internet is evolving at an exponential rate as companies around the world struggle to build their online presence. And that means that information technology professionals have become the rock stars of the digital world.
They are responsible for this incredible growth and need to stay up to date with the latest development techniques to create stunning, standout websites. If you're a creative person and want to be part of this digital revolution, a long-term career in tech awaits you. With a computer science degree, you can lay the foundation for a lasting career in web development.
What do you need to know to major in computer science?
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If you're seriously pursuing a degree in computer science, you've probably had a few questions running through your mind. Learning to program while getting a broader introduction to the computer science industry sounds daunting. You might be picturing yourself sitting hunched over your laptop for nights on end, wondering if this is really the right path for you.
We'll cut straight to the chase and tell you that computer science isn't the easiest subject to study, but it's definitely doable - even if you have no prior knowledge of computer science or programming.
Two things you will definitely need are patience and determination. Discipline and a methodical approach are essential to completing a computer science degree (or any degree for that matter).
Creative thinking and analytical skills are also essential. In this degree program, you can't memorize lists, ace the exam and expect to be a long-term player in the field. You will learn how to tackle real-world problems and find effective solutions.
If you want to learn computer science, you can. You just need to focus on it and choose a form of education that is right for you. That means signing up for a course that won't stretch your budget and will give you the support you need for a long-term career.
How to choose the right IT program
You need to learn programming to excel in web development. But programming skills are not necessarily enough to stand out from the crowd. Basic knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript and frameworks such as Ruby on Rails is no longer enough in today's competitive market.
Web developers also need to think outside the box to develop innovative websites and applications. Any web development training course you sign up for needs to reflect this. Read up on the curriculum and make sure you learn how to apply your skills to real-world challenges.
To ensure your degree leads to a well-paying career, make sure your degree program covers the following core competencies.
HTML and CSS: A web developer must master these two basic skills before they can start creating websites. HTML stands for Hypertext Markup Language. It is the most common markup language used to create websites. CSS stands for Cascading Style Sheets and is used to apply uniform styles and formatting to a website.
JavaScript: This sophisticated programming language allows you to add interactive elements to your website. It is required to make your website functional and dynamic.
SQL: Structured Query Language is a database technology used for communicating with and managing databases. Web developers must have knowledge of SQL in order to work on the back-end.
Responsive design: Responsive design means that a website must be able to adapt to the respective screen size. Not only desktops, but also different devices such as laptops, tablets and smartphones are used to access websites. Therefore, it is essential that the website looks good regardless of the device.
How much math is there in computer science?
Many students are intimidated by math, so this is a very common question. The truth is that the amount of math in computer science depends on the type of program and school you choose.
In either case, your primary focus will be on mastering the technical concepts and practical skills needed in the field - but all career-oriented computer science majors also include at least some statistics and analysis. In computer science, math is used to program systems to run more efficiently.
The good news is that most of the math used in computer science is relatively simple. And if math isn't your strong suit, that's okay too: you'll be relieved to hear that it's not always required in your day-to-day job, even if you decide to go for a high-powered technical position.
How much can you earn with a degree in computer science?
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As in any other industry, computer science salaries vary widely depending on location, specialization and level of experience. However, salaries in the tech industry are consistently quite high, regardless of where you are in your career. Web development is one of the most popular careers for computer science graduates, and you can see why.
But no matter what title or specialization you choose, with a computer science degree, you have great potential for career growth.
How you can turn your training into a career
Many students choose to pursue a four-year degree in computer science, which can lead to well-paying positions in technology companies. This is a great option for many dedicated young professionals.
However, if you know you eventually want to work in software development, you may not need to pursue a four-year degree: Start by learning how to program instead. If you know your way around languages like SQL, Linux and Java, you'll be an attractive candidate for many entry-level positions - even without a degree.
Wenn Sie die Herausforderung des Programmierens lieben, dann bereitet Sie ein Bootcamp für Softwaretechnik auf eine Karriere vor, indem Sie sich auf die spezifischen Programmierkenntnisse konzentrieren, die Arbeitgeber benötigen. Und Sie brauchen keinen Abschluss in Informatik, um erfolgreich zu sein. Mit einem Bootcamp-Zertifikat können Sie Karrieren in den Bereichen Informationssysteme, Systemtechnik und Softwaretechnik anstreben (und das mit viel weniger Schulden, als wenn Sie Informatik studiert hätten).
Sie sind noch unschlüssig, welcher Karriereweg der richtige für Sie ist? Manchmal müssen Sie zunächst die Bereiche der Branche eingrenzen, die zu Ihren Fähigkeiten, Ihrer Persönlichkeit, Ihrem Lebensstil und Ihren Zielen passen.
Wenn Sie in der Lage sind, Ihr Bestes zu geben, um die Grundlagen der Informatik zu erlernen und sie mit praktischen technischen Fähigkeiten zu kombinieren, werden Sie ein Leben lang davon profitieren.