Computer Science vs Information Technology: A Degree Comparison
Friday, September 13, 2024
Explore differences between computer science and information technology degrees, including career paths, skill sets, and which one is the best fit for your future in tech.
Computer Science vs. IT: What’s the Better Choice for Your Future?
Computer science and information technology are terms that people often use interchangeably. And it’s not really a blunder. After all, both areas of study have many overlapping principles. However, this blog is dedicated to highlighting the differences between computer science and information technology. After reading the blog, you’ll learn how both concepts are distinctive, how the degrees and specializations of both vary in nature, which degree is the right choice for you and what various career paths they open for learners.
But before we dive into differentiating a computer science degree and an IT degree, let’s take a look at some numbers that highlight how massively popular these tech fields of study have become for learners worldwide.
For undergraduate students in the United States of America, computer & information science is the third most popular field of study, preceded by business management and health professions. A total of 628,902 students were enrolled in the computer & information science discipline of study during spring 2024.
For Indian undergraduate students, computer engineering and IT are among the top 10 subfields in the engineering and technology domain. Around 1,291,103 students enrolled in the first subdomain, and 117,968 enrolled in the latter (AISHE 2021-22). For master’s studies, 229,456 students pursued IT & computer science programs during the academic year.
Do you share the same zeal as the millions of learners highlighted above? Do you want to kickstart or elevate your career in tech? A degree in computer science or IT from a US accredited university like SNHU may come in handy. The degrees offered are 100% online, industry-relevant and tailored for Indian learners. You can browse bachelor’s and master’s degrees in computer science, information technology, and cyber security. Get in touch with us to know more.
Key differences between computer science and IT degrees
Many people use the term computer science (CS) instead of information technology (IT) and vice versa, but that’s understandable. Both areas have many overlapping concepts and theories. What’s more, pursuing a degree program in either field will prepare you for a future in tech. However, the core focus and learning outcomes of these programs are different.
Computer Science: In simple words, the main focus of computer science professionals is to design and build computers and computer programs. Central to computer science are mathematics and algorithms, which act as backbones of computational theory and practice. These foundational disciplines help experts make computers effective and reliable in problem-solving.
Information Technology: IT is centered on the management of technology in the support of information systems. IT managers supervise hardware, software, networks and databases so that technology support can effectively assist in the organization’s functioning. This field is closer to system administration, network management and technical support, so computer systems and networks work efficiently in businesses.
What is computer science?
Computer science is a broad subject that is mainly concerned with the construction of computers as well as computer systems. Some of the specific fields under computer science include programming languages, data structures, algorithms, and artificial intelligence, just to mention a few.
CS course trains you in the theoretical aspects of the algorithms and the practice of applying them in the actual software. It comprises a wide range of specializations and/or topics, including:
- Software Engineering: A complete process that starts with the design, development, and testing of software to ensure its maintenance.
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning: Enabling machines to perform tasks requiring human intelligence and learn autonomously.
- Data Science: Leveraging the power of huge datasets to assist decision-making.
- Cybersecurity: Safeguarding the digital world and people from malware and cyber threats.
What is information technology?
We’ve all heard of all the IT support scams for which India is a hotspot. But jokes aside, IT professionals do a lot more than what those scammers pretend to do. Generally speaking, the focus area of IT is to ensure the utility and functionality of computer systems and networks with organizations and businesses. People working in the IT sector are responsible for the upkeep of the performance of computer systems and networks, be it hardware, software or network-related issues. Key areas covered in an IT degree include:
- Network Administration: Managing and configuring network infrastructure.
- Database Management: Organizing, storing, and retrieving data securely.
- IT Support: Providing technical assistance to users and maintaining technology systems.
- Cloud Computing: Utilizing cloud-based solutions for scalable and flexible IT infrastructure.
IT is an operational field with a strong emphasis on practical skills that are directly applicable in various industries and businesses.
How is a computer science degree different from an IT degree?
We have already established that both degrees share some common ground. Their differences, however, lie in focus and application. Let’s understand how:
- Theoretical vs. Practical: CS is more theoretical, focusing on the underlying principles of computing. IT is more practical, emphasizing the implementation of technology in real-world scenarios. This does not mean that CS studies do not involve practical application or vice versa. It just signifies that each degree and its specializations have a primary focus area when it comes to theory vs practice.
- Skill set: Graduates of computer science are generally good with programming languages and coding. They also have an in-depth knowledge of computational theory. IT graduates are skilled in system administration, managing computer networks, and providing efficient technical support.
- Career Pathways: Some career roles, like database administration and cloud computation, blur the line between the qualifications of CS and IT graduates. In general, however, the career trajectory varies for graduates of both subjects. Computer science graduates often choose software development and programming language-focused careers like software engineers, web developers or data scientists, while IT graduates usually take up jobs in network administration, tech support, IT management or system analysis.
If you’re someone who is confused between picking a computer science or IT course, these differentiators should help you decide which degree better aligns with your expectations and interests.
If you want the qualifications and skill set to be eligible for global jobs in tech, you should consider acquiring a degree from a US accredited university. SNHU offers multiple online degrees tailored for Indian learners. You can even acquire an in-demand cyber security degree (bachelor’s and master’s) from the comfort of your home. In addition, SNHU offers multiple tech degrees in subjects like computer science and information technology. Get in touch with us to know more!
Computer science degree specializations and careers
While a traditional computer science degree is a valid option for learners, there are various specialized fields of study that prospective students of CS can choose from. Some of these popular specializations are listed below.
- Software Development: Software development degrees focus on teaching learners how to design, develop, and maintain software systems. Common career designations for this specialization include software engineer, app developer, and systems architect. The average annual base salary for software developers in India is 6L-9L (Payscale).
- Data Science and Big Data: CS programs specializing in Data Science and Big Data teach the analysis of large datasets to reveal trends and insights. Common career roles for these graduates include data scientist, machine learning engineer, and business intelligence analyst. The average annual base salary for a data scientist in India is 9L-11L (Payscale).
- Cybersecurity: Cyber security is one of the few fields with a nearly zero percent unemployment rate. It’s a high-demand specialization of computer science that teaches learners the art of defending against cyber threats and enforcing cybersecurity measures. Common career designations for cyber security graduates include cybersecurity analyst, ethical hacker and security architect. Depending on the designation, average annual base salaries for cyber security professionals in India range between 6L-15L (Payscale).
- Artificial Intelligence: With the new strides of development in artificial intelligence, the AI specialization is also quickly growing in popularity among CS candidates. Some popular careers for graduates of this specialization include AI researcher, machine learning engineer, and robotics developer. The average annual base pay for AI specialists in India ranges between 16L-19L (Glassdoor).
Keep in mind that this is not an exhaustive list. There are many other specializations of computer science, such as game design, programming languages, computer graphics, computer-human interface, etc., that students can choose from based on their interests.
Information technology degree specializations and careers
IT degrees also offer various specialization options that prepare students for specific roles in technology management. Some key specializations include:
- Network and System Administration: As the name suggests, a degree in this specialization teaches learners how to ensure the upkeep of computer networks and systems in organizational settings. You learn the design, installation, security, and troubleshooting processes needed to manage the IT infrastructure in businesses. Common career pathways for graduates include network administrator, system administrator, and IT manager. The average annual base pay of an IT manager in India is 9L-21L (Glassdoor).
- Database Management: The specialization teaches learners the management and organization of data within corporations. Common careers include database administrator, data analyst, and IT consultant. The average annual salary of a database administrator in India is 8.5L (Glassdoor).
- Cloud Computing: As end users embrace the technological shift from storing data on personal hardware devices to cloud computing, this IT specialization is becoming more and more relevant for learners. The degree teaches everything about cloud-based services and their execution. Common careers include cloud architect, cloud security specialist, and cloud solutions engineer. The average annual salary of a cloud architect in India is 22L (Glassdoor) .
There are various other specializations, like IT project management and Health Informatics that come under the umbrella of Information Technology. If you want a more comprehensive degree in IT, an online MSc in IT from SNHU might be the qualification you need to boost your career.
Computer science vs IT: Which degree is right for you?
Choosing between a CS and an IT degree depends on your interests and career goals:
- Pick Computer Science if: you’re passionate about coding and complex problem-solving is something that brings you enjoyment. The degree is also ideal for people who are interested in creating new software or exploring the theoretical aspects of computing.
- Pick Information Technology if: you’re more inclined toward the practical application of computer knowledge and want to drive effective change in corporations by managing technology systems. This degree option is ideal for those who want to focus on the practical application of technology in business settings.
Objectively, no course of study is better than the other. However, depending on your interests and career goals, one could be better for you compared to the other. Hence, it is best to sit down and take some time to introspect and understand which degree and specialization best fits your needs and then make a call.
Key takeaways
- Focus: CS is more theory-oriented, focusing on software and algorithm development, while IT is application-oriented, focusing on managing technology in organizations.
- Skill set: CS equips students with strong programming and analytical skills, while IT provides practical skills in system administration and network management.
- Career Paths: CS graduates often work in software development, data science, or research, while IT graduates are more likely to work in system administration, IT support, or network management.
When choosing a degree, consider your interests, strengths, and long-term career aspirations. Whether you opt for computer science or information technology, both degrees offer valuable skills that are in high demand in today’s tech-driven world.
Ready to transform your future with a 100% online, world-class degree in tech? Explore the computer science and information technology degree offerings by SNHU and apply today!