What is Computer Science?

Computing is ingrained in every aspect of our work. Computing is a driving force behind innovation in engineering, industry, entertainment, education, and the sciences, and it provides solutions to a wide variety of complicated and difficult problems.

Computers and other computational systems are the subject of computer science. It is a broad field that encompasses everything from the algorithms that make up software to how software interacts with hardware to how effectively software is built and planned. One of the most important aspects of this field is how well software is developed. In order to investigate how computers work and create new programmes and systems, computer scientists make use of a wide variety of mathematical algorithms, coding procedures, and their in-depth knowledge of programming.

How is Computer Science Different from IT?

The creation and evaluation of various software programmes and computer systems are the main topics of computer science. Working with mathematical models, data analysis and security, algorithm design, and computational theory are all part of the job. The computational concepts that form the foundation of all software are outlined by computer scientists as the field of computer science matures.

The field of study known as information technology (IT) is concerned with the design, implementation, maintenance, and administration of various computer and data storage systems. Working in information technology necessitates familiarity with both hardware (such as CPUs, RAM, and hard discs) and software (such as operating systems, web browsers, and mobile applications). Professionals in information technology are responsible for ensuring that all users have access to fully functional computers, networks, and systems.

What Careers does Computer Science Offer?

The field of computer science offers some of the top paying occupations in the world today, and individuals who work in the field report high levels of job satisfaction. The majority of computer scientists have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a discipline that is closely linked to it.

Artificial intelligence, computer systems and networks, security, database systems, human-computer interaction, vision and graphics, numerical analysis, programming languages, software engineering, bioinformatics, and the theory of computing are some of the primary areas of study and careers available within the field of computer science.

Some common job titles for computer scientists include:

Computer Programmer
Information Technology Specialist
Data Scientist
Web Optimization Specialist
Database Administrator
Systems Analyst
Web Developer
Quality Assurance Engineer
Business Intelligence Analyst
Systems Engineer
Product Manager
Software Engineer
Hardware Engineer
Front-End Developer
Back-End Developer
Full-Stack Developer
Mobile Developer
Network Administrator
Chief Information Officer
Security Analyst
Video Game Developer
Health Information Technician

How Much do Computer Science Professionals Make?

In May 2021, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $97,4302, as reported by the US Bureau of Labour Statistics. Employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15 percent from 2021 to 2031, which is much faster than the average growth for all occupations.

What Skills do Computer Scientists Need?

Learning how to write code and run programmes is just one component of this field. Computer scientists are responsible for the design, development, and analysis of the hardware and software that is used to address issues in a wide variety of business, industrial, scientific, and social settings. And because computers solve issues in order to better serve and enrich people’s lives, there is a strong emphasis on human consideration in the field of computer science. Computer scientists rely not just on their technical knowledge but also on vital abilities such as communication, problem solving, critical thinking, and creative issue solving in order to complete the wide variety and level of complexity of the projects they undertake. Additional useful talents include the following:

Analytical and logical thinking
Technical and mathematical skills
Attention to detail
Project management
Technical writing
Research
Art and design

Because computer science is such a large discipline, professionals in the field have the chance to concentrate on the skills that are most pertinent to their own interests and selected focus area (which might shift over the course of their careers). However, not all professionals will require all of the talents listed.

The Future of Computer Science

How might the field of computer science develop in the years to come? There does not appear to be any way out! Computing has invaded every aspect of our lives, and its effect only continues to expand. Computing is here to stay, from the apps on our smartphones to any gadget that contains a computer processor.

The possibilities for the field of computers in the future are virtually limitless. Programming, systems analysis, database administration, network architecture, software development, research, and a wide variety of other activities are performed by people trained in computer science in practically every sector of the economy.

Computing at Michigan Tech

The College of computers at Michigan Tech is the first college in the state of Michigan to be wholly dedicated to computers, and it is one of only a select few colleges across the country. Students in the computer science programme at Michigan Tech have access to a diverse array of in-class and hands-on learning experiences, which allows them to amass a breadth and depth of knowledge and experience.

At Michigan Tech, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to gain practical experience, from learning laboratories that meet industry standards to internships, co-ops, and our Enterprise programme. In the Enterprise programme, you will collaborate with a group of other students (from any major) to complete real projects for real clients in an atmosphere that is more akin to a working setting than a traditional classroom. Our Enterprise teams invent products, provide services, and pioneer new approaches to problems with the assistance of faculty mentors who guide them through the process. You will acquire a wealth of experiences in engineering design, the creation of teams, the administration of projects, and the development of creative products from start to finish.

Investing in your future by pursuing a degree in computer science at Michigan Tech is a smart move. If you earn a degree in computer science from Michigan Technological University, you won’t be limited to a single technology or industry for the duration of your professional life. It is a degree in the essentials that will serve you well throughout your life, despite the fact that your interests may shift as time goes on. In addition, the one-of-a-kind experiences that you will obtain during your time here will better equip you to meet the challenges that lie ahead.

General Computing Program

If you aren’t sure which area of computer science you want to specialise in yet, the General Computing programme for first-year undergraduates gives you one or two semesters to study the field and figure out which degree programme piques your interest the most. If you’re still undecided, consider enrolling in this programme. It’s a jumping off point that will offer you some room to decide which area of computing is going to be the best fit for you.

Undergraduate Degree Programs

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Science allows students to specialise in either Computer Science, Computer Applications, Computer Systems, or Game Development.
The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity allows students to specialise in either System & Network Security or Software Security.
Math and Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree Software Engineering Bachelor’s Degree

Graduate Degree Programs

Computer Science (MS, PhD)
Cybersecurity (MS)
Data Science (MS)
Computational Science and Engineering (PhD)

Accelerated Master’s Program

Our accelerated master’s program allows you to count up to 6 senior-level credits toward both a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Science in Computer Science, Cybersecurity, Data Science, and many more majors.

Computer Science Research

What exactly would the field of computer science be without research? Computing is an all-encompassing field, and at Michigan Technological University, the Department of Computer Science serves as the driving force behind computing-related research and education. While we are in the process of constructing robust research and teaching environments for our computer science graduate students and faculty, we are also expanding our campus-wide collaboration and outreach efforts to include our colleagues in the fields of engineering, science, and business, as well as to members of the local community, alumni, and professional societies.