Difference Between Computer Science and Information Technology

Computer Science and Information Technology are two common terms that we readily encounter in the present world of computers and digital technology.  Many of you may not know the differences between the two and may consider them as one as they are mostly used interchangeably.  However, it is important to note that both disciplines are distinct and require special skills and abilities. At the same time, it is also interesting to note that these disciplines are overlapping and have common scopes or areas.

When it comes to a career choice between computer science and information technology, students may find it difficult to choose because of the common space that these subjects share. In this post, we will decipher the key differences between computer science and IT to help you make an informed decision to choose a career in any of these disciplines.

What is Computer Science?

Computer Science focuses on technical and theoretical aspects and uses them to develop computer software. This is a vast area that covers varied topics. It studies computers and their systems using new technologies to build new applications. Computer science involves developing and testing software before they are released and made available in the market. It includes the study of both computer hardware and software.

The scope of computer science is constantly evolving with new and emerging technologies. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is one such revolutionised area of computer science that is likely to grow further in the imminent future.

What is Information Technology?

Information Technology is a discipline that uses technology to meet the organisational needs of businesses. In a certain way, IT addresses the business needs of computer science and emphasises on storing and processing computer software. Information Technology also works closely with networks, servers, databases, and other technology infrastructures. IT professionals identify and create critical computing systems to find solutions to business problems to stay up-to-date with technology.

Computer Science (CS) vs. Information Technology (IT)

So, what are the key differences between Computer Science and Information Technology? Computer Science is a discipline that uses mathematics to develop computer programmes, while Information Technology implements and manages the computer programs developed by computer science and applies them to businesses. Hence, the field of computer science uses theories and mathematics to smoothen the work of IT, while IT uses business skills to meet industry needs using technology.

From a career perspective, both computer science and IT are promising fields. Students who are inclined towards knowing about behind-the-scenes software developments should consider courses in computer science, while those who are motivated to find solutions to problems using technology may proceed with a course in information technology.

Below are some parameters of distinction from the perspective of career choice between Computer Science and Information Technology:

Scope of Career in Computer Science

Career Options: Computer science graduates can pursue careers in software development, and research, in the academic world, and in the field of data science as well as artificial intelligence, among others.

Job Roles: Students can hold positions like data scientist, software developer, artificial intelligence engineer, computer and information research scientist, and cybersecurity analyst among others

Courses Available: Bachelor of Computer Science, Master of Computer Science, Ph.D. in Computer Science, Computer Engineer, and more

Future Scope: With emerging fields of study like artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), quantum computing, big data, and robotics, Computer Science provides a huge future scope.

Scope of Career in Information Technology

Career Options: Graduates of Information Technology have a wide scope of career options in network administration, systems analysis, IT consulting, database administration, web development, cybersecurity, and IT management, among others

Job Roles: IT graduates can get jobs in different positions like network administrator, systems analyst, IT consultant, database administrator, web developer, cloud architect, IT project manager, business analyst, IT manager, and so on.

Courses Available: Bachelor of Information Technology, Master of Information Technology, Degrees in Information Systems, and more.

Future Scope: Students have good scope to prosper in the fields of mobile and web applications, data analytics, blockchain, virtual and augmented reality, etc.

Conclusion

Regardless of the route you choose for your career – Computer Science or Information Technology – you are sure to reach high prospects as both fields have their distinct demand and are continuously evolving. The key, here, is to choose the path that aligns with your passion and interests to have a promising future. With the continuous integration of technology with society, both IT and Computer Science are becoming part of almost every aspect of business and our lives these days. Hence, a career in any of these areas will have fruitful results for students.

Amity Online University presents different undergraduate programmes like Online degrees in Bachelor of Computer Applications as well as postgraduate programmes like an online MBA and M. Tech in Information Technology to help students achieve academic excellence. With such online computer science degrees and online information technology degrees in hand, students can embark on a career path to face the challenges of the competitive landscape of employment with ease.  Visit the official website to learn more about different courses.