Sunday, February 26, 2017


What is computer science ?

computer science is the third most popular major amongst international students coming to the United States. Therfe are many reasons that computer science is so popular, including exceptional job security, uncommonly high starting salaries, and diverse job opportunities across industries. However, an international student contemplating studying computer science needs to ask themself, "What is computer science?"
So, what is computer science? Generally speaking, computer science is the study of computer technology, both hardware and software. However, computer science is a diverse field; the required skills are both applicable and in-demand across practically every industry in today's technology-dependent world. As such, the field of computer science is divided amongst a range of sub-disciplines, most of which are full-fledged specialized disciplines in and of themselves. The field of computer science spans several core areas: computer theory, hardware systems, software systems, and scientific computing. Students will choose credits from amongst these sub-disciplines with varying levels of specialization depending on the desired application of the computer science degree. Though most strict specialization occurs at the graduate level, knowing exactly what computer science is (and where a student's interests fall within this vast field) is of paramount importance to knowing how to study computer science.

Computer Science Disciplines

The disciplines encompassed by a computer science degree are incredibly vast, and an international student must know how to study computer science or, in other words, how to effectively navigate amongst this sea of sub-disciplines and specializations. Here are a few possible areas of specialization available to students pursuing computer science degrees:
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Digital Image/ Sound
  • Artificial Intelligence
  • Microprogramming
  • Bioinformatics
  • Networks And Administration
  • Computer Architecture Networks
  • Cryptography
  • Computer Engineering
  • Operating Systems
  • Computer Game Development
  • Robotics
  • Computer Graphics
  • Simulation And Modeling
  • Computer Programming
  • Software Development
  • Software Systems
  • Data Management
  • Web Development
  • Design Databases
  • Parallel Programming
  • iOS Development
  • Mobile Development
  • Memory Systems
  • Computational Physics
With so many available options, having a specific focus in mind while studying computer science in the United States is the best plan of action for any international student hoping to seriously prepare for their future on the job market. Knowing how to study computer science and effectively planning which type of degree to receive will depend on how well the student understands the discipline of computer science, and deciding which degree is right for a student is a move that will determine what sorts of computer science careers the student is eligible for upon graduating. Therefore, it is of the utmost importance to plan a specific computer science degree that will enable you to pursue the career you want.
Despite the seemingly endless variety of applications and sub-disciplines an international student studying computer science in the United States will have to navigate, asking important questions like, "What is computer science?" is a great way to begin a successful education and, ultimately, career. Moreover, there are plenty of free resources available for studying computer science. For instance, a great resource for international students trying to study computer science in the United States can be the websites of specific institutions. These websites will not only convey what sorts of computer science degrees are available at their institution (as well as any specialties), they will also often have pages specifically to assist interested international students. Program course credit breakdowns, scholarship and internship opportunities, ongoing research, all these vital facts about an institution can be found on their computer science program's website.

Another great resource for international students is the Study Computer Science guide. The guide is a wealth of information on topics ranging from questions about where to study computer science, to providing internship and career advice.

The purpose of computer science is to investigate algorithms, design efficiency, and implementation and application of computer systems to the problems of businesses and government. The goal of a computer scientist is to maintain and create the most effective computer systems possible using the most current technology available.

The field of computer sciences is one of the fastest growing industries today. As people rely more on computers, the development and maintenance of computer systems is critical. Computer science graduates will find numerous career opportunities in a variety of business, government, and academic organizations. The curriculum at Penn State Behrend also prepares students for further study in computer science at the master’s and doctoral levels.

Here are 6 reasons why you should study it :

1. The digital age needs computer scientists

Like it or not you're living in it – this is the Digital Age. Computer programmes have all but infiltrated every aspect of our lives. Computer scientists theorise, design, develop, and apply the software and hardware for the programmes we use day in day out – sounds pretty important to us.

2. Computer science students have excellent graduate prospects 

Check out our Computer Science subject table, look down the Graduate Prospects column and you'll notice that computer science students stand a pretty good chance of being professionally employed or in further study within 6 months of leaving uni. And that chance is strengthened if you go to one of the UK's best unis for the subject – the top 10 average a Graduate Prospects score of 93.6%.

3. Computer scientists earn big bucks

Computer scientists are in demand and their salaries reflects this. Recent graduates in professional roles earn on average £23,144 a year. Compared to other subjects that's fairly substantial.    
According to www.prospects.ac.uk, systems developers in senior management roles earn between £45,000 and £70,000 a year.

4. Computer scientists are needed in every type of industry

Every industry uses computers so naturally computer scientists can work in any. Problems in science, engineering, health care, and so many other areas can be solved by computers. It's up to the computer scientist to figure out how, and design the software to apply the solution.

5. Internationally Diverse Cohort

Computer science departments at typically benefit from having one of the more culturally diverse cohorts at their respective unis. According to HESA data nearly 9,000 computer science students come from overseas.
A diverse cohort means you'll be exposed to different cultures and potentially finish uni with an international network of contacts to utilise later in life.

6. Year abroad opportunities

Computers have gone global, and it would be silly for Computer Science education providers to not reflect this fact. Check the opportunities for overseas study on the courses that interest you. A year abroad will provide you with a deeper understanding of how computers are used around the world, allowing you to experience other cultures, and gain some language skills in the process.








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