Computer Science: What is it? Distinguishing Computer Science from IT

18/10/2023 02:47 AM

In today's digital age, the Computer Science industry is attracting many young people. So, what is Computer Science? Let's find out together with Aniday!

Computer Science Concept

Computer Science is a scientific field that studies how information is processed by computers. Source: Park University

Computer Science is a science that studies how information is processed by computers.

Covers the theory, design, development, and application of software and computer systems
Resolves technical problems
Contributes to fields such as mathematics, natural sciences, social sciences, arts, and humanities.

How to distinguish the Computer Science industry from the IT industry

Many people often confuse Computer Science and IT (Information Technology); however, these two industries have clear differences.

IT (Information Technology)

Computer Science

Use and manage information technologies in a business environment, such as installing, maintaining, securing, and supporting computer systems, networks, and software.
Applications in various fields, such as education, healthcare, finance, management, and communication.
Use available technologies to process information.

Study how to design, analyze, and apply algorithms to solve computer-related problems.

Applications in many subfields, such as programming, artificial intelligence, computer systems, cybersecurity, data science, and more.

Create new technologies to solve computer problems.

The role of the Computer Science industry

Computer Science is an important field. Source: Fullstack Academy

Computer Science plays an important role in:

Creating new technologies and improving existing technologies.
Solving complex problems in fields such as artificial intelligence, data science, cybersecurity, computer graphics, and computer science.
Developing user-friendly products and services, such as mobile applications, websites, games, and software.

The role of the IT industry

The IT industry plays an essential role in:

Maintaining and operating information systems for organizations and businesses.
Supporting communication, cooperation, and information sharing between stakeholders.
Consulting and training users on how to use information technology.

Work orientation of Computer Science

Computer Science opens up many career opportunities for students after graduation. Some popular jobs in the industry include:

1. Software Application Development

Responsible for designing, building, and testing applications that run on computers or mobile devices.
Requires skills in programming, algorithms, software architecture, and user interface.

2. Computer System Analysis

Responsible for researching, analyzing, and recommending solutions to improve or replace existing computer systems.
Requires analytical skills, logical thinking, communication, and teamwork.

3. System Development

In charge of designing, building, and integrating computer systems, including hardware, software, and networks.
Requires skills in programming, system architecture, cybersecurity, and project management.

4. Web Programming

Responsible for creating websites and web applications for users to access over the internet.
Requires programming, web design, database, and user interface skills.

5. System Management

Responsible for managing and operating the computer systems, networks, and software of an organization or business.
Requires management, problem-solving, security, and technical support skills.

6. Database Administrator

Responsible for designing, building, and maintaining databases that store important information for an organization or business.
Requires programming, database, data analysis, and security skills.

Salary of Computer Science worker in Vietnam

Computer Science is one of the industries with the highest salaries today. According to Glassdoor's report, the average salary of a Computer Science employee in Vietnam is quite high and can fluctuate depending on location, experience, skills, and company.

Computer Science Level: Fresher

10 million VND or more, depending on your capacity and development ability. If you can prove your bravery and enthusiasm, you can receive a higher salary, from 12 to 15 million VND. This is a much higher salary than other occupations and is a good opportunity for those who want to start a career in this field.

Computer Science Level: Junior

A candidate with a Computer Science degree and 1 to 3 years of work experience in the field may be considered a Junior. Depending on what they have done, learned, and can do in the future, their salary can range from 18 to 22 million VND per month.

Computer Science Level: Senior

For those working in the field of Computer Science, achieving the Senior level (3 years of experience or more) is a proud achievement. This not only demonstrates high professional ability but also brings an attractive income. According to statistics, the average salary of a Computer Science Senior level can be up to more than 200 million VND/month. This is the highest number compared to other Senior positions in the industry.

However, this salary is not fixed but depends on many factors such as:

Mission
Project complexity
Work experience
Time spent with the company

In addition, a Computer Science Senior level is also responsible for guiding and training new employees, giving opinions, and contributing to the team. Therefore, to maintain and improve this salary, workers need to constantly update their knowledge, skills, and sense of responsibility.

Top Singapore Schools in Training Computer Science

If you want to pursue a career in Computer Science, you can consider some of the following reputable training schools. According to the QS World University Rankings by Subject 2021:

National University of Singapore (NUS)
Nanyang Technological University (NTU)
Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD)
Singapore Management University (SMU)
Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)
Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS)
James Cook University Singapore (JCUS).

In addition, online courses are also a good choice:

Harvard courses: Provides information about programming and computers, such as Python, number systems, branching statements, repeating statements, etc.
EdX Courses: Similar to Harvard's free course, EdX also provides information about programming and computers.
Udemy Courses (Fee): CS101 Bootcamp course with a 2-hour duration for beginners to learn computer science.
Coursera Courses (Fee): Covers basic to advanced knowledge, providing knowledge about HTML and CSS, Javascript, object-oriented programming in Java and Angular.js, Python programming, Scala, Linux, and Ruby On Rail.

In conclusion, the world of computer science is both dynamic and diverse, offering a multitude of career paths and opportunities. As we've explored in this article, computer science encompasses the study of information processing, the development of cutting-edge technologies, and the resolution of complex problems across various industries. Understanding the distinction between computer science and information technology is vital for anyone considering a future in this field.

Whether you're a recent graduate, a junior professional, or aiming for senior-level roles, the realm of computer science promises not only competitive salaries but also the chance to shape the future through innovation and problem-solving. Finally, Aniday hopes this article is helpful to you.

References:

Salary: Computer Programmer in Vietnam 2023 | Glassdoor