The passion for technology can lead you to choose the specialisation of Computer Science. This field has become increasingly popular in recent years, the development being so rapid that people are trying to keep up with it.
A Computer Science degree deals with the theoretical and practical foundations of information technology and computers. The scientific part merges with the practical one in various algorithms, information processing or in computational models. This specialisation often aims to study methodological processes, making representations on a computer, storage, or accessing information.
At the same time, the study of Computer Science focuses on the learning of programming languages, which are extremely important for any student. Python, C ++, Java are just a few of the programming languages that are explored in depth by students in order to solve the applications received from the faculty. Furthermore, on the labour market, programming languages are highly appreciated and integrated, being a useful tool for optimal performance of industries.
The most important skill that young people learn following this degree is the use of programming languages. Once they grasp the logic of programming, they will easily be able to master the languages and build or develop WEB applications. Additional skills that are acquired can be: network design and engineering, software engineering, multimedia design. In addition, classical skills such as teamwork, leadership, problem-solving or time management are also gained by students.
According to recent studies, 6 of the 10 best jobs chosen by graduates are linked to Computer Science. These include Web Design, Computer Support Specialist, IT Operations Technician or Database Administrator. Moreover, the employment rate is favourable to the students, being over 70%. Due to the rapid advancement of technology, it is expected that the supply will grow in the future, requiring computer science specialists in any field.
To study Computer Science, students can either pursue university courses or follow courses online, depending on their availability and income. Online or outside-university courses include disciplines such as: Information Systems Management, Game Programming, Web Development, Network Fundamentals. They usually have a duration of 2 years. Although these courses provide important skills in this specialisation, students may be disadvantaged when competing with a student who has a Bachelor’s Degree. Some of the most important campuses in the world include Penn State World Campus, University of Massachusetts, Lowell (The Division of Online Learning and Continuing Education), Saint Leo University.
The Bachelor in Computer Science lasts around 3 to 4 years, depending on the university. Throughout the programme, students acquire mathematical knowledge, theoretical and practical foundation in programming. Some of the subjects discussed are: Computer Programming, Data Structures, Databases, Algorithms, Linear Algebra, Probability Theory or Statistics. These vary according to the curriculum of the university.
A Master’s program complete the students’ necessary career skills. In this way, they have a greater understanding of computing softwares, tools, packages, and computer architecture.
There are Master programs that can be followed even by those who have not undertaken undergraduate studies in Computer Science, such as those offered at the University of Birmingham for example. These programs can take either 2 to 5 years.
A PhD program is especially dedicated to those who want to research or become university professors and can last between 4 to 5 years.
I’m a second-year student of VTU Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria at the moment at the Faculty of Fine Arts and I am currently studying Interactive Design and Computer Games.
Due to the fact that for those almost 2 years at the university so far, I actually had been there only for three months and the rest of the time to this day I have been online because of the pandemic. I can’t share a lot about the city or the full experience of the education, but the one thing I can say for sure so far is something more about online education.
The education itself is not badly structured, however, I would not say the same about the online one. Usually, it is up to the lecturers who are there to give you proper teaching information, exercises, homework, etc. Some of them actually care and give us interesting projects which gives us the chance to get a proper experience in the field, but there are some of them who just don’t care and don’t fulfil their jobs as lecturers. Moreover, due to the fact that we can not be physically there, it is impossible for my classmates and me to use the facilities that the university has to offer (usually old buildings with outdated computers). Something that made a good impression on me was the fact that the university provides you with AutoDesk software kit for free.
Overall the education so far is around average. I believe that when we go back to the city and go back to in person teaching, it will be much better than how it is now (or online), due to the fact that I will actually be able to contact and talk with the lectures in person, which I would prefer over than having classes online. It is a better practice in my opinion and I believe that it is more suitable to have it in our course rather than not.
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