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.
Generally great university, but infrastructure is reaching it’s capacity in many areas, which is further promoted by forcing students to visit the lectures in person by abandoning livestreams for many courses.
View moreThe workload at ETH can often times be challenging. There is a lot of pressure to perform, not helped by many students feeling the need to brag about how good they are. But if you don’t only focus on the studying part and keep a healthy work-life balance, it can be quite rewarding. ETH encourages the existence of student associations and with your payment to the ETH, you get a free membership to ASVZ, which gives you access to multiple gyms and other sports. Overall it has its ups and downs, but the ups win.
View moreStudying at ETH is fun… sometimes. Many courses tend to be a lot of work. There are not only lectures but also exercises one should solve every week which take quite a while to solve. Then there are not only the mandatory courses but also other subjects one has to do for the credits which are not directly related to your major. I think the best part are the events which usually take place in the evening organized by the Fachvereine. I also like the fact that thinking back to where I‘ve started I did learn quite a bit. ETH really makes an effort in giving you job opportunitues with events such as polymesse and kontaktparty etc.
View moreETHZ offers couses at a high academic level. Furthermore, you get the option to choose subjects according to your interests already in the third year of Bachelor.
Apart from the academic part, ETHZ has big and active student associations. Lots of events are organised every year and they are very friendly even for a student’s budget.
ETH Zürich demands a lot from their students, which makes us learn a lot, but thus also limits the social life surrounding university. What I especially like is that my professors (in the field of Computer Science) often come from the industry and can teach us not only about the important concepts, but also the state of the art.
View moreThe university gives you a very large amount of autonomy, so for the most part everyone can decide for themselves how they go about studying. But there is quite a big lack of space, especially when it comes to studying spots and the mensa.
View moreI would kinda recommend ETH Zurich if you are willing to invest in your studies. It is for sure not the „easiest“ university to get your degree from but you can definitely take away a lot. However, I don‘t regret my decision.
View morePro: Very good education. Con: Very high workload.
We get tought more details and theory behind the concepts we learn than at other universities. However, this also shows in a higher workload. Nevertheless, it is very interesting.
For student life, there are lots of great student associations, there is really something for everyone and plenty of events to attend or associations to join.