We all know that computer science is one of the most in-demand degrees (especially in Silicon Valley). However, many people understand what you can do with a computer science degree.
Lately, we’ve been hearing some common myths about what computer science graduates end up doing. We also hear some misconceptions about what people can do with computer science degrees. We decided to explore the data and uncover the truth behind these myths.
Myth #1: “It’s All Programming”
On many college campuses, some students believe that computer science means programming. They have visions of themselves in front of a screenwriting code.
In computer science, you learn how to design, build and maintain computer software. Moreover, computer science is a vast field. Computer scientists develop efficient algorithms, build responsive websites, and write computer games. In addition, computer scientists work in various areas, including business, marketing, medicine, and even law enforcement.
Myth #2: “It’sIt’s Too Late”
Do you think it’s too late to major in computer science? This concept may have been true a few years ago before so many computer science degree online programs were available.
But, now the technology industry is snowballing, and employers are looking for people who have solid theoretical knowledge. So, don’t worry! There are plenty of jobs available, even for students who get started late in their college careers!
Myth #3: “It’s An Easy Degree”
When young students explain that they’re studying computer science, people often look strange. Some think that it’s a degree where you sit and play computer games all day long. In reality, computer science is one of the most brutal degrees you can get. It’s not called “cyber-science” for nothing!
You have to know a lot of different concepts. You need to think about problems, break them into small pieces, and solve them.
Myth #4: “It’s Not Creative”
Many believe that computer science is not creative because computers are logical machines. After all, the computer doesn’t care how you write your code.
But computer scientists know better! There are multiple ways to solve any problem, and computer scientists need to explore all angles and find the best solution. It’s a very creative process!
Myth #5: “It’s Not Social”
People think that computer scientists are introverted, sitting alone in their rooms, typing away at the console. The truth is that computer scientists are social creatures. They communicate with their co-workers, the companies who hire them, and the clients who use their products. In addition, they often give presentations and speak at conferences.
Being a well-spoken communicator is one of computer scientists’ skills to succeed.
Myth #6: “Nerds Only”
Some people believe that because computer science is so technical, it would be impossible for someone already a computer geek to succeed. That’s not the case! Computer scientists need to know how to communicate, work in a team, and think critically to solve problems. Employers are actively looking for computer science grads who have these skills!
In addition, many computer science departments offer courses and certificates to help students develop the skills they need for a successful career.
Myth #7: “Job Security”
Every once in a while, we hear students say that they want to major in computer science because they don’t want to take any risks. They feel like it’s “safe” since everything is computerized.
Computer science isn’t only about programming, but it’s also about problem-solving, critical thinking and creativity. There will always be jobs for people with these skills! In addition, computer science is a growing field.
It’s not only safe – it makes sense. Every day, more and more companies are hiring computer scientists. Check out the stats.
Myth #8: “They don’t teach enough theory.”
You might have been told that computer science is a great major in high school because you can skip learning many tedious, old-fashioned theories.
The reality is that computer science is full of theoretical concepts that you’ll need to learn. There’s no getting around it! You can’t become a computer scientist without knowing algorithms and databases, even if you plan to work as a programmer.
In addition, computer science is a rapidly growing field, and every year there are new concepts to learn. After all, technology companies never stop inventing new things.
Myth #9: “It’s A Man’s World.”
We’ve heard a lot in the news about computer science being dominated by men. That’s is not true!
According to computer science professors, computer science degrees are almost equally divided between men and women. The computer science department at Rutgers University, for example, states that computer science degrees online are currently split 50/50 between men and women. In addition, many universities are striving to make computer science more inclusive.
Myth #10: “Highly Paid”
Some students believe that the only reason to major in computer science is a high salary. In reality, you can choose from several different majors to earn a good amount of money, so computer science isn’t the only option.
Computer science can be a great major because it gives you the skills to solve problems creatively. The possibilities are endless once you learn to think like a computer scientist!
Myth #11: “I Can Teach Myself”
Some people think that it’s okay to be self-taught if you major in computer science. In reality, a solid computer science background requires a strong foundation in math and some other theoretical concepts.
Taking the time to learn these things now will help you avoid some of the pitfalls and roadblocks that many self-taught computer scientists face.
Myth #12: “Only For Programmers”
Some students think that majoring in computer science means spending all of your time writing code. In reality, you’ll spend less than half of your time writing code, so you’ll need to be prepared for the rest of it!
One of the most important parts of computer science is communicating with a team to describe a problem and figure out how to solve it.
Conclusion:
So what does this all mean?
If you’re thinking about getting a computer science degree, it doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll be programming computers all day. However, you should be ready to learn the concepts and techniques to build a functional computer system.
You’ll need to have a lot of discipline, determination, and creativity.
Computer science is not an easy degree. You’ll need to know how to break down complex problems into individual steps. You’ll also need to know the best way to build computer software.
If you’re up for a challenge, then a career in computer science might be right for you. Now that the myths are busted, are you ready to learn more about getting your online computer science degree?
