Information Technology VS. Computer Science

Fortran

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Hello, I am currently pursuing an Associate's degree in Web Development. I hope to complete this program later this year and then transfer to a four-year program. However, I am struggling with which major to choose - Information Technology (likely with some specialization such as Software Development or Database Management) or Computer Science? What degree is more versatile; are there certain jobs one would likely be able to obtain with one but not the other?

To give a little background information in order to better direct any advice - I personally would love to land a job as a computer or web programmer, or perhaps a web developer. I love math, science, and programming. I personally do not have strong customer-service skills. I certainly believe I could courteously interact with team members and customers; however, I am extremely shy and lack social skills. I value job security and typically enjoy routine. Wages and upward mobility are not significant concerns for me. I do prefer an environment that allows for some challenge or use of skills (I think any form of programming will meet this need), but I do not believe I handle stress well.

Does anyone have any suggestions or advice on how the two majors compare and contrast or which may be a better option given my profile?

Thanks much,
Kelly Marchewa
 
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I am not in that field, so hopefully others will step in here... but I have watched CS students quit, being overwhelmed. Many of the IT students were energized, loved sharing information, and found jobs after graduation.

Taking on the challenge to a drier/tougher program isn't necessarily going to benefit you in the end, so keep asking for advice and researching the field. As for customer service skills, that should not be a deal-breaker. You can learn that, or put your own spin on it.
 
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seashale76

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My husband and his co-workers are of the generation for which said degrees didn't even exist- but he is in IT. He majored in Math and Business. I'm not even sure what he does exactly- Architect something or other. Anyway, he's quite good at what he does and enjoys it. One of his big complaints is regarding people that aren't true programmers and write horrible scripts/codes (whatever they're called- I'm not about that). Apparently, a certain level of problem solving skills are needed that are lacking in a lot of people. Being a real programmer is a skill most people don't truly have. Personally, I think IT is more versatile. However, if you truly want to be a programmer, then you will probably not like Database Management. They still write scripts as part of their job, but it isn't the same.
 
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rochie545

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Hello there. I'm an incoming 3rd year student of Computer Science here in Philippines. I love those people who are also inlove and having their hearts to their passion. I would like to say to the first respondent that there are so many CS students quit is because, that is not their passion. I would just like to clarify that having in the field of Information Technology is not broadly focusing on software development, I.T is more on the Infrastructure while C.S is on innovation. Did you get my point? If you choose i.t for you major then you'll be facing networkings, cables, internet, a little bit softdev. But if you choose C.S you'll be facing Math as it is Computer Science's mother. You'll studying on algorithm, which is the fastest, efficient algorithms etc. focusing on computer and machine theories like automata. Cardinalities, fastest query in database and make it. Operation in the machines, etc. It depends though, I know that U.S kind of teaching is different from ours, but base on my experience as an C.S student you'll be facing math when you choose computer science, and computer science is broad since it is the main origin of i.t. Godbless for your course!
 
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Merlin

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I have worked in this field since before there was a distinction.
That is because computers is all there was.
IT is the more versatile field.
but it might include areas that you do not want to work in.
IT will include internet, telephones, cell phones/smart phones, I-pads, & many areas beyond just a computer.
 
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