In today’s highly technical field, computers are an essential aspect of nearly of all types of organizations. Individuals who are considering pursuing a career in a related field, may ask what is computer science? Computer science is a discipline that deals with the theory and practice of computers and computational systems. Professionals in this field focus on the theory, design, and application of software and software systems.

Overview of Computer Science

Computer science requires critical thinking and problem solving in both concrete and abstract conditions. It involves the design and understanding of computers and computational procedures and studying data and algorithms to process structures. Generally, it’s main concern in creating technological processes more efficient and giving them some type of intelligence. The field varies from theoretical examination of algorithms to practical problems of the application of software and hardware. A primary focus is on methods for handling and manipulating information. The four important scientific methods used in computer science include invention, design, analysis, and experimentation. Invention involves the creation of new algorithms and architectural models. Design involves the software engineering that uses design aspects to create complex systems to solve computational tasks. Analysis is the study and assessment of algorithms, software, and structure. Experimentation is using experiments to disclose computing principles. Computer science has strong connections to a variety of other fields, like engineering, business, and health care as problems in these areas can be solved efficiently with computers.

Main Areas of Study in Computer Science

Computer science encompasses a variety of areas, the crucial areas include operating systems, computational science, intelligent systems, software engineering, and information storage and retrieval. Operating systems deal with the development and architecture of sophisticated programs that smooth the process of communication between humans and machines. Computational science examines numerical processes for using computers to solve mathematical problems. Programming languages are the analysis of the design and make up of the languages where people interact with computers. Intelligent systems focus on the ways computers perform tasks. Software engineering examines the tools and methods for the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software and software systems. Information storage and retrieval evaluates the methods for storing a large amount of data on computers and ways to search and retrieve the information. Other aspects of computer science include algorithms, computer elements and architecture,, computer systems and networks, database systems, security, numerical analysis, artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, and computing theories.

Specialties in Computer Science

Computer science has a large range of specialty areas that many professionals focus on. The specialties include software systems, software engineering, computer architecture, computational science, software engineering, and graphics. Each specialty area focuses on particular concepts, but they all drawn from common core principles of computer science.

Computer science is a rewarding and lucrative field and due to the ever-changing technology, professionals in this arena will likely be in constant demand. The practical aspect of computer science is seen everywhere. Those who succeed in this field should have the ability to quickly adapt to continuous changes and be able to model and analyze complex problems. Individuals interested in pursuing a career in computer science should research accredited institutions that offer programs in the field.