The Differences between Information Technology and Computer Science Courses

Computer Science or Information Technology?
What are the differences between these two?
Which courses should you choose?

These are the questions that might raised as a concern in most of high school graduates.
In Malaysia, these courses will need 3 to 4 years of degree studies.

It is easy to confuse between these two main courses, but students need to be aware and know your objective of taking these courses.
This is because, in careers, these two requires different sets of expertise, skills and attitude.
Here are the answers;

1. Computer Science

Computer Science is about using mathematics to program systems to run more efficiently, including designs and development.
Those in Computer Science will design or create computer programs and applications. Professionals in this field will be required to a lot of independent back-end job which includes writing and testing codes.

Below are the sample paths that you can choose after graduating;
- Software Developers
- Web Developers
- Software Quality Assurance Engineers and Testers

2. Information Technology (IT)

In short, IT careers are more about installing, maintaining, and improving computer systems, operating networks and databases.
Those in IT courses will have job opportunities in the application of computer programs and networks which the goal is to solve business processes.
Professionals in this field with requires to interact with others to help solving their problem.

Below are the sample paths that you can choose after graduating;
- Network and Computer System Administrator
- IT Managers
- Computer User Support Specialist


However, these two courses might have a crossed-skill set. It depends on the courses offered by the selected universities. For example, both also can be a Software Developer if they learn or have the same programming skill.

Back in 2000, these courses are not so popular among students. However, as time goes, we need more expertise in IT and Computer Science because the demand is rising in industries. They also pay a very good salary compared to other careers.