Computer Science FAQs: What is Computer Science?

By Elizabeth West (BA 26)

What is computer science? Is computer science hard? What classes will I take as a computer science major? Discover the answers to these and other frequently asked questions to prepare you for a computer science degree. 

What is Computer Science?

To start off, what is computer science? A large component of this field is creating ways to access information quickly and use it efficiently and effectively. 

“My snarky answer to this question is always that it has nothing to do with computers and it’s not a science,” says Dr. Amy Feaver, associate professor of computer science at Grace College. “Basically, computer science is using current computational tools in order to get different tasks done. It involves information dissemination, problem solving, integrating computers into other forms of technology, like thermostats or refrigerators, and making tasks faster and easier, such as generative AI. It has a big scope.”

Is Computer Science Hard?

The short answer to “Is computer science hard?” is yes. This is a math-heavy major, perfect for problem solvers and critical thinkers. 

The good news is that Grace’s program is designed for all students to thrive in computer science, whether they have experience with coding or they’re simply passionate about the major. Our professors understand that not all high schools offer computer science, and we strive to make our computer science degree accessible to all students. 

Feaver shares that classes often include students with different levels of experience, but the program is designed so that a student with no experience can succeed alongside one with a background in computer science. 

What Classes Will I Take as a Computer Science Major?

What is a computer science degree course load like? Classes for this degree include object-oriented programming, data structures, and algorithms. You can also choose from a variety of electives, like HTML & web development. 

Grace partners with RIZE and Lower Cost Models for Independent Colleges Consortium (LCMC) as a hybrid degree, both on-campus and online. This program provides you with a wide array of constantly updated, cutting-edge computing courses to ensure your education is based on the current skills and knowledge necessary for a computer science major. 

“RISE is a well-run program, and they update the courses consistently,” Feaver stated. “They communicate with professionals in the industry, including authors of the best computer science textbooks.”

The hybrid degree also allows students to choose from a variety of concentrations. From cybersecurity to applied AI, you can find the perfect focus to prepare you for your future career. 

You might be wondering, “What kinds of math classes will I take as a computer science student?” or “In a math class, what is computer science instruction usually like?”

Math is essential for an accredited computer science program. Calculus, discrete mathematics, linear algebra, and probability and statistics are standard classes for your degree. 

“Students definitely need math if they want to make things run efficiently,” says Feaver. “You need to understand the math behind your work, such as how many calculations the coding is doing and how much memory it is storing.”

What Programming Languages Will I Learn?

The basic principle behind learning programming languages is that once you learn one, you’ll have the skill set down and can move from one language to another. If you have experience working in one object-oriented programming language, you can usually work effectively in several other object-oriented programming languages. 

For accreditation, it is recommended that students learn at least one programming language in depth. Additionally, there are two major programming paradigms or specific styles of structuring programs: object-oriented and functional. 

Learning a mixture of languages equips you to be a well-rounded programmer. At Grace, Feaver prioritizes training her students in multiple programming languages at both low and high levels. A lower-level language will train you in the details and functions of coding, while a higher-level language will automatically perform actions for you, like managing storage and calculations. You will experience working with both types of languages to prepare you for high performance in your future career. This gives you the knowledge and control to make computer processes more efficient, fulfilling the purpose of computer science. 

What Does Faith Integration Look Like for Computer Science?

In a world full of technology, it’s important to define how our Christian faith fits into the rapid development of computers. So, what is computer science in relation to faith?

Feaver suggests that Christian ethics are vital to maintaining the integrity of computer science applications. While technology can make tasks efficient and easy, it can also be exploited and corrupted. When you prioritize your faith over profit, you create programs, coding, and other resources that truly benefit consumers on a practical and moral level. 

Grace computer science professors focus on teaching students how to think intentionally about the purpose of their studies and future career to prepare them to make a lasting impact. We want to ensure that computer science students are equipped to incorporate their faith and Christian ethics in this highly influential and growing field. 

What Jobs Can You Get With a Computer Science Degree?

What is computer science in a career context? Your degree can lead you to several different kinds of jobs in areas like software development, computer programming, information analysis, or computer support. 

Computer science is a fast-growing field in the U.S. with a projected 15-20% growth rate for certain careers, as stated by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. With a degree in computer science, you’ll have several job opportunities where you can use your skills. 

“A computer science degree is much more powerful than an IT certificate,” says Feaver. “A computer science degree gives you an advanced skill set. This degree should get you a starting salary of about $80,000.”

If you’re interested in learning more about computer science or computer science careers, read our blog, What Can You Do With a Bachelor in Computer Science?.

Conclusion

Now we’ve answered the question of, “What is computer science?” If you’re looking for more resources, explore our computer science major and concentrations!