Computer Science vs Information Technology: What’s Their Difference and Which One Should You Choose?

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We are now entering the era of the industrial revolution 4.0 (also known as industrial 4.0) which can rapidly change the way we communicate, work, interact. It basically gives a huge impact on the way we live. To give a brief description, Forbes stated that industrial 4.0 is the enhancement of industrial 3.0 that is more focused on smart and autonomous system such as cloud, big analytics data, machine learning, and internet of things (IoT).

As a student, we can begin our first step in facing Industrial 4.0 with studying fields that are closely related to it. Some of the options are Computer Science and Information Technology.

But, the one common question now is: which one should you choose?

Both Computer Science and IT deals with computers and a student studying in either one of the fields will learn a little about both regardless of which field they chose. It all depends on what area that suits the student’s interest the most.

Computer Science (CS)

If you’re interested in the combination of maths and algorithms, then Computer Science is the perfect field for you! This field allows students to understand the “why” and “how” behind computer programs. It helps the students to know the computer theory and master the mathematical algorithm which are necessary to write code. Furthermore, it allows them to create, develop, and design a more efficient computer program. 

Computer Science uses various programming languages to communicate with computers, such as Java, Python, C++, etc. However, each programming language has its own strengths and weaknesses in solving different problems. A computer scientists have to know how to utilize the languages that they are familiar with, effectively and efficiently. You are not expected to understand all kinds of programming language fully, since it really depends on the University that offers the course

Career Options

The following is a list of potential career paths for you to consider:

  • Computer programmer
  • Software Developer
  • Computer System Analyst
  • Software Engineer
  • Web Developer
  • Hardware Engineer
  • Database Administrator
  • Computer Network Architect

To learn more about career options in Computer Science, contact us today!

Information Technology (IT)

Data, Information, and Computing.

If those words excite you, then IT is your answer! In contrast to Computer Science, this field uses more of the computer systems and network to process and distribute data. IT students will learn how to protect and organize their data in the most efficient and accessible way for everyone. 

As the name of the course is, IT is related closely to utilizing new technology. IT professionals are “technology implementer and practitioners”. Generally, they must be familiar with the usage of operating systems and server software, such as Linux, MySQL, Oracle, and Microsoft SQL Server

Career Options

The following is a list of potential career paths for you to consider:

  • Information Technology Analyst
  • Web Developer
  • Data Scientist
  • IT Manager
  • Cloud Computing Manager/Engineer
  • Information Security Manager
  • Mobile Apps Developer
  • Network Architect

To learn more about career options in Information Technology, contact us today!

General Qualifications for Both CS and IT

In order to enter into CS or IT courses, you will generally need:

Programs

Requirements

Diploma in Computer Science/IT (2 – 2.5 years) /Foundation in Science (1 year)

  • SPM/O-Level: Minimum 3C including Mathematics
  • UEC: Minimum 5Bs including Mathematics

Degree in Information Technology/Computer Science*

  • A-Level: Minimum of 2Es
  • STPM: Minimum of 2Cs
  • Australian Matriculation: Minimum of ATAR 60
  • Foundation in Science or IT/Computing: Minimum CGPA of 2.00; or
  • Diploma: Minimum CGPA of 2.50

Note: Universities may have different requirements. To learn more, get in touch with us!

5 Recommended Universities in Malaysia to study IT and/or CS

#1. Asia Pacific University (APU)

Programmed Offered

BSC (Hons) in Information Technology

BSC (Hons) in Computer Science

Total Duration

3 years

General Intake

March, July, & September

Indicative Fees (2023)

Contact us

For more information regarding the fees, program structure and entry requirements, contact us now for free consultation!

#2 INTI International University and Colleges

Programmed Offered

  • Bachelor of Computer Science (3+0)
  • Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons)
  • Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons)

Total Duration

3 years

General Intake

  • March & August
  • January, May & August

Indicative Fees (2023)

Contact us

For more information regarding the fees, program structure and entry requirements, contact us now for free consultation!

#3 SEGI University and Colleges

Programmed Offered

  • Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons)
  • Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) in Cybersecurity
  • BSc (Hons) Computing (3+0)

Total Duration

3 years

General Intake

Contact us

Indicative Fees (2023)

Contact us

For more information regarding the fees, program structure and entry requirements, contact us now for free consultation!

#4 MAHSA University

Programmed Offered

Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons)

Total Duration

3 years

General Intake

Contact us

Indicative Fees (2023)

Contact us

For more information regarding the fees, program structure and entry requirements, contact us now for free consultation!

#5 Taylor’s University Lakeside Campus

Programmed Offered

Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours)

Bachelor of Information Technology (Honours)

Total Duration

3 years

General Intake

January, March & August

Indicative Fees (2023)

Contact us

For more information regarding the fees, program structure and entry requirements, contact us now for free consultation!

In case you’re still confused about what’s the main difference between CS and IT, let us give you a recap:

  • Computer Science (CS) focuses on the combinations of mathematical and theoretical foundations of computing 
  • Information Technology (IT) focuses on the approach and the application of data and computing technology (in organizations)

To learn more about these two courses, contact us today!

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About Post Author

Amanda Kaffah
I am a part-time content writer, a part-time Computer Science student, and a full-time dreamer. Likes to munch some food while doing some work or watching Netflix.

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