[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ class=”heading-4″]Computer science courses offer applicable training for the information technology sector.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science is a broad discipline with applications across industries that allow you to enter exciting careers. It covers information technology — especially computation using computer systems. Computer science courses train students for careers in STEM, business, healthcare, and government.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science students can take standalone classes, attend coding bootcamps, or earn a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]computer science degree[/hen-ui-link]. To best understand what you’ll learn in a computer science degree program, prospective students should examine their curricula. This article explores common computer science courses, including introductory and advanced topics.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Computer Science Classes[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Algorithms[/hen-ui-heading] This course teaches students to design, use, and analyze algorithms to solve computational problems. They may write algorithms for social networks, search engines, and software applications. Learners often take algorithm coursework as an introductory subject before advancing to more specialized modeling and analysis techniques. Most computer science programs include a class on algorithms.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Cloud Computing[/hen-ui-heading] Many computer science degrees include cloud computing courses, but students can also study this topic in standalone classes or cloud computing certificates. Training may cover the basics of cloud computing service models and applications or delve into configuring, securing, and expanding cloud systems. More in-depth cloud computing certificates, specializations, or graduate training can cover designing, building, and evaluating cloud systems.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Computational Data Analysis[/hen-ui-heading] This course offers foundational training in data analysis, including mathematical and statistical methods and real-world applications. Students learn popular data analysis software and programming languages, like R. In more specialized programs, these courses cover big data practices, machine learning, and computational methods for specific uses, such as economics, healthcare, or social sciences.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Computer Vision[/hen-ui-heading] At the introductory level, computer vision courses explore imaging technologies, including image formation, motion tracking, and camera imaging. Students learn to use mathematics and algorithms to analyze images. These courses commonly cover feature recognition, boundary detection, machine learning, and 2D and 3D vision. Since these computer science classes include programming, machine learning, and algorithms, they often occur later in a computer science curriculum.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Cryptography[/hen-ui-heading] In beginner cryptography courses, students learn how encryption secures information and computer systems. Courses also delve into the history of encryption and its most practical and popular uses and methods. This includes private-key, public-key, and basic signature cryptosystems. More advanced computer science courses explore interactive protocols, digital watermarking, fingerprint recognition, and quantum cryptography. Cryptography classes often appear in computer science certificates and degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Data Structures[/hen-ui-heading] Students learn to use data structures to solve computational problems, including designing and implementing lists, tables, trees, and graphs. Data structures training may appear as a standalone course or as part of a computer science certificate or degree. It is often a foundational course, taught early in the curriculum. At the graduate level, these computer science classes tackle bioinformatics applications, databases and data sets, efficient information retrieval systems, and geographic applications.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Databases[/hen-ui-heading] Introductory database courses examine common uses for database systems, along with their basic structures and operations. They may also cover database management and how organizations typically use and organize data. In advanced classes, database courses often explore relational models, object-oriented databases, and physical database design. Some programs cover intelligent query processing, machine learning, and data analysis optimization.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Full-Stack Development[/hen-ui-heading] Full-stack development comprises front- and back-end protocols, tools, and technologies for designing websites and applications. The topic is best covered through a cource series within a computer science certificate, bootcamp, or degree program. Full-stack training covers end-to-end development, including programming, design, and server development. It also includes project management, business operations, and interdisciplinary projects.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]HTML and CSS[/hen-ui-heading] HTML and CSS are fundamental computer science languages. They often appear in standalone computer science coursework, and most certificates, coding bootcamps, and degrees cover them. The training explores CSS and HTML programming languages for web applications on computers and mobile phones. Some courses also include CSS preprocessors and JavaScript frameworks.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Java[/hen-ui-heading] Java courses appear in all types of computer science certificates, degrees, and bootcamps. It is one of the most essential computer science programming courses. At the beginner level, courses cover event-driven programming, object and class manipulation, and using object-oriented tools. More advanced Java training covers client and server architecture in Java, servlet lifecycles, session management, and helper applications. Computer science courses can also prepare graduates for Java certification.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Machine Learning[/hen-ui-heading] In machine learning courses, students build on prior programming, algorithms, mathematics, and modeling knowledge. Learners examine topics in classification, deep learning, reinforcement learning, and neural networks. The training explores common machine learning applications, such as data mining, bioinformatics, robotic control, and autonomous navigation. Students learn how to develop models for statistical pattern recognition and text recognition.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Python[/hen-ui-heading] Python is one of the most practical and widely used programming languages. Python courses appear within programming or computer science certificates and degrees. They’re also common in coding bootcamps or standalone courses. Beginners study Python applications for data types, text processing, graphical user interface-driven applications, and object-oriented programming. More advanced topics cover scientific uses, such as data exploration and genomics.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]React[/hen-ui-heading] Computer science courses in React teach students to use the JavaScript framework in front-end web development. These courses explore single-page application development, communicating with props, form and events inputs, and lifecycle methods. React classes are common within full-stack development coursework for computer science certificates or degrees, though some programs offer standalone courses. Advanced training may include server-side rendering, custom hooks, and Graph QL.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Software Engineering[/hen-ui-heading] Software engineering has many components, so courses often appear in tiers or stages. These computer science courses examine software project management, including software needs analysis, design, coding, and testing and implementation. Many computer science certificates and degrees include software engineering classes to demonstrate how developers tackle challenges and inefficiencies in computer systems. Learners often take on practical assignments in these courses.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-gray”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-heading variant=”h4″]Software Security[/hen-ui-heading] In software security courses, students learn to design and build security features and applications into software. These classes require programming, software development, and cybersecurity knowledge. Advanced topics cover specific software security for mobile and smart devices, along with the legal and ethical considerations of cybersecurity[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Kinds of Computer Science Programs Are There?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science students have a lot of options when it comes to getting an education, so it’s important to do your research. Knowing the differences between [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/”]computer science and computer engineering[/hen-ui-link] and [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-information-systems/”]computer information systems[/hen-ui-link], for example, can help candidates choose the appropriate pathways for their career goals.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]— Undergraduate Certificate Program in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science certificate programs cover introductory topics, including cybersecurity, programming, and database management. Learners can usually complete these programs in less than one year. They qualify graduates for entry-level careers.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Certificates can also come at the graduate or post-graduate level, where they cover advanced, niche topics. These certificates typically require a bachelor’s degree to apply, and they lead to career advancement opportunities.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]— Associate Degree in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-computer-science/”]associate degree in computer science[/hen-ui-link] includes high-level classes that introduce students to the field and provide them with entry-level skills and knowledge. These two-year programs include courses in network administration, programming, software development, and systems management. Associate degrees also cover general education courses. Graduates can use these degrees to later pursue [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/”]bachelor’s degrees[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]— Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A bachelor’s degree in computer science and a [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-information-systems/”]bachelor’s in computer information systems[/hen-ui-link] offer similar curricula. Computer science courses focus more on software design and theoretical and mathematical approaches, while computer information systems focuses on practical business applications for technology.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-science/”]bachelor’s in computer science[/hen-ui-link] takes approximately four years to complete. These degrees equip graduates with skills in programming, database design, software development, and networked environments. Graduates can qualify for computer-related professions, such as programmer, information security analyst, and software developer.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]— Master’s Degree in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-computer-science/”]master’s degree in computer science[/hen-ui-link] typically takes two years to complete. Graduates qualify for most computer occupations, including management and leadership positions. These degrees include advanced computer science courses, such as software modeling techniques, collaborative design, and automata and applications.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Master’s degree students usually specialize in a subdiscipline, such as networks, cybersecurity, software design, or digital media. Many learners use master’s degrees to pursue management careers or apply to doctoral degrees.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]— Doctoral Degree in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A doctoral degree in computer science covers advanced research, theory, and multidisciplinary approaches to the field. Students typically graduate within 4-7 years and pursue careers in management, research and development, or academia.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Doctorates cover advanced topics in software engineering, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence. Doctoral students also pursue specializations, such as intelligence and robotics or computer communication networks.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Choosing an Online Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Prospective students should consider several factors when choosing their programs. First, they should check for [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]regional and programmatic accreditation[/hen-ui-link]. Regional accreditation is the gold standard for academic institutions. Computer science programs usually hold [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.abet.org/”]ABET accreditation[/hen-ui-link]. Students should also look into what specializations are available at each school.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Pursuing [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/online-colleges/”]online colleges[/hen-ui-link] may help learners reduce tuition, travel, and room and board expenses. The following links offer more information about accreditation, online learning, and choosing the right college.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-article-card title=”What to Look for in an Online College” href=”/resources/what-to-look-for-online-college/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”How to Pick a College” href=”/resources/how-to-pick-a-college/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-article-card title=”All You Need to Know About Accreditation” href=”/resources/accreditation/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do With a Degree in Computer Science?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A broad field like computer science offers many professional opportunities for degree-holders. Graduates can pursue [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-engineering/”]computer engineering[/hen-ui-link], [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/web-developer/”]web development[/hen-ui-link], and [hen-ui-link href=”/careers/career-guide/web-developer/”]web design careers[/hen-ui-link]. They can also find employment in computer systems design services, manufacturing, software publishing, and management.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm/”]Bureau of Labor Statistics[/hen-ui-link] projects about 356,700 openings each year, on average, in computer-related professions from 2023-2033, with faster-than-average growth for software engineering and information security analysts.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-article-card title=”Computer Science Degree Guide” href=”/degrees/computer-science-degree/” size=”compact” border=”stroke”][/hen-ui-article-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Interview With an Expert[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-flex direction=”column” gap=”lg”] [hen-ui-expert-bio name=”Alejandro Cantarero” img-src=”https://res.cloudinary.com/highereducation/image/upload/c_fill,h_300,w_300,f_auto,fl_lossy,q_auto:eco/v1624981095/TheBestSchools.org/Headshots/Alejandro_Cantarero.png” img-alt=”Alejandro Cantarero” layout=”horizontal” background=”none” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ slot=”contentRight” class=”text-base”][hen-ui-link href=”https://www.cantarero.me/”]Alejandro Cantarero[/hen-ui-link] builds data-driven products. Most recently, he works as chief technology officer at [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.namiml.com/”]Nami ML[/hen-ui-link], helping companies with apps create happy customers through their subscription experiences. His previous roles include VP of Data at Tribune Publishing and the Los Angeles Times, where he led teams of analysts, data scientists, consumer researchers, and engineers in building data products to improve the digital news experience. He has a Ph.D. in mathematics from UCLA.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-flex] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What certificates or degrees in computer science do you hold?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]I have a bachelor of science in computer science and a science Ph.D. in mathematics with a focus on numerical computation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Why did you choose to study computer science?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]I enjoy solving problems and building things. I wasn’t particularly good at drawing, art, or physically constructing things, but I’ve always been good with computers. Pursuing computer science felt like a good way to leverage what I was good at and work on what I enjoyed.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What was your favorite computer science class and why?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]My favorite class was an introduction to Boolean logic and digital circuit design. It was very interesting to learn how to build all the components of a computer starting from the logic gate level. It was not a particularly relevant class to my career, but it was fascinating to design and build circuits that operate in the same way that a computer program does.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Learning about these basic building blocks that ultimately power the software you write really gives you an appreciation for the work you do with a modern computer.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What computer science course do you think everyone studying computer science should take — and why?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Take a class on databases. This class was not very popular in my degree program, but storing, structuring, and retrieving data is an integral part of building any real-world application. Having a good understanding of these technologies will open the door to building much more interesting software.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What did you specialize in, if anything? What were your concentrations?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]My specialization is numerical computation. I became interested in this area when taking a required linear algebra course for my degree. Our professor let us optionally take a lab to learn how to use the techniques we learned in class to analyze images. This was the first example[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]I encountered of using math to solve real-world problems. It was so interesting that I decided to make that my area of study.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What do you do for a career now?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]I’m currently the CTO (chief technology officer) at Nami ML, a company that helps apps build and run successful subscription businesses. I’ve also worked extensively as a data scientist, including as the VP of data at the Los Angeles Times and Tribune Publishing, where we used data, analytics, and machine learning to help newspapers offer a compelling, modern digital product.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]What advice do you have for someone considering pursuing an educational path in computer science?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Take some classes just for fun. Most of the work of a developer you’ll learn on the job. Computer science programs often have some classes that may be a little less practical in terms of landing a job, but good computer scientists who go on to become good developers are curious and like to solve problems.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Anything that piques your curiosity and keeps you interested in learning is worth studying.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Common Questions About Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Are the Best Courses in Computer Science?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Programming language courses, like HTML, CSS, or Python, are often the most popular computer science courses. Computer science classes can also cover topics like cybersecurity, full-stack development, or systems management.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is a Certificate in Computer Science Worth It?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, a computer science certificate can provide access to entry-level careers, credits for degrees, and niche training. Depending on your career goals, a certificate can be very worth the investment.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How Long Does It Take To Get a Computer Science Certificate?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Most programs take 3-12 months, but computer science certificates vary in length. Bachelor’s degrees typically take four years.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What Classes Do You Take for Computer Science?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Common computer science classes include programming, networking, software and web development, and machine learning. The discipline is broad, so curricula vary.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Learn more, do more.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h5″]More topic-relevant resources to expand your knowledge.[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”slider” ids=”1286,327,1504″][/hen-ui-article-row] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Popular with our students.” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1538,905″][/hen-ui-article-row]