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Information Systems vs Computer Science Majors for a career in Information Technology

Hi, I am a high school senior. The 4-year college I will be attending offers Information Systems and Computer Science degrees. The college I am attending also offers IS and CS minors.


However, my goal is to get a job in Information Technology. I am very gifted in math and science-related subjects and I am currently taking AP Calculus. I do not necessarily enjoy programming, which is why I love Information Technology because you are applying, managing, and troubleshooting the technology. I also love helping other people out with their computer problems.


I know that Computer Science is very math-based, while Information Systems is business-based.
Any advice on which major or major/minor combo I should choose would be appreciated! Thank you!

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Mark’s Answer

I will admit up front I am a Computer Science graduate (well, twice now), and have been working in the field for 30+ years. And in general, I think you can do either path.


One thing that might surprise you about Computer Science: It is VERY people oriented. It won't look that way at the beginning (high level languages, assembler, graph theory, language theory, etc etc)... but at the end of the day you are trying to use skills to solve problems for people! And that requires you talk to people, understand their issues, and then translate all that theory into a practical solution they can use.


IT can do this also... but often times doesn't cover areas that a CS degree covers. This doesn't sound TOO bad ("who wants to study topology"?) until you hit a case where you need to have things FLAT and NOT CROSS... and then discover that that answer is in topology! ;)


Computer science can be (and very much IS) used in business. It can show up as "data mining", as "real time transaction monitoring" and lots of other titles.


One item to consider: Which program looks "more general"? Would you see an IT grad being able to handle anything a CS grad would be able to do? Or the reverse?


End of the day, they are both good degrees, and it sounds like you would be happy with either. You might look at where alumni got hired, and see if that helps shed some light.


Best of luck... and enjoy whichever you choose!
Thank you comment icon Thank you Mark for your advice! I will take it into consideration. Zachery
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