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Do you have to already have computer knowledge to major in computer science?

I don’t know very much about computers and technology, but I’m willing to learn. Technology is such a pivotal part of our society today and careers in that area are probably going to be in demand. I’m genuinely interested in this field, but am just lacking any prior knowledge/experience. Would it be worth the risk to major in something where you’d be starting from scratch?
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RImike (Yema)’s Answer

Hi Lindsay,


I believe that if you are interested, you can pursue a major in Computer Science. You might need to do extra work to get up to speed but it is definitely do-able. Getting advice from your present school as to available resources as well as inquiring from programs/schools that you are interested in with regards to pre-requisites would also be beneficial to help you prepare adequately.


Thanks

Yema

RImike (Yema) recommends the following next steps:

Reach out to your school guidance counselor for pointers to available resources and advice
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Darrin’s Answer

I would suggest you try out a few of the sites where you can learn to write code. www.codeacademy.com is a great site with interactive lessons on a number of different languages. www.code.org is another with more basic tutorials, or even Khan Academy. Doing that kind of research could help you understand what to expect at college. You didn't mention what grade you are in now, but if you still have time left before applying to college there may be some local resources (a code dojo for example) where you may be able to get the exposure.
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Pawan’s Answer

Most computer programmers have a bachelor's degree; however, some employers hire workers with an associate's degree. Lastly it needs knowledge and skill on one of the computer language skills to go further in the career.
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Nicole’s Answer

Hi Lindsay A. I see that you posted this question a little while ago so I hope my answer to you (or others who may read this response) is still helpful.

Thanks so much for this awesome question! Having exposure to computer knowledge, and having that exposure on some sort of regular basis is helpful. Having shared that, I can tell you that when I attended college, my exposure to computer was more as a user, that is a point and clicker:). By the time I got to my third year in college though, I figured out that a sustained career in engineering, for me, would require taking some classes in coding. As info, I took these classes even though my engineering discipline was not computer science. My degree is in Systems Engineering and, today, I program in many different languages...one that I just learned about 3 years ago.

So, in my view, prior exposure isn't necessarily a must but knowing when/how to expose yourself and applying your tenacity in this space, can be very, very rewarding. bealifelonglearner

Best of luck to you!
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