Despite their numerous similarities, computer science & information technology (IT) are 2 distinct topics. Computer science is the study of the design and construction of computers and computer programs.
Information technology, on either hand, refers to the upkeep and troubleshooting of those computers, as well as their networks, processes, and databases.
So, while a profession in computer science may require you to write software, build websites, or collect data on website visitors, a career in IT may require you to ensure that computers are functioning and safe.
Key Takeaways
- IT deals with the application of computer technology in various fields, whereas Computer Science focuses on the theoretical foundation of computation and programming languages.
- IT professionals work with software and hardware to support business operations, while Computer Scientists develop new algorithms and systems to improve computing efficiency.
- IT programs focus on practical skills and certifications, while Computer Science programs emphasize abstract thinking and problem-solving.
IT vs Computer Science
IT is an area of study that deals with the practical application of computer systems and software in various industries. Computer Science is the theoretical study of design, development, and application of computer software and hardware. It involves studying algorithms, programming languages, etc.
The usage of computers to produce, analyze, save, retrieve, & exchange all forms of electrical data and information is known as information technology (IT).
In contrast to personal or recreational technology, IT is used in the framework of commercial activities. Information technology (IT) is a subset of communication and information technology (ICT).
An information technology system is a computer system that includes an information management system, and a communications system.
Computing, automation, and information are all studied or practiced in computer science. The field of computer science encompasses both theoretical and practical fields.
Computer science is different from computer programming in that it is a field of academic research. Computer science is based on algorithms and data structures.
The concept of computation is concerned with abstractions of computation and the general types of problems that they can solve.
Comparison Table
| Parameters of Comparison | IT | Computer science |
| Definition | Maintaining and taking care of machine connections, databases, and systems. Troubleshooting them if required. | Computer science is concerned with the design and construction of computers and computer programs. |
| Languages | Scripting languages, such as Python and Powershell, are examples of programming languages. | CSS, C++, Php, & Javascript. |
| Basic difference | Setting up security infrastructures such as firewalls and routers | The software development lifecycle is something you’d be aware of. |
| Salaries | Less payout compared to CS | High payout compared to IT |
| Basic knowledge | Network configuration | Github, DSA, and algorithms. |
What is IT?
Information technology “set up those systems to answer a business’ challenges,” according to Gorton, as opposed to computer science, which aims at the ability needed to develop convenient systems from the bottom up.
Individuals in IT field must claim control of the systems within their company & work to make sure that they are not only integrated when they are first introduced,
but also that they are working correctly & continue to perform successfully over time.
Although working with technology hands-on is a vital part of an IT specialist’s job, it’s also critical for these professionals to have strong business skills to be successful in this industry.
Technical support jobs, process analysis, network configuration, as well as training personnel on practices for using specific convenient systems are all possible extra responsibilities.
They work along with the companies they help to understand their goals and put in place the systems required to achieve those objectives.
Integrating diverse systems to ensure that they work together in a company. Database, networking, clouds, storage devices, and other technologies are included.
Maintaining the functionality of those systems throughout time, including updating, improving, and adding new products as needed. Programming, although not to the same extent as a computer scientist.
An information technology graduate, according to Gorton, can “create fundamental [systems], but not very complicated ones.”
What is Computer Science?
According to the head of computer science Ian Gorton, master’s programs at Northeastern University—Seattle, the study of CS entails learning about the “mathematics & algorithms
which may be required to design and solve issues using computers.”
It entails a comprehension of computing’s ideas and abstract concepts, as well as the application of programming skills to write code & develop systems.
Students studying computer science will learn about many tools & methods that go into the development of technology, also how to launch their new systems and maintain and improve them over time.
Students are frequently able to choose a specialization in the topic inside this wider concept of understanding.
Students can choose from specialties like Artificial Intelligence, Data Security, Networking, Computer-Human Interface, Game Elements, and more as part of Northeastern’s M.sc in Computer Science program.
Coding for computer programs, mobile applications, websites, as well as other specific systems including cloud-based storage, databases, & artificial intelligence products, among others.
Installing, configuring, testing, and adapting systems in a new environment are all part of the deployment process. As programs update, develop, and improve, this is work required regularly.
Computer scientists will most likely be in charge of showing a program’s functioning to businesses because they have the best technical understanding of how things work.
Main Differences Between IT and Computer Science
- IT refers to the machines, their connections, systems, & databases in good working order through maintaining and troubleshooting them whereas Computer science is referred to the design and construction of computers and computer programs
- IT deals with the Scripting languages, such as Python and Powershell, which are examples of programming languages whereas Python, C++, Php, CSS, and Javascript are examples of programming languages used in Computer Science.
- In IT usually, people Set up security infrastructure such as firewalls and routers whereas in Computer Science people need to be aware of the software development lifecycle.
- Both IT and Computer Science fields have good payout, however, when compared it’s observed that Computer Science jobs have slightly higher payout than IT jobs.
- For IT jobs people need to be familiar with Network Configuration whereas for computer science They need to be familiar with code sharing platforms like Github.
- https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1076/csed.12.1.141.8211
- https://europepmc.org/article/med/9588623
Last Updated : 17 July, 2023
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Emma Smith holds an MA degree in English from Irvine Valley College. She has been a Journalist since 2002, writing articles on the English language, Sports, and Law. Read more about me on her bio page.
