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CS vs IT Comparison

Computer Science vs Information Technology

A comprehensive comparison of our BS Computer Science and BS Information Technology programs to help you choose the right path for your tech career.

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Program Overview Comparison

Understanding the fundamental differences between Computer Science and Information Technology

Computer Science

Feature

Information Technology

Theoretical and mathematical foundations of computing, with focus on algorithms, programming languages, and computational theory

Program Focus

Practical application of computing technologies to solve business problems, with focus on implementation and management

Software development, algorithm design, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and research

Career Orientation

Systems administration, network management, database administration, web development, and IT support

Strong emphasis on mathematics, algorithms, data structures, and theoretical computer science

Core Curriculum

Strong emphasis on applied technologies, networking, systems administration, and information management

Creating new software, developing innovative algorithms, and advancing computing theory

Problem-Solving Approach

Implementing, configuring, and managing existing technologies to meet organizational needs

More theoretical and research-oriented, with emphasis on computational thinking

Learning Style

More hands-on and practical, with emphasis on real-world applications

Curriculum Comparison

Key differences in course requirements and academic focus

Subject Area Computer Science Information Technology Difference
Mathematics Calculus, Discrete Structures, Linear Algebra, Probability & Statistics Discrete Structures, Quantitative Methods More Advanced in CS
Programming Computer Programming 1 & 2, Object-Oriented Programming, Programming Languages Computer Programming 1 & 2, Object-Oriented Programming Similar Foundation
Algorithms Data Structures & Algorithms, Algorithms & Complexity Data Structures & Algorithms More Advanced in CS
Networking Networks and Communications 1 Networks and Communications 1, Networking 2 More Advanced in IT
Database Information Management, Information Management 2, Enterprise Data Management Information Management, Information Management 2, Enterprise Data Management Equivalent
Web Development Web Systems and Technologies Web Systems and Technologies 1 & 2 More Advanced in IT
Security Information Assurance and Security 1 Information Assurance and Security Equivalent
Systems Operating Systems, Platform Technologies Platform Technologies, Systems Admin and Maintenance Different Focus
Analytics Business Analytics, Analytics Techniques and Tools, Analytics Modeling Business Analytics, Analytic Tools and Techniques, Analytics Modeling Equivalent
Final Project Thesis Writing 1 & 2 Capstone Project 1 & 2 Different Approach

First Year Focus

Computer Science Information Technology
Introduction to computing concepts and programming fundamentals Introduction to computing concepts and programming fundamentals
Discrete mathematical structures for computer science Discrete mathematical structures for information technology
Networks and communications basics Networks and communications basics
General education courses and theology General education courses and theology

First year curriculum is largely similar between both programs, establishing a common foundation in computing principles.

Second Year Focus

Computer Science Information Technology
Data structures and algorithms Data structures and algorithms
Information management and database systems Information management and database systems
Web systems and technologies Web systems and technologies 1
Probability and statistics Platform technologies
Object-oriented programming Object-oriented programming
Human computer interaction Human computer interaction
System analysis and design System analysis and design

Second year begins to show some divergence, with CS focusing more on mathematical foundations while IT introduces platform technologies.

Third Year Focus

Computer Science Information Technology
Information assurance and security 1 Information assurance and security
Platform technologies Systems integration and architecture 1
Discrete structures 2 Networking 2
Algorithms & complexity Quantitative methods
Software engineering 1 & 2 Web systems and technologies 2
Programming languages Integrative programming and tech 1
Analytics techniques and tools Analytic tools and techniques
Thesis writing 1 (summer) Capstone project 1 (summer)

Third year shows significant divergence, with CS focusing on theoretical aspects like algorithms and complexity, while IT emphasizes networking, systems integration, and web technologies.

Fourth Year Focus

Computer Science Information Technology
Thesis writing 2 Capstone project 2
Automata theory & formal languages Technopreneurship
Analytics application Analytics application
Professional enhancement Professional enhancement
CS electives (3 courses) IT electives (4 courses)
Practicum/analytics internship Practicum/analytics internship

Fourth year highlights the theoretical vs. practical divide, with CS including automata theory while IT includes technopreneurship. Both programs culminate in practical experience through internships.

Unique to Computer Science

  • CS 303 Discrete Structures 2

    Advanced mathematical structures and techniques for computer science applications.

  • CS 304 Algorithms & Complexity

    Design and analysis of efficient algorithms, including complexity theory and optimization.

  • CS 314 Operating Systems

    Principles and design of operating systems, including process and memory management.

  • CS 316 Programming Languages

    Concepts and principles of programming language design and implementation.

  • IT 401 Automata Theory & Formal Languages

    Study of abstract machines, formal languages, and computational models.

Unique to Information Technology

  • IT 302 Systems Integration and Architecture 1

    Integration of various systems and components into a cohesive architecture.

  • IT 303 Networking 2

    Advanced networking concepts, protocols, and technologies for enterprise networks.

  • IT 305 Web Systems and Technologies 2

    Advanced web development techniques and frameworks for complex applications.

  • IT 314 Systems Admin and Maintenance

    Administration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of computer systems and networks.

  • IT 315 Integrative Programming and Tech 1

    Integration of various programming languages and technologies for complex applications.

  • IT 401 Technopreneurship

    Principles and practices of technology entrepreneurship and business development.

Career Paths Comparison

Different career opportunities and industry roles for CS and IT graduates

Computer Science Careers

Software Engineer

Design and develop software applications using various programming languages and frameworks.

₱30,000 - ₱120,000 monthly

AI/ML Engineer

Create intelligent systems and algorithms that can learn from data and make decisions.

₱50,000 - ₱150,000 monthly

Data Scientist

Analyze and interpret complex data to help organizations make better decisions.

₱45,000 - ₱140,000 monthly

Game Developer

Create video games for various platforms, including consoles, computers, and mobile devices.

₱30,000 - ₱100,000 monthly

Research Scientist

Conduct research to advance the field of computer science in academia or industry.

₱50,000 - ₱150,000 monthly

Information Technology Careers

Network Administrator

Design, implement, and maintain computer networks, ensuring connectivity and security.

₱25,000 - ₱90,000 monthly

Systems Administrator

Configure and maintain computer systems, servers, and related infrastructure.

₱30,000 - ₱100,000 monthly

Database Administrator

Design, implement, and maintain database systems to ensure data integrity and performance.

₱35,000 - ₱110,000 monthly

IT Support Specialist

Provide technical assistance and support to users, troubleshooting hardware and software issues.

₱20,000 - ₱60,000 monthly

Business Analyst

Bridge the gap between IT and business needs, analyzing requirements and recommending solutions.

₱35,000 - ₱120,000 monthly

Overlapping Career Paths

Both Computer Science and Information Technology graduates can pursue these careers, though their approach and specialization may differ:

Cybersecurity Specialist

Protect computer systems and networks from threats, vulnerabilities, and attacks.

CS: Focus on security algorithms and cryptography IT: Focus on security implementation and monitoring

Web Developer

Build and maintain websites and web applications using various programming languages and frameworks.

CS: Focus on web application architecture and algorithms IT: Focus on implementation and content management systems

Mobile App Developer

Create applications for mobile devices across various platforms to meet user and business needs.

CS: Focus on efficient algorithms and app architecture IT: Focus on user experience and platform integration

Cloud Solutions Architect

Design and implement cloud computing solutions for organizations.

CS: Focus on distributed systems and cloud algorithms IT: Focus on cloud infrastructure and service management

Skills Development Comparison

Different technical and soft skills emphasized in each program

Computer Science Skills Focus

Technical Skills

  • High Algorithm Design & Analysis
  • High Software Development
  • High Data Structures
  • High Computational Theory
  • Medium Database Management
  • Medium Web Development
  • Medium Networking
  • Low System Administration

Soft Skills

  • High Analytical Thinking
  • High Problem-Solving
  • High Attention to Detail
  • Medium Communication
  • Medium Teamwork
  • Medium Project Management

Information Technology Skills Focus

Technical Skills

  • High System Administration
  • High Networking
  • High Database Management
  • High Web Development
  • Medium Software Development
  • Medium Data Structures
  • Medium Cloud Computing
  • Low Algorithm Design

Soft Skills

  • High Problem-Solving
  • High Communication
  • High Teamwork
  • Medium Project Management
  • Medium Client Interaction
  • Medium Business Acumen

Which Program is Right for You?

Helping you make an informed decision based on your interests and career goals

Answer these questions to help determine which program might be a better fit for your interests and career goals:

1. Are you more interested in:

A

Creating new software and developing innovative algorithms

B

Implementing and managing technology solutions for organizations

2. Do you prefer:

A

Theoretical problem-solving and mathematical challenges

B

Hands-on, practical applications of technology

3. Which career path appeals to you more:

A

Software Engineer, Data Scientist, or AI Developer

B

Network Administrator, Systems Administrator, or IT Support Specialist

4. Are you more comfortable with:

A

Advanced mathematics and computational theory

B

Technical troubleshooting and system configuration

5. Do you prefer to:

A

Work on long-term development projects and research

B

Solve immediate technical problems and implement solutions

If you answered mostly A's, you might be more suited for Computer Science.

If you answered mostly B's, you might be more suited for Information Technology.

Remember that both programs offer excellent career opportunities, and there is significant overlap between them. The best choice depends on your personal interests, strengths, and career goals.

Still Unsure?

We recommend speaking with our academic advisors who can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and goals.

Contact an Advisor

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