Why study computer science?

Mon, 04 Dec 20231min read

There are many benefits of studying computer science. This subject involves the study of computer hardware, software, and computational systems. This includes learning certain foundational skills and theories – such as how information is stored and processed, programming languages, algorithm analysis, and software engineering – but you will also usually specialise in a particular area of study. Since this is a very broad field, this could be anything from developing new software to artificial intelligence (AI) to information architecture.

Computing has undergone massive changes in recent decades, from computers becoming commonplace in the home, to home connections to the internet, to the advance of social media and AI. Today, technology is integral to the way society functions, influencing every part of our lives and work – and it’s constantly changing. The importance of computer science to technology cannot be overstated, and one of the benefits of studying computer science is that you’ll continuously be challenged as you learn from and adapt to this ever-growing industry.

Computer science is a broad, fascinating subject that’s important to just about every part of our lives. This is a discipline with the potential to change the world. If that appeals to you, keep reading to learn more and help answer the question: why study computer science?

Importance of studying computer science

Why is computer science important? Well, there’s no question that computer science is transforming our world, and with that comes a great demand for experts in this field.

Here are just some of the benefits of studying computer science in today’s world:

Artificial Intelligence

We’re only just beginning to understand how AI is going to change the ways we work and live – but whatever that looks like, there’s no doubt it’s going to have a huge impact on everything we do. Studying computer science at Teesside can help you gain the expertise you need to ensure you’re future-ready.

Automation

Computer science now underpins many industries, automating jobs that are complex, time-consuming, or even dangerous. Automation has improved efficiency across different industries such as manufacturing and healthcare, and there’s still potential to see what further opportunities there are for automation.

Innovation and creativity

Some of the biggest innovations we see today stem from computer science. Studying this subject encourages innovation and creativity by challenging students to develop new solutions and applications that can change the way we live and work.

Endless career opportunities

As well as offering a huge variety of subjects to specialise in while you’re at university, one of the benefits of studying computer science is that this can lead into a wide selection of career opportunities across a diverse range of industries.

Global relevance

Computer science enables you to connect with people worldwide, facilitating global communication and collaboration. Students will benefit from connecting with others around the world who are exploring technological challenges and moving the field forward.

Computer science as a career choice

Still wondering “why study computer science”? If the importance of computer science hasn’t convinced you, the career options this degree opens up should do. There’s an increasing demand for employees with the computing skills you can gain through a computer science degree and, with an increasing digital skills gap, studying computer science means you’ll be a competitive candidate in the graduate job market.

Here are just some of the reasons why computer science is an attractive career choice:

High demand

There’s a consistently high demand for computer science professionals, particularly within the tech industry. This offers an increased chance of securing a job in your chosen field after graduating.

Job security

As technology continues to advance, the need for computer science experts remains strong – the demand for professionals in this area is increasing, not slowing down. That means that as well as jumping straight into a job in computer science when you graduate, there’s also an ongoing sense of job security.

Diverse career paths

Computer science offers an incredibly wide range of career paths. You’ll be able to pursue your interests through specialising in fields including software development, animation, gaming industry, visual effects, data science, cyber security, and artificial intelligence. Working in a challenging, engaging role that aligns with your individual interests is a great way to experience high job satisfaction. Since computing skills are in demand in almost every industry today, you’ll also open up a broad range of career options beyond those more specifically focused on computer science.

Competitive salaries

Such high demand for computer science professionals means that careers typically come with competitive salaries and compensation packages. Some of the highest paying jobs in today’s world are in computer science, and a career in computer science can offer a financially rewarding career.

Top careers in computer science

There’s a wide variety of careers open to computer science graduates. Here are some of the top career options:

Software developer: Software developers use code to create and develop computer programs, ensuring that they run smoothly and meet user requirements.
Game developer/designer: There are a wide range of roles in the games industry. A games developer is responsible for coding video games, while designers shape gameplay.
Cyber security Specialist: This important role involves protecting digital systems and data from cyberattacks by implementing security measures and monitoring for threats.
IT Project Manager: IT project managers lead and oversee technology projects, ensuring they are completed within scope, schedule, and budget. They create project plans, allocate resources, manage teams, mitigate risks, and communicate with stakeholders to achieve project goals and align them with an organisation's strategic objectives.
Information Security Analyst: Information security analysts are responsible for evaluating an organisation's digital security. They implement security policies, conduct audits, and analyse data to identify vulnerabilities.
AI Engineer: AI engineers work on artificial intelligence and machine learning projects. They design, develop, and train machine learning models, process and analyse data, and integrate AI solutions into various applications.
VFX Artist/Compositor: These creative roles use software to blend computer-generated elements with live-action footage, enhancing visual storytelling. VFX artists create digital imagery, integrating these visual effects into live action films, television, and multimedia projects, while compositors combine all of the digital assets used in a shot into one cohesive image.
Character Animator: Character animators work in the animation industry, gaming, and other areas where animated characters are used to convey narratives or interact with users. They breathe life into digital characters by creating their movements, expressions, and behaviours.

Study Computer Science at Teesside University

If you want to study computer science abroad – and you want to study computer science in the UK – then Teesside University offers a computer science degree that will set you up for success in your chosen career. The school provides lots of opportunities to network with industry professionals, including at ExpoTees, the university’s annual exposition of final year student work celebrating the next generation of expertise in animation, games, computing, journalism, film and the arts. Attendees include leading industry figures seeking to recruit bright new talent to their organisations.

Those interested in the creative side of computer science will find lots to support their career ambitions, too. Teesside is home to ‘Animex’, an International Festival of Animation and Computer Games where you can meet industry experts, see behind the scenes of the biggest hits, and have a great time at one of the premier games and animation events anywhere in the world. You’ll also be able to develop digital workplace skills at Europe’s first Adobe Creative Campus.

The stats speak for themselves – 90% of BSc (Hons) Computer Science graduates were in work and/or study 15 months after the course (Graduate Outcomes survey 2018-2020).

What’s more, you’ll be part of a warm, welcoming, international campus with Teesside University ranked 1st out of 32 UK universities for overall happiness* in the International Student Barometer 2022.

Teesside offers several routes into undergraduate and postgraduate computer science degrees for those who want to study computer science abroad:

You’ll also want to take a look at the entry requirements for these programmes, the fees for studying at Teesside, and important visa information needed to study computer science in UK.

^{*The ISB collected the views of 1,820 international students at Teesside University, within a survey response of 119,254 students globally and 32,890 in the UK. More info at:}^{https://www.tribalgroup.com/2022-isb-wave-2-global-benchmark-list/}^{https://tees.ac.uk/sections/international/isb2022.cfm}

FAQs

Is computer science a good degree?

Yes, computer science is a great degree choice. This subject offers strong career prospects in technology, software development, data science, and more.

What do you learn in computer science?

You study a broad range of topics in computer science including programming, algorithms, data structures, and software engineering principles. You’ll also learn problem-solving skills critical for developing software and solving complex computational problems.

Why do most students take computer science?

Many students choose computer science for its high earning potential, the career opportunities it opens up, and its relevance in our technology-driven world. Studying computer science allows students to work in rewarding roles in a diverse range of industries when they graduate.