Why Computing Science?
Computing science is everywhere, and we interact with it everyday. When did you last
- Use a microwave oven?
- Look up an address on Google maps?
- Take out money from a bank machine?
- Play a video game?
- Drive a car or take a bus?
- Use Facebook or Twitter?
About Computing Science
Computing scientists invent the solutions that drive our world. They have excellent employment and research prospects. They are part of a discipline that has grown at an unprecedented speed, and continues to evolve each day.
Make a Difference
You can experiment with great ideas and people will benefit from what you build. For example, you can build tools for medicine or online communities. You can simulate and visualize anything at any level of detail, from a single cell to a complex vehicle.
Create and Explore
You can combine computing science with your other interests, such as gaming, business, literature or medicine.
Computers are, by far, the most flexible and powerful tool ever invented for science, engineering, business, and government. The relevance of computing science will never stop expanding.
Compare Education Choices
With a computing science degree you will be investing in long-term job satisfaction, more career opportunities, and higher salaries. The following table makes a general comparison between types of education.Computing Science (BSc) | Computer Engineering (BEng) | Diploma | Certificate | |
---|---|---|---|---|
Type of Institution | University | University | College | College or Technical Institute |
Career | Scientist | Engineer | Programmer | Technician |
Area of Study | Software | Hardware | Software/ Hardware | Software/ Hardware |
Length of Program | 4 years | 4 years | 2 - 3 years | 4 weeks - 2 years |
Length of Work Experience | 12 - 16 months | 20 months | Less than 9 months | Less than 9 months |
Computing science is under constant technological change. A university degree teaches the analytical-thinking skills needed to learn any new technology or computing language. In contrast, a diploma or certificate might teach specific techniques and languages that become dated and require upgrading.
2005 Average Alberta Salaries by Educational Attainment
University certificate, diploma or degree, above bachelor level |
$83 596 |
---|---|
University certificate, diploma or degree, bachelor |
$64 583 |
Certificate or diploma below bachelor level |
$36 077 |
Source: Statistics Canada, 2006 Census
Education counts
The benefits of higher education are also highlighted in the Government of Canada's special report, What Difference Does Learning Make to Financial Security (2008), which include:
- Higher earnings
- Greater savings and assets
- Higher growth in earnings
- Higher income during retirement