Six Degrees of Computer Science
This article separates computer science into six other categories, with software engineering being one of them. How is software engineering like computer science? How is software engineering different?
Each category is further described by a spider web diagram, showing the topics covered and the degree of emphasis on each topic. A comparison of computer science and software engineering shows the overlap and differences in topics and emphasis. It positions software engineering as a category of computer science. This categorization contrasts the STEM categorization of four main disciplines: science, technology, engineering, and math. Science discovers general principles and problem-solving techniques. Engineering uses those principles and techniques to develop solutions to problems. Technology uses practices and tools to deploy, operate, and maintain those solutions in practical applications. Both perspectives are helpful. At a higher level of abstraction, the STEM perspective shows that computer science and software engineering have fundamentally different processes. At a more detailed level of abstraction, the six degrees perspective shows the intersection and difference of topic coverages between computer science and software engineering and the other four disciplines.
Computing Related Fields
Information Technology
Although the term Information Technology is sometimes used to any career involving computers, in the world of education it has a more specific meaning - the skill set required to put computers to work in a business or other organization.
IT professionals have the responsibility for installing and maintaining hardware and software products as well as to integrate those products with each other to meet organizational needs. They often work directly with non-technical users of complex technology and to support those users and fix issues.
A broad range of basic knowledge is required for an IT professional - they need to understand the basics of networking, programming, operating systems, computer hardware, and security. On top of this base layer of knowledge, many IT professionals develop more extensive expertise in a particular area such as database administration, system administration, cybersecurity.
Typical careers:
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Computer Support Specialist
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Network and Systems Administrator
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Database Administrator
Education:
Many entry level jobs in IT are open to anyone with a certificate or two-year degree Associate's. However, advanced jobs in specific areas often require advanced training or certification in that field. For example, to become a network administrator, you would need significant specialized knowledge in installing and configuring computer networks on top of the base level of knowledge expected from all IT professionals.
Positions with more business or management responsibility may require a Bachelor's degree.
Knowledge Domains:
This diagram illustrates the knowledge areas required in this field. A 5 represents a very high degree of required expertise while 1 represents a minimal amount.
