Computer science is the study of computers and computer systems, including their applications, design and principles. Think of a computer scientist like a wizard of coding, mathematics and programming that develops software and systems to solve various computing problems.

It’s a rapidly growing field that constantly evolves to encompass AI (artificial intelligence), UX (user experience), and data science. Therefore, with the rapid digitalisation of our world, web developers and internet engineers are now in higher demand than ever.

This is great news if you’re planning to study computer science. It’s a challenging yet rewarding career path, encompassing many different areas and fitting in with other disciplines and industries.

Interested? let’s explore the different jobs available, how much money you can earn and why studying computer science at university could be the best decision you’ll make!

History of computer science

Humans have been making calculations using mechanical devices for thousands of years. The abacus was one of the earliest devices for this.

Two people were key to developing what we now recognise as the first computers capable of programming, Charles Babbage (1791-871) and Ada Lovelace (1815-1852). The former’s ‘Difference Engine’ and ‘Analytical Engine’ were revolutionary. She is now recognised as the world’s first computer programmer. The ADA programming language is named after her.

Fast-forward to the 20th century. In 1936, Alan Turing (1912-1954) invented the idea of a ‘Universal Machine’ that could decode and perform any set of instructions. Within a decade, he’d turned this into a plan for an electronic computer capable of running any program. It was called the Automatic Computing Engine. Turing is now hailed as the godfather of modern computing.

Throughout the next few decades, computer science progressed rapidly. With the arrival of the 1980s, home computing and video games became the new norm. During this time, computers began to change the way we work and live and their presence in businesses and workplaces grew steadily.

With the explosion in technology, there was a need for computer science experts. More specialists than ever were required to develop and maintain computer systems professionally.

Furthermore, since 2007, smartphones and mobile technology have advanced the industry further, creating more roles within the field of computer science.

Fundamentals of computer science

If you’re thinking about following the footsteps of the founders of science and technology, you’ll need to know about the fundamentals of computer science.

Here are some of the key concepts:

·   Algorithms and data structures

These branches of computer science focus solely on creating efficient computer programs.

Algorithms are the procedures used to achieve a desired outcome. Data structures organise and store data. Combined, data structures and algorithms help us use huge amounts of data to solve problems efficiently.

·   Theory of computation

The theory of computation, sometimes known as the automata theory, is a branch of computer science that studies how machines complete functions to solve problems. 

It’s primarily focused on mathematical structures called automata. It’s essential to study processes that occur in discrete systems.

·   Programming languages

Computer programming languages are instructions that allow us to communicate with computers. From there, they can create software or use it to build websites, video games or other technology.

They’re a core technology component, allowing computers to perform the most complex tasks. Think about things like automation, calculations or processing vast data.

The most common forms of processing languages are C and C++, Java, Pascal, and BASIC.

Key areas of study

So now that you know all about the fundamentals of computer science, you might be wondering what areas of study you’ll get to choose from when you embark on a degree. Let’s take a look!  

• Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI is a branch of computer science focused on creating systems that mimic human intelligence. Research in AI has evolved from the quest to understand natural intelligence, leading to the development of technologies that power intelligent systems.
  
  
• Software engineering: The branch of computer science that deals with the design, development, testing, and maintenance of software applications.
  
  
• Computer networks: Computer networks are studied in various ways. These include wireless networking, ethical hacking, network management, and network topologies. The Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) model, a standard method of communication, also exists. This enables software and hardware devices on the same network to ‘talk’ to each other. Lastly, there are operating systems and how they are configured, installed and managed.
  
  
• Database systems: This involves learning about the theory and practical application of database systems, including how to design, create and manage them. You might use SQL (structured query language) or learn how to address common security issues.
  
  
• Human-computer interaction: Human-computer interaction (HCI) is a wide-encompassing field of study. It focuses on how people interact with computers and will show you how to design computer systems that are effective for people.
  
  
• Cybersecurity: This is a fairly modern field of computer science that will teach you how to protect information systems. It also highlights how to deal with data from cyber threats safely. You will learn how systems are breached, how to use security and what ethical and legal implications may arise.

What does a computer scientist do?

The work of a computer scientist depends on which area you want to study and what your IT career aims are. Computer science is involved in every industry you can think of, from IT to entertainment.

As a computer scientist you’ll design, develop and analyse the software and hardware used to solve problems in all kinds of businesses. Computers solve problems humans create and vice versa. However, even with the rise of AI, there will always need to be a human element to computer science. 

So, let’s refresh our memory chips and examine some different computer science jobs and their responsibilities.

Computer Science Jobs

Computer programmer: You’ll be like a digital architect where you’ll test and code scripts that allow software and systems to run correctly and efficiently.

Cyber security specialist: You’ll develop and maintain security systems for companies, manage security breaches and come up with security solutions for hacking attempts.

Computer systems architect: A master planner role which will see you design and maintain computer systems and ensure that all technology is used appropriately.

Data scientist: As a data scientist, you’ll be a whiz at extracting and analysing data from various sources, using techniques such as algorithms, data mining, artificial intelligence, machine learning and statistical tools to make it understandable to laypeople.

Games programmer: This will involve designing and developing game software on various platforms using computer programming techniques and computer animation.

Machine learning developer: You will be responsible for designing and developing machine learning systems and looking at implementing machine learning algorithms. You’ll gain versatile programming skills and expertise in data science and statistics.

Mobile applications developer: If you want to create and maintain mobile apps for smartphones and tablets this role is for you.

Network administrator: An important role which will see you build and maintain an organisation’s computer network, perform tasks like installing and updating software and managing security and troubleshooting.

Research systems developer: This will see you use software engineering skills to develop and support research projects.

Software engineer: In this role you’ll develop and design software programs for various industries like video gaming.

What are the benefits of studying computer science?

Why might you want to study computer science and how would it benefit your career choices? Let’s take a look.  

1. Problem-solving and critical thinking

The longer you work in computer science, the more your problem-solving skills and critical thinking will sharpen. Your brain might even start working like a computer, hopefully without the occasional blue screen of death (BSOD).

2. Develop a creative and innovative mindset

The more you work in your chosen field, the more you’ll understand how the industry works. It helps you develop a more flexible and creative mindset. Finding niche ways to solve problems or come up with solutions.

3. Diverse career opportunities

As we’ve already seen, the sky’s the limit regarding career opportunities. There’s barely an industry in which computer science isn’t involved in some way. You might want to work in technical solutions within the entertainment industry. Or you may fancy getting into UX and web design with an agency. The world is your CPU!

4. Contribution to technological advancements

You can contribute towards future technological advancements with the right computer science qualifications and job experience. The accolades and awards are there for the taking.

5. High earning potential

Your career options are unlimited, meaning your earning potential is the same. Jobs within this sector often command high wages as demand for skilled computer scientists is always high.

How much do computer scientists make?

Great question! This brings us to the earning potential of jobs within this sector. Let’s look at how much certain jobs within the computer science profession earn.

In Australia, according to research from Indeed, the average salary for a computer scientist is just over $93,385 per annum.

Now, let’s break down the roles and salaries within computer science.

• AI specialist: Up to $112,500 per annum.
• Computer programmer: Up to $108,167 per annum.
• Cyber security: Up to $127,529 per annum.
• Data scientist: Up to $122,099 per annum.
• Network administrator: Up to $107,250 per annum.
• Software engineer: Up to $125,000 per annum.
• Video game programmer: Up to $64,000 per annum.

It’s important to point out that the data from Indeed and Talent.com fluctuates regularly as both companies update their data monthly.

Computer Science vs. Information Technology

You might be wondering about a comparison between computer science and information technology.

How do the two subjects match up and how are they different? This handy table guide should explain everything you need to know.

	Computer science	Information technology
Core focus	Technical aspects of computing, building, and developing computer programs.	Practical application of computer programs and technology.
Skills required	Programming languages, algorithms and data, operating systems, problem-solving and analytical thinking.	Problem-solving, analytics, programming, networking, and cyber security.
Career paths include	AI, cyber security, software engineering.	Database management, computer networking, and computer system security.

Charles Sturt University’s computer degrees and courses

Discover our range of IT and computing courses, designed to equip you with the essential skills for thriving in today’s tech-driven world.

• Bachelor of Computer Science
• Bachelor of Information Technology
• Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence
• Graduate Certificate in Applied Data Science
• Graduate Certificate in Business Data Analytics
• Graduate Certificate in Cloud Computing and Virtualisation
• Graduate Certificate in Cyber Security
• Graduate Certificate in Information Technology
• Graduate Certificate in Networking and Systems Administration
• Graduate Certificate in Applied Artificial Intelligence
• Graduate Diploma of Information Technology
• Master of Cloud Computing and Virtualisation
• Master of Cyber Security
• Master of GIS and Remote Sensing
• Master of Networking and Systems Administration

Frequently asked questions

Is computer science difficult?

It’s a challenging discipline but it can offer you the opportunity to create real change. There are also many career opportunities and the potential for you to earn well.

If you’ve got a natural skill for mathematics and science-based subjects, it’s a win-win. If you love problem-solving, then that’s a bonus. Combining all of the above, computer science could be your ideal area to study!

What are the prerequisites for studying computer science?

It’s desirable to have completed Year 12. You’ll need a general or applied English subject (Units 3 and 4, C). You’ll also need mathematics and mathematical methods (Units 3 and 4, C).

You might be required to have a qualification in biology, chemistry or physics (Units 3 & 4, C).

What subjects do you study in a computer science degree?

So many different areas and subjects can be studied as part of a computer science degree! You’ll cover core topics like algorithms, data and mathematics concepts. As demand rises, there’s a lot of focus on current hot topics like AI and computer architecture.

We’ve put together a list of all the qualifications and courses Charles Sturt University offers in computer science. Take a look and see if there’s something to suit you or contact us if you have any questions.

Does computer science require calculus?

Computer science is such a broad field these days. Therefore, the mathematics qualifications and knowledge required will differ from course to course.

A basic understanding of math concepts like algebra, calculus and statistics is desirable. But it isn’t essential.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

Are you interested in pursuing a career in this fascinating, diverse field? We hope so. It’s a fast-paced, ever-growing industry with roles ranging from software engineering and UX design to artificial intelligence and blockchain.

If you’re excited about a career in computer science, explore the range of degrees and courses available at Charles Sturt such as the Bachelor of Computer Science and Bachelor of Information Technology. These programs are designed to equip you with the essential skills needed to thrive in today’s tech-driven world. But, if computer science isn’t quite the right subject for you, you can explore our full range of courses to find the perfect one.   

Have questions or want to learn more? our education and career experts are here to help.

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