How Difficult is it to Learn Computer Science?

Are you curious about learning computer science but worried it might be too hard? Of course, the difficulty that comes with learning a new skill is somewhat subjective. The challenges of learning computer science depend on factors like your previous experience, if any, the time you can devote to studying, and whether you prefer to train in-person or virtually.

No matter your current schedule or comfort level with computer science, you can find plenty of tools available to help make learning more manageable than you might think.

What is Computer Science?

Computer science is an immense field that encompasses the study of information systems, computation, and automation. Hardware and software design, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization fall under the computer science purview.

On the theoretical side, computer science includes information theory, algorithms, and computational theory. The practical side of computer science covers hardware and software design and implementation. While data science has emerged as a discrete discipline in recent years, many computer science pros still consider it a subcategory of the larger computer science field. 

Read more about what computer science is and why you should learn it.

What Can You Do with Computer Science?

Computer science classes cover a wide range of subjects, encompassing anything from web development and software engineering to data science. Tools like Python and Java are popular among numerous career paths in this growing field, and as far as computer science applications go, the sky’s the limit.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Computer and Information Research Scientist job outlook is especially bright: they estimate a 21% growth rate between 2021-2031, well above the average growth rate of five percent. Top positions for computer science professionals include Software Developers, IT Security Analysts, Data Scientists, and Product Managers.

Areas of specialization for computer science professionals include programming languages like Java, the development and application of robotics, and the development of new systems, tools, and programming languages. In our ever-more connected digital world, computer science generalists and specialists can thrive both now and in the future.

What Are the Most Challenging Parts of Learning Computer Science?

Like any complex, broad-based field, computer science presents varying challenges to those planning to enter it. The field changes constantly, and the growing demand for skills means yesterday’s expertise can quickly become tomorrow’s outdated mode of thinking.

Because computer science encompasses so many disciplines, how difficult it is to learn depends greatly on how you plan to use your knowledge and even how much training you’ll need.

The techniques people use to overcome these challenges vary, too, but consider some of the following examples:

• Learning a New Programming Language - If you search online for the most popular languages in computer science, you might be surprised to learn there aren’t one or two. Depending on what area of computer science you plan to master, you may need to learn Python, Java, JavaScript, HTML, CSS, and others. While current trends favor JavaScript for web or game development and Python for data science and back end development, these trends may shift toward other options. Computer science demands constant learning, so be prepared to stay flexible and open to ongoing education.

• Existing Skill Set and Background - Are you approaching the computer science field with a solid background in statistics and probability, or do you already know multiple programming languages? While not hard-and-fast prerequisites for every training program, the more you know before you learn, the better off you’ll be. Some courses are open to novices, and you’ll have a significant advantage if you’re not one of them. 

• Qualifications for Entry-Level Positions - Many beginners enroll in immersive bootcamps for computer science training. If you find a course whose only prerequisite is basic computer literacy, this can be all to the good. These beginner-friendly programs can give computer science newbies all the tools they need to qualify for an entry-level position in a matter of months or even weeks.

How Does Learning Computer Science Compare to Other Fields?

Learning within the computer science field can involve numerous programming languages, apps, and discrete skills. Data science professionals may need Python and SQL, Web Developers may need HTML and CSS, and Software Engineers may need to know JavaScript.

While experts estimate it takes at least six months to master computer science fundamentals, many beginners immerse themselves in bootcamps or certificate programs to get in-depth training in a concentrated timeframe. The most significant difficulty may reside in deciding which avenue of training to pursue. Keep in mind you may need a broad-based computer science curriculum, while other students will require more targeted training in any of the following roles:

• Front End Developer
• Back End Developer
• Full Stack Developer
• Data Scientist
• Product Manager
• Python Developer
• JavaScript Developer
• Software Engineer
• Mobile App Developer

Cost is another relevant factor; your budget and availability will also influence your decision about how to master computer science skills that meet your goals.

To learn more about relevant computer science areas like web development, data science, or even product management, check out the linked Learn Hubs from Noble Desktop.

Why It’s Worth It

You may wonder why computer science it’s worth learning today despite the inevitable challenges. Take the following factors into consideration:

• In GlassDoor’s 50 Best Jobs in America for 2022, the top three—Enterprise Architect, Full Stack Engineer, and Data Scientist—all fall under the computer science category, as do most other positions in their top twelve.
• According to the BLS, the Computer and Information Research Scientist field will grow by 21% between 2021-2031.
• U.S. News & World Report’s 100 Best Jobs of 2022 report lists multiple computer science positions in the top ten, including Software Developer, Data Scientist, and Information Security Analyst at the number one position.

Other Factors to Consider

Many novices begin by learning programming languages, web design, or data visualization software through intensive computer science bootcamps or certificate programs. While some are beginner-friendly, consider comparing and contrasting multiple alternatives to find the one that best meets your goals.

Other factors to consider include your learning style, whether visual, auditory, or kinesthetic; your schedule and any time constraints; and whether you’ll need to start with free online seminars or tutorials before committing to formal training.

Learn Computer Science with Hands-on Training at Noble Desktop

If you want comprehensive computer science training in an interactive environment, check out the Full Stack Web Development Certificate from Noble Desktop. This in-depth program gives participants all the tools they need to build webpages and apps, plus training in hosting, server, and network environments. Featured topics include HTML/CSS, JavaScript, and MongoDB, to name a few.

Is software engineering your main goal? Consider enrolling in Noble’s Software Engineering Certificate program. Here you’ll learn front end development with JavaScript and React along with back end development using Django (Python), all taught by instructors with expertise in the field. Small class sizes and 1-on-1 mentoring mean you always get individual attention and gain essential skills in Flexbox, Grid, and Bootstrap.

If you focus your computer science training on the subcategory of data science, Noble Desktop’s Data Science Certificate gives you the skills you need for an entry-level position. This immersive program provides training in essential tools from Python programming to machine learning fundamentals. It’s a great way to prepare to work as a Data Scientist, Data Analyst, or Machine Learning Engineer.

High school students preparing for the AP Computer Science exam can benefit from Noble’s live online computer science NextGen Bootcamps. These summer classes offer an ideal way to learn disciplines like web development, Python programming, or data science in a beginner-friendly environment.