Why Learn Computer Science?

Have you ever explored all of the things computer science can do? Computer science, including data science, is among the top career paths for tech professionals in nearly every industry. Whether you plan to be a Machine Learning Engineer or a Web Developer, a solid background in computer science can take you far.

Here, you’ll learn more about the many careers that benefit from computer science and how it can enhance your professional life. Regardless of your ultimate goal, learning computer science is a valuable and impressive skill to add to your resume.

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.

Common Professional Uses for Computer Science

Computer science is a broad field, so it’s essential to understand how different professions use it in various ways.

Full Stack Web Developers use computer science skills to design and build out the layout of a website. Their skill set typically includes HTML and CSS, JavaScript, or other programming languages. They may also need familiarity with graphic design tools and databases. An immersive web development certificate program can provide multiple skills to get you started.

Data science pros take a different approach to their computer science training. They may learn tools ranging from Python programming to machine learning models and data visualization. Popular tools among Data Scientists include SQL, Matplotlib, NumPy, and Pandas. Many data science pros also prepare for entry-level roles through comprehensive certificate programs.

Cybersecurity professionals also learn computer science skills, though with a unique emphasis. An Information Security Analyst or Cybersecurity Analyst may begin their computer science training by learning everything from Python to digital forensics, Linux, and cloud computing. Here again, immersive training in computer science tools and skills can launch a successful career.

Reason #1: Help Meet the Demand

The demand for professionals with computer science expertise is growing and shows no signs of slowing down. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, nearly half a million computer and IT positions per year are expected to open in the next decade, either from growth or replacing employees who change jobs.

Though helping to fill an urgent need may seem admirable, your reasons for pursuing computer science training need not be entirely altruistic. Job security can be rare in uncertain times, and the computer science skills you gain from in-depth training can qualify you for many different roles.

The most obvious choice for computer science training is web or app development. Front end development requires a particular skill set, whereas back end development requires a somewhat different set of tools. To cover all bases, many students learn both, a process known as full stack development. 

If you’re interested in learning the entire development process, consider enrolling in a program like Noble Desktop’s Full Stack Web Development Certificate. These immersive learning experiences include career support and 1-on-1 mentorship sessions, which can be particularly beneficial to beginners. Topics in the Full Stack Web Development Certificate include:

• HTML/CSS
• JavaScript
• Flexbox
• Bootstrap
• Grid
• Node.js
• Express.js
• React.js
• MongoDB

Reason #2: Cross-Training for Flexibility

While you may decide to get computer science training with an eye to becoming a Front End, Back End, or Full Stack Developer, you might be more interested in being a Software, Application, or Software Development Engineer.

Many essential tools and skills required for development roles are the same for computer science roles on the engineering side of the equation. These can include, but are not limited to:

• HTML
• CSS
• JavaScript
• Flexbox
• Bootstrap
• Grid
• React.js
• Node.js
• Express.js
• MongoDB

Just as you can learn these through Noble’s Full Stack Web Development Certificate, you can also train for a software engineering role with their Software Engineering Certificate. In addition to the tools mentioned above, this immersive program offers separate units on Python programming and Python web development with the Django framework. This training can be invaluable when working with web application development.

Cross-training for flexibility in the computer science field means you can qualify for diverse roles, such as:

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

Reason #3: Benefit from Labor Shortages

Another way to approach the computer science field is from the angle of data science or analysis. Although many computer science professionals consider data science a subset of the larger computer science field, there’s no doubt that subspecialties within the sector can require training not necessarily included in a general computer science curriculum.

Topics of particular interest to data science pros can include:

• Data visualization
• Artificial intelligence (AI)
• Machine learning (ML)
• Deep learning
• Artificial neural networks
• Natural Language Processing (NLP)

If your main reason for studying computer science is to get an entry-level data science or data analysis role, consider enrolling in a course like Noble Desktop’s Data Science Certificate program. This immersive course includes 1-on-1 mentoring sessions like the Full Stack Web Development and Software Engineering certificates but covers topics specific to building a data science portfolio. Subjects include:

• Python programming fundamentals
• Machine learning
• SQL queries
• Python for automation
• NumPy
• Pandas
• Matplotlib
• Seaborn
• Plotly
• Dash Enterprise

The Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates a 36% growth rate for Data Scientists over the next decade. As this rate is much faster than other occupations, many companies will likely need to take additional steps to train entry-level employees for roles with greater responsibilities, whether that entails on-the-job training or paying for their education. If you’re interested in data science, training for today’s opportunities may help you benefit from tomorrow’s labor shortages.

How to Start Learning Computer Science

To master computer science for your career, you’ll want to learn different tools and skills. Live online or in-person classes are among the best learning options for computer science students.

Live computer science courses offer a variety of benefits. Students can get real-time answers to their questions, and live courses are both hands-on and interactive in most cases. For those who cannot commute to an in-person computer science class, live online computer science courses can be just as beneficial. Noble Desktop’s Full Stack Web Development Certificate is an example of one such program, available both in-person and online.

Another attractive option for computer science beginners is the on-demand or self-paced training model. On-demand computer science courses typically require a small fee or subscription to a particular platform, though some are available free of charge. Featured computer science topics range from building Android apps to JavaScript and Ruby on Rails. 

While they may not offer the same level of engagement as live or on-demand classes, free seminars, tutorials, and blog posts can also benefit students beginning a computer science education. Computer science trainees can find free seminars like Intro to Front End Web Development, the Intro to Node.js seminar (appropriate for web development students), and Intro to SQL, a perfect choice for data science and Python programming students.

For additional tutorials, check out Noble Desktop’s YouTube channel, where you’ll find playlists like Front End Web Development and Python, Data Science & SQL.

Read the full guide on how to learn computer science.

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.

Key Insights

• Computer science is an immense field and one of the top career paths for technical professionals across nearly every industry.
• Theoretical computer science includes:
• Information theory
• Algorithms
• Computational theory
• Practical computer science applications include:
• Hardware design
• Software design
• Hardware implementation
• Software implementation
• According to the BLS, the Computer and Information Research Scientist field is expected to grow 21% between 2021-2031.
• Different tech professionals use computer science skills in different ways. Standard skills required for Full Stack Web Developers include HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
• Typical skills for Data Scientists include Python, machine learning, and data visualization tools like Excel and Tableau.
• Common skills for cybersecurity pros include Linux, cloud computing, and digital forensics.
• You can receive comprehensive computer science training through an in-person or live online course with Noble Desktop. Among their most popular options are:
• Full Stack Web Development Certificate
• Software Engineering Certificate
• Data Science Certificate