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January 22, 2007
Q3 of 25 Questions about a Career in IS:
What is the Difference between Computer Science and Information Systems?
Computer science deals primarily with the software component of an information system. Computer scientists learn how to write efficient and effective computer programs. They also study database design and the efficient processing of databases. Computer scientists are normally not concerned with the design and development of computer hardware; usually that topic is addressed in electrical engineering programs. Computer science courses are taught in the College of Engineering.
IS students are concerned with the application of information systems to help organizations achieve their goals and objectives by creating competitive advantages, enabling organizational cost savings, solving problems, and so forth. Information systems deal with all five components of an information system. Information systems courses are taught in the College of Business.
Someone who specializes in IS needs to know not only technology, but also business. An IS professional needs to know the fundamentals of accounting, management, marketing, finance, organizational behavior and strategy, as well as other business topics. IS professionals do not need to be as technical as computer scientists, though some are. IS professionals are like cultural brokers; they bridge between the needs of an organization and the capabilities of information technology.
Posted by DavidK at January 22, 2007 11:45 AM | Permalink