Are you IT or CS?
Many students aren't certain about the difference between Information Technology (IT) and Computer Science (CS). In many respects, these two fields have much in common and most technology careers can be achieved with either degree. The freshman year is mostly identical for IT and CS, so you do not need to know exactly what you would like to do coming in and your advisors and other department faculty can help you moving forward.
CS is the classic study of computing. It involves the understanding of the machines used for computation and the creation of new technologies. If you are interested in software development, then a CS degree is an excellent way to begin.
IT is about the creation of technologies as well, but its focus is on harnessing the technology to help organizations with their information needs. Every organization needs the ability to create, store, organize, and utilize information and the IT professional uses the tools available to craft a solution to meet these needs. If you are interested in databases, networks, or web development, IT is a great way to start.
What to Expect?
What your four years in the IT and Computer Science at Juniata College might look like.
Freshman Year
The freshman year can be rather exploratory in nature. Principles of IT and Computer Science I are courses shared by all programs. Discrete Structures is the primary mathematics of computing and provides the basis for study in Computer Science and Information Technology. Computer Science II and Information Systems are good courses to take next and are also required by both IT and CS.
Sophomore Year
This is the year that students usually follow a more distinct course sequence. Computer Science students will be studying Computer Organization, maybe some calculus and statistics. Information Technology students will be studying Information Systems and developing skills in communication and business. Software Engineering is an important course for both IT and CS.
Junior Year
This is the year when study abroad may be considered. Courses more in-depth and specific to the program are taken. Database Management, Network Design, and Web Design are common for Information Technology students. Computer Science students may take courses such as Algorithms and Analysis, Graphics, and Languages and Translation.
Senior Year
Additional advanced courses are taken along with some appropriate capstone experience. All students will have ample opportunities to do research, do an independent study or project specific to the student’s area, work on a group project in Innovations for Industry, and/or do an internship.
The Liberal Arts Benefit
Many of the skills required of Computer Science, Information Technology, Data Science, or Digital Media are related and so our students will benefit by taking courses across these disciplines. Juniata's flexibility in scheduling and cooperation among departments easily allows students to compliment their programs with courses from these fields and more.