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Computer science VS Data science

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ALFRED YATES

With a rapid increase in the technology sphere, the two highest growth and demand careers are data science and computer science. Both go hand in hand. You must be wondering what differentiates them. Though they overlap with one another, each one is unique in terms of the people they attract and also offers distinct career paths. The question here is computer science vs. data science. Which is better? Which one should you choose? It is important to know the differences and what it takes to excel in both before jumping to a conclusion. Read the article below to know the core differences, advantages, roles, responsibilities, real-world application, and benefits. This will help you to make a decision that is right for you! This article will help guide you through the following:

What is Data Science?

Data science has now emerged as an independent discipline, thereby becoming the buzzword in the tech world. With an increase in the internet and the use of sensors in almost everything from planes to bulbs, immense data is being produced every day. This data can be used to identify patterns and build accurate algorithms to build predictive models to improve business strategies and operations. The whole process of business can become more efficient and productive with the help of technology. The process of data science is “set in stone” similar to the scientific process. Most data scientists use tools like Python, Jupyter Notebook, or SQL because they can be applied to any business. Therefore, a data scientist’s role is not limited to an industry or sector. 

What is Computer Science?

As the name implies, computer science is the study of computers and also computation systems. Computer engineers mostly deal with software and software systems, which includes design, development, and also its application. The areas of study in computer science include database systems, programming languages, graphics, human-computer interactions, computer systems, software engineering, artificial intelligence, and others. Though one should know how to program in the study of computer science, it is considered only one element of the field. A computer scientist studies the performance of both computer hardware and software by designing and analysing algorithms to solve programs. Therefore, a computer scientist can explore various roles in different sectors and there is no limit to it.

So you know what exactly each technology is about ! Let us explore further.

Key Differences Between Data Scientist and Computer Science

Data science and computers are both trending technologies. Many organisations, such as Tech Mahindra, Infosys, Wipro, and others have both data scientists as well as computer scientists. Let us understand the difference between the two.

  • On one hand, Data science focuses more on machine learning algorithms, on the other hand, computer science focuses on software design.
  • A data Scientist has a background in statistics, while a computer scientist comes from a computer engineering background.
  • Both the degrees, i.e. data science, and computer science, are different from one another. It is generally a data science or computer science degree.
  • A computer scientist's role is more automated and object-oriented. Whereas, a data scientist works with product managers or is aligned with other business-facing roles.
  • As a computer scientist, one can get into a variety of roles as compared to a data scientist. 

Though both the technologies, data science, and computer science, fall under the same umbrella of technology, they both have unique features, uses roles, and responsibilities.

Data Science vs Computer Science

Data science is a specific study of knowledge within the study of computers that focuses on analytics, statistics, and programming. Computer science refers to the study of building hardware and programming software. Therefore, data scientists need to have skills so that they can collect and also analyse the data. Whereas, a computer scientist on the other hand is responsible for building the new technologies.  

An aspiring computer scientist should have a bachelor's degree in the field of computer science. But, to land a leadership role, a data scientist will have to pursue a master's degree also. A data scientist should have skills such as programming, statistics, and mathematics along with a strong academic background. A computer scientist should have skills in creating new computing languages, testing new systems and designing them, and developing and simplifying algorithms.

Conclusion 

Data science VS Computer science, which is better could be difficult to conclude. As you must have seen, the roles and responsibilities are different. Both have different career paths by falling under the same umbrella of technology. The objective of data science is to solve complex business problems by using machine learning algorithms whereas, computer science aims at directing object-oriented programming or software engineering or could be more information technology having a general knowledge of everything. It all depends on one’s passion and interest. Comment below if you have any queries to clarify. 

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