One of the objectives of this course is to enable students to differentiate between the disciplines of Information Systems, Information Technology, and Computer Science. Oftentimes, these areas overlap and are difficult to distinguish - even among professionals within the industries.
There are some distinctions that become evident, but all too frequently, people do not understand these distinctions until they are already deep within their programs of study. Consequently, many decide that it is too late to pursue a different avenue in the computing world without losing valuable time and money spent on courses that may or may not apply to a different major.
Given the importance of achieving effective planning from the beginning, your first assignment in this course is to delve into the broad areas of Information Systems, Information Technology, and Computer Science and write about your career choice in a discussion board post. This should be your thought process:
- First, define each field (i.e. IS, IT, CS). Understand the similarities and differences.
- Second, determine what jobs are available in each area.
- Third, look at the degree completion plans for each of these programs.
- Fourth, assess your own skills (e.g. Are you good in math? Do you like business? Do you like algorithms? Are you gifted at problem-solving? Do you like learning about new technology? Do you enjoy working hands-on with equipment/hardware/wires?)
- Fifth, (and most importantly) ask God what He wants you to pursue based on your talents, interests, and abilities.
- Sixth, based on your analysis above, what career do you hope to obtain after graduation, and what degree will you pursue to achieve this goal?
To facilitate your research, there are six videos in your Reading & Study folder that will help you understand the differences between the computing fields and become familiar with the job opportunities in each area. Be sure to view these videos first.
The LU Registrar's home page has information on degree completion plans. Here is a link to all of the currently available ones in the university:
https://www.liberty.edu/academics/registrar/index.cfm?PID=2981
Be sure to look at all of the ones listed for Information Systems and Information Technology. At the time of this writing, Computer Science is only listed under residential degree plans. That does not mean that you should rule out Computer Science as a potential major.
In a minimum of 300 words