{"id":3895,"date":"2022-03-01T00:35:46","date_gmt":"2022-03-01T00:35:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/?p=3895"},"modified":"2023-08-29T16:06:23","modified_gmt":"2023-08-29T16:06:23","slug":"cybersecurity-vs-computer-science-degree-programs","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.cyberdegrees.org\/resources\/cybersecurity-vs-computer-science\/","title":{"rendered":"Cybersecurity vs. Computer Science Degree Programs"},"content":{"rendered":"
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The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that information security analyst careers will grow 33%, while software developer careers will grow 22% between 2020 and 2030.<\/p>\r\n<\/p>\n<\/div>\n\n\r\n\r\n

The cybersecurity and computer science fields offer rewarding careers for people skilled at solving complex problems.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Computer scientists combine critical thinking with programming, networking, and coding skills to work in various settings. In comparison, cybersecurity specialists emphasize risk detection, analysis, and prevention to work in information security.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Degrees in both fields offer access to fast-growing, well-paying careers. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that information security analyst careers will grow 33%<\/a>, while software developer careers will grow 22%<\/a> between 2020 and 2030.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

According to Payscale, a master's degree in computer science provides an annual average salary of $105,000<\/a>, while a master's in cybersecurity commands $89,000 on average<\/a> as of January 2022.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Learn more about computer science vs. cybersecurity programs and how to decide which degree is best for you.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n

Computer Science vs. Cybersecurity Careers<\/h2>\r\n\r\n

Cybersecurity and computer science careers may overlap. For example, a degree in either field can lead to a career in information technology management. This is because computer science is a field of study, while cybersecurity is a subfield of computer science.<\/p> \r\n\r\n

However, the two careers differ in many ways. Cybersecurity experts build, test, and improve data and information security systems. They can study digital forensics, ethical hacking, and cyber law, along with basic computer theory. In comparison, computer scientists take a broader focus. They may fit into any career that uses hardware or software to solve complex computer problems.<\/p> \r\n\r\n

Cybersecurity professionals can work as information technology auditors, cryptographers, or penetration testers. Computer scientists may serve as software engineers, systems managers, or researchers.<\/p> \r\n\r\n

Both computer science and cybersecurity require professionals with the sharp skills and deep tech knowledge that a college degree can offer.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

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Career Salary Potential<\/h3>\n
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Computer and Information Research Scientists<\/h4>\r\n

Annual Median Pay:<\/strong> $126,830<\/p>\r\n

Source:<\/strong> BLS<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n\r\n

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Information Security Analysts<\/h4>\r\n

Annual Median Pay:<\/strong> $103,590<\/p>\r\n

Source:<\/strong> BLS<\/a><\/p>\r\n<\/div>\r\n[\/columns] \r\n<\/p>\n <\/div>\n <\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\r\n\r\n

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Top Online Programs<\/h2>\n \n

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.<\/p>\n \n <\/sonic-editorial-listings>\n\n <\/section>\n\n\r\n\r\n\n \n \n <\/a>\n\n\r\n

Degree Programs in Computer Science<\/h2>\r\n\r\n

Computer scientists help improve people's lives and shape the future. A degree in computer science can be the first step towards a career in this fast-growing field.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

As of 2020, the BLS projects<\/a> that computer and information technology jobs will grow by 13% between 2020 and 2030. Fields such as software development may see even faster growth.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Computer science degrees vary in scope and focus. Some universities emphasize artificial intelligence or software development, while others focus on computer architecture or human computer interaction.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Undergraduate students take courses such as software design and ethics or computers in society. Graduate learners may study topics like computational applied logic or architecture of parallel computers.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

At the doctoral level, students learn to conduct research that helps produce new technology. They may study a subfield like robotics, artificial intelligence, or wireless sensor networks.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Associate Degrees in Computer Science<\/h3>\r\n\r\n

An associate degree in computer science trains students in basic computer theory and application. This two-year degree typically requires 60 credits. Graduates may enter the workforce or pursue a bachelor's degree in the discipline.<\/p>\r\n\r\n

Students can pursue an AA, AS, AAS, or AAB in computer science.<\/p>\r\n\r\n\r\n

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