Computer science is a discipline involving many skills. An important factor that goes into deciding to learn new skills is researching complementary and related skills. Doing so will help you make more informed decisions regarding what you want to learn, and it will help you decide whether learning a specific skill aligns with your goals and interests. You will also learn what kind of skills to learn later on to complement your training. Read on to learn more about related computer science training options for web development, data science, software development, and information technology (IT) skills.

What is Computer Science?

Computer science is an immense field that encompasses the study of information systems, computation, and automation. Hardware and software design, machine learning algorithms, and data visualization fall under the computer science purview.

On the theoretical side, computer science includes information theory, algorithms, and computational theory. The practical side of computer science covers hardware and software design and implementation. While data science has emerged as a discrete discipline in recent years, many computer science pros still consider it a subcategory of the larger computer science field. 

Read more about what computer science is and why you should learn it.

What Can You Do with Computer Science Skills?

Computer science classes cover a wide range of subjects, encompassing anything from web development and software engineering to data science. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the Computer and Information Research Scientist job sector is projected to grow by 21% between 2021-2031, well above the average growth rate of five percent. Top positions for computer science professionals include Software Developers, IT Security Analysts, Data Scientists, and Product Managers.

Areas of specialization for computer science professionals include programming languages like Java, the development and application of robotics, and the development of new systems, tools, and programming languages.

Skills Related to Computer Science

Computer science is the study of computation, information, and automation. This means there are several skills that can be labeled as computer science skills. Such skills include those used by Web Developers, Data Scientists, Software Developers, and IT professionals. The following sections detail which computer science skills relate to these professions. 

Web Development

Web Developers are responsible for building and maintaining websites and web applications. They use front end programming languages such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to customize the look, feel, and function of a website. They also use back end programming languages like PHP, Python, or Ruby on Rails. Web Developers need to understand how to work with databases used to store and retrieve data for their web applications. Most Web Developers use SQL as their database language. They also use their knowledge of web development to test, optimize, and secure websites and web applications.

If you are interested in learning web development skills, you can choose a class or program that best fits your interests and goals. Bootcamps typically focus on a specific set of skills, such as providing an introduction to HTML and CSS. Certificate programs such as a Front-End Web Development Certificate program or Full-stack Web Development Certificate program prepare students for careers as Web Developers. Such programs cover the necessary skills to gain an entry-level web development role. Programs that provide mentorship, hands-on experience, job assistance, and have students create professional portfolios can help students not only learn computer science skills, but gain the resources to start a new career.

Data Science

Data Scientists collect, analyze, and interpret large volumes of data. They develop algorithms and scripts to clean, preprocess, and transform data, as well as to analyze data and build predictive models. Data Scientists use computer science skills to implement these algorithms in programming languages such as Python and R. They also use computer science tools and libraries to create visualizations and dashboards that help communicate insights and trends from this data.

The fastest way to become a Data Scientist is through an established certificate training program. Such programs streamline your learning to provide you with the skills needed to become a data science professional. Earning a data science certificate through an online or in-person program led by an instructor can provide the hands-on experience and mentorship needed to become a Data Scientist. Mastering data science skills means doing more than simply reading about the theories and techniques used by Data Scientists. Hands-on experiences put theories into practice and help students to retain the knowledge learned. Hands-on projects also provide the opportunity to compile a professional portfolio that demonstrates to employers exactly what you can do.

Software Development

Software Developers and Engineers design, develop, and maintain software applications. A Software Developer may specialize in a particular programming language such as Java, C++, Python, or JavaScript. They use computer science principles to design and implement efficient algorithms and data structures to solve complex problems and optimize the performance of their software applications. They also use computer science principles to design and implement software application architecture for the front end, back end, and database, as well as to ensure software can be used safely and securely.

Taking an in-person or online software engineering certificate program is one of the best ways to jumpstart a career in software development. Instructor-led courses provide expert guidance as students learn essential skills such as programming with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, Python, and SQL. Students also develop a professional portfolio that shows employers they have the software skills needed to become an entry-level Software Engineer. 

Information Technology (IT)

IT professionals use computer science skills to manage, maintain, and secure computer networks and systems. These networks and systems include servers, workstations, and other hardware. They also use computer science principles to manage databases, ensure IT systems are secure against attacks, and to manage virtual machines and networks.

One career path for those interested in IT is to start a job in cybersecurity. A cybersecurity bootcamp teaches students key skills such as Python for network security, cybersecurity, and offensive security. Expert instructors also cover topics like cloud computing with AWS, cybersecurity industry job preparation, and understanding the Linux operating system. Programs that include mentorship provide an opportunity to have a mentor review resumes, cover letters, portfolios, and other key materials for securing a cybersecurity job.

Learn Computer Science Skills with Noble Desktop

If you want comprehensive computer science training in an interactive environment, check out the Full Stack Web Development Certificate from Noble Desktop. If you are looking to become a Software Engineer, consider enrolling in Noble’s Software Engineering Certificate program. If you focus your computer science training on the subcategory of data science, Noble Desktop’s Data Science Certificate gives you the skills you need for an entry-level position. High school students preparing for the AP Computer Science exam can benefit from Noble’s live online computer science NextGen Bootcamps.

Key Takeaways

• Computer science skills are a large group of skills relating to the study and management of computers and computer systems.
• These skills include web development, data science, software development, and IT skills.
• You can receive comprehensive computer science training through Noble Desktop, either in person or online.