Understanding how to use a computer is important in many areas of life.Computer science takes computing to the next level by understanding how the computer works and how to make it do new things more efficiently.People learning computer science are turning their knowledge into lucrative careers in fields like business, health care, engineering, and many others.If you want to learn more about computer science as a hobby or career, there are a number of ways to start.
Step 1: You can check out free online courses.
If you don't want to attend an undergrad program in computer science, you'll be pleasantly surprised at the availability of free online courses.You can sign up for computer science courses on Coursera.OpenCourseWare is from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.It is a great resource for people who want to have access to computer science materials at an academic level without paying tuition.
Step 2: Pick a topic to research.
Depending on how much you know, you can choose topics that are of interest to you and research them online or in the library.If you are just starting out, you will want to read books, journal articles, or websites dedicated to topics like computer hardware, the internet, and basic computer programming.As you learn more about these topics, you will find areas that are particularly interesting to you.Security, Turing Machines and the Halting Problem, set theory, operating systems, hardware architectures, semaphores and concurrency, computer networks and network protocols, and databases and information modeling are some of the more advanced topics.The complete list of recommended topics can be found on the internet by Professor Matthew Might, who teaches computing at the University of Utah.
Step 3: Try programming.
Basic computer programming is easy to learn and can lead to more computer science knowledge.It's useful on job applications to have a working knowledge of programming even if you don't have technical training.There are many different programming languages that use unique codes.If you don't know where to start, Python is a good language for beginners.It's easy to learn.C or Java can also be considered.Haskell is a functional language that you can learn if you've tried imperative programming languages before.The basic languages are more advanced than these.You can use the internet to find articles or videos that will teach you everything you need to know.In your search bar, type in the name of the programming method and the word "beginner"
Step 4: Prepare for high school.
It is helpful to focus your high school curriculum on courses that will give you an advantage in college and in your career if you know early on that you have an interest in computer science.There are courses in mathematics, science, and computing.It is possible that you already gravitate toward these types of classes, but if not, ask yourself if computer science is right for you.The ability to problem-solve and think logically is a must for computer scientists.If you maintain a good grade point average and standardized test scores, you can apply to top programs.
Step 5: There is a program in computer science.
This is the best way to start studying computer science and prepare you for a career in the field.You'll have access to experienced teachers.If you know what you want to study in computer science, look for the highest rated college or university in your area.If you want professors who can mentor you, look for a school with a strong information technology program.
Step 6: Understand your work experience.
Having experience in jobs that use some of the basic concepts of computer science can help you learn more about the discipline and bolster your resume so that you can find a good job when you get out of school.It is possible to find part-time, summer or work-study experience related to computing, engineering, mathematics, or other technological fields.Even if you don't get hands-on experience with actual computer programming in your early stages of work, being in the same room with computer scientists will allow you to ask questions and learn more.You could work as a lab assistant or library aid.You can get an internship that will give you hands-on experience with computer science, for example at a software development company or a computer help desk.
Step 7: You need to take classes to get your degree.
Some fields will hire a candidate with only an associate's degree, even though most computer scientists get a degree.An associate's degree can take two years and a bachelor degree four years.You should take courses in English in the country where you plan to study and work if you want to emphasize math, science, and technology.
Step 8: There is a career in computer science.
There are many options for what to do with a degree in computer science, including systems analyst, database administrator, hardware engineer, data scientist, help desk technician, security specialist, and many others.You can find career websites, as well as the websites of particular companies.There are many open positions in computer science on corporate websites.You should look for an entry level position.You can ask professors and work supervisors for recommendations for jobs.
Step 9: Continue your studies.
Even after you've found a job in computer science, computers will constantly evolve and change, and so must your skills, in order for you to remain relevant and keep your job secure.Tech companies offer continuing education courses.You can ask your employer if they will help subsidize courses you can take from home, or enroll in night classes at a local college.To keep up with changing protocols and languages, it's a good idea to subscribe to technology blogs, magazines, or listservs.
Step 10: Should an advanced degree be required?
Before you enroll in an advanced degree program such as a Master's or Doctorate, be sure you are making the right choice.Computer science is one of the most likely to pay off.If you plan on moving to a large city to find a better-paying job, an advanced degree in computer science is a good way to get there.If you're happy in your current job and don't want to look for another, it's a good idea to not pursue another degree.If you need to learn another programming language or further your skills, your current employer might have policies in place to pay for continuing education seminars or other ways for you to continue your knowledge without a degree.
Step 11: You need to complete an undergraduate program.
You need a Bachelor's under your belt before you can start on a masters degree.If the undergraduate degree is related to computer science, mathematics, or another closely related discipline, it is ideal.If you have good grades and test scores, you might be accepted to a graduate program even if you don't have a focus on computer science for your bachelor's degree.
Step 12: The tests should be taken.
The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) test is required for most graduate schools in the United States.If you want to get an advanced degree in computer science, you need to have an excellent quantitative score.Quantitative scores are more important than high scores in other areas for competitive program admission.The University of Chicago has a Master's in Computer Science program that requires successful applicants to score at least in the 50th percentile or above on both the verbal and quantitative sections.If you're applying to a United States program from overseas, you may have to take the Test of English as a Foreign Language.To find out what you need to score for admission, check the programs you are interested in.
Step 13: If you are interested in graduate programs, apply.
If you don't get into your first choice school, having a backup plan or applying to several schools is a good idea.An application usually consists of application form, resume or curriculum vitae, a letter of interest that explains why you think the program is a good fit for you, letters of reference and a of your undergraduate transcript.When you schedule your standardized tests and apply to graduate school, be sure to plan in advance.Most application cycles begin in the fall before you start school, and most require completed tests to apply.You have to take your standardized readiness exams over a year before graduate school.