One of the indications that a profession has come of age is when academic pundits start arguing about what defines that profession. Computer science is a premier example of that phenomenon. Some people feel that computer science is a catchall phrase that embodies information technology (IT), software engineering, computer engineering and the microelectronics that make computers light up and hard drives spin.
Purists maintain that computer science is only the theory behind computation: the algorithms, the flow of data through the chips and into the applications. It’s a debate for a coffeehouse or a cocktail party. For people who are interested in entering the field, computer science is the study of computers and their component parts. While you can find college majors in computer science, the course load will include software design, database functions and programming. So, for purposes of this article, we will look at the master’s programs in a variety of computer related professions.
Online colleges provide the best framework for focusing on computer science. Their master’s programs include computer science as a major, along with information technology and business-oriented, integrated courses of study. Online study takes a pragmatic approach to giving the student the skills to enter the profession. Online master’s degrees are designed to give the student leadership skills for a highly placed position in his industry of choice. Many online master’s programs in computer science are for working businessmen and women who are seeking to climb the professional ladder.
University of Phoenix Online has an interesting combination of master’s programs in computer science. They have a master’s in information systems; a master’s in information systems management; and an intriguing combination of an MBA with specialization in technology management. Technology management means handling networks and that’s going to incorporate a lot of computer science.
Capella University has four online master’s programs in information technology with specializations that spell out clear career tracks:
- Information Technology
- General Information Security
- Network Architecture and Design
- Project Management and Leadership
- System Design and Programming
Kennedy- Western University has an online master’s degree in computer science available. To provide an idea of what computer science means at this college, here are the core courses:
- Programming Languages
- Computer Science Theory
- Systems Architecture
- Operating Systems I
- Relational Databases
- Analysis of Algorithms
- Object-Oriented Design
- Compiler Design
- Software Engineering
- Artificial Intelligence
- Data Communications Expert
- Systems Development
- Human Computer Interface Design
It’s evident that software and data are an important part of the master’s degree in computer science at Kennedy-Western. Also required is a thesis prep course and the thesis itself, which will mean lots of interaction with the faculty, via email and phone.
Boston University has a master’s in computer information systems that is taught online. The two areas of specialization are database and knowledge management, and information systems security. Information systems and information technology seem to be the terms that have supplanted computer science in a number of academic institutions. If your interests lie in the physical components of computers, you can often find a master’s program in electrical engineering with computer emphasis. But for many of the online institutions, the masters’ programs in technology are focused on what businesses can accomplish with computers because that is where the leadership needs are.
Did you enjoy this article? Read more like it by
subscribing to our RSS feed today!
Click on a program or degree below to request information from the school of your choice.
There are no obligations and it's completely free!
|
Our flexible academic programs in today’s most sought-after career fields make it possible for you to earn a competitive MBA or your master's, bachelor's, or associate's degree on your schedule, without interrupting your personal or professional life.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Westwood College isn’t your typical institution of higher learning. With our career-focused education, students can earn a bachelor’s degree in just three years and some associate degrees in as little as 20 months.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At South University, we'll help you make the most of your potential - starting with a quality education that's backed by more than 100 years of dedication to excellence and personalized attention.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
At ITT Tech we are committed to helping men and women develop the skills and knowledge to pursue many opportunities in fields involving technology, criminal justice, and business.
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Serious about becoming a professional in the creative arts? We're here to help you get the education you need. You can earn a degree or diploma while attending class anytime - day or night - to fit your busy schedule. Choose from our broad range of academic programs to find one that inspires you.
|
|
|
|
|
|
Tags: capella university, computer information systems, computer science, computers, information technology, Masters Degrees, science, technology management, University of Phoenix
This entry was posted
on Wednesday, December 10th, 2008 at 2:33 pm and is filed under Computers and Technology, Masters Degrees.
You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed.
You can leave a response, or trackback from your own site.
Subscribe to our RSS feed to read more articles on distance learning, online degrees, and career information.
Available in PDF
