CS and other computing fields
CS is not the same as programming. Computer programs serve
as a means of expression of CS concepts. By analogy, one must
know the French language in order to explore French culture in depth.
CS students need programming skills in order to
comprehend the issues of CS beyond a surface level. Although
programming skills are a means to an end, and not themselves the end for
CS, St. Olaf CS graduates emerge with strong programming skills.
CS is not the same as Information Technology (IT), which
provides services such as technical management, product development,
and consulting. However, IT tools and practices make very interesting
examples and objects of study in CS. CS courses make a great
background for working in IT, because they include a lot of computing
experience, and especially because CS focuses on the unifying
principles behind computing systems.
CS is not a branch of Engineering.
CS's focus on abstraction and theory
distinguish that discipline from Computer Engineering (concerned with design
and construction of computer hardware), Software Engineering, and
related disciplines. On the other hand, CS and engineering share a vital
interest in design principles.
CS is not a branch of Mathematics. Theory and
proof are at the heart of Mathematics; in CS,
abstraction and design have equal centrality with theory. Both
Mathematics and CS develop analytical thinking skills, which help you
get ahead no matter what you pursue in today's technological world.
CS is not the same as Information Systems (IS), which
concerns applications of computing to business and industry, and to
business management of technology and technology personnel. Computer
scientists seek to understand the nature of computing better through
conceptual themes, whereas information systems professionals seek
strategic applications of computing. The study of CS gives the IS
worker savvy about computing, because CS's focus on analytical skills
and on fundamental structures and capabilities of computing systems
means extra problem-solving knowledge and power in practical applications.
Computer Science has its own unique identity, and must be
distinguished from several other
computing-related endeavors.
As you can see, even though CS distinct from these other fields, studying CS helps prepare for careers and/or continuing study in any of them. St. Olaf's curriculum is designed so that whether you take one CS course or ten, you'll learn enduring principles that give insight in computing-related endeavors.