Computer science is the study of computers and computing as well as their theoretical and practical applications. Computer science applies the principles of mathematics, engineering, and logic to a plethora of functions, including algorithm formulation, software and hardware development, and artificial intelligence.
Unlike computer engineers, computer scientists mostly deal with software and software systems which includes theory, design, development, and application. Main areas of study within this career includes artificial intelligence, computer systems and networks, security, database systems, human computer interaction, vision and graphics, numerical analysis, programming languages, software engineering, bioinformatics and theory of computing.
In Zambia, computer science is one of most popular and marketable programmes among local and international students. There various reasons why computer science is so popular. It has exceptional job security, a high starting salaries, and diverse job opportunities across industries.
Computer science disciplines
With many disciplines, a computer science degree is very vast, and a student must know how to study computer science or, in other words, how to effectively navigate amongst this extensive range of sub-disciplines and specialisations. Below are a few possible areas of specialisation available to students that want to pursue computer science degrees: