What Is Computer Science?

When thinking about technology, you might imagine computers, software, or programming. However, computer science extends beyond hardware and focuses on solving complex problems.

The field examines computing systems, software systems, and computational processes. As Dutch computer scientist Edsger Dijkstra noted, “Computer science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes.”¹

Computer scientists work with programming languages, operating systems, data analysis, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. The field combines programming, software engineering, and mathematical models to develop practical solutions.^1,2

Key Concepts in Computer Science

Computer science can serve as a bridge between technology, scientific research, and education. Its study may involve the design, use, and analysis of computing machinery, computer systems, and software systems to address scientific and technological challenges. Early courses in the field emphasized learning software programs, programming languages, discrete mathematics, and applying mathematical models to practical problems.¹

The field developed through collaboration between academia and industry. Early efforts introduced computing systems into education and research.

For example, Columbia University professor Benjamin Wood worked with IBM^® to use tabulating machines in academic settings, helping establish early computing labs.¹

Computer Science Careers and Responsibilities

Computer science professionals may work in a variety of roles, including software developers, software quality assurance analysts, and software testers. Their work may involve designing, maintaining, and evaluating software programs and computer systems to meet user needs and support computational systems.³

Software developers typically:³

• Analyze users’ needs and design software to meet those needs
• Recommend software upgrades for customers’ existing programs and systems
• Design each component of an application or system and plan how the pieces will work together
• Create models and diagrams to guide programmers in writing the software code for an application
• Ensure programs continue to function correctly through software maintenance and testing
• Document every aspect of an application or system for future maintenance and upgrades

These responsibilities reflect the practical skills and hands-on experience students may gain through computer science degree programs, which may prepare them to contribute to the design, development, testing, and improvement of software systems, computational systems, and information systems.³

Computer Science Education and Coursework

Modern computer science degree programs often start with foundational courses in programming languages, software engineering, and algorithm and data structures analysis before advancing to specialized topics like advanced Java^® programming and emerging trends in technology.²

Computer science programs may emphasize hands-on learning with practical applications in software systems and problem solving using technology, helping students develop technical skills that may support the application of their knowledge in computing systems and software development.²

Skills Developed in Computer Science Programs

Students pursuing computer science may develop skills such as:²

Software Design and Development

Design and deploy software systems using tools like Java and SQL.²

Data and Project Management

Collect, store, and analyze data while building database systems.²

E-Commerce

Develop and maintain e-commerce platforms and user interfaces.²

Problem Solving Using Technology

Analyze business problems and implement technical solutions.²

The Role of Computer Science in Modern Technology

Computer science professionals may contribute to research and applications that improve computational systems and computer systems across industries. From early electromechanical machines to modern software programs, database systems, and artificial intelligence, the field continues to explore how software engineering, programming languages, and computational science can solve complex tasks.¹

Students may gain insight into the historical development of the field, the evolution of computing systems, and the practical applications of software programs and computational systems in scientific and technological contexts.¹

Getting Started in Computer Science

Computer science plays a central role in understanding and developing modern technology.¹

Students may explore programming, software engineering, data analysis, and artificial intelligence through academic programs.¹

Exploring computer science in an academic setting may help clarify the combination of theoretical knowledge and practical application that has guided the discipline since its earliest courses and laboratories.¹

IBM^® is a registered trademark of International Business Machines Corporation, New Orchard Road, Armonk, New York 10504.
Java^® is a registered trademark of Oracle America, Inc. 500 Oracle Parkway, Redwood Shores, California, 94065, United States of America.

¹IBM^®, Computer Science at https://www.ibm.com/history/computer-science (accessed April 1, 2026).
²Rasmussen University, Online Computer Science Degree, at https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/technology/computer-science/ (accessed April 1, 2026).
³Bureau of Labor Statistics, Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers, at https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm#tab-2 (accessed April 1, 2026). Employment conditions in your area may vary.