Can You Get Into Computer Science With a Business Degree?
It is possible to get into the computer science field with a business degree if you have the skills. There are a few things to make this switch smooth and easy.
Business degrees are a popular choice for many people, as they're versatile and can lead to various career paths. But what happens if you earn a business degree, only to later decide you want to go into computer science?
It is possible to enter computer science with a business degree if you're familiar with computers and have the necessary skills. Keep reading to learn more about getting into computer science with a business degree.
Is Switching to a Career in Computer Science With a Business Degree Possible?
Switching to a career in computer science with a business degree is possible; however, depending on your level of experience in computer science, you may need to take a few steps.
Schools offer various Bachelor of Business Administration degree concentrations, some of which can better prepare you for a career in computer science. For example, a concentration in information systems or technology will teach the fundamentals of programming and data systems, while a concentration in marketing or HR might not be as helpful for this field.
Some people can also naturally pick up computer science skills. This can make it much easier to switch to a career in computer science with a business degree.
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Tips for Getting Into Computer Science With a Business Degree
As mentioned, being naturally good at computer science can help you switch career paths. Still, even those with a knack for computer science can benefit from additional help. We've offered a few tips for getting into computer science with a business degree below.
Consider Earning a Second Degree
Even if you already hold a bachelor's degree in business administration, going back to school to earn a computer science degree can help you land a job in the industry. There are generally two types of degree programs for computer science: a Bachelor of Science with a computer science major or a graduate degree in computer science.
A computer science bachelor's degree would be a second degree, meaning you would focus only on your computer science courses and major electives. The graduate degree would be a master's degree, which takes about two years of full-time study to complete.
Computer science degrees usually include coursework that covers topics like:
- algorithms
- artificial intelligence and machine learning
- computer systems
- data structures
- programming languages
- software development
Some computer science degree programs offer cybersecurity, data science, robotics, and software engineering concentrations.
Acquire a Computer Science Certification
Computer science certifications allow you to show potential employers that you're competent in a specific area of computer science. There are several computer science certifications available, including:
- AWS Certified Developer
- CCIE Data Center
- Cisco Certified Networking Associate
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Tech+
- Microsoft Azure Data Fundamentals
Each type of certification focuses on a particular aspect of computer science. Most require you to pass an exam but offer resources for study materials.
Learn Technical and Soft Skills
You'll need various technical and soft skills to work in computer science. Examples of essential computer science skills include:
- data analysis
- machine learning
- operating systems
- programming languages
- software development
You can learn these technical skills independently, though they're best understood through a computer science degree or credential program.
Soft skills are skills that are harder to quantify. Soft skills required for a computer science career include:
- attention to detail
- communication
- critical thinking
- problem-solving
- project management
- teamwork
Many business schools help students develop these soft skills. Work experience in the business world can also help you hone these skills.
Utilize Online Resources and Courses
If going back to school for another degree isn't in the cards, you can learn about computer science through online resources and courses. Plenty of places online can help you learn computer science.
Some good places online to find computer science resources and courses include:
- Class Central
- Codecademy
- edX
- Youtube
Some offer free online computer science courses, while others require payment. Many offer a certificate or credential for completing the course.
Network With Computer Science Professionals
Another great way to slide into the computer science field is to network with computer science professionals. This allows you to get to know people in the industry, which gives you an ''in'' when trying to get hired.
There are a few different ways you can network with computer science professionals. If you're currently working in business, speak with the computer and IT specialists at your company or visit computer-focused booths at business expos.
If you choose to return to school, take advantage of the resources that your university has to offer. Look for internships, speak with professors, and attend lectures to network with computer science experts.
Benefits of a Business Degree for a Computer Science Career
While a business degree won't teach you everything you need to know about computer science, there are things that you'll learn that can carry over to a computer science career. Below, we've listed a few benefits of a business degree for a computer science career.
Strong Business Comprehension
Business administration degrees teach students the topics such as business foundations, business analytics, and business management. These skills can be valuable in a computer science career.
Many computer scientists and programmers work for startups or dive into entrepreneurship. A strong understanding of business can allow you to contribute to the success of these enterprises.
Project Management Skills
Project management is often offered as a concentration within business programs, but you'll also find it as a concentration in computer science degrees. This is because project management is a skill that can transcend various industries.
In the computer science field, you may work on projects that require you to collaborate and work in a team setting. With project management skills, you can lead various types of computer science projects.
Understanding of Ethics
Ethics are an important aspect of both business and computer science. They help guide decision-making and ensure the right choices are being made.
While some business ethics don't fully translate into computer science, many overlap. By understanding ethics, you'll understand how to help your clients and your company effectively.
Improved Communication Skills
Business professionals need to have strong communication skills. Business often involves working with clients and other business professionals, and communication is key.
Communication is also necessary in computer science as you work with clients and other computer science professionals. By earning a business degree, you'll have the opportunity to learn basic communication skills that can be used in a computer science career.
Career Versatility
A benefit to being an expert in two fields is having a greater range of career options. A business major is best for business, and computer science majors usually go into computer science. However, having a degree in both gives you various options for business administration and information technology jobs.
Many companies employ people who have a business background, even for non-business roles. This is because someone with a business background will make computer science choices with the company in mind. As a result, you may have a better chance of being hired.
