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Computer science is best described as a branch of knowledge that deals with the theory behind computers and how they work. A computer scientist, therefore, is someone who has a broad theoretical understanding of how computers work, and the theories associated with computation and information. Typically, computer scientists do not work on, or engineer, computer hardware. Instead, computer scientists work on the development of algorithms and models that guide the function of software applications. Computer scientists also work in the areas of software development, data structures, computer graphics, and programming languages. Because of their broad base of computing knowledge, computer scientists are also able to work in the area of information technology.
When working in the I.T. arena, businesses are more likely to include a computer scientist on a development team when guidance is needed as to how to make best use of I.T. However, the computer scientist is more than prepared to step into almost any role on a development team. Listed below are some of the common roles that the computer scientist may fill on a software development team.
| Role | Responsibility |
|---|---|
| Database Administrator | Manages the databases for an organization. This person creates and maintains databases that are used as part of applications or the data warehouse. The DBA also consults with systems analysts and programmers on projects that require access to, or the creation of, databases. |
| System Administrator | Responsible for managing the users, user accounts, and system settings on a computer network. The systems administrator is also responsible, in part, for overseeing the security of an organization’s computer network. Monitors the network to insure system, application, and data availability and security. |
| Programming Language Specialist | Responsible for making language recommendations to analysts. Responsible for the design and implementation of programming languages into an I.T. software project. |
| Role | Education and Training |
|---|---|
| Database Administrator | Most database administrators have a bachelor's degree in management information systems (MIS) or a computer-related field. There are some instances in which a master's degree focusing on data or database management is preferable, such as with organizations that have large databases. |
| System Administrator | Most system administrators hold a bachelor's degree in information technology. Because administrators work with computer hardware and equipment, a degree in computer engineering or electrical engineering is acceptable as well. |
| Programming Language Specialist | Most computer programmers have a bachelor's degree in computer science; however, some employers hire workers who have an associate's degree. To be considered a program language specialist, a master’s degree in computer programming, with five to seven years of work experience as a programmer in a business environment, is highly advisable. Most get a master's degree in computer science or a related subject. |
Source: Derived from Chapter 9 of “Information Systems for Business and Beyond” by David T. Bourgeois. Some sections removed for brevity. https://www.saylor.org/site/textbooks/Information%20Systems%20for%20Business%20and%20Beyond/Textbook.html
