Tuesday 24 March 2015

Information Systems vs Computer Science vs Computer Engineering

I've come across friends who are considering studying something related to computers after their JC times. Yes, this post is for Singapore post-JC students, who wish to know more about the difference between the 3. It's just to distinguish the 3, and not to tell you about what prospects and what future there is in these areas.

A little more about myself: I'm studying information systems in a university in Singapore. And I had the same question too. Thankfully my mum had the answer.
I'm gonna quote the descriptions of some website as well, and try to make this as un-technical as possible.
I may not be 100% correct, so please be critical and do your own research as well.

Computer Engineering:
Apply knowledge of mathematics, science and engineering to the solution of complex engineering problem (CEG NUS, 2015). 
So if I interpret it correctly, the focus is on engineering. Materials, design, hardware.
Certain diode is better cause it has lesser resistance, certain design is better as it is more energy efficient.
Totally necessary considering the size of hardware (hard disk, thumb drive, laptops)

Now comes the more challenging part

Computer Science vs Information Systems
Computer Science (CS) is the study of the principles of computing and how computers solve problems. ... Abstract ideas that rely on fundamental mathematical theories are the basis of Computer Science. (Carnegie Mellon University Qatar)
Information Systems (IS) is the study of what technology/tools can best meet the Information management needs of a particular organization. These tools can be human, process-based or technological. (Carnegie Mellon University Qatar)

If I were to put it, creation vs application.
CS revolves around creating codes and applications for a certain big thing. The big things nowadays are data analytics, artificial intelligence,
IS revolves around using technology and applying it into the business' requirements. 2 simple examples
1. Development of an online shopping website, inclusive of browsing to checkout and delivery
2. The leave taking system in army? Information systems.

But the lines seem blurry nowadays.
Hope this helps!

Write to me at buzytmj@gmail.com!

NUS Computer Engineering website http://www.ceg.nus.edu.sg/about/SLOs.html
CMU https://www.qatar.cmu.edu/30/ISCS

No comments:

Post a Comment