What's the difference between CS and IT?

• CS is the traditional computing degree and encompasses algorithms, artificial intelligence, robotics, and graphics.
• IT is a more applied computing degree and encompasses web technology, databases, and computer security.
• Both majors provide a strong computing foundation for technical or management responsibilities and/or graduate study.
• Both majors allow electives from CS or IT (must satisfy pre-reqs).

Why CS or IT? (the short answer)

• Computers impact every aspect of our lives.
• Its the fastest growing segment of our economy.
• The worldwide proliferation of sophisticated military systems has produced a huge demand for officers with a high level of knowledge of computer systems.
• There are boundless opportunities for high paying and satisfying careers after retirement.

And at USNA? The Computer Science (CS) program at the U.S. Naval Academy is ranked among the top 50 CS programs in the United States by Princeton Review's nationally recognized Gourman Report, a systematic nationwide ranking of individual undergraduate departments (not entire schools) that considers the quality of the faculty, the curriculum, the students and the classroom and lab facilities. Additionally, the Gourman Report ranks the USNA Computer Science Department as second in the nation among programs that do not offer the Ph.D. degree.

Why CS or IT? (the long answer)

Today, computers are used in almost every aspect of our lives: in car engines, microwave ovens, video games, watches, telephones, desktops at home and work, mainframe computers in government and industry, and supercomputers pushing out the frontiers of science and technology. The computer industry is one of the fastest growing segments of our economy and that growth promises to continue well into the new century.

The worldwide proliferation of sophisticated aircraft, submarines and surface platforms demands a high level of knowledge of complex computer systems unsurpassed in naval history. In this time critical, multi-threat environment, management of multiple computer systems and the rapid integration, analysis and dissemination of information is critical to the survival of naval task forces.

To maintain a competitive edge, the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps must continue to make creative scientific and engineering advances in order to produce the best possible weapon and information systems. More than ever, there is a demand for officers with the scientific and technical training necessary to perform effectively on the job. Now is the time to plan your future in computer science or information technology.

Computing Careers

Computer professionals might find themselves in a variety of environments -- analyzing challenges for solutions, formulating and testing, using advanced communications or multi-media equipment, or working in teams for systems development. Here is a short list of research and vocational areas in computer science and information technology.

Artificial Intelligence -- Develop computer programs that simulate human learning and reasoning ability.

Enterprise Computing -- Design, implement, manage, and modify information systems that optimally support the many and changing needs of organizations.

Software Engineering -- Develop methods for the production of software systems on time, within budget, and with few or no defects.

Computer Theory -- Investigate the fundamental theories of how computers solve problems, and apply the results to other areas of computer science.

Operating Systems and Networks -- Develop the basic software computers use to supervise themselves or to communicate with other computers.

Software Applications -- Apply computer science and technology to solving problems outside the computer field—in areas such as education or medicine.

Modeling and Simulation -- Create computer simulations in all disciplines to solve real world problems and advance the art and science of simulation.

Gaming, Graphics, & Sound -- Promote realism in training or entertainment applications by implementing gaming techniques with compelling images and sounds.

Information Assurance (IA) & Security -- Protect and defend computer systems on all scales against enemies foreign domestic: desktops, networks, national systems, global systems.

WWW Design and Support -- Artistic, informative, and interactive web design accompanied with both static and dynamic content support.

Databases and Knowledge Management -- Explore how modern database and reasoning systems can help humans to manage and exploit the huge amount of digital information available today.