Computing your way into a career

You have surely heard of the field of computer science, but may be unclear about what the domain entails. It involves an
in-depth study of the theoretical foundations that combine information and computation, and its application and implementation in computer systems.

It involves algorithmic processes that allow description and transformation of information. Computer Science has evolved to include many sub-fields. There is computer graphics which focuses on computation of specific results, computational complexity theory which studies properties of computational problems and programming language theory
which studies the approaches to describe computations.

There is also computer programming which is concerned with specific programming languages used to solve specific computational problemsand human-computer interaction which deals with evolving the usability of computers and computations and making it accessible to people.

Computer science is often confused with information technology or computer applications or operational research. To
put it simply, computer science focuses on understanding the properties involved in programmes used to implement games and web-browser softwares. The knowledge so acquired is then used to improve existing programmes and also to create new programmes.

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How computer science evolved as a discipline and the origin of modern digital computer makes an interesting study.

The first mechanical calculator was invented by Wilhelm Schickard in the year 1623 and around 1900, punch card machineswere introduced. However, the problem was that all the existent machines performed only a single task or at best only a part of the tasks required.

Computer science found its identity in the 1950s and early 1960s when the first computer science departments were
established and degree programmes were introduced.

The introduction of International Business Machines (IBM) was an epoch-making event. So we had the first IBM 704 and IBM 709 computers. However, at that time, even misplacing one letter in one instruction would result in the whole programme crashing and you would have to restart the process from scratch.

The discipline of Computer Science today comprises a range of topics such as theoretical study of algorithms and the
limitations of computation in terms of implementation of computing systems in hardware and software.

You can choose from a large spectrum of disciplines -- from the theoretical aspects of computer science to the more practical engineering aspects.

Operating systems, computer networks, computer graphics, computer vision, databases, computer security, artificial intelligence, robotics, human-computer interaction and ubiquitous computing are among the choices available to you.

Remember that computer science does not represent the study of computers per se. This fear has led some departments to use the term 'computing science' instead.

Peter Naur, a Danish scientist introduced yet another term -- 'datalogy'. The first institution to use this nomenclature was the University of Copenhagen which started the Department of Datalogy in 1969. Computer scientist Edsger Dijkstra stated, "Computer science is no more about computers than astronomy is about telescopes."

If you are interested in studying computer hardware, you will be a part of the world of computer engineering. Instead, if you have an inclination towards computer systems, you will have to be part of information technology or information systems. There is also an essential interdisciplinary character ascomputer science research has entered other disciplines like cognitive science, economics, mathematics, physics and linguistics to name only a few.

If you wish to explore options for study overseas, the Computer Sciences Accreditation Board (CSAB) is the body to access for advice. CSAB has representatives from the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers, Computer Society and the Association for Information Systems.

According to Professor Jai Kumar Radhakrishnan at Tata Institute of Fundamental Research, computer science shares a very close relationship with the field of mathematics. It goes almost hand in hand. Some computer science departments devise a curriculum which emphasises the mathematical component, whereas others have engineering as the area of emphasis.

Make sure you are aware where the emphasis lies when you choose to opt for a specific course. Zero in on the course that is suitable to your requirements.

Information Technology is a field that is constantly growing and being upgraded. Though computers are at the core of all,each specialisation is distinct in character. An MSc in Computer Science is quite different from a Master's degree in Computer Applications or an MSc in Operations Research.

We are here dealing with Computer Science -- a discipline that prepares a person for a career in computing and its applications in the real world of computers. No prior knowledge of computing is required to enter this field. Students of natural sciences, engineering and even arts, humanities and social sciences can enrol.

One can also opt for an integrated MSc degree in Computer Science and Technology such as the one offered by the Indian Institute of Science, Bengaluru or Mysore University. A background in Mathematics is considered necessary in many ways when opting for an MS in Computer Science, along with a good academic record. St. Xavier's College, Kolkata offers a 4-semester, 2-year MSc in Computer Science.

This course offers papers that are in tune with the current IT scenario.The Group in Mathematics and theoretical computer science in TIFR is one of the most premier institutions in the country for research in the field of mathematics, computer science and information technology. C-DAC specialises in application oriented super computing.

One option that can be available is a place like Centre for Advanced Study (CSA), which is recognised by the UGC and has recently received a FIST (Fund for Infrastructure in Science and Technology) grant from the Department of Science and Technology.

Work at the CSA as a researcher will give you the space to get involved in various aspects of computer science and engage in the field of interdisciplinary projects. The major fields of computer science comprise the curriculum taught in various departments and can provide a scope for understanding this field better.

Many who pass out from SOMAAS are absorbed in institutions like DRDO, IBM and HCL.

Prof. Pasricha, Dept of Electrical and Computer Engineering at Colorado State University, says that "There are lots of opportunities after an MS (even more after a Ph.D). It's a career investment. Just having a 4-year Bachelor of Engineering degree can only take you so far."