Computer Studies / Computing

Course summary

Computer Science is the study of how computers and computer systems work, and how they are constructed and programmed. It enables you to solve problems, design systems, and understand the power and limits of human and machine intelligence. You will develop a unique way of thinking about issues, problems and situations that uses the powers of logic, algorithm, precision and abstraction, called computational thinking. This influences fields far beyond those you might imagine, including biology, chemistry, linguistics, medicine, psychology, economics and statistics. Computer Science encourages innovation, creativity, resourcefulness and resilience. It empowers us to move from being consumers of technology to producers and shapers of technology. Computer science enables us to understand and contribute to debate about societal issues involving computation, such as software patents, identity theft, genetic engineering, electronic voting systems for elections, complex modern financial trading systems, and so on. And how many of us can watch a movie these days without being amazed by the wizardry of the talented individuals creating the effects on the computers? Computer Science will inspire and challenge you to apply the knowledge you gain and the creative and technical skills you build to explore new areas in technological development. It prepares you for a world that does not yet exist, involving technologies that have not yet been invented, and that will present technical and ethical challenges of which we are not yet aware.