Computer Science vs. Finance: Which Is For You?

Computer science or finance? If you still can’t make up your mind, our comparison will help.

In this post, we will discuss each major and cover their differences. Let’s join us to find out the right path to choose!

What is Computer Science?

Computer science (CS) is the science of computers, covering computational theories, hardware and software architecture, algorithms, and how humans deal with technology.

A CS degree includes a wide range of areas. Students must understand computer science or maneuver successfully among the many sub-disciplines and expertise.

Disciplines

Students who pursue CS degrees have the choice of specializing in one of the following areas:

• Mathematics
• Artificial Intelligence
• Computer Engineering
• Web Development
• Programming
• Graphics
• Architecture Networks
• Game Development

Benefits

CS works with the process of fixing problems, and problems exist in every corner of the planet. The following are a few examples of how this significant benefits the world:

• Development in education

E-learning programs and platforms give students new tools for analyzing and solving problems, resulting in good transformations in the academic context.

• Healthcare improvement

CS has led to technological advancements such as electronic medical records. Healthcare informatics is also an outstanding achievement.

• Career opportunities

Because there are so many employment options in CS, it can develop many careers. Computing careers are not only among the highest-paying professions but also among the most rewarding.

What is Finance?

As a finance student, you will study financial planning, investment plans, and analyzing spending, among other things.

You’ll also learn how to deal with facts that can promote strategic changes by analyzing how firms have progressed in the past to anticipate how they will function in the future.

Disciplines

Each college and university may offer a generalized financial degree to pursue. The precise contents available vary by school, but some examples include:

• Personal finance
• Corporate finance
• Asset management
• Financial institutions
• International economy
• Insurance
• Real estate
• Accounting

Benefits

Finance aims to aid social goals such as increased employment, financial well-being, improved education, skill training, and equality. People see financial affairs as a tool to ensure a more wealthy and unrestricted society.

Financial innovation and capitalism play a vital role in shaping society. Restrictions, risk management, and regulations should follow to assist financial institutions in functioning for the general welfare.

Key Differences

So now you have pictured what the majors look like. How about their learning curves and job opportunities? We will break them down into different factors to compare easier.

Salary range

According to BLS, the average salary for a finance degree holder is around $71,730 per year, with a $20.64 hourly basis.

A CS major’s hourly wage and yearly, on the other hand, are about $79.78 and $165,940, respectively.

As you can see, CS is a high-performing degree at the moment. However, finance can also help you get your expected income.

People studying financial affairs can have rewarding experiences. In terms of potential earnings for senior-level roles, a financial education offers a high ceiling.

Job opportunities

Both majors have a positive influence on society. Hence, there is always a high demand for both.

A CS degree gives you access to many job opportunities. These may consist of:

• Software engineer
• Database administrator
• Programmer
• Designer
• Data scientist
• Game developer
• Application developer
• Web developer

With a finance degree, you can apply for many occupations, such as:

• Financial analyst
• Accountant
• Financial advisor
• Data analyst
• Investment analyst
• Credit analyst
• Budget analyst

Difficulty

Calculus, mathematics, and algorithms are some of the more challenging topics in CS. The major will be somewhat more complex than finance in general.

A CS major, on the other hand, is less difficult than many other STEM fields, like engineering and statistics.

Some of the classes in a finance degree can also be difficult. There won’t be many math-heavy subjects, though. As a result, a CS degree will typically be more complicated because it has more math-intensive work.

Skills

Your technical and soft skills determine your salary range. Since each major has its own set of disciplines, the essential skills needed for them are different.

As a computer scientist, you need to work on the following skills:

• Technical skills: Computer and Technology skills, Data Analysis, Software Development, Technical Writing, Mathematics, Coding, etc.
• Soft skills: Attention to detail, Creativity, Communication, Time management, Teamwork, Organization, etc.

If you want to become a financial analyst, try to sharpen these skills:

• Technical skills: Research, Analytics, Accounting, Financial Modeling, MS Excel, Project Financing, etc.
• Soft skills: Communication, Management, Problem-solving, Critical-thinking, Decision-making, Leadership, etc.

Comparison table

Which Is For You?

If you like programming, design, or applied mathematics, a CS major would be a perfect match for you.

On the other hand, a finance degree may be right for you if you work better in a competitive environment. It also has a high potential income in the long term.

You can also get into finance as a computer scientist if you have a finance minor, which will make you nearly as competitive for financial employment as a candidate with a finance degree.

Conclusion

Both computer science and finance are promising career paths. You should consider your passion, personality, and ability to choose the most suitable major.

Hopefully, you will find this article helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask. Thank you and see you in our next update!