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Alternatives to a Computer Science Degree: Pathways to a Tech Career
Author: Dr. Anya Sharma, PhD in Educational Technology and former Associate Professor of Computer Science at Stanford University. Dr. Sharma has extensive experience in curriculum development and career counseling for aspiring tech professionals, focusing on non-traditional routes into the industry.
Publisher: Published by TechForward, a leading online publication dedicated to providing insightful and data-driven analysis on technology trends and career pathways. TechForward is known for its rigorous fact-checking and commitment to unbiased reporting, making it a trusted source for information in the tech industry.
Editor: Edited by David Chen, a seasoned technology journalist with over 15 years of experience covering the tech industry. David has written extensively on the evolving landscape of tech education and employment, with a particular focus on alternative learning pathways.
Summary: This report explores compelling alternatives to a traditional computer science degree for individuals seeking a career in technology. We examine the effectiveness of bootcamps, online courses, apprenticeships, self-learning, and even leveraging related degrees. Data from various sources, including industry reports and surveys, will be used to support the viability of these alternatives and demonstrate that successful tech careers can be built without a CS degree. The report concludes that while a CS degree remains a valuable asset, it's no longer the only pathway to a fulfilling and lucrative career in the tech world.
1. Introduction: The Changing Landscape of Tech Education
The demand for skilled technology professionals continues to surge, yet the traditional computer science degree pathway isn't the only route to success. The rising cost of higher education, coupled with the rapid evolution of technology, has spurred the exploration of alternatives to a computer science degree. This report analyzes viable alternatives, examining their effectiveness and providing insights for individuals considering non-traditional paths into the tech industry. The increasing availability of online resources, immersive bootcamps, and industry-focused apprenticeships offers diverse and accessible options for aspiring tech professionals.
2. Bootcamps: Intensive, Immersive Learning
Coding bootcamps have emerged as a popular alternative to a computer science degree. These intensive programs typically last 3-6 months and focus on practical skills in high-demand areas like web development, data science, and cybersecurity. Research from Course Report consistently shows that bootcamp graduates secure employment at competitive rates, with many reporting salaries comparable to those with traditional degrees. For example, a 2023 Course Report survey indicated that 80% of bootcamp graduates found jobs within 6 months of graduation, with average starting salaries exceeding $70,000. However, the success rate varies significantly depending on the bootcamp's reputation, curriculum, and the individual's commitment. Choosing a reputable bootcamp with strong industry connections is crucial. The key advantage is the accelerated learning and faster entry into the job market; the disadvantage is the potentially high cost and the intensive nature of the program.
3. Online Courses and MOOCs: Flexible and Affordable Learning
Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) platforms like Coursera, edX, and Udacity offer a wealth of computer science-related courses at a fraction of the cost of a traditional degree. While they lack the structure and mentorship of a bootcamp or university, they provide flexible and affordable options for self-directed learning. Many individuals use MOOCs to supplement their existing education or learn specific skills. Data shows that while a MOOC alone might not land a senior role, it can be an effective tool for building a strong foundation and demonstrating proficiency in specific technologies. The flexibility and low cost are significant advantages; however, self-discipline and proactive networking are essential for maximizing their impact. These platforms are a great example of effective alternatives to a computer science degree for those already holding jobs.
4. Apprenticeships and Internships: Hands-on Experience
Apprenticeships and internships offer practical, hands-on experience in a real-world work environment. These programs often combine on-the-job training with formal education or mentorship. Many tech companies offer apprenticeships and internships, providing valuable experience and networking opportunities. According to a study by the US Department of Labor, apprentices in tech fields reported higher job satisfaction and career advancement compared to their non-apprentice counterparts. The primary benefit is direct, practical experience. However, competition for apprenticeships can be fierce, and securing one may require prior experience or strong networking.
5. Self-Learning and Personal Projects: The DIY Approach
Many individuals successfully build careers in technology through self-learning and personal projects. Leveraging online resources, books, and open-source projects, they gain practical skills and build a portfolio that demonstrates their abilities. This approach requires significant self-discipline, but it offers a cost-effective and customizable learning path. The challenge lies in the lack of structured learning and the need for proactive networking to gain visibility and secure opportunities. This method highlights that alternatives to a computer science degree can be highly effective for individuals with inherent drive.
6. Related Degrees and Skill Transfer
Individuals with degrees in mathematics, engineering, physics, or even liberal arts can often transfer their analytical and problem-solving skills to the tech industry. A strong foundation in logic, algorithms, and data structures can be a valuable asset. Research indicates that graduates with strong quantitative skills from related fields can successfully transition into tech roles with further training or self-learning. The advantage is leveraging pre-existing educational foundations. However, bridging the gap to specific tech skills might require additional effort and learning.
7. The Importance of Networking and Portfolio Building
Regardless of the chosen path, building a strong professional network and creating a compelling portfolio are crucial for success. Networking events, online communities, and personal projects are all effective ways to demonstrate skills and connect with potential employers. Data suggests that individuals with strong online profiles and demonstrable skills through projects receive more job offers regardless of their educational background. Alternatives to a computer science degree often emphasize the portfolio over a formal degree.
8. Addressing Potential Challenges
While alternatives to a computer science degree offer compelling options, some challenges exist. These include the lack of formal accreditation, potential for lower starting salaries in some cases, and the need for self-discipline and proactive networking. Careful planning and due diligence are necessary to navigate these challenges.
9. Conclusion:
The traditional computer science degree is no longer the sole gateway to a successful tech career. Alternatives to a computer science degree, including bootcamps, online courses, apprenticeships, self-learning, and leveraging related degrees, offer viable pathways for individuals seeking to enter the technology industry. The key to success lies in identifying the learning style that best suits individual needs, building a strong portfolio, and actively networking within the tech community. The flexibility and accessibility of these alternatives make them increasingly attractive, especially for individuals who value practicality, affordability, or a faster route to employment. The rising popularity of these alternatives reflects the changing landscape of tech education and the growing recognition that talent comes in many forms.
FAQs:
1. Are bootcamps worth the investment? Yes, for many, bootcamps provide a fast track to a tech job, but research different bootcamps carefully to ensure quality and job placement success rates.
2. Can I learn to code solely through online courses? Yes, but it requires significant self-discipline and a structured learning plan. Supplementing online courses with projects and networking is crucial.
3. How important is a computer science degree compared to experience? While a degree is valuable, practical experience and a strong portfolio increasingly outweigh a traditional degree in many tech roles.
4. What kind of portfolio should I build? Create projects that showcase your skills – websites, apps, data analysis projects, etc. – tailored to the specific tech field you’re targeting.
5. How can I network effectively in the tech industry? Attend meetups, conferences, online forums, and leverage LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your desired field.
6. Are apprenticeships harder to secure than traditional jobs? Yes, competition is high, but they provide invaluable hands-on experience and often lead to full-time employment.
7. Can I switch careers into tech with a non-related degree? Absolutely! Many individuals successfully transition to tech roles with additional training and by leveraging transferable skills from their previous field.
8. What are the salary expectations for someone without a CS degree? Salaries vary widely based on skill, experience, and job role, but many individuals without a CS degree earn competitive salaries.
9. Is self-learning a sustainable approach to a tech career? It can be, but it requires significant self-discipline, motivation, and a proactive approach to building a portfolio and networking.
Related Articles:
1. "The Bootcamp Advantage: A Comparative Analysis of Coding Bootcamps vs. Traditional Computer Science Degrees": This article compares the effectiveness, cost, and career outcomes of bootcamps versus traditional computer science degrees, providing data-driven insights to help readers choose the best path.
2. "Unlocking Tech Careers: A Guide to Self-Learning and Portfolio Building": This article offers a comprehensive guide to self-learning, including recommended resources, project ideas, and strategies for building a compelling portfolio to attract employers.
3. "The Power of Networking: How to Build Connections and Land a Tech Job": This article provides practical advice and techniques for effective networking in the tech industry, covering both online and offline strategies.
4. "From Math to Tech: Leveraging Related Degrees for a Successful Career Transition": This article explores how individuals with degrees in mathematics, engineering, and other related fields can successfully transition into tech careers by leveraging their existing skills and knowledge.
5. "Navigating the Apprenticeship Path: A Guide to Securing and Succeeding in Tech Apprenticeships": This article provides a step-by-step guide to securing and excelling in tech apprenticeships, including tips for applications, interview preparation, and thriving in the workplace.
6. "MOOCs and Online Courses: Maximizing Your Learning and Career Potential": This article explores how to effectively utilize MOOCs and other online learning platforms to gain in-demand skills and complement other learning paths.
7. "Building a Winning Tech Resume and Cover Letter: Strategies for Non-Traditional Candidates": This article provides guidance on creating a compelling resume and cover letter that highlight skills and experience gained through alternative learning pathways.
8. "The Future of Tech Education: Emerging Trends and Alternative Learning Models": This article explores the evolving landscape of tech education, examining emerging trends and alternative learning models that are shaping the future of the industry.
9. "Salary Comparisons: Traditional CS Graduates vs. Bootcamp Graduates vs. Self-Taught Developers": This article provides a data-driven analysis of salary trends across different tech career paths, comparing the earning potential of individuals with traditional degrees, bootcamp graduates, and self-taught developers.
| alternatives to computer science degree: Learn Python 3 the Hard Way Zed A. Shaw, 2017-06-26 You Will Learn Python 3! Zed Shaw has perfected the world’s best system for learning Python 3. Follow it and you will succeed—just like the millions of beginners Zed has taught to date! You bring the discipline, commitment, and persistence; the author supplies everything else. In Learn Python 3 the Hard Way, you’ll learn Python by working through 52 brilliantly crafted exercises. Read them. Type their code precisely. (No copying and pasting!) Fix your mistakes. Watch the programs run. As you do, you’ll learn how a computer works; what good programs look like; and how to read, write, and think about code. Zed then teaches you even more in 5+ hours of video where he shows you how to break, fix, and debug your code—live, as he’s doing the exercises. Install a complete Python environment Organize and write code Fix and break code Basic mathematics Variables Strings and text Interact with users Work with files Looping and logic Data structures using lists and dictionaries Program design Object-oriented programming Inheritance and composition Modules, classes, and objects Python packaging Automated testing Basic game development Basic web development It’ll be hard at first. But soon, you’ll just get it—and that will feel great! This course will reward you for every minute you put into it. Soon, you’ll know one of the world’s most powerful, popular programming languages. You’ll be a Python programmer. This Book Is Perfect For Total beginners with zero programming experience Junior developers who know one or two languages Returning professionals who haven’t written code in years Seasoned professionals looking for a fast, simple, crash course in Python 3 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Computer Science Robert Sedgewick, Kevin Wayne, 2016-06-17 Named a Notable Book in the 21st Annual Best of Computing list by the ACM! Robert Sedgewick and Kevin Wayne’s Computer Science: An Interdisciplinary Approach is the ideal modern introduction to computer science with Java programming for both students and professionals. Taking a broad, applications-based approach, Sedgewick and Wayne teach through important examples from science, mathematics, engineering, finance, and commercial computing. The book demystifies computation, explains its intellectual underpinnings, and covers the essential elements of programming and computational problem solving in today’s environments. The authors begin by introducing basic programming elements such as variables, conditionals, loops, arrays, and I/O. Next, they turn to functions, introducing key modular programming concepts, including components and reuse. They present a modern introduction to object-oriented programming, covering current programming paradigms and approaches to data abstraction. Building on this foundation, Sedgewick and Wayne widen their focus to the broader discipline of computer science. They introduce classical sorting and searching algorithms, fundamental data structures and their application, and scientific techniques for assessing an implementation’s performance. Using abstract models, readers learn to answer basic questions about computation, gaining insight for practical application. Finally, the authors show how machine architecture links the theory of computing to real computers, and to the field’s history and evolution. For each concept, the authors present all the information readers need to build confidence, together with examples that solve intriguing problems. Each chapter contains question-and-answer sections, self-study drills, and challenging problems that demand creative solutions. Companion web site (introcs.cs.princeton.edu/java) contains Extensive supplementary information, including suggested approaches to programming assignments, checklists, and FAQs Graphics and sound libraries Links to program code and test data Solutions to selected exercises Chapter summaries Detailed instructions for installing a Java programming environment Detailed problem sets and projects Companion 20-part series of video lectures is available at informit.com/title/9780134493831 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Problem Solving with Computers Paul Calter, 1973 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Learn You a Haskell for Great Good! Miran Lipovaca, 2011-04-15 It's all in the name: Learn You a Haskell for Great Good! is a hilarious, illustrated guide to this complex functional language. Packed with the author's original artwork, pop culture references, and most importantly, useful example code, this book teaches functional fundamentals in a way you never thought possible. You'll start with the kid stuff: basic syntax, recursion, types and type classes. Then once you've got the basics down, the real black belt master-class begins: you'll learn to use applicative functors, monads, zippers, and all the other mythical Haskell constructs you've only read about in storybooks. As you work your way through the author's imaginative (and occasionally insane) examples, you'll learn to: –Laugh in the face of side effects as you wield purely functional programming techniques –Use the magic of Haskell's laziness to play with infinite sets of data –Organize your programs by creating your own types, type classes, and modules –Use Haskell's elegant input/output system to share the genius of your programs with the outside world Short of eating the author's brain, you will not find a better way to learn this powerful language than reading Learn You a Haskell for Great Good! |
| alternatives to computer science degree: The College Solution Lynn O'Shaughnessy, 2008-06-06 “The College Solution helps readers look beyond over-hyped admission rankings to discover schools that offer a quality education at affordable prices. Taking the guesswork out of saving and finding money for college, this is a practical and insightful must-have guide for every parent!” —Jaye J. Fenderson, Seventeen’s College Columnist and Author, Seventeen’s Guide to Getting into College “This book is a must read in an era of rising tuition and falling admission rates. O’Shaughnessy offers good advice with blessed clarity and brevity.” —Jay Mathews, Washington Post Education Writer and Columnist “I would recommend any parent of a college-bound student read The College Solution.” —Kal Chany, Author, The Princeton Review’s Paying for College Without Going Broke “The College Solution goes beyond other guidebooks in providing an abundance of information about how to afford college, in addition to how to approach the selection process by putting the student first.” —Martha “Marty” O’Connell, Executive Director, Colleges That Change Lives “Lynn O’Shaughnessy always focuses on what’s in the consumer’s best interest, telling families how to save money and avoid making costly mistakes.” —Mark Kantrowitz, Publisher, FinAid.org and Author, FastWeb College Gold “An antidote to the hype and hysteria about getting in and paying for college! O’Shaughnessy has produced an excellent overview that demystifies the college planning process for students and families.” —Barmak Nassirian, American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers For millions of families, the college planning experience has become extremely stressful. And, unless your child is an elite student in the academic top 1%, most books on the subject won’t help you. Now, however, there’s a college guide for everyone. In The College Solution, top personal finance journalist Lynn O’Shaughnessy presents an easy-to-use roadmap to finding the right college program (not just the most hyped) and dramatically reducing the cost of college, too. Forget the rankings! Discover what really matters: the quality and value of the programs your child wants and deserves. O’Shaughnessy uncovers “industry secrets” on how colleges actually parcel out financial aid—and how even “average” students can maximize their share. Learn how to send your kids to expensive private schools for virtually the cost of an in-state public college...and how promising students can pay significantly less than the “sticker price” even at the best state universities. No other book offers this much practical guidance on choosing a college...and no other book will save you as much money! • Secrets your school’s guidance counselor doesn’t know yet The surprising ways colleges have changed how they do business • Get every dime of financial aid that’s out there for you Be a “fly on the wall” inside the college financial aid office • U.S. News & World Report: clueless about your child Beyond one-size-fits-all rankings: finding the right program for your teenager • The best bargains in higher education Overlooked academic choices that just might be perfect for you |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Ultralearning Scott H. Young, 2019-08-06 Now a Wall Street Journal bestseller. Learn a new talent, stay relevant, reinvent yourself, and adapt to whatever the workplace throws your way. Ultralearning offers nine principles to master hard skills quickly. This is the essential guide to future-proof your career and maximize your competitive advantage through self-education. In these tumultuous times of economic and technological change, staying ahead depends on continual self-education—a lifelong mastery of fresh ideas, subjects, and skills. If you want to accomplish more and stand apart from everyone else, you need to become an ultralearner. The challenge of learning new skills is that you think you already know how best to learn, as you did as a student, so you rerun old routines and old ways of solving problems. To counter that, Ultralearning offers powerful strategies to break you out of those mental ruts and introduces new training methods to help you push through to higher levels of retention. Scott H. Young incorporates the latest research about the most effective learning methods and the stories of other ultralearners like himself—among them Benjamin Franklin, chess grandmaster Judit Polgár, and Nobel laureate physicist Richard Feynman, as well as a host of others, such as little-known modern polymath Nigel Richards, who won the French World Scrabble Championship—without knowing French. Young documents the methods he and others have used to acquire knowledge and shows that, far from being an obscure skill limited to aggressive autodidacts, ultralearning is a powerful tool anyone can use to improve their career, studies, and life. Ultralearning explores this fascinating subculture, shares a proven framework for a successful ultralearning project, and offers insights into how you can organize and exe - cute a plan to learn anything deeply and quickly, without teachers or budget-busting tuition costs. Whether the goal is to be fluent in a language (or ten languages), earn the equivalent of a college degree in a fraction of the time, or master multiple tools to build a product or business from the ground up, the principles in Ultralearning will guide you to success. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Alternative and independent Caren Arbeit, Alexander Bentz, Emily Forrest Cataldi, Herschel Sanders., 2019-02-19 In recent years, nontraditional workforce training programs have proliferated inside and outside of traditional postsecondary institutions. A subset of these programs, bootcamps, advertise high job placement rates and have been hailed by policymakers as key to training skilled workers. However, few formal data exist on the number, types, prices, location, or other descriptive details of program offerings. We fill this void by studying the universe of bootcamp programs offered as of June 30, 2017. In this report, we discuss the attributes of the 1,010 technology-related programs offered in the United States, Canada, and online. We find more diversity among bootcamp providers and programs than would be expected from public discourse. This primarily relates to the mode of delivery (online vs. in person), intensity (part time/full time), cost, and program types. Based on the data we collected, we present a classification structure for bootcamps focused on five distinct program types. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Science Fiction in the Real World Norman Spinrad, 1990 Updates Lentz's previous work (which Library journal said was producers, screenwriters, cinematographers, special effects technicians, make-up artists, art directors. III: film index. IV: TV series index. V: alternate title index. Science fiction writer Spinrad presents 13 essays, some previously published, examining particular works in the genre, aspects of the industry, and how they influence each other. Topics include critical standards, the visual expression in comic books and movies, modes of content, politics, and profiles of individual authors. No bibliography. Paper edition (unseen), $14.95. Annotation copyrighted by Book News, Inc., Portland, OR |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Big Data and Hadoop Mayank Bhusan, 2018-06-02 The book contains the latest trend in IT industry 'BigData and Hadoop'. It explains how big is 'Big Data' and why everybody is trying to implement this into their IT project.It includes research work on various topics, theoretical and practical approach, each component of the architecture is described along with current industry trends.Big Data and Hadoop have taken together are a new skill as per the industry standards. Readers will get a compact book along with the industry experience and would be a reference to help readers.KEY FEATURES Overview Of Big Data, Basics of Hadoop, Hadoop Distributed File System, HBase, MapReduce, HIVE: The Dataware House Of Hadoop, PIG: The Higher Level Programming Environment, SQOOP: Importing Data From Heterogeneous Sources, Flume, Ozzie, Zookeeper & Big Data Stream Mining, Chapter-wise Questions & Previous Years Questions |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Drive Daniel H. Pink, 2011-04-05 The New York Times bestseller that gives readers a paradigm-shattering new way to think about motivation from the author of When: The Scientific Secrets of Perfect Timing Most people believe that the best way to motivate is with rewards like money—the carrot-and-stick approach. That's a mistake, says Daniel H. Pink (author of To Sell Is Human: The Surprising Truth About Motivating Others). In this provocative and persuasive new book, he asserts that the secret to high performance and satisfaction-at work, at school, and at home—is the deeply human need to direct our own lives, to learn and create new things, and to do better by ourselves and our world. Drawing on four decades of scientific research on human motivation, Pink exposes the mismatch between what science knows and what business does—and how that affects every aspect of life. He examines the three elements of true motivation—autonomy, mastery, and purpose-and offers smart and surprising techniques for putting these into action in a unique book that will change how we think and transform how we live. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: The Calculus Lifesaver Adrian Banner, 2007-03-25 For many students, calculus can be the most mystifying and frustrating course they will ever take. Based upon Adrian Banner's popular calculus review course at Princeton University, this book provides students with the essential tools they need not only to learn calculus, but also to excel at it. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Safe Work in the 21st Century Institute of Medicine, Board on Health Sciences Policy, Committee to Assess Training Needs for Occupational Safety and Health Personnel in the United States, 2000-09-01 Despite many advances, 20 American workers die each day as a result of occupational injuries. And occupational safety and health (OSH) is becoming even more complex as workers move away from the long-term, fixed-site, employer relationship. This book looks at worker safety in the changing workplace and the challenge of ensuring a supply of top-notch OSH professionals. Recommendations are addressed to federal and state agencies, OSH organizations, educational institutions, employers, unions, and other stakeholders. The committee reviews trends in workforce demographics, the nature of work in the information age, globalization of work, and the revolution in health care deliveryâ€exploring the implications for OSH education and training in the decade ahead. The core professions of OSH (occupational safety, industrial hygiene, and occupational medicine and nursing) and key related roles (employee assistance professional, ergonomist, and occupational health psychologist) are profiled-how many people are in the field, where they work, and what they do. The book reviews in detail the education, training, and education grants available to OSH professionals from public and private sources. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Java Programming Ralph Bravaco, Shai Simonson, 2009-02-01 Java Programming, From The Ground Up, with its flexible organization, teaches Java in a way that is refreshing, fun, interesting and still has all the appropriate programming pieces for students to learn. The motivation behind this writing is to bring a logical, readable, entertaining approach to keep your students involved. Each chapter has a Bigger Picture section at the end of the chapter to provide a variety of interesting related topics in computer science. The writing style is conversational and not overly technical so it addresses programming concepts appropriately. Because of the flexibile organization of the text, it can be used for a one or two semester introductory Java programming class, as well as using Java as a second language. The text contains a large variety of carefully designed exercises that are more effective than the competition. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: White Awareness Judy H. Katz, 1978 Stage 1. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Guide to Programs National Science Foundation (U.S.), 1975 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Program Arcade Games Paul Craven, 2015-12-31 Learn and use Python and PyGame to design and build cool arcade games. In Program Arcade Games: With Python and PyGame, Second Edition, Dr. Paul Vincent Craven teaches you how to create fun and simple quiz games; integrate and start using graphics; animate graphics; integrate and use game controllers; add sound and bit-mapped graphics; and build grid-based games. After reading and using this book, you'll be able to learn to program and build simple arcade game applications using one of today's most popular programming languages, Python. You can even deploy onto Steam and other Linux-based game systems as well as Android, one of today's most popular mobile and tablet platforms. You'll learn: How to create quiz games How to integrate and start using graphics How to animate graphics How to integrate and use game controllers How to add sound and bit-mapped graphics How to build grid-based games Audience“div>This book assumes no prior programming knowledge. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Changing Our Minds Dr. Naomi Fisher, 2021-02-04 Children are born full of curiosity, eager to participate in the world. They learn as they live, with enthusiasm and joy. Then we send them to school. We stop them from playing and actively exploring their interests, telling them it's more important to sit still and listen. The result is that for many children, their motivation to learn drops dramatically. The joy of the early years is replaced with apathy and anxiety. This is not inevitable. We are socialised to believe that schooling is synonymous with education, but it's only one approach. Self-directed education puts the child back in control of their learning. This enables children, including those diagnosed with special educational needs, to flourish in their own time and on their own terms. It enables us to put wellbeing at the centre of education. Changing Our Minds brings together research, theory and practice on learning. It includes interviews with influential thinkers in the field of self-directed education and examples from families alongside practical advice. This essential guide will give you an understanding of why self-directed education makes sense, how it works, and what to do to put it into action yourself. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: How the Internet Became Commercial Shane Greenstein, 2015-10-20 In less than a decade, the Internet went from being a series of loosely connected networks used by universities and the military to the powerful commercial engine it is today. This book describes how many of the key innovations that made this possible came from entrepreneurs and iconoclasts who were outside the mainstream—and how the commercialization of the Internet was by no means a foregone conclusion at its outset. Shane Greenstein traces the evolution of the Internet from government ownership to privatization to the commercial Internet we know today. This is a story of innovation from the edges. Greenstein shows how mainstream service providers that had traditionally been leaders in the old-market economy became threatened by innovations from industry outsiders who saw economic opportunities where others didn't—and how these mainstream firms had no choice but to innovate themselves. New models were tried: some succeeded, some failed. Commercial markets turned innovations into valuable products and services as the Internet evolved in those markets. New business processes had to be created from scratch as a network originally intended for research and military defense had to deal with network interconnectivity, the needs of commercial users, and a host of challenges with implementing innovative new services. How the Internet Became Commercial demonstrates how, without any central authority, a unique and vibrant interplay between government and private industry transformed the Internet. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: High-technology Degree Alternatives Joel Butler, 1994 This unique guide profiles nontraditional ways for high-tech professionals to get accredited degrees without quitting their jobs, going to night school for years, or spending a lot of money. High-Technology Degree Alternatives provides an in-depth look at alternative college programs that lead to degrees in such fields as engineering, computer science, and information systems. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Choosing College Michael B. Horn, Bob Moesta, 2019-09-11 Cut through the noise and make better college and career choices This book is about addressing the college-choosing problem. The rankings, metrics, analytics, college visits, and advice that we use today to help us make these decisions are out of step with the progress individual students are trying to make. They don't give students and families the information and context they need to make such a high-stakes decision about whether and where to get an education. Choosing College strips away the noise to help you understand why you’re going to school. What's driving you? What are you trying to accomplish? Once you know why, the book will help you make better choices. The research in this book illustrates that choosing a school is complicated. By constructing more than 200 mini-documentaries of how students chose different postsecondary educational experiences, the authors explore the motivations for how and why people make the decisions that they do at a much deeper, causal level. By the end, you’ll know why you’re going and what you’re really chasing. The book: Identifies the five different Jobs for which students hire postsecondary education Allows you to see your true options for what’s next Offers guidance for how to successfully choose your pathway Illuminates how colleges and entrepreneurs can build better experiences for each Job The authors help readers understand not what job students want out of college, but what Job students are hiring college to do for them. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Missing Pieces V: An alternative Guide to Canadian Post-Secondary Education Denise Doherty-Delorme, 2004 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Computer Science Illuminated Nell B. Dale, John Lewis, 2013 Revised and updated with the latest information in the field, the Fifth Edition of best-selling Computer Science Illuminated continues to provide students with an engaging breadth-first overview of computer science principles and provides a solid foundation for those continuing their study in this dynamic and exciting discipline. Authored by two of today's most respected computer science educators, Nell Dale and John Lewis, the text carefully unfolds the many layers of computing from a language-neutral perspective, beginning with the information layer, progressing through the hardware, programming, operating systems, application, and communication layers, and ending with a discussion on the limitations of computing. Separate program language chapters are available as bundle items for instructors who would like to explore a particular programming language with their students. Ideal for introductory computing and computer science courses, the fifth edition's thorough presentation of computing systems provides computer science majors with a solid foundation for further study, and offers non-majors a comprehensive and complete introduction to computing. New Features of the Fifth Edition: - Includes a NEW chapter on computer security (chapter 17) to provide readers with the latest information, including discussions on preventing unauthorized access and guidelines for creating effective passwords, types of malware anti-virus software, problems created by poor programming, protecting your online information including data collection issues with Facebook, Google, etc., and security issues with mobile and portable devices. - A NEW section on cloud computing (chapter 15) offers readers an overview of the latest way in which businesses and users interact with computers and mobile devices. - The section on social networks (moved to chapter 16) has been rewritten to include up-to-date information, including new data on Google+ and Facebook. - The sections covering HTML have been updated to include HTML5. - Includes revised and updated Did You Know callouts in the chapter margins. - The updated Ethical Issues at the end of each chapter have been revised to tie the content to the recently introduced tenth strand recommended by the ACM stressing the importance of computer ethics. Instructor Resources: -Answers to the end of chapter exercises -Answers to the lab exercises -PowerPoint Lecture Outlines -PowerPoint Image Bank -Test Bank Every new copy is packaged with a free access code to the robust Student Companion Website featuring: Animated Flashcards; Relevant Web Links; Crossword Puzzles; Interactive Glossary; Step by step tutorial on web page development; Digital Lab Manual; R. Mark Meyer's labs, Explorations in Computer Science; Additional programming chapters, including Alice, C++, Java, JavaScript, Pascal, Perl, Python, Ruby, SQL, and VB.NET; C++ Language Essentials labs; Java Language Essentials labs; Link to Download Pep/8 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Engineering Software as a Service Armando Fox, David A. Patterson, 2016 (NOTE: this Beta Edition may contain errors. See http://saasbook.info for details.) A one-semester college course in software engineering focusing on cloud computing, software as a service (SaaS), and Agile development using Extreme Programming (XP). This book is neither a step-by-step tutorial nor a reference book. Instead, our goal is to bring a diverse set of software engineering topics together into a single narrative, help readers understand the most important ideas through concrete examples and a learn-by-doing approach, and teach readers enough about each topic to get them started in the field. Courseware for doing the work in the book is available as a virtual machine image that can be downloaded or deployed in the cloud. A free MOOC (massively open online course) at saas-class.org follows the book's content and adds programming assignments and quizzes. See http://saasbook.info for details.(NOTE: this Beta Edition may contain errors. See http://saasbook.info for details.) A one-semester college course in software engineering focusing on cloud computing, software as a service (SaaS), and Agile development using Extreme Programming (XP). This book is neither a step-by-step tutorial nor a reference book. Instead, our goal is to bring a diverse set of software engineering topics together into a single narrative, help readers understand the most important ideas through concrete examples and a learn-by-doing approach, and teach readers enough about each topic to get them started in the field. Courseware for doing the work in the book is available as a virtual machine image that can be downloaded or deployed in the cloud. A free MOOC (massively open online course) at saas-class.org follows the book's content and adds programming assignments and quizzes. See http://saasbook.info for details. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science Gary Haggard, John Schlipf, Sue Whitesides, 2006 Master the fundamentals of discrete mathematics with DISCRETE MATHEMATICS FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE with Student Solutions Manual CD-ROM! An increasing number of computer scientists from diverse areas are using discrete mathematical structures to explain concepts and problems and this mathematics text shows you how to express precise ideas in clear mathematical language. Through a wealth of exercises and examples, you will learn how mastering discrete mathematics will help you develop important reasoning skills that will continue to be useful throughout your career. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: How to Design Programs, second edition Matthias Felleisen, Robert Bruce Findler, Matthew Flatt, Shriram Krishnamurthi, 2018-05-25 A completely revised edition, offering new design recipes for interactive programs and support for images as plain values, testing, event-driven programming, and even distributed programming. This introduction to programming places computer science at the core of a liberal arts education. Unlike other introductory books, it focuses on the program design process, presenting program design guidelines that show the reader how to analyze a problem statement, how to formulate concise goals, how to make up examples, how to develop an outline of the solution, how to finish the program, and how to test it. Because learning to design programs is about the study of principles and the acquisition of transferable skills, the text does not use an off-the-shelf industrial language but presents a tailor-made teaching language. For the same reason, it offers DrRacket, a programming environment for novices that supports playful, feedback-oriented learning. The environment grows with readers as they master the material in the book until it supports a full-fledged language for the whole spectrum of programming tasks. This second edition has been completely revised. While the book continues to teach a systematic approach to program design, the second edition introduces different design recipes for interactive programs with graphical interfaces and batch programs. It also enriches its design recipes for functions with numerous new hints. Finally, the teaching languages and their IDE now come with support for images as plain values, testing, event-driven programming, and even distributed programming. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Fundamental Concepts in Computer Science Erol Gelenbe, 2009 This book presents fundamental contributions to computer science as written and recounted by those who made the contributions themselves. As such, it is a highly original approach to a OC living historyOCO of the field of computer science. The scope of the book is broad in that it covers all aspects of computer science, going from the theory of computation, the theory of programming, and the theory of computer system performance, all the way to computer hardware and to major numerical applications of computers. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: National Science Foundation Conversion Programs, 1971 United States. Congress. Senate. Committee on Labor and Public Welfare. Special Subcommittee on the National Science Foundation, 1972 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 National Research Council, Institute of Medicine, Board on Children, Youth, and Families, Committee on the Science of Children Birth to Age 8: Deepening and Broadening the Foundation for Success, 2015-07-23 Children are already learning at birth, and they develop and learn at a rapid pace in their early years. This provides a critical foundation for lifelong progress, and the adults who provide for the care and the education of young children bear a great responsibility for their health, development, and learning. Despite the fact that they share the same objective - to nurture young children and secure their future success - the various practitioners who contribute to the care and the education of children from birth through age 8 are not acknowledged as a workforce unified by the common knowledge and competencies needed to do their jobs well. Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 explores the science of child development, particularly looking at implications for the professionals who work with children. This report examines the current capacities and practices of the workforce, the settings in which they work, the policies and infrastructure that set qualifications and provide professional learning, and the government agencies and other funders who support and oversee these systems. This book then makes recommendations to improve the quality of professional practice and the practice environment for care and education professionals. These detailed recommendations create a blueprint for action that builds on a unifying foundation of child development and early learning, shared knowledge and competencies for care and education professionals, and principles for effective professional learning. Young children thrive and learn best when they have secure, positive relationships with adults who are knowledgeable about how to support their development and learning and are responsive to their individual progress. Transforming the Workforce for Children Birth Through Age 8 offers guidance on system changes to improve the quality of professional practice, specific actions to improve professional learning systems and workforce development, and research to continue to build the knowledge base in ways that will directly advance and inform future actions. The recommendations of this book provide an opportunity to improve the quality of the care and the education that children receive, and ultimately improve outcomes for children. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: The Minimum You Need to Know about Logic to Work in IT Roland Hughes, 2007 This book is part of aaThe Minimum You Need to Knowaa family of books by Logikal Solutions. As the family expands they will cover an increasing variety of topics. This book is designed to be used as a text book for classes in logic from high school to college level. It should be one of the first courses you have on IT and this should be one of the first books you read when starting in IT. Not only does this book cover flow charting and pseudocode, it teaches the reader to think before they start mapping out the logic to solve a problem. The author of this book is an industry veteran with nearly 20 years in the field. It has been his experience that recent graduates, from any country, are nearly useless at problem solving. If they cannot point, click, and drag, they cannot solve the problem. This book is an attempt to teach them how to solve the problem. An instructoraas guide is available for schools looking to make this book the basis of coursework. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: National Science Foundation Conversion Programs, 1971, Hearings Before the Special Subcommittee on National Science Foundation..., 92-1, on S. 32 and S. 1261, October 26 and 27, 1971 United States. Congress. Senate. Labor and Public Welfare, 1972 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Colleges That Create Futures Princeton Review, 2016-05-10 KICK-START YOUR CAREER WITH THE RIGHT ON-CAMPUS EXPERIENCE! When it comes to getting the most out of college, the experiences you have outside the classroom are just as important as what you study. Colleges That Create Futures looks beyond the usual “best of” college lists to highlight 50 schools that empower students to discover practical, real-world applications for their talents and interests. The schools in this book feature distinctive research, internship, and hands-on learning programs—all the info you need to help find a college where you can parlay your passion into a successful post-college career. Inside, You'll Find: • In-depth profiles covering career services, internship support, student group activity, alumni satisfaction, noteworthy facilities and programs, and more • Candid assessments of each school’s academics from students, current faculty, and alumni • Unique hands-on learning opportunities for students across majors • Testimonials on career prep from alumni in business, education, law, and much more *************************** What makes Colleges That Create Futures important? You've seen the headlines—lately the news has been full of horror stories about how the college educational system has failed many recent grads who leave school with huge debt, no job prospects, and no experience in the working world. Colleges That Create Futures identifies schools that don't fall into this trap but instead prepare students for successful careers! How are the colleges selected? Schools are selected based on survey results on career services, grad school matriculation, internship support, student group and government activity, alumni activity and salaries, and noteworthy facilities and programs. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Projecting Science and Engineering Personnel Requirements for the 1990s United States. Congress. House. Committee on Science, Space, and Technology. Subcommittee on Investigations and Oversight, 1993 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Alternatives to Animal Use in Research, Testing, and Education , 1986 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Algorithms and Data Structures Niklaus Wirth, 1986 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Alternatives to Animal Use in Research, Testing, and Education , 1986 |
| alternatives to computer science degree: The Minimum You Need to Know About the Phallus of Agile Roland Hughes, 2020-09-30 A journey through IT history explaining why SDLC Waterfall Model is Software Engineering and AGILE will never be. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Mathematics for Computer Science Eric Lehman, F. Thomson Leighton, Albert R. Meyer, 2017-03-08 This book covers elementary discrete mathematics for computer science and engineering. It emphasizes mathematical definitions and proofs as well as applicable methods. Topics include formal logic notation, proof methods; induction, well-ordering; sets, relations; elementary graph theory; integer congruences; asymptotic notation and growth of functions; permutations and combinations, counting principles; discrete probability. Further selected topics may also be covered, such as recursive definition and structural induction; state machines and invariants; recurrences; generating functions. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: 'A' Level Computing P. M. Heathcote, 2000 A textbook for 'A' Level computing organised in modular format for new AQA specification. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Foundations of Applied Mathematics, Volume 2 Jeffrey Humpherys, Tyler J. Jarvis, 2020-03-10 In this second book of what will be a four-volume series, the authors present, in a mathematically rigorous way, the essential foundations of both the theory and practice of algorithms, approximation, and optimization—essential topics in modern applied and computational mathematics. This material is the introductory framework upon which algorithm analysis, optimization, probability, statistics, machine learning, and control theory are built. This text gives a unified treatment of several topics that do not usually appear together: the theory and analysis of algorithms for mathematicians and data science students; probability and its applications; the theory and applications of approximation, including Fourier series, wavelets, and polynomial approximation; and the theory and practice of optimization, including dynamic optimization. When used in concert with the free supplemental lab materials, Foundations of Applied Mathematics, Volume 2: Algorithms, Approximation, Optimization teaches not only the theory but also the computational practice of modern mathematical methods. Exercises and examples build upon each other in a way that continually reinforces previous ideas, allowing students to retain learned concepts while achieving a greater depth. The mathematically rigorous lab content guides students to technical proficiency and answers the age-old question “When am I going to use this?” This textbook is geared toward advanced undergraduate and beginning graduate students in mathematics, data science, and machine learning. |
| alternatives to computer science degree: Software Engineering Education Lionel E. Deimel, 1990-04-06 |
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