Companies typically benefit from being seen as trustworthy to conduct business and keep private information safe. However, they can potentially lose this trust if they fall prey to hackers who exploit their vulnerabilities. Data breaches impact not only an organization’s reputation but also its bottom line. Furthermore, the customers or patients affected by cybersecurity breaches may suffer significant consequences as a result of having their sensitive personal information exposed, including financial consequences.

If you have a knack for computers and are passionate about pursuing a STEM career, you might be weighing whether to pursue a major in computer science vs. cybersecurity. But what’s the difference? And is cybersecurity harder than computer science? Let’s take a closer look.

Cybersecurity is when professionals, technology and processes come together to improve the safety of computer networks, devices and data by guarding against digital attacks. There are many types of risks to protect against, such as:

• Malware infecting an entire network
• A hacker breaking into a database that houses sensitive information
• Confidentiality of patient data
• Preventing access by unauthorized employees
• Protect and Defend (PD): Identify, analyze and mitigate potential threats
• Cybersecurity crimes, such as data breaches

There are a few different degree options you might consider when thinking about pursuing a career in cybersecurity. For instance, it’s possible to pursue this career with a degree in computer science. However, a Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity may be more appropriate for this discipline.^{(See disclaimer 1)} 

A bachelor’s degree in cybersecurity offers a curriculum designed to help you prepare yourself to address and prevent cybersecurity attacks. In this program, you will be taught how to use various programming languages and software to monitor and defend sensitive data, along with different methodologies to defend computer systems.

In today’s increasingly digital world, a cybersecurity degree is essential for equipping professionals with the skills and knowledge to protect sensitive information, prevent cyber threats and safeguard the integrity of systems and networks across industries. 

Is Cybersecurity Difficult?

Cybersecurity students are introduced to complex concepts that require critical thinking and a problem-solving mindset. While grasping the theoretical aspects can be straightforward, applying these principles to practical scenarios often involves overcoming challenges. Troubleshooting and adapting solutions to diverse situations are essential skills that will be developed as you navigate the field.

Although cybersecurity can be a challenging field at times, information security analysts are needed to protect computer networks and devices from outside threats.^{(See disclaimer 2)} Additionally, about 17,300 openings for information security analysts are projected each year, on average, from 2023 to 2033.^{(See disclaimer 2)}

Computer science is a very broad and interdisciplinary field that involves the study and use of computers and computer systems. Computer science encompasses hardware and software. It involves both theory and application, as well as both design and implementation.

Within the computer science field, there are many opportunities for specialization, such as:

• Computer programming
• Network systems administration
• Hardware engineering
• Video game design

A degree in computer science can open the door to pursuing a number of different job opportunities in the field.^{(See disclaimer 3)} You can earn a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with different emphases, including big data analytics. Computer science degree programs generally include the same core courses, and it is the computer science core — not the emphasis — that can help prepare you for careers in encryption and other types of cybersecurity work.

A computer science graduate may also pursue a career in cybersecurity, although there may not be a direct path from the degree to a job. Because the computer science bachelor’s degree does not focus solely on information security, a person who holds a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science may need additional training and certification for a career in cybersecurity. Computer science graduates have many opportunities available, such as software development, research and development, software engineering and more.

A computer science degree may be closely related to your desired career path. In addition to big data analytics, other emphases may appeal to you, such as in business entrepreneurship. They teach theoretical and applied skills in mathematics, science and critical thinking. When you graduate with your computer science degree, you may go on to solve complex and evolving problems in the field. 

Is Computer Science Difficult?

Your academic journey will be unique, based partially on your individual strengths. What makes this degree stand out from other science degrees is that you have greater flexibility in deciding whether you want to apply your knowledge to solving problems or focus more on theoretical aspects of computer science.

Much of the coursework for a computer science degree is similar to other STEM degrees, particularly those involving information technology and computing. You will be required to work with higher-level concepts in math and science to meet your course objectives. 

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates job growth for computer and IT occupations to be much faster than average, with the expected addition of about 356,700 job openings each year from 2023 to 2033.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Computer science is a broad and diverse field with numerous opportunities for specialization. Cybersecurity is one specialization possibility — it’s a branch or subfield of computer science.^{(See disclaimer 5)}

Computer science professionals typically focus on theoretical research or application in a broad range of areas. For example, they may work on database administration or developing new software features. In contrast, cybersecurity professionals focus sharply on security issues on digital networks and devices.^{(See disclaimer 4)}

Courses for computer science and cybersecurity majors will depend on the school and program. However, it’s likely there will be some overlap, as well as many differences. For instance, a computer science major at Grand Canyon University will teach courses in:

• Programming languages
• Information security
• Database design
• Digital logic and design
• Statistics and probability

Similarly, a cybersecurity major might take courses in statistics and probability, as well as programming languages. However, the focus will be on cybersecurity, including topics such as:

• Analysis of malware
• Ethical hacking
• Algorithms and discrete mathematics
• Digital forensics investigations
• Design and management of secure networks

It’s difficult to draw comparisons between the earning potential of those in computer science vs. cybersecurity, as there are many different job titles within each career field. However, according to the BLS, the median annual wage for computer and information research scientists was $145,080^{(See disclaimer 6)} and for information security analysts were $120,360 as of May 2023, which are interchangeable with cybersecurity and computer science careers.^{(See disclaimer 7)}

There are many degree options to consider. If your goal is cybersecurity, then you may want to pursue a degree in that field. A Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity will introduce you to the fundamental concepts of protecting digital networks, systems and devices. You may also have opportunities to begin building a portfolio of work during hands-on projects for work experience.

Grand Canyon University offers numerous technology and computing degrees to students who are passionate about innovation and technology. If you are still uncertain of what jobs in technology you want to pursue, a bachelor's in computer science can provide a wide variety of emphases. Various computer science programs like big data analytics, business entrepreneurship and game and simulation development can lead to different types of job opportunities.