While there is considerable overlap between IT vs. CS, there are differences to be aware of. The primary difference is that computer science professionals use mathematics and code to develop and improve computer programs. IT professionals install, implement and maintain technology in organizations, ensuring that systems and software run smoothly to meet business needs. While computer science dives into creating software solutions, IT is geared for implementing and managing technology solutions to meet organizational needs.

Computer science is a broad field that focuses on understanding and using algorithmic and mathematical processes that are applied to computer systems. A computer science professional examines computer theory or how computers work. They work in the development of computer systems, programs, operating systems and applications.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Computer scientists design and develop software for end users, embedded systems and IT professionals. They may work on anything from data integration and national defense projects to artificial intelligence (AI) and beyond.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

Information technology addresses the business side of computer science. It focuses on computers and software to store, protect, process, transmit and retrieve data. An information technology professional may work on developing, installing, maintaining and fixing both systems and networks.^{(See disclaimer 1)} 

Information technology majors are taught to identify, create, build and configure complex computing systems and platforms with the intent of solving human and business problems. For example, they may keep a technology up-to-date in order to streamline and protect business operations.

At Grand Canyon University, our computer science degrees focus on the theory behind computing, teaching advanced topics like algorithms and software development. The information technology degrees emphasize practical skills in network management, cybersecurity and IT infrastructure. While both programs typically cover languages like SQL and Java, their core focuses can help you prepare for different career paths, with some overlap in technical skills.

However, some IT-specific jobs can include:^{(See disclaimer 1)}

• Data scientist: This role analyzes data to uncover insights and inform decisions.
• Information security analyst: Their primary role is to protect systems and data from cyber threats
• Computer network architect: Architects design and build data networks, ensuring they are secure, efficient and scalable.
• Computer and information research scientist: This role develops new technologies and algorithms to solve complex computing problems.

Some job options for computer science professionals include:^{(See disclaimer 1)}

• Computer programmer: This role creates codes for software programs.
• Database architect: Database architect’s design, create and manage databases that are used to store and organize large amounts of digital information.
• Computer and information system manager: Their primary duties include planning and maintaining coordinated technologies and ensuring they work together seamlessly.
• Web developer: Developers design and build websites.

A computer science professional may work as a software, web or application developer.^{(See disclaimer 1 )}They may handle tasks such as:^{(See disclaimer 4)}

• Artificial intelligence
• Computer systems and networks
• Security
• Database systems
• Human computer interaction
• Programming languages
• Software engineering
• Bioinformatics
• Theory of computing

Information Technology vs. Computer Science Salary

Due to the diverse range of occupations with information technology and computer science, it's difficult to make a general comparison of salaries across both fields. However, we can compare the median annual wages of specific roles within each to provide a clearer picture.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer programmers had a median annual wage of $99,700 as of May 2023.^{(See disclaimer 2 )}Computer programming is one possible career that a computer science professional might pursue.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

According to the BLS, network and computer system administrators had a median annual wage of $95,360 as of May 2023.^{(See disclaimer 3 )}Working as a computer hardware engineer may be one career goal for a network and computer system administrator.^{(See disclaimer 1)}

The College of Engineering and Technology at GCU strives to inspire creativity and academic excellence. Here, you can choose from numerous STEM degrees, including the Bachelor of Science in Computer Science with an Emphasis in Business Entrepreneurship degree and the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program. To learn more about GCU’s STEM programs, fill out the form on this page to speak with a university counselor.