Computer science Definition and 584 Threads

Computer science is the study of algorithmic processes, computational machines and computation itself. As a discipline, computer science spans a range of topics from theoretical studies of algorithms, computation and information to the practical issues of implementing computational systems in hardware and software.Its fields can be divided into theoretical and practical disciplines. For example, the theory of computation concerns abstract models of computation and general classes of problems that can be solved using them, while computer graphics or computational geometry emphasize more specific applications. Algorithms and data structures have been called the heart of computer science. Programming language theory considers approaches to the description of computational processes, while computer programming involves the use of them to create complex systems. Computer architecture describes construction of computer components and computer-operated equipment. Artificial intelligence aims to synthesize goal-orientated processes such as problem-solving, decision-making, environmental adaptation, planning and learning found in humans and animals. A digital computer is capable of simulating various information processes. The fundamental concern of computer science is determining what can and cannot be automated. Computer scientists usually focus on academic research. The Turing Award is generally recognized as the highest distinction in computer sciences.

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  1. D

    Courses Linear Algebra or Computer Science?

    I am going to have two slots available this year for electives and I want to use one of them for Astronomy. For the other, I am struggling to decide between Linear Algebra or Computer Science (CIS 210 at my university) which focuses on Python programming. If I can only choose one, which is more...
  2. P

    Programs Is Double Majoring Worth It for the Love of Learning and Personal Growth?

    For a long time I wanted to get degrees in both mechanical and electrical engineering and I recently heard about double majors. For me it's not as much about jobs I want in the future. I wanted to become an engineer because they are problem solvers. I wanted to invent things and or make them...
  3. C

    How to Implement a Salami Memory Allocator in C?

    Salami Allocator In this warm-up submission you will write a totally trivial allocator: The function init allocator() reserves a given portion of memory for the allocator. Every call to my_malloc() cuts off the requested amount of memory from the remainder of the reserved memory. The call to...
  4. Krishant

    Other Merging Astrophysics and Computer Science

    I am currently a student studying for my degree and I'm 18. My question is that is it possible to pursue Computer Science and Astrophysics simultaneously. As a child I was fascinated with the origin of the universe and wanted to know how everything started and how everything works and later in...
  5. starstruck_

    How to prepare for uni computer science

    Hey! So, I'm starting university this year, going in for a BSc. Physics and Astronomy, and one of my first year courses is computer science for the physical sciences. I do have some coding experience but it's very minimal with html and and Visual Basic, not very good languages. I did well in...
  6. R

    Career advice -- What can I do with a Master's in Theoretical Physics and a Bachelor of Computer Science?

    Hi everyone, What can I do with a master's in theoretical physics and a bachelor of computer science ? I am in Canada, I had to do a master's before a PhD. I just decided to do something else than physics afterwards. I had the opportunity to do a PhD in computer science, in medical imaging...
  7. vinicius0197

    Courses Mechanical Engineer switching to CS or Electrical

    I'm on a sticky situation right here. I have almost completed my third year of a mechanical engineering degree and I'm just now realizing that I would prefer working with embedded systems/software. This happened after I start toying around with an Arduino and learned C and Python for fun's sake...
  8. ramzerimar

    Courses Is CFD fluid mechanics + computer science?

    I'm having fluid dynamics classes right now and I'm enjoying it very much (much more than my solid mechanics classes, by the way). Also, I do like programming and computer science, and CFD looks like a very interesting field. I'm developing a real interest for it. One question for those who are...
  9. ccmetalhead

    Programs Mechatronics or Computer Science?

    Hi. Recently I saw that the Purdue Northwest campus near me is offering a Mechatronics bachelor's degree. Now for the longest time I figured that I wanted to do physics and then I could learn as I go and decide what I want to specialize in later on. I just knew that it was going to be science...
  10. D

    Programs Minor in computer science w/ a Physics major?

    I'm working on a physics major but have been thinking of doing a minor in cs or maybe stats? Would either of these be beneficial or would one be more useful than the other?
  11. Jacob T Anderson

    Programs Should I Double Major in Computer Science & Physics?

    Hello, I really want a major in Computation Physics but I don't think my University has a class. Should I instead go into a double major in Computer Science & Physics? Or should I go into physics at all? I live in Iowa so it's not the best location for jobs in physics.
  12. T

    Biology What type of career areas work with BCIs?

    Hi! I'm interested in learning more about BCIs and the different types of career areas associated with it. I've have a interest in learning about them for commercial use/interaction with everyday objects and was wandering what type of degree/science studies this type of topic/thing... Thanks...
  13. The_Inventor

    C/C++ Creating a simple password program in C++

    So I'm trying to teach myself C++ programming and I'm having trouble writing a password program. Essentially I want to program to ask the user to input a password, and then compare that input with the correct password. If the user input matches the password I want the program to output a message...
  14. M

    Other What kind of jobs are available in deep learning?

    What kind of jobs are available in the field of deep learning? https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Deep_learning
  15. C

    Engineering Should I study Computer Science or Physics in college?

    Hello, I am a high school senior in both IB physics and IB computer science. I have been accepted to college at UNC Chapel Hill next year, and I am trying to decide what to major in. I enjoy learning about physics a lot, but I also love computer science, and it seems like it has more job...
  16. C

    Need advice -- Physics vs. Engineering vs. Computer Science....

    Ok guys here's the deal, I was accepted to UC Santa Barbara, Santa Cruz, waitlisted at UCLA for Physics as a transfer A little background: I know a moderate deal of programming, have taken Assembly Language, OOP, Data and Discrete Structures. What I want to accomplish: Create a successful...
  17. Z

    Admissions Bsc in Physics after Bachelors in Computer Science

    Can anyone tell me if its possible to do a BSc in physics and astronomy after doing bachelor's in computer science? I was looking at applying for a Masters in physics and astronomy but looks like BSc is kind of a must because of the lack of training in physics I have. I looked at schools like...
  18. A

    B Just how Powerful is Computer Science + Astrophysics?

    It seems that for a long time astronomy and cosmology have been based on observation and then speculation. Those two tasks are both very hard on their own, with the observation costing tons of money to be able to produce effective telescopes and observation methods. Speculation is even harder...
  19. Y

    Physics A taste of Physics and Computer Science

    Hello. This is a follow up question of this thread: (https://www.physicsforums.com/threads/confused-between-physics-and-computer-science.884599/page-3) I have always been interested in Physics since high school but I found first year undergraduate Physics very boring and I think I may have...
  20. T

    Engineering Jobs combining programming with hardware?

    Hi, I'm a high school student in a STEM program, and as of now my primary interests have been in Computer Science, Math, and Robotics. Currently, as I research colleges, my intent is to double major in either Math and Computer Science, or in Computer Science and Electrical Engineering. However...
  21. R

    Want to study computer science and do computer engineering

    I am now studying physics( B. Sc.) I want to do computer engineering and want to have in-depth knowledge of comp. Sci.. Because my interest lies there also. So, please do tell me what should I I do now and in the future, now iIam doing my best by learning programming but want to do some other...
  22. BruceW~

    Book suggestions for getting into AI development?

    Hi I'm a freshman in college that is interested in AI, and I wanted to do some independent studies on this subject. Is there some good books I can read to get into AI development, and could you also suggest books for advance developers? Thank you
  23. N

    Programs Switching Fields: Should I finish the major or just switch?

    I'm a sophomore math and physics double major, and I'm losing interest in physics. I still love math (like seriously love), but I honestly don't see myself working in a physics lab or anything. A lot of the modern physics stuff really does not appeal to me at all. I currently plan on switching...
  24. stephen8686

    Other Where should I start with computer science as a high school junior?

    I am a high school junior who has completed the AP Physics C mechanics and E&M courses. I know that further down the road I will need to learn some programming. I have a little bit of time on my hands to get a start on this, but have no experience with computer programming. I have read I should...
  25. N

    Programs Official CS Minor vs. Just Taking CS Courses?

    Hello! I'm a sophomore applied mathematics and physics double major, and I have ~30 credits to spare on any courses I might want to take before I graduate. I'm going use this "extra space" to take computer science courses. I have been programming with Python for several years now and I have...
  26. Sagant

    Real advances in Computer Science?

    Hi, I wanted to start this topic to discuss what are real advances in Computer Science (CS) that actually have contributed to the world, both to sciences and academia, as well as to the industries and common people. Usually, the discoveries on Physics, Engineering, Chemestry and Biology are...
  27. J

    Physics Benefit of a physics minor or major in Computer Science

    I'm currently a Computer Science major, but I'm really into physics and I was wondering if there is any practical benefit to getting a physics minor, or even a major. Is there anyone looking for people with a background in both physics and CS? And would a minor (or even a major) be enough...
  28. LeftMyHeartInErebor

    Courses Choose C++ and Fortran: Advice Needed

    My program only requires that I take C++ or Fortran. It seems like most students I have asked are only taking C++, I'm thinking of doing both. I'm planning on asking my advisor as well, but so far I've been really underwhelmed with my meetings with him. Thoughts? Thanks in advance!
  29. J

    How would one read website content using a program?

    I'm basically looking to find out how I could code a program to read the textual contents of a website (in either batch, dev c++ or powershell script - or a combination) and then search for a specific word, which when found, will trigger a set of commands. It's basically like the findstr command...
  30. starstruck_

    Is this a good plan to pursue astrophysics?

    Hey! I'm a high school senior who has like 6 weeks left to apply to Universities and I really, really, reallyy want to pursue astrophysics, but my parents won't let me. They're forcing me into computer science because it has the best outlook. I tried explaining that my astrophysics degree will...
  31. G

    What program should I learn for physics?

    I am currently a freshman majoring in physics. My professor recommended me using MatLab for computations, but I'm not sure how to teach myself. Next quarter I will be taking Computer science, I think they will be learning C++ ( I do have a bit of experience with C++ and python). I want to learn...
  32. T

    Math Do Math-Intensive Careers in Computer Science Offer Many Industry Opportunities?

    Hello PF, I'm a high school student in a math and science program. I'm currently planning on doing a double major in math and computer science, and I have a couple questions. Firstly, are there areas of computer science that heavily use math and require originality? I understand that most likely...
  33. jamalkoiyess

    Programs Computer science minor for a physics major

    Hello PF, I am a physics sophomore this year and i took a course on java programming as an elective. And i just loved it! Really the harder it became the more i liked it. So i decided that i want to do something about it. But i don't know if a minor or a major is better for a physics major. And...
  34. SuperSusanoo

    Schools Frustrated computer science student

    Hello people, I am currently a computer science student and I think that what I am doing is not making any sense. Everyday I wake up and go to a class that doesn't make any sense to me. I study just to pass a foolish exam. That's not learning. That's not life. The reason why I chose computer...
  35. victorhugo

    I What computer science would you need for astrophysics?

    when they say c.s., do they mean a coding language? if so, which one(s)?
  36. Firedog89

    Programs Software Engineering or Computer Science degree?

    I wanted to know which one was better for finding jobs and salary wise or are both pretty much the same. Computer Science or Software Engineering degree? Also would anyone recommend getting the degree online?
  37. Z

    Programs Best minor for a Mechanical Engineering student?

    At the university I'm planning on transferring to in a year I pretty much have to take a bunch of technical electives which can come from any STEM department. For example, I could take a bunch of theoretical physics classes that will count towards my degree or I can take more ME classes that...
  38. Z

    Programs Associates in ME to bachelors in CS

    So I've been perusing this associates in ME for the past year and I have one year left until I'm finished. I was thinking about continuing my education in ME at a university but I just recently found an interest in computer science. I've always liked computers, I even programmed a little when I...
  39. Y

    Other Confused between Physics and Computer Science

    Hello! I am a first year student studying Physics. I chose Physics because I really like it. But now that my classes have started, Physics seems a little more demanding than what I previously had in mind. I am also keenly interested in Computer Science. So, I can't decide between the two...
  40. Alexandros101

    Programs Physics/CS DMajor, for a career in Aerospace?

    I want to get into Aerospace engineering, so I am thinking of doing: B.A. in Physics/CS (hopefully if I get accepted in UChicago) then an M.S. in Aerospace Engineering (hopefully in Stanford/GTech/MIT/CalTech) Is the double major I am thinking of poor if I want to do an Aero M.S. next? Would...
  41. T

    Complementary courses for computational physics?

    Hello, I've recently finished my M.S. in Theoretical Physics/Astrophysics, and am interested in finding a career in research via computer simulations, however, my school touched very little on technical aspects of such research. So my question is : does anyone have any suggestions for...
  42. T

    Programs Need help deciding what to major in.... Want a career in AI

    I wanted to study physics when I was younger... took physics in high school and didn't enjoy it at all... kinematics is boring. And now when I look at physics subjects it's not as interesting as it used to be... like optics and waves(yawn) only thing that truly interested is astrophysics which...
  43. A

    Schools Can I get into grad school with such a low GPA

    Hey, I'm an Electrical and Computer Engineering senior, studying at the American University of Beirut, one of the top schools in the region. I have recently realized that I really want to go to graduate school and study theoretical computer science, however, due to a general lack of motivation...
  44. L

    Programs Joint Degree in Computer Science and Physics.

    Hello,I just graduated from high school and i will be starting university in fall 2016 at the University of Manitoba in Canada. They have a joint degree program in physics and computer science which is a program I'm considering since, I enjoy studying about both disciplines. I would like your...
  45. mr.tea

    Courses What courses are necessary for a math student interested in CS?

    Hi, I am a math major student. I am interested in the theory of computer science and I would like to go to this direction in graduate school. So I need some advice about what courses of computer science I should do, and what courses of mathematics I can ignore. My program has a lot of freedom...
  46. nikirock021

    Computer engineering or computer science?

    Hi guys. I'm a junior in high school and am debating on which field to pursue. I know it's a bit early for me but I've always wanted to go into a career with computers and just wanted some help. I'm sure similar questions have been asked before but if you would be so kind as of to answer some of...
  47. Leonarte

    Programs From CS: a MSc, or another degree?

    Hey guys, So, I have been reading the forum for quite a time now. I am confused on what to do next in my academic life, and came here to ask your assistance. I'm from Brazil, so we have to consider that the University system here is a bit different. By the end of this year I'll graduate from...
  48. Svein

    Insights Reflections on Product Quality - Comments

    svein submitted a new PF Insights post Reflections on Product Quality Continue reading the Original PF Insights Post.
  49. G

    Studying How Can I Learn Coding Before College Without Spending a Lot of Money?

    I am a sophomore and I want to learn coding before I start college. I don't have much money and I need to know what resources I could use to learn a language. I have tried free online sites and apps but the abstract nature of the teaching and the lack of "real" coding makes me lose interest...
  50. S

    Diagonal Winning Strategies in Connect 4: Help Needed!

    Homework Statement When I try and play it, it says that the Index out of range system was unhandled. I am pretty sure it is the j loop. Please help. In the game Connect 4, you can win diagonally, the grid is 6 squares down and 7 across. (5 positions down, 6 positions across including 0.)...
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