Help! BIS vs Computer Science

ElusiveDon

So, I'm trying to fill out my CAO form at the moment but I 'm finding myself in a bit of a quandary between the two courses mentioned above. I'm really interested in business and entrepreneurship and I realize the opportunities being able to program will give me in this regard.

BIS sounded perfect at first - A mix between both business and tech subjects - But then I started to consider the degree in computer science...

Basically, I'm wondering how far ahead computer science grads would be over BIS grads in terms of their ability to code by the end of the course. I don't mean to sound rude, but does BIS have more of those wishy-washy business theory modules than CS? Likewise, would a CS degree have no relation to business and hence be more focused on on pure computer science? I don't exactly want that either.

I'd be glad if someone with experience in either of these courses could shed some light on this. I just don't really know what I'm doing right now. Thanks a million.

Dave47

CS is much more focused on coding but has quite a higher drop out rate too- which is one of the reasons why the year-size was cut. BIS does have more business involved and less coding yes however the employment record for that course is stellar- and there are also post-grad oppurtunities with both - can't go wrong with BIS but if you think you would be particularly good at coding and would enjoy it you should aim for computer science imo :P

ElusiveDon

Thanks a lot for replying! .. I've heard in the past that BIS has an excellent employment record. I think that's just edging out CS at the moment. Do you do any of those two courses yourself? Just wondering how mathematical ability correlates to coding ability on the course?

Again, thanks a million for answering my first few questions.

Dave47

ElusiveDon wrote: »

Thanks a lot for replying! .. I've heard in the past that BIS has an excellent employment record. I think that's just edging out CS at the moment. Do you do any of those two courses yourself? Just wondering how mathematical ability correlates to coding ability on the course?

Again, thanks a million for answering my first few questions.

do a related postgrad. Yes there is a correlation in terms of logic, memory and discipline- probably most like algebra.

To be fair to CS tho you have a higher chance of getter better paid jobs because of increased exposure to software development etc.
if you're particularly good at maths and enjoy the algebra go with the CS I'd say. Only reason I'd discourage some people from it is because it is a tough course with a high-drop out rate, but the rewards are there if you succeed.

ElusiveDon

Thanks a ton again man!
Just one final question, sorry! XD What technical ability would I emerge with after completing a BIS degree? Would I have the ability to build websites and applications to a high standard myself?

Sorry and thanks a million for the last time (I promise)

maughantourig

I'm in CS first year at the moment.

You don't have to be very good at maths, but it helps if you enjoy it. Don't mistake programming as an extension of maths. Its more to do with logic than numerical reasoning.

By far the most important part of CS is the programming. You won't get as much experience of it in BIS, which would make you less capable for software development roles, but far more able for management roles due to alternative modules, (at least that's what they tell us in induction).