Hussam
What language is the basis for computer science majors?
I just want to know what language I should focus on before I start school next fall. #computer-science #computer #computer-engineering
4 answers
Brett Leedy
Brett’s Answer
I'm pretty sure this question depends on your intended school. When I was in school a while ago, most CS majors were programming in C/C++ or Java. With modern web technology, there are a lot of opportunities out there for Java developers who understand computer science fundamentals.
The fact is, your college will teach you some language to get you to learn how computer languages work, not to get good at that one language. I think you'll find that the most important thing you learn in school as a CS major is how to structure code, what efficiency means, and how to solve problems. All of that stuff is separate from knowing any one language.
You might even find that you need to learn a brand new language after you leave school! The way you apply the language is the important part that you take away.
Nir Krawczyk
Nir’s Answer
Jeff Sloan
Jeff’s Answer
Hi Hussam.
It's great that you want to get a leg up on college!
Check your university catalog for the Introduction to Computer Science class. The description should specify which language they use. Most universities use either C++ or Java as the first language. Since they are similar, you can pick either one to begin your studies.
Brett is correct. Primarily you learn how to program. When you learn the basics of one language, the second language is easier. Back in the stone age, when I graduated with a BS CS degree, I developed code in 20 different languages from microcode and assembly to high level languages. I was hired to work in a language that I had never seen. They figured that the 21 language would be easy for me to pick up and it was.
Best of luck and start working on learning a language. It will help!
James Constantine Frangos
James Constantine’s Answer
Diving into the world of computer science, you'll find C++ as a cornerstone language. It's the launchpad for many computer science majors, laying the foundation for understanding the intricacies of programming.
C++ is a robust and adaptable language, celebrated for its efficiency, speed, and adaptability. It's a go-to tool in computer science, used in a myriad of applications ranging from system software and game development to high-performance applications.
The language's reputation for high performance makes it a popular choice for software development where speed and efficiency are paramount. C++'s features, such as object-oriented programming, memory manipulation, and low-level manipulation, make it a must-learn language for any budding computer science major. Moreover, it's often used as a teaching tool for vital computer science concepts like data structures and algorithms.
While C++ is a common springboard for computer science majors, keep in mind that programming language preferences can vary based on the specific curriculum of your educational institution. Some schools may also introduce students to languages like Python or Java as part of their computer science programs. However, a solid grounding in C++ can equip students with a comprehensive understanding of programming principles that can be transferred across different languages and technologies.
In summary, while computer science involves a spectrum of programming languages, C++ stands out as a fundamental building block for computer science majors, thanks to its performance, versatility, and foundational concepts.
Top 3 Authoritative Reference Publications or Domain Names Used in Answering this Question:
Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) - ACM is a globally recognized organization that publishes a wealth of resources on computer science and information technology.
Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) - IEEE is a leading publisher of scientific journals, conferences, and standards in the fields of electrical engineering, computer science, and electronics.
Stanford University Computer Science Department - Stanford University’s Computer Science Department provides authoritative information on computer science education and curriculum requirements.
Note: The sources provided valuable insights into the programming languages commonly used as a basis for computer science majors.
May God bless you,
James.