This blog post introduces key course content, career paths, and foundational knowledge that can help high school students interested in computer science before they choose their major.
High school students often agonize over choosing a major before entering university. This is because they typically study only core subjects like Korean, Math, Science, and English, lacking knowledge about diverse academic fields. While universities offer many majors, this article focuses on providing information for students interested in Computer Science.
When thinking about computer science departments, vague questions like “What do they learn in computer science?” often arise. However, courses in computer science departments have clear objectives and roles for each lecture. There are several particularly important courses for beginners new to computers, which can be broadly categorized into four types.
First, there are theoretical courses suitable for students new to computer science who are just starting to learn about computers. Since most students entering computer science departments either didn’t learn computers properly in high school or didn’t learn them at all, becoming familiar with computers from the start is crucial. These courses cover the history of computers, their basic structure, and fundamental programming theory, tailored to a beginner’s level. Through these lectures, students build a foundation of basic computer knowledge, preparing them for the more advanced major courses that follow.
Second, there is a course dedicated to learning programming principles, which can be considered the core of computer science. This course deepens understanding of programming through various programming assignments. These assignments are closely tied to real-life scenarios, allowing students to experience the purpose and importance of programming firsthand. For example, students learn about the algorithms Google uses to display the most relevant pages at the top of search results, or the programs major manufacturers employ for product authentication. These assignments spark students’ interest in programming and make it more accessible.
Third, the Data Structures course teaches algorithms that abstract data used in programming and enable efficient processing of operations. Algorithms refer to rules or procedures for problem-solving, teaching students how to manage and store vast amounts of information. For example, when processing information related to bus route maps, students learn how to effectively manage and store numerous bus stops and bus numbers. This data structures course is a crucial learning process that elevates programming skills to the next level.
Finally, there is a class on electrical circuits used in electronic devices. This course teaches efficient circuit design methods to reduce power consumption and shorten execution time in electronic devices. Since computers are also composed of electrical circuits, this class covers fundamental electrical circuits and logic structures. By combining basic “And, Or, Not” logic structures, one can implement various electronic devices, from simple clocks to complex computers. Furthermore, students gain a deeper understanding of how electronic circuits operate by designing circuits themselves and practicing soldering.
Computer engineering is an essential cutting-edge discipline in the modern IT era. Since the invention of the Turing machine in 1936, computer engineering has undergone remarkable advancements. Concepts from computer engineering are applied indispensably, ranging from everyday technologies like smartphones and automobiles to advanced fields such as big data and supercomputing.
High school students aspiring to pursue STEM fields may not have much interest in computer science departments and might feel uncertain about their future career paths. However, even if you lack knowledge about computer science majors before entering university, this article will be helpful. After enrolling in a computer engineering program, diligently completing the courses mentioned above will be immensely beneficial. It will allow you to understand how computer engineering is applied and evolving across diverse fields. This understanding will help you establish a clear direction for your career path and make your academic journey smoother.
