BSc Computer Science Subjects Guide

India's IT sector has steadily grown for decades, with computer science degree programmes gaining popularity since the 1980s [1]. Today, the country is among the best places to get computer science degrees, with consistently high-ranking professionals and educational institutions.

If you want a career in computer science, a Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree in computer science subjects is an excellent place to start. From web design to programming to working in IT, a BSc degree in computer science can open the door to plenty of career options.

First, it helps to understand the factors you should know when considering a BSc subjects degree, including the subjects you might take and the specific careers you can pursue after attaining your degree.

What are BSc computer science subjects?

In a BSc computer science programme, you’ll learn about data analysis, information security, programming, web design, and software development. You can typically complete a BSc in computer science in three years with full-time study, but the programme will take longer if you enroll part-time. All the subjects you learn about in this degree help prepare you for a career in computer sciences and IT.  

Some of the BSc computer science subjects you will study include: 

• Operating system principles

• Data structures

• Computer networking

• Numerical analysis

• Database management

• System programming

• Python programming

• Web technology.

Computer science programmes often include a combination of classroom and hands-on learning. You may complete projects, participate in internships, and complete in-person instruction.  Many programmes may heavily emphasise software development to propel India to the forefront of the software, web, and mobile app development market.

What courses can you take?

For a BSc in computer sciences, you will typically take three years of courses specialising in computer-related topics. Universities often conduct these courses through class lectures, internship training, industrial visits, and project work, giving students the most training and experience possible before graduating.

Here’s a breakdown of an example of each year’s syllabus and potential curriculum.

Year one

In the first year, you will focus on beginner topics that will familiarise you with the degree and foundational knowledge of computer science. These courses can include:

• Basics of computer science

• Environmental sciences

• Foundational mathematics

• Computer organisation

• Value and ethics

Year two

In the second year, your classes will be slightly more advanced. These subjects are meant to give learners real-world experience to take into the workforce. Common subjects may include:

• Technical writing

• Data structures

• Introductions to embedded systems

• Java programming

• Numerical analysis

Year three

In the third and final year of the BSc computer science programme, you will conclude your education and summarise everything you’ve learned during your degree. Your third year often includes project work, which helps you practice the skills you’ve learned. These final courses often include:

• System software

• Software engineering

• Python programming

• Introduction to software engineering

• Mobile application development 

Possible BSc computer subject careers

The variety of jobs you can get with computer science degrees is vast. Below are a few jobs you could potentially qualify for with a BSC in computer subjects:

Network security engineer

Average annual IN salary: ₹6,23,633 [2]

Requirements: A bachelor’s degree, preferably in computer science or programming, is required to become a network security engineer. Completing a master’s degree may increase the odds of getting hired or attaining leadership positions.

Network security engineers are in high demand, so it is a great option to look into if you want to pursue a career in computer science. As a network security engineer, you’ll design and maintain security systems on an organisation's networks. You have to protect systems from harmful threats like bugs, hacking, and malware. You may even protect against spyware and other threats while maintaining the organisation’s online integrity.

Information security analyst

Average annual IN salary: ₹8,16,031 [3]

Requirements: Information security analysts typically need a bachelor’s degree in computer science. Related work experience and additional certifications can also give you an extra edge against competitors. 

Information security analysts work for consulting firms, businesses, or computer companies. In this role, your primary job responsibilities include planning security strategies and implementing security measures to protect an organisation’s software from threats. You may monitor computer systems, prepare reports on security breaches, and recommend security upgrades to management. 

Front-end developer 

Average annual IN salary: ₹6,06,000 [4] 

Requirements: Many employers require a front-end developer to have a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field, although it is not always required. Without a degree, you can still get a job if you earn considerable experience through self-learning or a training programme to gain technical experience.

Front-end developers conduct programming work on the user-facing side of websites. For example, you will program what customers or website visitors interact with when they visit a page. To become a front-end developer, you must know HTML coding and JavaScript, as the job is responsible for coding website appearance and functionality.  

Software engineer 

Average annual IN salary: ₹8,00,000 [5]

Requirements: Software engineers generally have three primary options to earn an education. The first is to get a bachelor’s degree in computer science or a related field. The second is to attend a coding bootcamp to learn the required technical skills. The third option is self-directed learning, where you learn the needed skills through educational websites or self-taught programming. 

Software engineers work with computer programs, identifying the core functionality of programs and developing software systems. In this job, you can design programs and work with teams of programmers to test the coding and ensure everything is functional, performing, and secure. You may also work on software upgrades and perform maintenance on programs.

What specialisations are available?

Exactly which career your education leads you to may depend on your specialisation. For instance, if you specialise in software development, you may be more likely to get a job that requires those skills, while specialising in information security could lead you to a position in cybersecurity.

Here are some common specialisations available for those getting their computer science degree:

• Artificial intelligence

• Game design

• Information security

• Computer graphics

• Software engineering

• Systems

• Programming languages

• Data science

What locations can you complete your degree from?

You can complete BSc computer degrees from various locations and with different time commitments. Typical degree structures include full-time in-person BSc computer science programmes, online, and distance modes. Online or distance modes may be available part-time, which often extends the coursework over a longer time.

A full-time degree candidate is generally admitted by merit or entrance exams and follows a time-structured programme, where online BSc computer science courses vary in fees and length. Individual online courses typically take a few months to complete, but some take as little as a few hours, depending on the subject matter. A variety of websites, including Coursera, offer online courses. 

The other option is a distance learning BSc computer science degree. Flexibility is among the chief advantages of this degree programme. It often has the exact requirements as traditional university and college degrees for admissions and in a format that allows for work and school. 

Distance learning formats

Distance learning can take various forms, from entirely online to a hybrid programme where you test in person at testing centres. It is essential to verify with the universities you’re considering to see how they offer admissions tests and methods used for distance learning. You will also want to find out how often classes will meet, especially if you have to travel a significant distance.

Next steps

Ready to explore more? Consider discovering computer science by trying a few courses on Coursera. For example, you can take Rice University’s Specilisation, Fundamentals of Computing, or learn more about computer programming with Princeton University’s course, Computer Science: Programming with a Purpose.