Best Computer Science Courses for CPD

Over the past 30 years, computer scientists have transformed the way that we communicate and the spread of information around the world, as well as the way we run our everyday lives. In this article, we will provide a brief overview about computer science CPD courses, including the benefits of online training, and the potential career paths for professionals.

What is computer science?

Computer science is the study of computers and computing concepts. Generally speaking, the field of computer science is a subject that spans several core areas: computer theory, hardware systems, software systems, and scientific computing. Some higher education institutions may use computer science (CS) as an umbrella term to cover various specialist and vocational degrees involving computers and technology.

Why is computer science important?

Computer science is a dynamic and rapidly growing sector that has become an integral part of the technology-dependent world that we live in today. At its core computer science is about understanding how and why technologies work, exploring how technology could solve real-life problems, and the effects of technology on society and the individual.

As businesses become more dependent on IT in the digital era, the need for computer scientists increases. Because of computers, we’ve been able to improve our communication, transportation, food production, overall standard of living, and contributed to many other areas of innovation. There’s not an industry out there that isn’t using data and computer technology to some extent on a daily basis.

At a fundamental level, Computer science shows us how to create, not simply use, new technologies. Knowledge in this field provides us with a deeper understanding of theories to develop cutting-edge solutions that address today’s challenges - from predicting natural disasters, mapping viral outbreak patterns, to improving our health care system and making education more accessible.

This constant development of new technologies means that there’s always a strong and growing demand for computer science skills. A need to be proficient with computers and other technology is crucial if you want to continue to succeed in the modern workplace. The fundamental knowledge gained through CPD computer science courses can help prepare professionals for the 21st century, regardless of their ultimate field of study or occupation.

How can computer science courses help my career?

Computer technologies are integral to modern life, so you’re likely to find your computer science skills in high demand across many different industries. Everything from finance and banking, gaming and mobile applications, to healthcare and security all require the specialist skills of professional computer scientists.

Computer Science courses place a strong emphasis on the technical and transferable skills that will enable you to thrive in a sector that is constantly evolving. The required computational and critical thinking skills are both applicable and in-demand across practically every industry, and the many tech skills provided with a computer science CPD training course can lead to a wide range of fulfilling and rewarding careers.

Areas such as cyber security and artificial intelligence, for example, have a shortage of skilled workers and so there are numerous exciting career opportunities. Other Industries looking for talented programmers include government, healthcare, agriculture/agritech, education, machine learning and financial services.

These are just some careers you could go into:

• Applications developer
• Information Technology Consultant
• Systems Analyst
• Data analyst
• Game Developer
• Web Developer
• Software Engineer
• Cyber Security Consultant
• Finance Programmer

Why take an online course in computer science?

As technology continues to evolve and the use of computers makes it easier to learn new subjects remotely, it makes perfectly logical sense to look at the option to study computer science courses online or distance learning. Online CPD computer science courses are designed to provide a broad foundation of the core subjects, which you can later build upon throughout your career.

A key benefit of an online computer science course is the flexibility it allows. You'll be able to build a customised route within computer science, following a pathway into one of several computing areas to suit your interests. CPD courses are designed support knowledge obtained as part of a qualification, or to widen general knowledge related to your specialism.

Common routes into computer science usually involve being taught the basics of coding and programming first. From there, you can use these skills in more in depth topics of computer science, such as software and game design. You may also use an online computer science course to further existing programming skills, or explore the latest tech trends like digital marketing and AI. Just be aware that computer science is a technical subject; you will need mathematical ability, a logical mind and a genuine interest in how computers work to succeed.

Some of the key benefits of studying an online computer science course are:

• Develop the skills employers are looking for
• Gain extensive tech experience
• Get ahead in the graduate jobs market
• Increase your current and future earning potential

How to choose the right computer science course

To get started, it can be useful to undertake a wide range of offline and online computer science courses to improve your knowledge or skills, with the best computer science training courses providing a full array of different subjects, topics and technology aspects.

You can find courses that cover all aspects of modern computer science and specialised computer science topics, laying the foundations for your success in a rapidly changing environment. The best computer science courses will provide a solid foundation that will not only last throughout your career, but will be useful in a wide range of different work positions across companies.

It is really up to you to decide which courses are most relevant to your career and the area you want to specialize in within your industry. Many of our CPD providers offer a wide range of computing and IT courses to help you reach your personal and professional goals. All of our CPD provider’ courses, and those listed on our Courses Catalogue, have been reviewed and approved to ensure that the training offered is robust and fit for purpose.

Within the Information Technology CPD Industry Hub, you can find a full scope of IT and computer science CPD providers and training covering a range of subjects. Course topics include everything from data science, AI and cyber security, web design and learning to code, starting with the Java programming language, which is widely used in the industry.

Become an accredited computer science CPD training provider

The CPD Certification Service was established in 1996, and is the largest and leading independent CPD accreditation organisation working across all industry sectors. Thousands of CPD training courses, events, e-learning programs, conferences, workshops and seminars are formally CPD certified by us every year. Gaining CPD accreditation for your computer science or technology courses is a simple process that helps ensure your training meets the desired requirements to be suitable for Continuing Professional Development.

We hope this article on computer science courses was helpful. If you are a training provider in the technology or computer science sector and are looking for information on how to become a CPD provider please contact our team to discuss in more detail.