What's the Difference?

This page is based on the research of Jack McNally, Graduate student in KU's CSIT Master's program

Computer Science

Learn programming and computing fundamentals to engineer and develop new systems

Information Technology

Engage in key aspects of information technology fundamentals, including cyber security, networking, database management, systems integration, and data analytics.

Game Development

Engage with interdisciplinary, multimedia skillsets through a programming-oriented curriculum to learn the game development workflow

Course Comparison

Computer Science

Greater Math requirements
- Calc 1 and Linear Algebra
Programming focused
More foundational concepts
Operating Systems
Compilers
Debugging
More focused on building/engineering new systems
Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

Information Technology

Less Math requirements
- College Algebra
Server focused concepts
Cybersecurity
Networking
Database Management
Systems Integration
Data Analytics
Multimedia and Scientific Programming
Web Development Overlap
DevOps
Software Development Life Cycle (SDLC)

Game Development

Some Math
- Trigonometry, Pre-Calculus, or Calculus 1 required
Fine Arts overlap
Writing
Storytelling
Graphic Design
Animation
Multimedia
Game Development Life Cycle (GDLC)

Career Options

Computer Science

Software Developer

Front-end Developer

Back-end Developer

Full Stack Developer

Systems Designer

Systems Analyst

Quality Assurance Analyst

Information Technology

DevOps Engineer

Cybersecurity Expert/Specialist

Systems Administrator

Database Administrator

Data Analyst

Network Architect

Cloud Computing

Database Manager

Game Development

Game Designer

Level Designer

AI Programmer

Concept Artist

Environment Artist

Asset Artist

Gameplay Animator

VR developer

VR & AR training applications

VR software for therapy purposes

Gamification applications