MOOCs vs Computer Science Degrees

Choosing how to get your computer science education is a big decision. You want to get an education that will help you make more money, and you don’t want to waste time by going with the wrong choice. Once you look at the difference between MOOCs and computer science degrees, you will be ready to take the plunge.

Informative Available

Computer science majors typically learn an overview of programming and design, but they don’t pop the hood and take a close look at all of the components. On the other hand, MOOCs provide detailed, action-oriented lessons that teach you everything there is to know about programming. You learn all the details of operating systems, programming language, and more. By the time you are finished, you feel like an expert and are ready to apply your skills to the working world.

Unfortunately, a lot of people with computer science degrees are far from ready to take on jobs. They quickly realize they don’t know nearly as much as they thought they did when they graduated from the university.

Nontechnical Skills

When you think of computer science, you are likely focused on the technical skills you need to thrive. The technical skills are very important, but you also have to learn nontechnical skills, such as empathy and listening. These skills will help you succeed in the working world. MOOCs put a lot of emphasis on these skills, which prepares you for your job once you finish the program. Most colleges do not, though, so it will be up to you to refine your nontechnical skills on your own, which likely means you’ll be learning on the job.

Learning on the job is very stressful, and can lead to early termination. You need to show up prepared on your first day, or your employer might have to let you go.

Getting a Job

Your end goal is getting a job, and MOOCs are better equipped to help you accomplish that. MOOCs help you build a portfolio, network, and prepare for interviews, while most colleges do not. If you want to hit the ground running and head right into a new career, it makes more sense to go with an MOOC. Otherwise, you will spend a lot of time getting everything in line so you can get a job after you graduate.

Any type of degree or certificate you get in computer science will help you, but MOOCs have a clear advantage when it comes to excelling in the working world. If you want to graduate, get a job, and move up the ladder, it makes sense to go with an MOOC. Contact us if you want to go through our Ruby on Rails Bootcamp.