Computer Science Degree Vs. Self-Taught. Which Path Should I Choose?

Should I go the self-taught route or go to college? That is the question.

Before you choose one path, let me share something with you …

During my coding journey, I enrolled in a Computer Science program, which led me to get my bachelor’s degree in Computer Science. But, it wasn’t always like that. Earlier in my coding journey, I started to learn the basics of web development back in the day, just simple HTML and CSS. Then, I began to dabble into using tools like Dreamweaver 8 and Photoshop.

As I went through this process on my own, I wanted to learn more about computer programming, so, I decided to enroll in a Computer Science degree as the opportunity presented itself.

During this time, I have had the opportunity to test both paths to some extent, and I have gained an insight which I can now share with you. Thus, today, I am going to share some things I learned along the way which you can use to choose which path to choose.

Busting The Myth

In my experience learning how to code and as a computer programming teacher, I have realized that there’s a common misconception that you have only to follow one path to learn how to code. Moreover, that learning how to code has to be a linear process. However, what I have learned through the years is that computer programming evolves rapidly, new programming languages, frameworks, and technologies come out, and it’s always changing constantly. There is something new to learn.

Thus, you don’t have to follow only one path. For instance, you can start learning to code on your own, then complete a Computer Science degree. Then, after graduating, keep learning new technologies on your own and take online courses in your spare time. Or vice versa.

In other words, learning to code does not have to be this strict path that you need to follow and your professional development ends after finishing a degree or an online course, you can keep learning how to code and combine different paths if you want to. I like to view learning how to code as a marathon, not a sprint, it’s a learning process that doesn’t have to be confined to an end, and you can keep evolving as a coder as time goes on.

Nonetheless, I understand that everyone’s life situation is different. Some people have the time and money to enroll in a college degree, some don’t, and that’s fine. Some people have different goals and timelines. On that case, I recommend doing what works for your current situation. Now that we have busted the myth that learning how to code has to be a linear and strict process, I want to share some of the things I saw during my time completing a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science.

If Structure Is Important

One of the critical aspects I noticed while completing the degree was the structure it offered. That is, when you enroll in a Computer Science undergraduate program, you have a curriculum you can follow, and when you finished gathering and completing the requirements, you essentially finished the program. Furthermore, you choose a class schedule every semester and attend class every week, complete assignments, and take exams. After a period of doing this and passing your courses successfully, you obtain the degree.

A benefit I experienced thanks to the structure resulting in completing a bachelor’s degree was the ability to choose my courses every semester and calculate the time it would take for me to finish my degree. That is, I could see how by adjusting my class schedule, I could calculate an estimate of when I could complete my degree, known as an estimated graduation rate.

Thus, if you like having a structure in your life and given a defined plan for you to follow, then I think that enrolling in a Computer Science degree may be appealing to you. Enrolling in a Computer Science degree offers a plan which you can follow to obtain the degree. Other paths include this structure, such as attending a coding bootcamp, which is something you can look into.

Another aspect I noticed of enrolling in a Computer Science program (on campus) is the social aspect. You can study with your classmates, ask them questions and go to the professor’s office if you have any questions. Hence, if you learn better in a classroom setting or like having a support group of people you can reach out to, then attending a classroom environment is something to consider.

If Flexibility Is Important

The main thing I have noticed when learning to code my own is the flexibility that this path offers. I get to choose the textbooks I read, the videos or other resources I use to learn. When teaching yourself, you can select the topics you want to learn, the programming language you prefer and work in the projects you desire. Compared to a Computer Science degree, where you have a plan drawn out for you, when teaching yourself you don’t have that guide to follow.

Another benefit I noticed during my experience is that you can learn at your own pace and time. That is, you don’t have a deadline to hand-in an assignment or a specific deadline for your exam. So, if you need a path that is flexible because you have other obligations such as a family or a full-time job, then self-taught might be an alternative for you.

Conclusion

Learning how to code does not have to be a linear process. New technologies come out, and you may need to keep developing your skills as time goes by.

Now, which path should I choose? You may be asking.

During my journey, I have learned that self-awareness can be a great ally to help guide you on this decision. Being aware of one’s life situation, current resources such as money and time can be factors that can help choose a path. However, remember, you can always try out the other path. You don’t have to be so rigid.

There you have it, things that I have learned through my experience learning to code.

I hope this helps!

Photo by Josh Sorenson from Pexels

Disclaimer: Results may vary. These tips and advice are based on my experience and opinion as a former undergraduate Computer Science student, tutor, teacher, and software developer. Everyone is different, so, the advice shared in this article may or may not work for you.

Originally published at https://yadielcabrera.com.