The field of informatics is an incredibly broad area of study, and it includes everything from the interaction between humans and computers to the processing of information. Informatics is similar in many ways to computer science, but it is generally applied to niche areas like healthcare technology, advances in telecommunications or the area where technology meets fine arts.
If you are interested in technological advances, and you want to bring new machinery and software to a specific field, then an online degree in informatics might be ideal. Learn everything you will need to know about the Bachelor of Science in Informatics below.
What Courses Can I Expect to Take?
On average, students earning their bachelor’s degrees in informatics will study for four years, and they can expect to take anywhere from 35 to 40 different courses during that time. Roughly one-third of these courses will be in general education subjects, which include things like communication, math and ethics. The remainder of the degree program will be made up of courses that relate directly to the field of informatics.
Some of the most common courses to find on your syllabus might include mathematical foundations, social informatics, the infrastructure of data, human-computer interaction, data mining and artificial intelligence.
Who Can Apply For a Degree in Informatics?
Like most bachelor’s degrees, there are some prerequisites that all applicants will have to meet before they can be admitted into the program. These prerequisites are not always set in stone, and they can vary from school to school, so it is important for any potential students to check these out before applying. In general, however, a college will expect students to have a firm grasp of advanced math as well as basic computing, and you will also need to have a high school diploma or the equivalent of a general education degree.
What Are the Benefits of Studying Online?
If informatics sounds like the right fit for you, the next step is to determine whether an online degree or a traditional campus degree is the best option. While there are certainly pros and cons to both options, there is no question that online study is the preferred option for busy students. Instead of having to commute to campus each day, deal with traffic or find parking, all you will have to do is open up your laptop and begin. Plus, online learning can often be more affordable thanks to lower tuition and textbook costs.
What Careers Are Available in the Field of Informatics?
Once you have graduated with a bachelor’s degree in informatics, there will be a range of career opportunities that you can choose to pursue. Many technology firms and software companies are interested in hiring new graduates, and there is also the potential to focus your skills on things like advanced medical technology for surgeries or others areas in healthcare.