What is Information Technology (IT)?
Information technology (IT) generally involves maintaining computer systems, hardware, software, and networks related to data processing and distribution. These account for components or hardware such as servers and routers, as well as applications that enable communication across several networks and the Internet as a whole.
Previously, the major focus of those in the IT field has been on developing, installing, monitoring, and troubleshooting computers and networking components. In recent years, the scope of IT has expanded beyond desktop computers, switches, routers, and access points. IT now manages a plethora of linked user devices as well as a growing and diverse collection of connected Internet of Things (IoT) devices such as cameras, door locks, thermostats, machine monitoring controls, televisions, and even air conditioners.
What is Computer Science?
Computer Science is the study of computers and computational systems. The field of Computer Science entails the usage of algorithms in codes as well as how mathematical processes apply to computer systems. It is the process of building useful computer applications and programmes in order to generate new methods of transferring information.
Professionals in this sector typically concentrate on software and operating systems in order to create codes and solve problems with computers. A Computer Science degree teaches students about data storage and retrieval, algorithms, computation, and software development. This allows students to comprehend how computers work and create a programme or operating system to make them work. Many computer science programmes include maths, programming, electronics, physics, and other engineering electives.
IT Major
- Cloud Engineering
Cloud Engineering is an IT Major which applies cloud computing technologies along with networking technologies and structures for the strategic management of cloud-based information systems in organisations. This major is quite in demand considering how most corporations are opting for digitised options in storing data.
- Internet of Things
A simple definition of Internet of Things (IoT) is devices (excluding laptops and smartphones) which are connected to the Internet, such as a smartwatch or kitchen appliances like a Thermomix. An IT student majoring in the Internet of Things (IoT) will grasp key concepts relating to sensor devices, internet-based technologies, wireless communications, and cloud computing.
- Sustainable Computing
Sustainable Computing could be understood as a field which ensures energy-efficient and environmentally friendly technologies. These goals are achieved through thorough comprehension on environmental impact of technologies, responsible data management, integration of sustainable practices, and advocating for these practices.
- Digital Transformation
Digital Transformation is the integration of digital technologies into all aspects of business operations. This includes knowing how to leverage technology to deliver new products and services, improve existing products and services, and expedite procedures. Those pursuing a Digital Transformation major would gain knowledge and skills on digital leadership, marketing, analytics, and finance.
- Financial Technology
Financial Technology, sometimes known as FinTech, is a field of Information Technology relating to technologies which are developed with the aim of either improving, modifying, or automating financial services for business or consumers. These technologies are prevalent in our daily lives. For instance, mobile banking, peer-to-peer services, and even cryptocurrencies.
Computer Science Major
- Cybersecurity
Cybersecurity is a specialised field under Computer Science focusing on mitigating and protecting computers, servers, devices, systems, and networks from cyber attacks or cyber criminals. Students will learn technical knowledge and skills related to designing and organising computer systems focusing on cybersecurity.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Generally, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a major which blends Computer Science and large datasets to solve problems. In another way, AI algorithms are used to develop expert systems, programs, or machines that make predictions or classifications based on input data. The emergence of generative AI has made it significant for students to pursue an AI major under Computer Science.
- Data Science
With the increase of large and robust data in companies and corporations, Data Science has become a largely significant field for Computer Science. It is a fusion of maths, statistics, advanced analytics, specialised programming, AI, and machine learning to uncover insights from data for the purpose of strategic planning and future decision making for the corporation, company, or client.
- Data Analytics
Similar to Data Science, Data Analytics is a field utilising multidisciplinary specialisations to generate insights of a corporation, company, or client. One of the major differences is that Data Analytics is focused on making informed decisions of the present whereas Data Science is focused on future strategies. Students will learn concepts comprising the four types of Data Analytics, which are, Descriptive, Diagnostic, Predictive, and Prescriptive Analytics.
- Digital Forensics
Digital Forensics is a subject area which combines Computer Science and legal forensics to investigate digital evidence and traces of cyber crime. As time passes, Digital Forensics is not only limited to cyber crimes on computers and devices but has extended to IoT devices such as smart cars. This circumstance allows for investigators to not be limited to traditional methods of investigations.
IT vs Computer Science
Information Technology | Description | Computer Science |
In the field of Information Technology which generally deals with network infrastructures, data storage, cloud administrations, these skills will help in your career – software knowledge, analytical thinking, and the knowledge of technological trends. | Common Skills | In the field of Computer Science which typically deals with softwares, websites, and application developments, these skills are generally beneficial in your career – analytical thinking, creativity, strong mathematical skills, and detail-oriented. |
Professionals in the IT field are placed in a wide variety of industries because of how integrated lives are with technologies. A general entry-level IT career might have less strict requirements.Though this depends on the pursued career. | Job Opportunities | Professionals of Computer Science are highly sought after due to the dependency on technologies in society and corporations. Entry-level jobs typically start with a higher salary as compared to entry-level IT careers. |
IT is more grounded in maintaining the operation of technologies, computers, networks, or systems to ensure smooth functionings of machinery and organisations. | Career Scope | Computer Science is more grounded in broadly working with programming languages or data in developing technologies or products. |
Those in IT would typically collaborate with others in technological problem-solving. | Professional Setting | Those in the Computer Science field usually work behind-the-scenes in developing computer software. |
Computer Technician, Cloud Architect, Systems Administrator, Database Administrator | General Career Options | Data Scientist, Web Developer, Software Engineer, Programmer |
General entry requirement to study IT and Computer Science
Academic Entry
Academic Entry | Minimum Score |
Foundation | CGPA 2.00 |
Diploma | CGPA 2.50 in an ICT-related Diploma |
STPM | 2Cs with CGPA 2.0 with credit in SPM / O-Level Mathematics |
UEC | 5B with Additional Mathematics or Mathematics |
A-Levels | Pass with minimum EE |
Australian Matriculation (ATAR) | 55 |
IB Diploma | 24 in 6 subjects |
Note: Universities may have different requirements. To learn more, get in touch with us!
English Language Entry Requirement
Entry Level | Minimum Score |
IELTS | Pass |
MUET | Pass |
TOEFL | Pass |
Note: Universities may have different English Language requirements. To learn more, get in touch with us!
Universities to study IT/Computer Science in Malaysia
1. Taylor's University
Taylor’s University is a top-performing institution globally renowned for its consistent top rankings throughout the years. Through its initiatives, one being Taylor’sphere, a diverse and well-balanced campus community is developed alongside experienced lecturers, international partnerships, and a wide range of offered programmes.
Taylor’s School of Computer Science is recognised by Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC) as the preferred university for Digital Technology courses, offering comprehensive modules through progressive hands-on approaches, participation in competitions, industrial partnerships and attachment.
Programme Offered | Duration | Intake | Indicative Fees (2023) |
Bachelor of Information Technology (Honours) Major options:
| 3 Years | February, April, September | Local Students: RM 112,694 International Students: USD 29,503 |
Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) Major options:
| 3 Years | February, April, September | Local Students: RM 112,694 International Students: USD 29,503 |
Contact us right now for a free consultation if you’d like more details about the costs, the format of the programme, and the entry requirements!
2. Asia Pacific University (APU)
Asia Pacific University of Technology and Innovation (APU), a highly regarded university in Malaysia, encourages the integration of technology, innovation, and creativity into its academic programmes and enriching learning experiences to generate graduates who are capable, adaptable, and employable.
APU is famed for their top-notch digital programmes belonging to their established school, with specialised and industry relevant courses. APU was also awarded the Premier Digital Tech University status by the Malaysia Digital Economy Corporation (MDEC), making it an exceptional choice for school-leavers looking to pursue careers relating to the digital world.
Programme Offered | Duration | Intake | Indicative Fees (2023) |
Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Information Technology | 3 Years | March, July, September, November | Local Students: RM 98,300 International Students: RM 99,500 (USD 22,610) |
BSc (Hons) in Computer Science | 3 Years | March, July, September, November | Local Students: RM 98,300 International Students: RM 99,500 (USD 22,610) |
Note: Courses under APU’s Computer Science and Information Technology programmes offer a range of specialisms. For more information, get in touch with us!
Contact us right now for a free consultation if you’d like more details about the costs, the format of the programme, and the entry requirements!
3. INTI International University & College (INTI)
A prominent private higher education provider in Malaysia, INTI International University and College offers its students individualised education tailored to their particular industry and field, including courses in Computer Science and Information Technology.
The Computing and Information Technology faculty of INTI collaborates with notable companies in the digital technology space, including IBM and cisco. Through these agreements, INTI graduates can gain an additional advantage for their job aspirations, differentiating themselves as professional candidates when they enter the digital technology field.
Programme Offered | Duration | Intake | Indicative Fees (2023) |
Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons) | 3 Years | January, May, August | Local Students: RM 76,238 International Students: RM 76,238 |
Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons) Major options:
| 3 Years | January, May, August | Local Students: RM 78,036 International Students: RM 78,036 |
Bachelor of Computer Science (3+0) | 3 Years | March, August | Local Students: RM 86,900 International Students: RM 86,900 |
Contact us right now for a free consultation if you’d like more details about the costs, the format of the programme, and the entry requirements!
4. USCI University & College (UCSI)
UCSI University, which has a long history of excellence in teaching and learning, is rapidly becoming known for its contributions to research and innovation in higher education. Since its founding, the university has distinguished itself with a proven track record of delivering top-notch education with over 150 programmes.
UCSI’s Institute of Computer Science and Digital Innovation (ICSDI) was founded with the goals of advancing innovation through technology and ensuring that its graduates are prepared to face a variety of difficulties not only today, but also in the future. Their Information Technology Programme offered by UCSI College allows an opportunity for you to do your studies at University of the West of England, Bristol.
Programme Offered | Duration | Intake | Indicative Fees (2023) |
BSc (Hons) Information Technology | 3 Years (2+1) | January, May, September | Local Students: RM 46,200 International Students: RM 55,902 |
Bachelor of Computer Science (Honours) | 3 Years | January, May, September | Local Students: RM 70,070 International Students: RM 80,320 |
Note: Fee under UCSI’s Information Technology Programme is indicative of Year 1 & 2. Year 3 fees depend on the partner university. For more information, get in touch with us!
Contact us right now for a free consultation if you’d like more details about the costs, the format of the programme, and the entry requirements!
5. Multimedia University (MMU)
Multimedia University (MMU) is the oldest and first ever full-fledged private university in Malaysia. It is a government-linked university owned by Telekom Malaysia with campuses located in Cyberjaya and Melaka. Offering state-of-the-art undergraduate and graduate degrees in many fields including Computer Science and Information Technology.
Their Computer Science and Information Technology programmes are offered under both their Faculty of Computing & Informatics (FCI) and Faculty of Information Science & Technology (FIST) which assimilate industry relevant curriculums alongside qualified lecturers, strong collaborations, and conducive environments.
Programme Offered | Duration | Intake | Indicative Fees (2023) |
Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons.) Security Technology | 3 Years | March, July, October | Local Students: RM 62,250 International Students: RM 77,250 |
Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons.) Business Intelligence and Analytics | 3 Years | March, July, October | Local Students: RM 62,250 International Students: RM 77,250 |
Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons.) Data Communications and Networking | 3 Years | March, July, October | Local Students: RM 62,250 International Students: RM 77,250 |
Bachelor of Information Technology (Hons.) Information Systems | 3 Years | March, July, October | Local Students: RM 62,250 International Students: RM 77,250 |
Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons.) Major options:
| 3 Years | March, July, October | Local Students: RM 62,250 International Students: RM 77,250 |
Bachelor of Computer Science (Hons.) Artificial Intelligence | 3 Years | March, July, October | Local Students: RM 62,250 International Students: RM 77,250 |
Contact us right now for a free consultation if you’d like more details about the costs, the format of the programme, and the entry requirements!
About The Author
Hannah Hir
Hannah appreciates various art forms, especially Asian literature, film and music. Most of her favorite Malaysian kuihs are green-coloured.