Dear UNNES friends, in this digital age, computer-related majors are indeed very popular. However, prospective students are often caught in a big dilemma: “I like computers, but should I choose Computer Engineering or Information Systems?”
Be careful, friends. Although both majors involve coding and computers, they have different “DNA.” Choosing one that doesn’t match your interests can make your college years feel like a struggle.
To help you make a confident decision, let’s break down the crucial differences between Computer Science (CS) and Information Systems (IS).
1. Main Focus
This is the most fundamental difference you need to understand.
- Computer Engineering (The Creator): Focuses on the technical aspects of “how to make technology work.” You will delve into advanced programming logic, complex algorithms, and artificial intelligence. The goal is to create efficient and sophisticated software.
- Information Systems (The Bridge): Focuses on “how technology adds value to business.” The Information Systems major is a bridge between the world of technology and the world of business management. You learn coding, but you also learn management, accounting, and business processes. The goal is to create technological solutions that solve company problems.
2. Course Material: Coding vs Business
- In Computer Science: Your daily diet consists of discrete mathematics, calculus, data structures, machine learning, and operating systems. Coding is very dominant and in-depth.
- In Information Systems: You will still learn programming languages (such as Java or Python) and databases, but not as deeply as Computer Science students. Instead, you will take courses such as IT Project Management, E-Commerce, Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP), and Business Process Analysis.
3. Suitable Student Types
- Choose Computer Science if: You are an introvert who is comfortable spending hours in front of a screen debugging, enjoy strong mathematical logic, and want to become a pure technical expert.
- Choose Information Systems if: You like technology but also enjoy interacting with people (clients/managers), have good communication skills, and are interested in the world of management or startups.
4. Career Prospects: Specialist vs. Analyst
- IT Graduates: Typically become Software Engineers, Full Stack Developers, AI Specialists, or Cyber Security Analysts.
- IS Graduates: Have career prospects as System Analysts, IT Consultants, Business Analysts, Project Managers, or Technopreneurs. IS graduates are highly sought after because they can “speak” two languages: technical language to programmers and business language to bosses.
Information Systems Program at UNNES
Dear UNNES friends, the Information Systems Program at Semarang State University (UNNES) is under the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences (FMIPA).
The strength of UNNES’s Information Systems program lies in its curriculum, which is adaptable to the needs of Industry 4.0, combining computational power with sharp business analysis. Students are encouraged to not only become workers, but also innovators who are capable of designing strategic information systems for organizations.
It’s Time to Make Your Choice in SNBP!
Dear UNNES friends, the above analysis will only be useful if you take immediate action. Right now, we are at a crucial moment for eligible 12th grade students.
SNBP Registration Period: February 3–18, 2026
Don’t let this golden opportunity to enter your favorite major slip away just because you procrastinate on registration.
Your Path to Success:
- Make Up Your Mind: Are you Team IT (Technical) or Team IS (Management & Technical)?
- Access the SNBP Portal: Log in immediately and select your desired program of study at UNNES.
- Finalize: Ensure your data is locked (finalized) before February 18, 2026.
Become the bridge to the nation’s technological future. We await you at Universitas Negeri Semarang!
