Computer Science Careers
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Have you ever thought about pursuing a career in technology? As a broad and rapidly evolving field, computer science offers many exciting jobs with competitive pay rates that cater to various skill sets.
Computer science continues to expand with new technological advancements, creating a continuous need for skilled professionals. There is high demand in this field, especially in cybersecurity, data science, and artificial intelligence. Each role requires specific skills and certifications to thrive in the competitive tech marketplace.
Read on to learn more about the computer science discipline and its career prospects.
Featured Online Bachelor’s Programs in Computer Science
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Is Computer Science?
Computer science is all about studying computers and how they work. There are many sub-areas, such as machine learning, natural language processing, computing systems, networking, operating systems, and AI. The field also investigates how people interact with computers (i.e., human-computer interaction).
Mathematics plays a vital role in computer science, which requires a strong foundation in abstract reasoning, critical thought, and logical deduction. Computer scientists use algorithms, coding procedures, and programming skills to study computer processes and develop new software and systems. Knowing this, it is unsurprising that computer science is a key part of STEM.
Some may confuse computer science with computer engineering, but they’re actually different. Computer science is all about studying computers as a whole, especially software systems. On the other hand, computer engineering is more about creating and constructing the hardware.
What Skills Are Needed to Succeed in Computer Science?
To succeed in computer science, you need both technical and soft skills.
Technical Skills
Proficient coding abilities with languages like Java, Python, C++, JavaScript, and C#- Strong understanding of algorithms and data structures
- Competence in managing databases
- Knowledge of operating systems
- Familiarity with the software development lifecycle
Soft Skills
- Effective communication skills
- Strong problem-solving and analytical thinking abilities
- Appreciation for lifelong learning
- Strong bias toward teamwork and collaboration
- Good attention to detail
Types of Computer Science Degree Jobs
There are many career paths within the computer science domain. Each career requires a different set of computer science skills and specialties. Here are a few examples:
- Software developer or engineer: Create and maintain software applications.
- Systems analyst: Design and improve computer systems for businesses.
- Database administrator: Manage and organize data in databases.
- Network administrator: Manage an organization’s computer networks.
- Cybersecurity analyst: Protect computer systems and networks from cyberthreats.
- Data scientist: Analyze and interpret data to help companies make decisions.
- Web developer: Design, create, and maintain websites or web applications.
- IT project manager: Oversee and manage technology projects within a company.
- AI engineer: Use AI and machine learning to develop applications and systems.
- Game developer: Create video games using coding and programming languages.
Jobs Computer Science Degrees Can Get
A computer science degree offers many career path options. Whether you’re interested in data science, quality assurance, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, or user interface design, a degree in computer science can help you gain the technical knowledge and skills needed to excel.
Salaries vary based on experience, location, and industry demands. Specific job roles and titles also differ at different companies, and some positions may require additional certifications or experience.
With an associate degree in computer science, you can explore many entry-level jobs in the tech industry. However, earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science can expand your job prospects significantly. And earning a master’s degree in computer science can prepare you to pursue high-level and specialized roles. Check the table below to see what careers are typically possible at each degree level.
| Job | Associate Degree | Bachelor’s Degree | Master’s Degree |
|---|---|---|---|
| AI Engineer |  |  | |
| AI Specialist | | | |
| Bioinformatics Specialist | | | |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | | | |
| Cloud Solutions Architect | | | |
| Computer Support Specialist | | | |
| Computer Programmer | | | |
| Computer Operator | | | |
| Computer Science Professor | | | |
| Cybersecurity Analyst | | | |
| Cybersecurity Engineer | | | |
| Data Analyst | | | |
| Database Administrator | | | |
| Data Scientist | | | |
| Game Developer | | | |
| Graphic Designer | | | |
| Help Desk Analyst | | | |
| Information Security Analyst | | | |
| Information Systems Manager | | | |
| IT Consultant | | | |
| IT Director or Chief Information Officer | | | |
| IT Project Manager | | | |
| IT Support Specialist | | | |
| IT Technician | | | |
| Junior Project Manager | | | |
| Machine Learning Engineer | | | |
| Mobile App Developer | | | |
| Network Administrator | | | |
| Network Support Specialist | | | |
| Quality Assurance Tester | | | |
| Software Architect | | | |
| Software Developer | | | |
| Systems Administrator | | | |
| Systems Analyst | | | |
| Systems Engineer | | | |
| Technical Writer | | | |
| User Experience (UX) Designer | | | |
| Web Developer | | | |
Is a Ph.D. in Computer Science Worth It?
The benefit of a doctorate in computer science depends on your career goals and personal interests. If you’d like to pursue a career in academia, conducting research, or leading advanced projects, a doctorate can be extremely valuable. It can allow you to become a faculty member at a university, lead your own research projects, or become a top specialist in a tech company.
If you’re more interested in software development, programming, or other technical roles, a bachelor’s or master’s degree may be sufficient. Many tech companies value skills and experience over formal education, and additional years in the workforce can sometimes be more beneficial than additional years spent in education.
And don’t forget to consider the investment of time and money needed for a doctoral degree. A Ph.D. program can take several years and present financial challenges.
Certifications to Advance Your Career
Many certifications can help advance your career in computer science, depending on your specific field of interest. Here are some popular credentials:
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional: Advanced certification for IT professionals specializing in developing cybersecurity programs.
- Microsoft Certifications: Microsoft offers dozens of certifications related to many computer science careers, including credentials focusing on AI, machine learning, and cybersecurity.
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate: This credential is suitable for solution architects who have at least one year of experience designing systems on AWS.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate: This entry-level certification for network engineers demonstrates proficiency in networking basics.
- Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE 8 Programmer: This certification validates your ability to work with Java.
- CompTIA A+: This certification is a starting point for many careers in IT. It covers various topics, including networking technology, virtualization and cloud computing, and software troubleshooting.
- Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect: This certification is for professionals who design, develop, and manage solutions to drive business objectives on Google Cloud.
- Certified ScrumMaster: This certification is for professionals who want to prove their core Scrum knowledge.
- Certified Data Professional: Issued by the Institute for Certification of Computer Professionals, this certification is relevant for professionals involved in all aspects of data management.
- Project Management Professional: This certification helps demonstrate that professionals are adept at managing large projects.
Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Science Careers
Think about whether you enjoy problem-solving and puzzles or have a logical approach to tasks. Traits like being organized and detail-oriented or having a hobby that requires attention to detail are good indicators that computer science might be right for you. Success in the field also requires resilience and the ability to learn from your mistakes.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed March 13, 2024.
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