Do you enjoy learning about the latest computer technologies? Do you have strong problem solving and analytical skills? A career in computer science may be the right choice for you to use your skills in computer technology.
What can you expect from computer science bachelor degrees
A bachelor’s degree in computer science can teach you the skills you need to work as a computer science professional. Coursework can include:
- Introduction to computer programming
- Introduction to data structures
- Introduction to computer science
- Software engineering
- Calculus
- Discrete mathematics
- Linear algebra
- Operating systems
- Object-oriented design
- Programming in C, C++ and Java
Computer programming degrees provide you with the credibility you need to get your foot in the door of a professional setting. Online bachelor degree programs in computer science offer the flexibility to pursue school, while working or taking care of a family, and allow you to prove your commitment to the field.
Computer science career outlook
The job outlook for computer science professionals is expected to be favorable. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job growth for many jobs in computer science is expected to be 20 percent or higher from 2012 to 2022. Jobs for information security analysts, for instance, are expected to grow by 37 percent, while jobs for computer programmers are expected to see only average growth in the coming years.
Here are some of the top growth careers for professionals with computer science bachelor degrees and corresponding mean annual salaries from the BLS for May 2014:
- Computer network administrators ensure that computer systems and networks continue working. They set up, test and evaluate networks for businesses. Median annual salary: $75,790
- Database administrators are responsible for database management software. They determine different ways to store, organize, analyze and use data. Median annual salary: $80,280
- Web developers work with the technical aspects of website creation. They use software languages and tools to create various applications for the Internet. Median annual salary: $63,490
- Computer programmers write computer programs. They convert the design into a series of instructions that the computer can follow in order to create the program. Median annual salary: $77,550
- Software applications developers design and develop software for companies. They create, test and evaluate software applications for computers. Median annual salary:
- Computer support specialists provide support, technical assistance, and advice to companies or individuals based on their computer technology needs. Median annual salary: $47,660
- Computer and information research scientists usually hold PhDs. They research and create new computer technologies like virtual reality and artificial intelligence. Median annual salary: $108,360
Although the job outlook for computer science professionals is higher than most occupations and expected to grow, there is significant competition for top-paying careers. Most employers require at least a bachelor’s degree to begin work. A master’s degree is usually required for management and supervisory positions.
Employers also want potential employees to have the most up-to-date education on the latest computer technologies, so find out what computer and systems certifications you need for your specific occupation.
For more information about computer science degree programs check out the Guide to College Majors in Computer Science, where you can find more detailed information about specific degree programs in the computer science field.
Sources
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment Statistics: “15-1111 Computer and Information Research Scientists,” http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151111, “15-1150 Computer Support Specialists,” http://www.bls.gov/oes/2011/may/oes151150, “15-1131 Computer Programmers,” http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151131, “15-1141 Database Administrators,” http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151141, “15-1142 Network and Computer Systems Administrators,” http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151141, “15-1132 Software Developers, Applications,” http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151141, “15-1134 Web Developers,” http://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes151134
Computer Programmers, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupation Outlook Handbook, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers
Computer Network Administrators, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupation Outlook Handbook, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators
Database Administrators, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupation Outlook Handbook, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators
Web Developers, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupation Outlook Handbook, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers
Computer Software Developers, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupation Outlook Handbook, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers
Computer Support Specialists, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupation Outlook Handbook, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists
Computer and Information Research Scientists, Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupation Outlook Handbook, http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists