What Can You Do with a Computer Science Degree?

If you’re in search for one of the best paying and fastest-growing professions today, computer science is an ideal choice. There is a wide variety of entry and mid-level IT positions available, and plenty of jobs also present strong prospects for career advancement.

To enjoy these careers, however, a computer science degree is typically the minimum needed to enter this particular field. This guide will explore a little deeper into computer science, the type of roles available for those with a bachelor’s, and what to do when selecting a college.

Should I gain a computer science major?

Computer science is a dream subject for those who have a strong passion for all things computers. A degree program incorporates a wide array of topics that relate to a computer’s organization and operation, including systems architecture, hardware, software, computer networks, and programming languages.

One point to keep in mind is that, due to the huge depth of information covered by a computer science degree, a bachelor’s generally only supplies an introductory lesson in fundamental concepts covered. This is why many programs feature specializations such as software engineering and network security.

What can I do with a computer science degree?

As established above, there are many different paths you can do down once you acquire a bachelor’s in computer science. Here are a few of the most popular jobs with a computer science degree for graduates.

Computer programmer

By writing and testing code, a computer programmer is responsible for ensuring that software programs and computer applications function together seamlessly. It’s not uncommon for a programmer to specialize in a specific programming language, although certain professionals will work with numerous programming languages.

Based on the figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average yearly wage for computer programmers is $86,550. However, with a projected drop in job outlook growth of 9% between 2019 and 2029, finding a career in computer programming might be a challenge.

Computer hardware engineer

A computer hardware engineer is tasked with researching, designing, and developing computer systems. In addition, their work can lead to testing computer hardware to ensure it operates as expected. A computer hardware professional engineer can also be found building computer models in research labs.

Computer hardware engineers earned an annual wage of $117,220 in 2019. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also expects a steady 2% increase in job outlook between 2019 and 2029.

Computer and information systems manager

A computer and information systems manager, often shortened to either IT director or IT manager, is responsible for coordinating an organization’s computer-related activities. This means they have to use computer systems to develop – and match – the IT goals of their organization.

When it comes to a computer science salary, this role is one of the most lucrative. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states a computer and information systems manager earned a yearly average of $146,360. The job outlook also appears healthy, with it expected to grow by 10% between 2019 and 2029.

Computer network architect

The role of a computer network architect is to both design and build data communication networks. These networks can include the likes of intranets, local area networks, and wide-area networks. To successfully design a network, an architect professional requires in-depth information about an organization’s overall plans and goals.

In 2019, the median pay for a computer network architect was listed as $112,690 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Between 2019 and 2029, job growth in this area is expected to hit 5% overall.

How do I pick the right college?

Computer science careers are not only lucrative, but they can also present a high level of job satisfaction. Before you start enjoying the benefits, you have to earn that degree in computer science. This means you have to choose a place to acquire this major.

While the main focus will be on a college that provides the right computer science program with your specialization of choice, there are various other factors to take into account. One of the main ones is the quality of campus life.

To maximize your studies and enjoyment, you must select a college with a campus that fully supports your development. There’s just one issue: finding real information about campus life can often be difficult. At least, that’s the case if you don’t use CampusReel.

With over 15,000 student-made videos all about campuses across the United States, CampusReel is all you need to find out about everything from a college’s atmosphere to dorm room facilities.

You can sign up for a free CampusReel account today.