There are a number of choices available when it comes to jobs for computer science majors. This field of study a popular choice that can prepare students for several lucrative careers.
Computer Science Degree Program
A computer science degree program is a good choice for someone who has an aptitude for mathematics and the ability to think though problems in a logical manner. Students learn about computer languages, systems and graphics during their time at university. They also develop the skills they need to work as a team to solve problems. Having good communication skills is an important trait for success, since graduates from the program must be able to communicate with co-workers, managers and possibly customers, depending on the type of position they get after graduation.
Along with the required computer courses, students in this degree program also learn about computer languages, software systems, algorithms and mathematics. They may also be required to take a certain number of engineering and natural sciences courses. Undergraduates must also obtain a certain number of credits in arts and humanities to satisfy the requirements for their degree.
After graduation, a computer science major may choose to focus on one of the following areas in his or her career:
Software Design
This field includes web development, security and mobile computing applications.
Developing New Applications
Students interested in this type of work will probably need to complete a Master's degree before starting their career at a research facility or a university.
Research
An advanced degree is required for people interested in working on solving computer problems. In many cases, an applicant must have a Ph.D before being considered for a position at a research university or an industrial research laboratory.
Examples of Jobs for Computer Science Majors
According to PayScale.com, the following job titles are the most popular choices for computer science grads:
- Software Developer
- Senior Software Engineer
- Programmer Analyst
- Information Technology Manager
- Project Manager, Information Technology
- Systems Engineer
- Information Technology Consultant
- Web Developer
- Business Analyst
- Software Architect
Some graduates from a computer science degree program choose to work in one of these positions:
- Animator
- CAD/CAM Designer
- Computer Programmer
- Database Analyst
- Software Engineer
- Special Effects Specialist
- Systems Analyst
- Technical Sales Representative
- Technical Support Representative
- Technical Writer
- Webmaster
Another possibility for computer science graduates is to continue their education at the graduate level. They can pursue an advanced degree in education to prepare for a job as a teacher. Studying library science can lead to work as a documentarian librarian, and the computer science degree can also lay the foundation for a successful career as a patent attorney.
Where Computer Science Graduates Find Jobs
A degree in computer science can qualify an individual for employment opportunities in several different types of industries, including:
- Accounting firms
- Airlines
- Banks
- Colleges/Universities
- Communications companies
- Computer consulting services
- Computer service
- Data processing companies
- Defense companies
- Electronics manufacturers
- Engineering firms
- Hospitals
- Insurance companies
- Manufacturers
- Online service providers
- Research organizations
- Retailers
- Software development companies
- Telecommunications companies
- Utility companies
Graduates from this program can also find work in government agencies and departments.
Starting Salaries for Computer Science Graduates
According to CNBC.com, the average starting salary for a computer science graduate is $60,879 (2010). The majority of graduates from this program have a job waiting for them on graduation, and many students report having multiple job offers to choose from.
Computer science is a popular choice among people who are considering post-secondary education. Graduates with this degree are especially in demand from financial services industry and software development companies. As of 2010, the job market for computer science grads is good, and choosing this program means they have a number of career choices available to them.
