How to Become a Computer Scientist in Arizona

Computer Science Education in Arizona

---

Earning a degree in computer science can prepare you for a wide range of employment opportunities and the skills acquired are typically in high demand. Because companies and organizations of all kinds depend on and utilize the expertise of technology professionals, graduates can work in nearly any private industry.

Some of the most prominent industries include:

Find Your Online Computer Science Program

Job title and employer preference will greatly impact the required daily tasks and responsibilities of a computer science professional. Industry type and size are the two factors that are likely to influence positions the most. Most work revolves around designing innovative uses for new and existing technology, as well as studying and solving complex problems in computing.

The largest employers of computer and information research scientists include computer systems design and services companies, research and development companies, software publishers, and academic institutions. The number one employer for this field in recent years, however, was the federal government.

Professionals in this field can work in a number of different settings. They often coordinate projects with other specialists around the world, which requires collaborating via online methods. Most computer and information research specialists work full-time.

Computer science covers a wide range of career pathways, chief among them being data science, cyber security, artificial intelligence, software engineering, and information technology (IT) management. Ideally, aspiring professionals will know what kind of job they hope to attain prior to enrolling in an academic program. Identifying a preferred career pathway makes selecting the most appropriate degree option easier.

The computer science field is competitive, which makes earning the right degree extremely important. While most positions require candidates to have bachelor’s or master’s degrees, prospective students can choose from programs at every level, from associate degrees to doctorates. Basing your program selection on academic and career goals ensures you graduate with the necessary qualifications to pursue your ideal career.

Become a Computer Science Professional in Arizona

---

If you want to become a computer science professional in Arizona, the first step is determining your career goals. Computer science is a broad field with many different employment opportunities available. Identifying specific objectives will help you determine what type of degree is necessary and will direct your search for an appropriate academic program. Taking time now to establish your ultimate career aspirations ensures you will gain the necessary knowledge, skills, and training to be successful in the future.

If you are unsure what area of computer science you would like to pursue, you can still begin working towards a degree. Because this field has many facets that overlap, it’s relatively easy to switch career paths along the way. In this case, it’s often recommended to take standard core courses first.

As previously mentioned, many colleges and universities offer students the opportunity to select a concentration as part of their degree programs. Doing this will tailor a number of classes to a specific subsection of the field. Make sure your selection aligns with your ultimate academic and career goals.

While licensure is rarely required for computer science professionals, once you have obtained the necessary degree(s), you can also choose to pursue various certifications, which can e very helpful for your career. There are two primary types of certifications available: vendor-specific and vendor-neutral. Several are offered by technology companies, while others are managed by associations and certification boards within the field. There are numerous options to choose from, so you will need to select the ones most relevant to your chosen discipline.

Some common certifications for computer science professionals include:

There is no single standard certification for computer science professionals in Arizona, but it’s not uncommon for employers to require candidates possess a specific credential. Always review job postings carefully prior to applying. Earning one or more certifications can be extremely beneficial, often improving your job and salary potential, as well as making you more competitive within hiring pools.

The world of technology is constantly changing, making continuing education an important part of a computer science professional’s career. While some certifications require a certain type or amount of continuing education, many opportunities are voluntary. From free online courses offered by corporations to degree programs offered by academic institutions, there are many resources available to help professionals remain updated on the most current technologies and trends.

Computer Science Career Paths for Graduates

Careers for Computer Science Graduates

---

After earning a computer science degree and completing any optional certification programs, there are a wide variety of positions you may be qualified to apply for. From entry-level employment to advanced management positions, jobs are available in Arizona.

While salaries and responsibilities vary, some of the most common career options include: