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What is Computer Science?
Computer science is a rapidly growing field with a wide range of exciting career options. Choosing a college that offers a good program in computer science is important if you are interested in working in this field. Computer science degrees are offered by many colleges, and you should choose the one that best matches your needs, while also having excellent accreditation.
If you're looking for a computer science degree, there are plenty of colleges and universities in New York that offer accredited programs. In fact, there are more than 30 schools in the state with degree programs in computer science or related fields. You'll find everything from small liberal arts colleges to large public universities, so you're sure to find a program that fits your needs, interests, and wallet.
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Computer Science Education in New York
A computer science professional is someone who has dedicated their time and effort to learning about computers and how to use them to solve problems. They have usually studied computer science in college or university and most often they have a degree in the subject. They may also have other certification in related areas, such as software engineering or networking.
Computer science professionals usually work in the information technology industry, but they can also work in other industries that use computers extensively, such as banking or insurance. Honestly, these days, nearly every industry uses computers, databases, and other technology all the time. This is part of why computer science professionals are currently high in demand, and the demand is only growing. Cyber security experts are low in supply, and it’s only an extra step to go from general computer science knowledge to working as a cyber security expert.
Some computer science professionals work as software developers, creating new applications or improving existing ones. Others may work as system administrators, ensuring that computers and networks are running smoothly. Some may even become experts in specific areas of computing, such as artificial intelligence or machine learning. Professionals in computer science possess a passion for technology, which is good since they must stay abreast of the latest trends and developments.
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Online Associate Degree in Computer Science (AS)
Earning an associate degree in computer science online is a convenient way to complete your education and gain the skills required for higher-paying jobs. You can easily find accredited programs online, and many schools offer financial aid. Besides being affordable and convenient, online classes offer many benefits, such as being just as respected as in-class learning in many cases. A school that offers an associate degree in computer science online should have regional accreditation or even be a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE), which are accredited by the DHS and NSA as the best cyber security training schools in the country. However, for your online program to be successful, it must help you enter the career you are most interested in.
While many people do not know much about computers, there are some who are incredibly familiar with them. Some people are capable of building new computers and coming up with innovative networking techniques. Regardless of your experience, earning an associate degree in computer science is an affordable way to get your foot in the door of a rewarding career. In addition to its affordability, an associate degree online can lead to a state university education at half the price, if you choose to transfer your earned credits to a bachelor’s degree at a community college. Small class sizes can create a comfortable learning environment for students. And, because classes are available online, there are no commuter issues.
Online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science (BS)
If you have a strong interest in computer science, you may want to consider an online bachelor's degree program instead of an associate degree. Online computer science degree programs are available at nearly every level, and they typically feature asynchronous coursework, meaning you could work with the associate degree you just earned while completing your bachelor’s. Asynchronous classes let students log into the learning management system whenever they want to complete a course. Generally, bachelor's degree programs in computer science require 120 credit hours of coursework that can be completed in four years. However, if you are working and attending part-time, you should be aware that it will almost certainly take longer to complete your degree.
Online Master’s Degree in Computer Science (MA)
While the online degree options available in computer science are vast, some schools only offer one or two in-person classes per quarter, which can extend the amount of time it takes for students to graduate quite far. An online master's degree in computer science is generally equivalent to the number of credits required to complete a traditional master's program. And an online option offers a more flexible schedule and may let you choose from a number of different concentration tracks.
Before pursuing an online master's degree in computer science, prospective students should be aware of the requirements of each program. Some require strong analytical and quantitative skills. This can be acquired through previous undergraduate coursework in a related field or from work experience. A computer science master's degree program also usually requires a bachelor's degree in computer science, mathematics, or a related field. Depending on your experience, this requirement may not apply, but you want to be certain of each school’s requirements before you waste time, and possibly money, applying to programs that you are not qualified to enter.
Online PhD in Computer Science (PhD)
A PhD in computer science requires students to complete a dissertation and complete coursework in advanced topics within the field. While there are differences among the programs, a typical PhD program requires 60 to 90 credit hours of coursework and research, including the dissertation. A dissertation consists of research conducted with a faculty advisor, a proposal, independent study, and defense.
Many online PhD computer science programs have two main components: depth and breadth. The breadth portion of the program involves taking courses in many areas of computer science including theory, software, artificial intelligence, and system architecture. The depth portion of the program focuses on studying a specific area of the field in-depth, such as during the research and writing phase of completing your dissertation, and students may need to pass several exams to qualify for the degree. The dissertation process can take several years and often requires multiple rewrites.
Computer Science Certifications
Graduate certificate courses in computer science are available online and from college and university programs. This list is based on computer science certificate programs offered by accredited colleges and universities, though there are also many certifications available from companies that aim to teach professionals how to use their products/software, such as MySQL. Computer science is an ever-evolving field that requires students to stay on top of changes in the field. Courses usually cover fundamentals of programming, operating systems, databases, networking, and/or computer architecture.
To find the right certification for you, research the different options available and decide which one matches your skill set and interests. Then, enroll in a course or take a certification exam. The benefits of obtaining a computer science certification include improved job prospects, higher salaries, and greater respect from colleagues. So, if you’re looking to further your career in computer science, consider obtaining a certification.
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How to Become a Computer Science Professional in New York
In order to become a computer science professional in New York, there are various steps that must be followed, though you should also be aware that everyone's career journey is unique, and you might find your career path differs from the norm. Don’t be afraid to take chances to make your career as unique as you.
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Step 1: Obtain a bachelor’s degree in computer science from an accredited university
Computer science is a field of study that has become increasingly important in today's world. A bachelor's degree in computer science from an accredited university can give you all of the skills you need to work in this field. Computer science graduates are in high demand and can find jobs in a variety of industries. Also note that, though you can get into the field with an associate degree, it will take you longer to move forward.
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Step 2: Gain experience in your chosen field
Working as a database administrator or developer are just some of the ways you can gain experience in the field. Really, any job with an IT department will help you to add to your resume and your skill set, especially if you go out of your way to learn everything you can across multiple disciplines. Make an on-the-job education your goal and soon you’ll be ready for a promotion, certification, or even to earn a higher-level degree and move into management. The skills you learned in school and on the job will be put to good use in this situation. Building relationships with other professionals in the industry will also be beneficial.
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Step 3: Become certified in specific computer science technologies
In order to keep up with the latest computer science technologies, it’s important to become certified in specific technologies. Employers are looking for employees that have certifications because it proves that they have the skills and knowledge necessary to do the job. The best way to become certified in a specific technology is to take a certification exam. You can focus your certifications on the field you are most interested in, or you can keep an eye on what certifications employers are most commonly looking for. Gaining popular certifications is a good way to ensure that, when you are ready to move into a new position, with your company or another, you have the qualifications they are most likely to be looking for.
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Step 4: Stay up to date with the latest computer science trends and technologies
As technology advances, so must computer science. In order to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies, it’s important for computer scientists to be constantly learning and expanding their knowledge. Whether it’s learning a new programming language or keeping up with the latest in big data, there are many different ways to stay current in the field of computer science. One great way to stay informed is by subscribing to a few relevant podcasts, following popular blogs, or joining a professional association. You can attend conferences and meet-ups where you can learn from other experts in the field and build a professional network. Whatever method you choose, make sure you are always challenging yourself and expanding your horizons. The world of computer science is constantly changing, so it’s important to always be on top of your game.
What Can I Do with a Bachelor's in Computer Science?
Earning a bachelor's degree in computer science requires a high level of discipline and attention to detail. It also requires mastery of abstract thinking and programming. Most computer science programs require four years of study, during which essential and more advanced topics are all introduced and mastered. There are accelerated and dual degree options, which can reduce the time required to complete programs. A bachelor's degree in computer science is usually required for entry-level tech positions, but you can find opportunities in a number of different fields.
There are many career options available for computer science graduates. In addition to software engineering and web development, computer science graduates can find employment in a variety of industries. Computer professionals can expect to earn six-figure salaries, but the amount varies widely. Some employers provide financial aid and support for pursuing a master's degree, if you plan to earn one. You may also be able to teach computer science or pursue research in an academic setting. The sky’s the limit.
Potential Careers for CS Graduates
- Technical Support Specialist / IT Support Specialist:
A technical support specialist provides technical support to customers or company workers by diagnosing and resolving problems with hardware, software, and networking systems. They install, configure, troubleshoot, and maintain computer systems and networks.
Necessary Requirements:
- Knowledge of computer hardware, software, and networking systems
- Ability to diagnose and resolve technical problems
- Ability to install, configures, and maintains computer systems and networks
- Excellent customer service skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for computer network support specialists in the US in 2021 was $62,760
- The mean annual wage for computer network support specialists in New York is $81,780 and, for computer user support specialists, it’s $64,630
- Application Developer:
An application developer will be responsible for designing, coding, and testing software applications. They will also be responsible for maintaining and improving existing applications.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
- 2+ years of experience in software development
- Strong programming skills in Java, C++ or other languages
- Experience with databases such as MySQL, Oracle, or SQL Server
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers in the US in 2020 was $110,140, BLS
- The median annual wage for software developers in New York is $129,950
- Data Scientist:
A data scientist will be responsible for extracting, cleaning, and analyzing data to find trends and insights. They will work with teams across a company to help them make better decisions based on data.
Necessary Requirements:
- Strong analytical and problem solving skills
- Experience with data mining, statistical analysis, and predictive modeling
- Experience with Excel, SQL, and statistical software packages
Estimated Salary
- The mean annual wage for data scientists in the US in a recent year was $108,660
- The mean annual wage for data scientists in New York is $122,540
- Software Designer:
A software designer is responsible for creating and modifying software designs using computer-assisted software engineering tools. They work closely with software developers and engineers to create high-quality and innovative software products.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
- 3+ years of experience in software design or related field
- Strong knowledge of computer-assisted software engineering tools
- Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for software developers in the US in 2021 was $ 120,990
- The mean annual wage for software developers in New York is $129,950
- Security Consultant (Cyber Security):
A cyber security consultant is responsible for providing expert advice and guidance on all aspects of cyber security. They work with clients to identify risks and vulnerabilities, and implement solutions to mitigate these risks. They also develop and deliver training on cyber security awareness and best practices.
Necessary Requirements:
- Expert knowledge of cyber security principles and practices
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for information security analysts in the US in 2021 was $102,600
- The mean annual wage for information security analysts in New York is $133,210
- Business Analyst:
A business analyst is responsible for analyzing an organization's business procedures and recommending solutions to improve efficiency and effectiveness. They work with all departments within the company to gather requirements, create business process models, and develop recommendations. Business analysts also create documentation to support the changes they are proposing.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor's degree in business administration or related field
- 3-5 years of experience in business analysis or a related field
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for management analysts was $93,000 in the US in 2021
- The mean annual wage for management analysts in New York is $114,950
- IT Project Manager:
An IT project manager is responsible for leading and managing large-scale IT projects from initiation to completion. This includes working with stakeholders to define project scope and objectives, developing detailed project plans, and ensuring that projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the required quality standards. They will also be responsible for ensuring that project risks are identified and managed appropriately and that communication with all project stakeholders is effectively managed.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven experience in leading and managing large-scale IT projects
- Strong stakeholder management skills
- Excellent communication and presentation skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for computer and information systems managers in the US in 2021 was $159,010
- The median annual wage for computer and information systems managers in New York is $195,900
- Web Designer & Developer::
A web designer & developer will be responsible for creating and maintaining a company’s website. This will include designing the layout, coding, and adding content. They may also be responsible for ensuring the website is responsive and compatible with all browsers and devices.
Necessary Requirements:
- Proven experience as a web designer & developer
- Strong experience with HTML, CSS, and JavaScript
- Experience with responsive design and cross-browser compatibility
- A good eye for detail and a creative flair
- Excellent communication and organizational skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for web developers and digital designers in the US in 2020 was $77,200
- The median annual wage for web developers in New York is $77,680
- Software Engineer:
These professionals design, develop, and maintain software applications. They investigate and analyze software problems and recommend solutions, as well as evaluating new software products and technologies. A software engineer will write and revise program code and documentation as necessary.
Necessary Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree in computer science or related field
- Two or more years of experience in software development
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for software developers in the US in 2021 was $ $110,140
- The median annual wage for software developers in New York is $129,950
- Computer Science Professor:
A computer science professor will be responsible for teaching undergraduate and/or graduate level courses in computer science. They will also be responsible for conducting research in their area of expertise and publishing their findings in academic journals.
Necessary Requirements:
- Master’s or PhD in Computer Science or a related field
- Teaching experience at the college level
- Expertise in one or more areas of Computer Science
Estimated Salary
- The median annual wage for computer science teachers, postsecondary in the US in 2021 was $77,910
- The mean annual wage for computer science teachers, postsecondary in New York is $108,800