Computer science is a hot field. Since computers have found their way into nearly every aspect of our lives, there is a constant demand to maintain, upgrade, and innovate within these systems. In fact, the march of technological progress does not seem to be slowing at all.
Computer science students can now look forward to finding job opportunities in nearly every possible industry. Even the physical trades are now relying on computer applications for tasks such as inventory management, payroll matters, and modeling large projects in applications similar to CAD. To prepare for this exciting future, computer science degree programs have popped up at the associate, bachelor’s, master's, and doctoral levels. There are even many computer science experts who choose to build their core skill sets by way of online certificate programs that require yearly renewals by way of continuing education.
What Kinds of Computer Science Jobs Are There?
Computer science is a degree that opens up a diverse array of job opportunities. Since computers have a role in nearly every single sort of business, there are endless opportunities. While we primarily think of computer scientists as techies who write computer code, there are many more ways to apply that degree. While some do apply their coding skills, they may do so only as a part of their jobs. For instance, a computer scientist may write Python scripts to parse a huge database, using their mathematical and statistical expertise to make sense of it all.
Others may pursue a career where they research and develop new computer coding languages, work on electrical systems and devices, or focus on topics related to cyber security. Other possibilities include the rapidly growing artificial intelligence space, renewable energy, and the massive gaming industry, which is always looking for new ways to play.
Computer scientists can find work in a wide variety of environments. While nearly every worker in this industry works on a computer terminal, some may work from home and others in an office building. There are even coders who work as so-called digital nomads, globetrotters who inhabit more affordable towns in, say Vietnam, while sending their code to clients who can be anywhere a network connection is available.
Skills Needed for Computer Science Jobs
Computer science jobs naturally will require a high level of computing skill. This is likely to include in-depth knowledge of, and experience with, computer programming languages. The exact languages may vary from job to job. Data scientists may need to rely on Python and R while web developers may need Java, PHP, and JavaScript, for starters. Indeed, many jobs to ask for multiple jobs with one being the primary concern.
Computer science jobs may also require skills that are specific to the business and its industry. For example, coders who work for solar energy companies may need experience with or knowledge of electrical engineering, including intimate knowledge of battery technologies. Computer scientists who work on electric vehicles need knowledge of things like battery storage systems and the physical dynamics of a vehicle in motion.
Given the incredibly wide array of skills that are available for a computer scientist to learn, a bachelor’s or even master's computer science degree may not cover them all. However, an academic background is the perfect foundation for later learning. To then specialize in certain languages or technologies, computer scientists often turn to certifications to attest to their specialty areas.
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Common Computer Science Educational Requirements
A bachelor’s computer science degree is often considered the baseline degree for most high-technology careers. However, that is not necessarily true. Many students who hold an associate computer science degree are able to pursue very successful careers. In fact, many certifications are available regardless of one's formal, academic education. Some jobs will not prefer applicants with a bachelor’s or associate degree but will instead focus on their certifications. After all, it's the certification that focuses one's abilities to a specific skill set.
For many years, the field was full of self-taught computer whizzes who often had little more than a high school diploma. These days, that ethic is still pervasive because many managers want to see a person's individual approach to coding rather than a regurgitation of textbook methods. Luckily, there are innumerable opportunities to learn from verified online outlets, as well as shelves of books available in any local library.
Top Pay Comes with Experience
As in many fields, computer scientists are rewarded according to their experience level. Those who write code learn new ways to code that accommodate certain needs and hardware systems. Even knowledge of older tech can be of great use when writing new applications. That is, a computer scientist with such historical knowledge will know what sorts of problems are likely to arise and what end-users have needed, historically. Additionally, as these older systems fall out of favor, those who can troubleshoot older systems or coding applications are rarer and can earn quite a bit if that expertise becomes necessary.
Along with experience, every computer scientist will benefit from continuing education. This is easily taken care of when they earn a certification. Certifications often require renewal every year or two. To keep up with the requirements, certificate holders need to continually study up on that specific language or technology. Thus, employers understand that when a resume reflects many years of certification the candidate has been constantly refreshing their knowledge and skill to meet new demands.
Many fields come with an implied requirement for a bachelor’s degree. When it comes to computer science positions, however, employers may list a bachelor’s degree as a preferred credential, but that is not often a hard-and-fast rule. That's because computer science skills can be attained and perfected with an associate computer science degree in conjunction with certifications.
When a person takes their hard-won skills and is able to gain experience implementing them, future employers take notice. It can even be a benefit to learn programming and other skills outside of a university because those do-it-yourselfers often discover unique and more efficient ways to work with code. Further, they've also demonstrated a real passion for the field. They haven't simply followed a set curriculum but have forged an independent path that is mostly rewarded by personal passion and satisfaction.
Best Paying Computer Science Jobs with an Associates
Many of these positions will want a bachelor's degree, but candidates with an associate degree in computer science and experience have an opportunity to land positions like the following. It is important to note that many employers will require candidates to have completed a bachelor's degree in computer science.
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Computer Systems Analyst
Median Salary: $55,000
Job Outlook: 9% (faster than average)
Requirements: Experience in IT, associate computer science degree, and relevant certificates.
Responsibilities: System analysts constantly evaluate their firm's computer systems and test them for efficiency. They often have a business background and can help evaluate systems from both a computing and a business perspective.
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Software Developer
Median Salary: $64,000
Job Outlook: 25% (much faster than average)
Requirements: Those with an associate software development degree or an associates in computer science should have many years of experience, as well as long-standing certifications in relevant programming languages and technologies.
Responsibilities: Software developers design, build, test, and roll out computer programs for their firm or client. They may need to oversee end-user tests and conduct surveys to indicate what users most need from a new piece of software.
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Systems Engineer
Average Salary: $58,000
Job Outlook: 3% (slower than average)
Requirements: To become a systems engineer, a degree in IT or computer science is often required. An Associate of Science degree in systems engineering may suffice for those who have ample experience and certifications. For instance, many employers look for a networking certificate from Microsoft of Cisco Systems.
Responsibilities: These engineering experts design and develop networks for their firm or clients. They may need to delegate responsibilities to lower-level IT and computer science professionals.
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Web Developer
Average Salary: $53,000
Job Outlook: 25% (much faster than average)
Requirements: Front end developers need to be highly skilled in the needed languages. Those can run the gamut and may include PHP, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Front end developers can improve their credentials with an associate web development degree and certificates in multiple languages specific to front end development.
Responsibilities: Front end developers are responsible for designing and building the public facing side of websites and applications. They may need to work with the back-end developers to ensure that all of the intended functionality is available to users, no matter how they access the software. They test the software's functionality on all platforms including the various browsers, mobile OS, and both new and old versions of them all.
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Computer Programmer
Average Salary: $63,000
Job Outlook: -10% (slower than average)
Requirements: Computer programmers need a solid understanding of programming languages. These languages serve as the foundation for building software programs and applications. Popular programming languages include Java, Python, C++, and JavaScript. A competent programmer should be proficient in at least one or more of these languages, as well as be willing to learn new ones as needed. With enough experience a candidate could have a computer programming associates, but most positions will require a bachelors in computer programming.
Responsibilities: Computer programmers play a crucial role in designing and developing software systems. Their responsibilities involve coding and debugging programs, designing and testing computer structures, troubleshooting system errors, writing computer instructions, and managing database systems. They are responsible for ensuring that the code functions correctly and efficiently while identifying and fixing any errors or bugs that may arise.
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Database Administrator
Average Salary: $64,000
Job Outlook: 9% (faster than average)
Requirements: A Database Administrator (DBA) is responsible for maintaining, organizing, and ensuring the smooth operation of an organization's databases. To excel in this role, a DBA must possess a strong educational background, relevant certifications, and practical experience. Typically, a bachelor's degree in computer science, information technology, or a related field is required for this position. It is possible for job applicants to only have an associate degree in database administration with enough experience.
Responsibilities: A Database Administrator (DBA) plays a crucial role in the successful management and maintenance of databases within an organization. Their primary responsibility is to build and manage databases to ensure optimal performance and data integrity. DBAs are responsible for modifying and implementing changes to databases as needed. This involves analyzing system requirements, designing and implementing database structures, and monitoring performance to identify and address any issues.
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Computer Support Specialist
Average Salary: $57,000
Job Outlook: 6% (as fast as average)
Requirements: Computer support specialists are vital in helping individuals and organizations with technical issues related to computer systems and software applications. One of the key requirements is having an associate degree in a relevant field, such as computer science or information technology. This level of education provides the necessary foundation for understanding and troubleshooting various computer systems and software.
Responsibilities: As a computer support specialist, you play a vital role in maintaining the functionality and efficiency of computer networks. Your primary responsibility is to provide technical assistance and support to computer users, ensuring that they can effectively utilize computer systems and software. This involves troubleshooting hardware and software issues and resolving technical problems that may arise.
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Best Paying Computer Science Jobs with a Bachelor’s
A bachelor’s computer science degree is often considered the minimum standard for this and many other fields. A full four-year degree helps students learn a wide range of skills, including soft skills that are helpful in managerial positions. A bachelor’s degree is also a required credential for a master's degree, as well as many certificates. Thus, employers view candidates with a bachelor’s degree as having more promise and potential for the long-haul.
In fact, many can pursue a career path that avoids any further formal, academic training. This is because the right certificates can supplant some academic studies. Since it's necessary to continually update one's knowledge and skills to maintain a certificate, computer science professionals who hold a certificate for several years thus demonstrate that they are current with the technologies they work in.
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Information Technology Director
Average Salary: $122,000
Job Outlook: 9% (faster than average)
Requirements: Most employers will want to see at least a bachelor’s degree in information technology or computer science, if not a master's-level degree. Those who desire this position may consider an MBA with a concentration in information technology or computer science. However, someone with a master's degree in a tech field can supplement that with a master's certificate in leadership.
Responsibilities: Information technology directors oversee a department of IT professionals who maintain and build computer systems for a firm or contracted clients. They need expertise in database technologies, networking, and information security, among other skills.
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Computer Programmer (BEng)
Average Salary: $109,000
Job Outlook: -10% (slower than average)
Requirements: While a four-year degree in computer science or programming is commonly preferred by employers, industry professionals also recognize the value of practical experience and certifications. Having a degree in computer science provides a strong foundation in programming concepts, software development, and operating systems. Additionally, possessing advanced programming skills in languages such as Java, Python, C++, or JavaScript is crucial. Computer programmers should also have strong troubleshooting abilities to identify and debug code errors.
Responsibilities: As a computer programmer, your responsibilities revolve around designing, coding, and maintaining software programs that enable computer systems to perform specific tasks. Your coding and debugging skills will be put to use as you write computer instructions and test their functionality. Troubleshooting system errors and managing database systems are also part of your role.
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Data Scientist
Average Salary: $101,000
Job Outlook: 36% (much faster than average)
Requirements: To become a data scientist, experts need to have a bachelor’s data science degree, strong mathematical (statistical) skills, and a work history that reflects many successful projects. Since data scientists are found in a variety of fields, additional focused knowledge may also be required. Hiring managers may also want to see credentials such as a master's degree or longstanding certifications in relevant fields.
Responsibilities: Data scientists use analytical tools and techniques to extract meaningful insights from data. They are usually responsible for delivering reports and intermittent analyses to management in a timely fashion. They may also need to periodically train their staff or help staff access new knowledge.
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Information Security Analyst
Average Salary: $102,000
Job Outlook: 35% (much faster than average)
Requirements: Information Security Analysts play a crucial role in safeguarding organizations' data and systems from security breaches and cyberattacks. To qualify for this position, candidates typically need a bachelor's degree in cybersecurity, such as computer science or information technology. Previous work-related experience as a systems administrator or systems analyst can provide a solid foundation for becoming an Information Security Analyst.
Responsibilities: Information Security Analysts play a crucial role in safeguarding an organization's sensitive information and protecting their computer networks from potential threats. They are responsible for monitoring computer networks, investigating security breaches and incidents, and installing security measures and software. One of the primary responsibilities of an Information Security Analyst is to monitor computer networks for any security issues. They use various tools and technologies to detect any suspicious activities or potential threats.
How Many Jobs Are Available in this Sector? What’s the Outlook?
On the whole, computer science jobs are in high demand. Technology continues to evolve at lightning speed, which necessitates that employers continually train and re-train their staff, while also taking on new hires to handle even newer technologies. Database administrators and architects, for instance, are slated to grow as a field by 9% through 2031.
Other fields, such as information security, also known as cyber security, are growing even faster. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that information security analysts are in high demand and their field will expand by a staggering 35% through 2031. While the BLS does note that InfoSec jobs often require a bachelor’s degree, they also note that some hiring managers prefer those with certifications that attest to their cyber security skills.
Students who are interested in computer science will be well served by evaluating what industries are on the rise before embarking on a degree or certification course. For instance, skills related to electrical vehicles, sustainable energy, and battery technology are sure to be in high demand in the future. Other opportunities may also arise in areas such as artificial intelligence, quantum computing, and nanotechnology.