Computer Science Degrees & Careers How to Work in Computer Science

Name any area in the computer science and technology field – software engineering, web development, cybersecurity, network administration, the list is almost endless – and you are bound to find the demand for trained professionals to be strong and only getting stronger. The key for anyone interested in pursuing a computer career is determining which area suits him or her best and then following an education and employment path to success. This guide gives prospective students the resources to begin mapping out these steps for a variety of computer science degrees and careers, along with additional helpful details such as job growth and salary figures.

Computer Science Degrees & Career Paths

"What specific part about computers or technology excites me?" and "What are my career goals?" The answers to these two questions will help determine one's ideal computer career path. For example, if someone enjoys the theoretical side of computing and wants to pursue a career in research, he or she might begin with a computer science undergraduate degree, move on to a doctorate program in a more specialized area, and end with a job in academia. Conversely, the career path would look different for someone whose interests lie in keeping the virtual world safe as a cybersecurity analyst or building out the back end of an e-commerce site as a web developer.

Below is a list of some of the most sought-after careers in computers, what professionals actually do in those careers, and the education necessary for career success:

Software Engineer

Generally speaking, a software engineer is someone who applies engineering principles to the research, design, development, testing, implementation and maintenance of complex software programs and the systems that employ them. Software engineers are often divided into two groups: applications engineers and systems engineers. In a typical work setting, software engineers identify and assess an organization's needs and then go about creating software systems, programs and applications to meet those needs. Software engineers typically work in an office setting as employees or as independent contractors for private businesses, government agencies and nonprofits. The work environment is usually comfortable, but at times, the hours can be long and the work stressful.

Web Developer

Web developers design, create and maintain websites of all kinds. They work in all sectors of the economy developing the functionality and visual look of websites to meet the specifications and expectations of their clients. They often write code in languages such as HTML and JavaScript. To be successful in web development, an individual must have good communication skills, an eye for detail and a willingness to learn and adapt to changing trends, technologies and consumer expectations.

Computer Programmer

Computer programmers do the actual writing of software programs. More specifically, a computer programmer takes a program design created by a software developer or engineer and converts it into the code that a computer can understand. Computer programmers must be adept in one or more computer languages like C++ and Python, as well as code libraries, which are collections of previously written code used to increase coding efficiency. Additionally, computer programmers test existing programs and correct errors.

Database Administrator

Database Administrators are responsible for establishing databases for organizations in all sectors of the economy in accordance with their specific needs in order to ensure that data is readily accessible for efficient and effective use by anyone with permission to use it. They also maintain and troubleshoot existing databases. Database administrators, especially those working for smaller companies, are often in charge of all database functions, while others may specialize in a particular area such as systems administration or application database administration.

Hardware Engineer

Computer hardware engineers are employed in the research, design and development of computer systems and their component parts including processors, memory, circuit boards, network equipment, mobile devices, and many others. They also design and develop non-computer equipment that employs processors and related components, such as vehicle parts, medical devices and appliances. Computer hardware engineers additionally test versions of the hardware they and others design for stability, efficiency and compatibility with software programs and other hardware devices. Computer hardware engineers often work in teams with software engineers and developers as well as company executives and clients to ensure their hardware designs meet organizational needs.

Network Architect

Network architects are the professionals responsible for the design, creation, development, modification and maintenance of an organization's IP network hardware and software. This can include both wide area networks (WANs) and local area networks (LANs). Network architects work closely with their employers or clients to design networks that best meet an organization's plans and network needs. The heart of what network architects do is in planning and keeping up-to- date on the latest hardware and software, as well as network security. Network architects commonly have several years of work experience in network administration or other internet technology systems.

Systems Analyst

Computer systems analysts are IT professionals whose job is to research, plan, design and implement computer information systems for businesses, government agencies and other organizations. They commonly analyze current computer systems and make recommendations as to how those systems can be modified or upgraded to operate more efficiently and effectively. Systems analysts employ a number of methods in designing systems, like computer modeling, and often specialize in a particular type of computer system, such as those designed for engineering or financial management functions. System analysts may be employed directly by larger corporations or organizations, or work as independent consultants.

Computer Career Salaries

Broadly speaking, computer career salaries are strong, but they can vary greatly depending on the specific area and career level. Below is a look at some of the most popular computer-related occupations and their national median salaries as of September 20, 2015:

Source: Payscale.com

Components of a Successful Career in Computers: Skills, Tools, and Technology

Skills

The computer field is a broad one requiring certain knowledge and skills unique to each specialization. However, there are a number of core skills needed by professionals in all computer careers, regardless of specialization. Here are the most important:

Certifications or credentials are typically awarded by nonprofit professional associations to recognize a person's competency in a particular area. In the computer world, there are dozens of professional certifications sponsored, not only by professional associations, but also by specific vendors in regard to their particular proprietary technologies.

Professional certifications and credentials are not required for most computer careers, but employers may prefer applicants who are certified for certain job titles.

Here is a brief list of some of the most common and popular computer career-related professional certifications:

Tools and Technology

There are hundreds of programs out there that prove helpful, even indispensible, to computer professionals. Below is a look at a few:

Computer Career Job Growth, Prospects, and Outlook

Given the integration of the digital world into daily existence, one might think that the market for computer career seekers has become oversaturated. In reality, that saturation point is far from being met. Consider the following:

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, expected job growth for all computer and mathematical occupations between 2012 and 2022 is projected to be 18 percent

Job growth for that same period for Information Security Analysts, a subfield within computers, is expected to be 37 percent

Similar Occupations & Salaries: What You Should Know

As far ranging as it is, cyber security is just one of countless career options within the larger computer science field. Determining the right option for anyone requires time and effort in researching what each has to offer. Below is a brief look at a few occupations related to those in the broader computer science field:

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

Related Careers at a Glance

Become Team

Contributing Writer

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