Job Description of Computer Software Engineers:

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment opportunities in this field are projected to one of the fastest growing and provide the most new jobs during the time-frame of 2008-2018. However employment for computer programmers is projected to decline by an estimated 3 percent for the same period.

Educational requirements:

A bachelor's degree and an extensive knowledge of computer systems are expected by most potential employers. Potential candidates will need to follow a course study which is strong in computer science, mathematics and software engineering, additionally courses in computer information systems is also a bonus. The higher paying and more complex job opening are expected to go to people with graduate degrees. Certification in specialized products and software can enhance the job seekers resume and give them a competitive edge in the marketplace.

Advancement:

Advancement opportunities are expected to be best for those who keep up to date with the latest advancements in technology and innovation. Relevant experience also increases the opportunity for advancement. Business skills and training are helpful to those who are hoping to achieve a position as a project manager, chief information officer or other supervisory role.

Employment:

According to the figures released by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer engineers and programmers accounted for "about 1.3 million jobs in 2008." Many of these positions were industries such as computer manufacturing, software publishers, financial institutions, insurance providers and companies involved in the production of electronic equipment. The overall outlook for employment for computer software engineers is good and is projected to increase by approximately 32 percent up to 2018. With the increase need for communication services, Internet and mobile application and wireless technologies prospective employees can expect to find greater employment opportunities in a wide range of computer and communication related industries. The need for computer software engineers extends to other industries as well including but not limited to health are, government, business data-processing and systems and telecommunications. Virtually, every type of business has a demand for employees with advanced computer skills. Updating, maintaining and safeguarding computer networks and programs are vital to increased productivity.

Earnings:

The median earnings for computer software engineers as of May 2008 were $85,430. Earning of between $67,790 and $104, 870 were reported for the middle 50 percent of employees while the lowest 10 percent made less than $53,720, per the Bureau of Labor Statistics records. The BLS also reports that the industries employing the largest number of computer application software engineers for this time period were as follows:

*List cited directly from Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos303.htm.

Professional and commercial equipment and supplies merchant wholesalers $93,740*
Software publishers 87,710*
Management of companies and enterprises 85,990*
Computer systems design and related services 84,610*
Insurance carriers 80,370*

Median annual wages for companies employing the largest number of computer programmers in May 2008 were as follows:

*List cited directly from Bureau of Labor Statistics: http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos303.htm.

Software publishers $81,780*
Management of companies and enterprises 71,040*
Computer systems design and related services 70,270*
Employment services 70,070 Insurance carriers 69,790*

The National Association of Colleges and Employers reports that starting salary offers in July 2009 for graduates with a bachelor's degree in computer science averaged $61,407.