Pursuing a Degree in Computer Science

Janet Hunt
If you have a flair for computer systems design or software programming, why not consider a degree in computer science? The opportunities are endless as virtually every industry in existence uses computer technology.

According to the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics, there were about 28,900 computer science jobs in 2008. Computer scientists work in a variety of job settings including education, computer service occupations and research and development fields. The job rate for computer scientists is expected to increase much faster than the average for other occupations. The median annual wage in May 2008 was $97,900.

Computer Science Jobs

Computer scientists work at creating innovative new technologies to solve a number of detailed business, scientific and educational projects. A degree in computer science will give you an excellent opportunity for job prospects such as a computer information and research scientist, computer software engineer, computer/IT analyst, computer programmer and web developers and programmers. Some related occupations include computer information systems managers, computer network or database administrators, computer security specialists, telecommunications specialists and computer support specialists.

Computer Science Degree Programs

A candidate for a computer science degree should be strong in both science and math. Degree programs include but are not limited to computer science, computer engineering and software engineering degrees. Degree requirements will vary depending upon your specialty. Someone wishing to pursue a degree in computer science could start out with an associate's degree and get jobs such as a computer network administrator or information systems manager.

With a bachelor's degree in computer science, you will study courses in computer programming, statistics, computer science and software programming. From here, you can go on to work as a network architect or database administrator.

You can go on to pursue graduate degrees in computer science including master of science in computer science, master or engineering in computer science or a doctor of philosophy degree in computer science. Job candidates with graduate degrees in computer science go on to jobs of technical expertise including advanced research and analysis in software design, database systems and many other new developments in computer science.

Several universities advertise online computer science degrees including Nova Southeastern University, Colorado Technical University and Drexel University Online.

Sources:


Computer Scientists

Computer Network, Systems, and Database Administrators

Jobs in Computer Science

Does a computer science degree matter anymore?

Online Degrees in Computer Science and Engineering

Why Computer Science?

Published by Janet Hunt - Featured Contributor in Business & Finance

Janet Hunt is a freelance writing professional specializing in business and finance. She has published articles for such online publication sites as Demand Studios, Associated Content, and various other onli...  View profile

24 Comments

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  • Sandy James3/16/2010

    Anything to do with computers is the way to go!

  • Angel Vee3/16/2010

    Wonderful info, and pointers!

  • Dina Quirion3/15/2010

    This is great Janet... :o)

  • Mike Oberg3/13/2010

    Everybody wants tyo work on the web, but there's a lot less competition for those with computer engineering degrees with real-time expertise. These people can work with desing engineers making the next wave of consumer electronics. These are the positions I used to hire for!

  • Ranee Wright3/13/2010

    Wonderful info. This is a great field.

  • Pattie Byrd3/13/2010

    Great helpful information. It is a great open field.

  • M. M. Rooni3/13/2010

    intersting info :)

  • Shaheen Darr3/13/2010

    Good advice!

  • Brian Schultz3/13/2010

    Good info :-)

  • Linda Louise Johnson3/12/2010

    That's certainly a healthy median wage!Good article.

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