Recently, we explained what computer science degree programs are, what computer scientists actually do, and whether or not a computer science degree is actually worth it, and here we’re going to explain what jobs you can get with a B.S. Degree in Computer Science.
Completing your Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science will prepare you for a variety of excellent jobs in the industry, one of the most interesting and important fields of the modern economy.
Whether you’re brand new to technology work, or you’ve already got some experience and simply lack the academic credentials needed to take the next step in your career, earning your B.S. in Computer Science is one of the best ways to set yourself up for long-term success.
Getting your degree will provide you with the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to get your foot in the door and establish stable employment in the industry, and from there, gain the freedom to work wherever your goals may take you.
This post will introduce you to some of the best jobs available to computer science majors, explaining what it’s like to work in those roles, as well as how much they tend to pay.
We’ll also explain why you would want to consider studying and working in computer science, why getting your bachelor’s degree in the subject is such a good idea, and which bachelor’s program you should choose if you do decide to major in the field.
When you’ve finished reading this post, fill out our information request form to receive additional details about CSU Global’s 100% online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, or if you’re ready to get started, submit your application today.
What is Computer Science?
Before we delve into details about the specific jobs available for computer science program alumni, let’s first explain what computer science actually is, and what those working in the field really do each day.
First, per Britannica, computer science involves studying computers, computing, the theoretical and algorithmic foundations of computers, and computer hardware and software.
Accordingly, this is an absolutely massive industry, and one that touches virtually every modern organization, no matter what sector they operate in.
Computer science is complicated, intricate, and relatively difficult, as the knowledge, skills and tasks required for professionals working in this industry aren’t necessarily easy to come by, which is why it’s so important to study the topic in an academic environment if you truly want to succeed in this competitive environment.
In order to get a job and serve as a professional in the field, you’ll need to develop a working knowledge of core industry skills, such as computing technology and mathematics, but you’ll also need to understand how to solve complex organizational problems with technical solutions.
Earning your Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science may be the best way to build the skills and abilities needed to succeed in this field, as the rigorous academic process is simply one of the best ways to ensure that you’re fully prepared to overcome the common challenges faced by professionals operating in this industry.
What Jobs Can You Get With a Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree?
After completing your bachelor’s program in computer science, you’ll be ready to enter the field in a number of different ways, with a variety of entry-level positions available for you to pursue.
You're also likely to have options in virtually all sorts of different settings, working for private or public corporations, at nonprofit organizations, or with a state or federal government agency, as nearly every organization in every industry needs professional computer scientists on staff.
When it comes time to start filling out those applications, here’s a list of some of the more popular positions available to computer science alumni:
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Computer and information research scientists design and invent new approaches to computer technologies, and they’re also commonly responsible for creating new applications for existing computing technologies.
Basically, they’re the computer science professionals pushing the limit in terms of design, development and applications, ensuring that computers keep getting faster, more effective, and more efficient.
The BLS explains that this position typically requires a master’s degree, so just earning your bachelor’s may not be enough to secure a position of this type, but if you can, you are likely to be extremely well-paid, as the average median pay in 2021 was reported at $131,490.
Software Developers
Software developers are primarily responsible for designing the applications, programs and systems that are run on computers or other electronic devices, like smartphones, tablets, etc.
Note that we said “designing,” not “programming,” as the software developer role tends to be a little more senior level than the one we’re about to cover, called “Computer Programmer,” where the bulk of the actual coding work gets done.
Compared to programmers, software developers are more like architects than builders, creating the plan for what a program or application is supposed to be capable of doing, then handing that plan off to the computer programmer who actually builds it.
Typically, software developer roles only require a bachelor’s degree, so this is an excellent potential entry-level position that you’ll certainly want to consider pursuing after completing your B.S. in Computer Science, though it may be a little harder to land than computer programmer
It’s worth aiming for, though, as software developers tend to be well-paid too, with the BLS reporting that the 2021 median pay for the role was $109,020.
Computer Programmers
Per the BLS, computer programmers write and test code for computer programs and applications.
And as we just mentioned, computer programmers may not typically be responsible for designing the programs they work on, but they do tend to be responsible for actually coding them.
While software developers are usually tasked with creating the concept and design for a new program, that design is then handed off to computer programmers to actually write up the code and build the program itself.
This is one of the most common roles in the computer science industry, one widely available to bachelor’s program alumni, and one that still pays quite well, with BLS reporting the average median pay for 2021 being $93,000.
Systems Analysts
Computer systems analysts are responsible for studying computer systems and finding opportunities to improve them, making them both more efficient and effective.
This is a true optimization type role, as the entire job revolves around improving computer hardware, software, programs and other components of the current technology solutions an organization is running in order to make them work better than before.
Fortunately, it’s also a role that’s typically available to graduates of bachelor’s programs, even though it seems like it’d require more advanced education, and the pay isn’t bad either.
BLS reports the 2021 median pay for computer systems analysts was $99,270.
What General Tasks are Computer Scientists Typically Responsible For?
Above we outline the specific duties and responsibilities for four common roles held by computer science alumni, but we also want to make clear that the typical professional working in computer science may be tasked with entirely different responsibilities.
In fact, there’s a huge variety in terms of what any given person working in this industry does compared to any other, and in some cases, even people who hold the exact same roles or job titles may end up doing very different things.
With that said, the best way to prepare for working in this industry is to get your B.S. in the field, which will ensure that you’ve developed the critical knowledge and skills required to operate successfully in the field.
The main reason you’ll want to complete a bachelor’s program is that it’s almost certainly going to provide you with the most important skills needed for working computer science professionals, including:
- Learning to analyze problems and define the computing requirements necessary for solving them.
- Designing, implementing, testing, and optimizing computer-based systems, processes, components, or programs.
- Applying mathematical foundations, algorithmic principles, and computer science theories to design and build computer-based systems.
Once you’ve tackled these core competencies, you’ll be much better prepared to work in the field, solving complex organizational problems with technical solutions, and constructing software systems of varying complexity.
Why Should You Consider a Career in Computer Science?
The profession of computer science is an excellent opportunity for anyone looking to establish a long-term career, as demand for professionals is projected to remain quite strong in the years ahead.
In fact, the BLS estimates that there will be a 15% increase in demand for Computer and Information Research Scientists, a 25% increase in demand for Software Developers, and a 9% increase in demand for Computer Systems Analysts between 2021 and 2031.
If you’re interested in computers, programming, or high technology, then you might have a difficult time picking a better field of study than computer science.
Is a Bachelor’s in Computer Science Really Worth Getting?
Yes, it’s worth completing a bachelor’s in computer science, because it’s one of the best ways to develop the knowledge and skills needed to get a job in the industry.
No matter what computer science role you end up pursuing, earning the academic credentials that an accredited, respected B.S. program delivers is virtually certain to improve your marketability with hiring managers.
It is, however, critical that you choose to study computer science at a regionally accredited institution, otherwise the time, effort, and money you invest in your education may not actually deliver on its promise of improving your career opportunities.
Can You Get an Accredited B.S. in Computer Science Online?
Yes, you can get a regionally accredited Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Computer Science online from CSU Global, a school that is not just accredited, but also widely respected by industry professionals.
Our accelerated online Bachelor’s program in Computer Science offers more flexibility and freedom than a traditional in-person program, as it was specifically designed to help students juggle their pursuit of educational credentials with existing work and family responsibilities.
Choosing to get your B.S. in Computer Science online from CSU Global offers several advantages over traditional programs, including not needing to appear at any set times or locations for classes, monthly class starts, and accelerated eight-week courses.
Why Should You Consider Studying Computer Science At CSU Global?
CSU Global’s online Bachelor’s program in Computer Science is an excellent way to prepare yourself to enter the industry with the knowledge, skills and credentials you need to achieve long-term career success.
Our program is regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission and its curriculum is aligned with the certification criteria of the Oracle Certified Associate, Java SE 8 Programmer, and the C++ Certified Associate Programmer from the C++ Institute.
All of our CS instructors have direct, recent experience in the industry, and we prioritize providing our students with a comprehensive understanding, awareness, and expertise of core industry skills that are useful in the workplace, not just in the classroom.
Finally, we also offer competitive tuition rates and Tuition Guarantee to ensure your rate won’t increase as long as you remain enrolled.
To get additional details about our fully accredited, 100% online Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science please give us a call at (800) 462-7845, or fill out our Information Request Form.
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