
A bachelor's in computer science prepares you to land in-demand tech careers in design and development, analysis, and management.
As large industries use more complex technologies, the number of jobs for computer science majors increases. Graduates can find computer science careers in healthcare, manufacturing, business, and the government.
The U.S.Bureau of Labor Statistics(BLS) projects 13% growth in computer occupations 2020-30, resulting from demands for improved technologies, security, cloud computing infrastructure, and big data applications.
Here, we explore the best careers with an online computer science degree and what skills top candidates need.
Skills computer science employers want
ZDNET recommends
To impress employers, aspiring computer science professionals can pursue degrees,tech certifications, and specialized training in areas like coding and data analytics.
Additionally, candidates can pick up new soft skills and improve the ones they already have.
In the computer science field, people or "soft" skills can help professionals find new ways to tackle problems. They also help IT specialists communicate and collaborate. Below are some of the most useful hard and soft skills in this field.
Soft skills
| Hard skills
|
Best jobs for computer science majors
Computer science majors can access many of the most popular computer occupations. The widely applicable training provides a solid foundation for professionals to leverage and build upon. Here, we look at the best careers with a computer science degree, ranking them to help readers identify the best opportunities available.
To create this ranking, we evaluated computer science careers based on salary, job demand and projected growth, remote work opportunities, work-life balance, and work satisfaction. Salary, work-life balance, and work satisfaction were weighted the most heavily.
1. Cloud engineer
Median annual salary:$120,520 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required:
Bachelor's
Years of experience required: Five to 10
Good fit for:
- Detail-oriented leaders with quality organizational and interpersonal skills
- Analytical professionals with problem-solving abilities, creativity, and ingenuity
Cloud engineers create plans and development strategies for cloud computing networks. They base their designs on consumer needs and technological demands while upgrading and improving the existing network and systems. These engineers ensure the system is scalable and operable for all users.
2. AI research scientist
Median annual salary:$131,490 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Master's
Years of experience required: Zero
Good fit for:
- Logical thinkers with mathematics, analytical, and problem-solving skills
- Professionals with communication and interpersonal strengths
- Leaders and innovators
AI research scientists look for ways to improve artificial intelligence and use it in new and revealing ways. These scientists seek out problems that AI might help solve, conducting experiments and presenting the results of these tests.
3. Data scientist
Median annual salary:$100,910 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's or master's
Years of experience required: Zero
Good fit for:
- Analytical professionals with strengths in mathematics and problem-solving
- People with a knack for creativity and ingenuity
- Organized and detail-oriented leaders
Data scientists look for different ways to use data to help organizations and industries make more informed decisions. They create mining strategies, analysis methods, and various models and visualizations to make sense of the results.
SEE:Data scientist jobs you'll love
4. Mobile application designer
ZDNET recommends
Average annual salary:$71,958 (May 2022)
Minimum degree required: Associate, bachelor's, or none
Years of experience required: Zero
Good fit for:
- Creative IT specialists with problem-solving and analytical skills
- Professionals with good customer service and communication skills
Mobile application designers create applications for organizations, websites, and software. They design based on consumer and user needs, run the application through testing, and make upgrades and improvements when necessary.
Instead of earning a degree, you could take a mobile app development bootcamp.
5. Computer systems analyst
Median annual salary:$99,270 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required:Zero
Good fit for:
- People with analytical skills
- Leaders with strong communication abilities
- Creative problem-solvers
Computer systems analysts evaluate an organization's technological needs and computer systems to identify possible improvements and inefficiencies. They then plan upgrades by developing budgets and projections, while also designing and implementing the new systems and training users and administrators.
6. Software developer
Median annual salary:$110,140 (May 2020)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required: Zero
Good fit for:
- People with strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Creative and analytical people with a knack for problem-solving
- Detail-oriented professionals
Software developers design and develop software that works on various systems. They ensure the various applications within the software and those interacting with it all work together. They collaborate with coders, engineers, and testers.
7. Software engineer
ZDNET recommends
- Best online software engineering degrees 2022: Top picks
- How to become a software engineer: A complete guide
- Software engineering jobs: All of your options
- What is software engineering, exactly?
- Best online graduate certificate in software engineering 2022: Top picks
Median annual salary:$110,140 (May 2020)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required: Zero
Good fit for:
- Engineers with math and computer skills
- Creative thinkers with good analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Ordered and detail-oriented people
People often struggle to distinguish software engineers vs. web developers. While both tackle similar projects, software engineers typically work more closely with consumers to create software that satisfies user needs. To become a software engineer, professionals need to understand the entire development process.
8. Machine learning engineer
ZDNET recommends
Annual median pay:$131,490 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Master's
Years of experience required:Zero
Good fit for:
- Logical and analytical professionals with strong math and technical skills
- Curious and detail-oriented academics with communication ability
Machine learning engineers work in a niche field of information systems research. They seek ways to use machines and artificial intelligence to solve complex problems, test systems, and make projections. They also develop ways for machines to process information and sensory data.
9. Computer programmer
Median annual salary:$93,000 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required:Zero
Good fit for:
- Professionals with computer and troubleshooting knowledge
- Detail-oriented people with strong concentration skills
- Analytical problem-solvers
Computer programmers write code for software developers, fix faulty application code, and test programs and applications for errors. Programmers may have a hand in the design process and provide input on functionality.
SEE: What you need to know before becoming a programmer
10. Computer science professor
ZDNET recommends
Annual median pay:$79,640 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Ph.D.
Years of experience required: Zero to three
Good fit for:
- Critical thinkers with strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Resourceful academics with a desire to learn and pass on knowledge
Computer science professors teach classrooms of computer science students, plan lessons, develop curriculums, and oversee lab work. Teachers also conduct their own research projects, leading teams of researchers, and publishing their findings.
11. Computer hardware engineer
Annual median salary:$128,170 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required:Zero
Good fit for:
- Tech-savvy individuals with analytical and critical thinking skills
- Curious problem-solvers with strong communication abilities
Computer hardware engineers design and develop new computer components and equipment. They research hardware needs and create solutions and upgrades for automobiles, computers, and other technologies. They also test the hardware and provide input during the manufacturing phase.
12. IT project manager
Annual median salary:$159,010 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required: Three to 10
Good fit for:
- Professionals with strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
- IT experts with business acumen and decision-making and organizational abilities
IT project managers oversee information technology maintenance, installation, and development projects. They manage other IT professionals, such as developers and programmers, and handle project budgets and scheduling.
13. Computer and information research scientist
Annual median salary:$131,490 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Master's
Years of experience required:Zero
Good fit for:
- Curious academics with analytical, problem-solving, and logical thinking skills
- Professionals with strong communication and interpersonal abilities
Computer and information research scientists seek out new and improved uses for technology. They research new applications and test out possible solutions using existing technologies, publishing and presenting their findings.
14. Network and computer systems administrator
Annual median salary:$80,600 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required: Zero
Good fit for:
- Multitaskers with analytical mindsets
- Problem-solvers with strong communication and interpersonal skills
- IT professionals with broad technological skill sets
Network administrators oversee the daily operations of an organization's networks. They perform upgrades, regular maintenance, and troubleshooting. They also train users and look for opportunities to improve network performance based on organizational needs.
15. Web developer
Annual median salary:$77,200 (May 2020)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required: Zero
Good fit for:
- Creative-minded professionals with coding and problem-solving skills
- People with strong communication and customer service abilities
- Detail-oriented professionals
Web developers create websites for consumers based on the requirements of management and end users. They write code, integrate graphics and applications, and evaluate performance, traffic, and user concerns.
Becoming a web developer requires professionals to regularly refresh their skills to keep websites updated and intuitive. Learn more about how to become a web developer here.
16. Video game developer
ZDNET recommends
Median annual salary:$79,890 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Associate or bachelor's
Years of experience required: Zero
Good fit for:
- Programmers with communication and interpersonal skills
- Problem-solvers with original and creative thinking
- IT professionals with diverse technical abilities
Becoming a video game developer requires versatility. Video game developers create various aspects of video games, including applications, coding, gameplay mechanics, and user interfaces. They work with the game management, production staff, and user test groups to develop the most user-friendly end product.
17. Computer network architect
Median annual salary:$120,520 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required: Five
Good fit for:
- Detail-oriented professionals with a broad knowledge of network and IT technologies
- Leaders with communication and interpersonal skills
Computer network architects design networks based on organizations' needs and business goals. They may need to upgrade the hardware, install applications, troubleshoot, and secure the networks. They also research new solutions to improve network performance and outcomes.
18. Information security analyst
Median annual salary:$102,600 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Bachelor's
Years of experience required: <Five years
Good fit for:
- Analytical and observant IT professionals with detail-oriented mindsets
- Creative problem-solvers
Information security analysts secure organizational data and information from threats. They test networks and systems to identify potential weaknesses, put protections in place, and monitor suspicious activity. They also report security breaches and prepare backups.
19. Computer support specialist
Median annual salary:$57,910 (May 2021)
Minimum degree required: Associate, bachelor's, or none
Years of experience required:Zero
Good fit for:
- Tech savvy professionals with strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Customer-service experts with problem-solving abilities
Computer support specialists assist users, troubleshoot technical problems, and test systems to identify issues. They may work directly with networks or specific applications. These specialists may also provide technical services within organizations.
Freelance careers in computer science
Modern technology allows IT professionals to access devices remotely. In many cases, technical problems can be diagnosed and solved from anywhere, paving the way for freelancers to take on previously in-house computer science careers.
According to IEEE Computer Society, most of the biggest computer science roles — including programmers, computer system analysts, and computer support specialists — offer freelancing opportunities. Freelancers can manage their own projects and schedules and build their own network of clients through professional organizations and events.
Here are some possible pros and cons of freelancing compared to traditional full-time employment.
Pros
| Cons
|
How do I start a career in computer science?
The computer science field welcomes professionals from various backgrounds. According to the BLS, most computer occupations require a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field.
What is the highest paying job for computer science?
According to the BLS, the highest-paying computer science jobs belong to computer and information research scientists and information systems managers, who as of 2021 make median annual wages of $131,490 and $159,010, respectively.
What fun jobs can I get with a computer science degree?
While fun is subjective, computer science degrees can lead to many exciting careers. Examples include web developers, video game developers, and professionals working with artificial intelligence.
Which branch of computer science is in demand?
According to the BLS, the most in-demand branches of computer science are cybersecurity, cloud computing, and big data.
Unless otherwise noted, salary, job growth, and other job data is drawn from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics as of June 17, 2022.
ZDNET recommends
- The best online computer science degrees
- The best computer science scholarships
- The best computer science resources(Video) Top 10 Trending Tech Courses For 2022 | Trending IT Courses 2022 | In-Demand Courses | Simplilearn
FAQs
Which field is best in computer science in future? ›
- Machine learning engineer. This specific branch of artificial intelligence is ideal for those who have a passion for computer science and desire a career in a fast-moving and exciting industry. ...
- UX designer. ...
- Robotics engineer. ...
- Data scientist. ...
- Cloud engineer.
Yes, a computer science degree is worth it for many students. The Bureau of Labor Statistics is projecting 11% job growth in computer and information technology occupations over the next 10 years.
Which CS field has highest salary? ›Software Engineer
With an average salary of ₹ 23,46,700 per annum, software engineers are among the highest-paid jobs for candidates with a computer science degree. Software engineers are largely responsible for maintaining and monitoring the technical aspects of the company.
Along with cybersecurity, cloud computing was found to be the top technical area in IT seeing the most demand by Global Knowledge [8]. A career in cloud technology generally includes some programming on cloud software platforms like Azure, AWS, or Google Cloud.
What is the best IT field to get into? ›- Help desk analyst.
- PC technician.
- Computer operator.
- Software developer.
- Cybersecurity technician.
- Front-end web developer.
- Quality assurance (QA) analyst.
- Database developer.
Hiring managers in the Open Source Jobs report rate cloud and containers overwhelmingly as the most important skill today, with 48% of professionals saying it is in high demand. For those interested in developing their cloud computing skills, it's important to be aware of the rapidly changing world of cloud technology.
Is computer science still in demand 2022? ›There is a high demand for those working in the sector, which is likely to increase. Moreover, there is a need for computer scientists in various industries — many of which compensate these professionals well.
What is the best degree to get in 2022? ›- Nursing. ...
- Hospitality. ...
- Education. ...
- Computer Science. ...
- Architecture. ...
- Pharmaceutical Sciences. ...
- Information Technology. ...
- Construction Management.
Switzerland, Sweden, Australia, and the United States have higher software engineer salaries than other countries. A data scientist is one of the highest-paid jobs across the globe.
Which computer science Specialization is best? ›- Business Intelligence (BI) Developer.
- Data Architect.
- Applications Architect.
- Infrastructure Architect.
- Enterprise Architect.
- Data Scientist.
- Data Analyst.
- Data Engineer.
How can I get high salary in computer science? ›
The highest-paying computer science jobs in India are the ones that require specialised technical and non-technical skills. Apart from a thorough knowledge of technical skills, all the best paying jobs require high-level skills in in-demand programming languages, operating systems and current technology trends.
Which computer course is best for high salary? ›- Data Science.
- Big Data Engineering.
- Data Analytics.
- Artificial Intelligence.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- Software Development.
- Cyber Security.
- Web Development.
...
- Technical support analyst.
- Software quality assurance.
- Technical writer.
- Project manager with additional certification.
- Technical sales.
- Software tester.
- Network administrator.
- Software developer.
- Learn the foundations of computer science. ...
- Research different specializations. ...
- Determine which specializations interest you. ...
- Explore academic options for your specialization. ...
- Consider career options for your specialization.
Job | 25th percentile | 50th percentile |
---|---|---|
Database administrator and architect | $82,750 | $107,750 |
Information security analyst | $115,000 | $141,000 |
Software developer | $100,500 | $122,250 |
Network and computer systems administrator | $79,750 | $97,500 |
A few high potential career options in India are:
Chartered Accountant. Full Stack Software Developer. Company Secretary. Therapist (Occupational Therapy Assistant)
- Data Science.
- Cloud Computing.
- Artificial Intelligence.
- DevOps.
- Blockchain.
- RPA (Robotic Process Automation)
- Augmented Reality (AR) and Virtual Reality (VR)
- Cybersecurity.
Full Stack Developer
Full stack developers are highly paid everywhere. But there is still a scarcity of these IT professionals in the field of web development.
You'll Be Part of a Growing Industry: The number of jobs for computer and math occupations is growing much faster than average, making computer science one of the most viable degree options. Opens the Door to High-Paying Careers: Computer science graduates earn some of the highest starting salaries of any major.
Does a CS degree guarantee a job? ›The thing to remember is that a computer science degree on its own does not guarantee that you'll land your dream job or have a successful career. The best employers expect more from their developers and designers now.
Is computer science a stable career? ›
Computer scientists tend to have good job stability. Computer systems are a part of nearly every industry, which means businesses require team members with computer science backgrounds to manage them. As computers are likely to become even more present in businesses, technical positions may be recession-proof.
What is a high salary in 2022? ›$150,000 is the 75th percentile. Salaries above this are outliers.
What 4 year degrees pay the most? ›Rank | Major | Mid-Career Pay |
---|---|---|
Rank:1 | Petroleum Engineering | Mid-Career Pay:$187,300 |
2 | Operations Research & Industrial Engineering | Mid-Career Pay:$170,400 |
3 | Electrical Engineering & Computer Science (EECS) | Mid-Career Pay:$159,300 |
4 | Interaction Design | Mid-Career Pay:$155,800 |
- Information technology. Information technology (IT) is the study of how people use technology and computing systems to manage data and information. ...
- Computer science. ...
- Web development. ...
- Web design. ...
- Computer networking. ...
- System administration. ...
- Database management. ...
- Cybersecurity.
The United States is highest on the list, with Israel and several European countries trailing behind. The top three in our comparison are: the United States, Switzerland, and Israel.
Which country has the highest demand for computer science? ›According to many stats and figures, the USA is the country which pays the highest to computer science professionals.
Which stream is best in computer science? ›- Software Engineering.
- Data Science & Analytics.
- Machine Learning & Artificial Intelligence.
- Networking.
- Cyber Security.
- Mobile and Web Computing.
- Cloud Computing.
- Big Data.
Both degrees are also exciting, especially if you choose the one that appeals to you more. If you are more into software than hardware, then computer science may serve you well. On the other hand, if hardware interests you more than software does, then computer engineering may prove to be the better choice.
Which is better computer science or artificial intelligence? ›If you yourself interested in AI and you want to learn new things then you should choose Artificial Intelligence, else Computer Science is the safest bet. In Computer Science you have programs for everything, in some languages, which are understood by only trained professionals. This programming is called as coding.
Which course is best for future? ›
- Electrical Engineering. ...
- Computer Engineering. ...
- Electrical and Computer Engineering. ...
- Computer Science and Engineering. ...
- Biomedical Engineering. ...
- Chemical Engineering. ...
- Civil Engineering. ...
- Industrial Engineering.
- Cybersecurity.
- Data Analytics.
- Big data analysis.
- Web Designing.
- Software development.
- Machine learning.
- Blockchain technology.
- Computer hardware and engineering.
- Scrum Master. ...
- Product owner. ...
- Project manager. ...
- Software tester. ...
- Business analyst. ...
- Technical recruiter. ...
- Software sales rep. ...
- Technical writer.
- Data Analyst. Data Analyst is among the best job in IT without programming skills. ...
- QA Tester. ...
- UX Designers. ...
- AWS Solution Architect. ...
- Search Engine Optimization Specialists. ...
- Citizen Developers.
Computer science is a major for problem solvers who want to learn how to use computers and computational processes to build websites, program robots, mine data and more. Computer science majors may go on to master's or doctorate programs in the field, and they can work in research and industry.
How do I know if CS is right for me? ›- You love solving puzzles. ...
- You studied the humanities or have a two-year technical degree. ...
- Your Myers-Briggs personality is an “analyst” type. ...
- You're highly organized and detail oriented. ...
- You are musically talented or have some other “master hobby.”
- Programming.
- Computer Architecture.
- Algorithms and Data Structures.
- Mathematics for Computer Science.
- Operating Systems.
- Computer Networking.
- Databases.
- Languages and Compilers.
Information Security is one of the most important fields in computer science, as it keeps our information secure and safe, therefore allowing us continue to live our daily lives. We use the cyber world for email and text communication, for travel, banking, and shopping.
What is the scope of computer in future? ›There is a lot of scope in computer science in India, the employment is projected to grow 13 percent from 2020 to 2030 (Source).
What are the fields in computer science? ›Areas of research in the field include architecture, artificial intelligence, computational biology, database systems, graphics, human interaction, machine learning, natural language processing, programming languages, robotics, scientific computing, security, systems and networking, theory of computation, and vision.
What is the future of computer engineering? ›
Computer engineers are needed in many fields, including computer programming, hardware or software development, and internet-based works or customer service. The field will be very competitive due to the high demand for qualified engineers. But with a lot of motivation and perseverance, you can succeed in this field.
Which branch is best in computer science? ›- Job opportunities in Data Science & Machine Learning :
- Job Opportunities in Cyber Security:
- Job Opportunities in Cloud Computing:
- Job Opportunities in Blockchain Technology:
- Job Opportunities in Digital Transformation Engineering:
...
- Technical support analyst.
- Software quality assurance.
- Technical writer.
- Project manager with additional certification.
- Technical sales.
- Software tester.
- Network administrator.
- Software developer.
- Data Science.
- Big Data Engineering.
- Data Analytics.
- Artificial Intelligence.
- Search Engine Optimization (SEO)
- Software Development.
- Cyber Security.
- Web Development.
Computer and information technology (IT)-related careers are projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations in the coming years, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [1]. Earning a computer science degree opens up numerous career opportunities.
What will computer science look like in the future? ›The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 11% growth for computer and information technology (IT) occupations from 2019 to 2029, a faster-than-average growth rate. Computer science trends like cloud computing, information security, and big data collection and storage contribute to this field's promising outlook.
Will computer science be in demand in future? ›As computer science has evolved, so has the need for qualified and talented computer scientists. The growth in the number and specialty of computer scientists has created a vast network of opportunities in the field. In fact, computer science is one of the most in-demand jobs of any occupation.
Which is better IT or computer science? ›Which is better Computer Science or IT? There is no such thing as “better” because they lead to different careers and have different specialisations or subfields. Either discipline is a great choice for your studies, as long as you're passionate about technology, and you understand what each study option implies.
How do I choose a field in computer science? ›- Learn the foundations of computer science. ...
- Research different specializations. ...
- Determine which specializations interest you. ...
- Explore academic options for your specialization. ...
- Consider career options for your specialization.
- You love solving puzzles. ...
- You studied the humanities or have a two-year technical degree. ...
- Your Myers-Briggs personality is an “analyst” type. ...
- You're highly organized and detail oriented. ...
- You are musically talented or have some other “master hobby.”
Who gets paid more computer science or computer engineering? ›
On average, computer scientists can earn $118,370 per year and computer engineers make $114,600 per year. Not only do these career paths boast lucrative salaries and stable job growth, but earning a degree in either field can pave the way for many different career options.
What should I do after computer science? ›- Software Developer.
- Full Stack Software Developer.
- Data Analyst.
- Data Scientist.
- Database Administrator.
- Cyber Security Specialist.
- Data Engineer.
- Machine Learning Engineer.
- IT security specialist.
- System engineer.
- Full stack developer.
- 4. Development operations engineer.
- Technical program manager.
- Data warehouse architect.
- Cloud engineer.
- Mobile developer.