What Can You Do With a Computer Science Degree?

What can you do with a computer science degree? The answer is pretty much anything! You can go here to find out more about what pursing this degree entails, but it is definitely a good option as according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) 74% of new jobs in the STEM sector (science, technology, engineering and math) will be related to computing, and this sector produces some of the highest paying jobs in today’s economy. Let’s take a closer look at the trends for computer science related jobs, some of the positions available to holders of this versatile degree, and the typical salary associated with each one.

The Computing Industry Is Growing

The computing industry is very healthy, and the BLS predicts 18% job growth in the sector compared to a total of 11% for other occupations.

Currently, around 32% of computer science related jobs are in software development, 15% are in system’s analysis, 14% are in support roles, 7% are in network and systems administration, 3% of computing jobs are in security, database administration accounts for 2%, and other jobs for 1%.

Computer security is a booming field, and it’s expected to grow fast, with Forbes reporting that the global demand for computer security specialists is projected to reach 6 million by 2019 with a projected shortfall of 1.5 million specialists by that date. Given those figures, the salaries on offer for computer security specialists can only continue to grow.

A Computer Science Degree Is the Key to a Wide Range of Careers

When you hold a computer science degree you can pursue a career in almost any industry, which makes this degree a very valuable one to obtain.

At the lower end of the pay scale (with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, and the relevant teaching credentials) you could take a job as a high school computer science teacher. Salaries range from $37,230 – $86,720.

Mid-range jobs include computer programmer, with salaries starting at $43,640 and reaching $123,490, and network administrators who make anywhere from $45,270 – $117,150.

Top paying jobs open to those holding a master’s degree, include data mining specialists with a starting salary of $61,300, reaching $158,800, and computer and information research scientists, who can also earn between  $61,300 and $158,800.

Types of Computer Science Degree

You have some choice when it comes to taking a computer science degree. You can opt for the standard bachelor’s degree in computer science, or you can take a more specialized degree, depending on the career that you want to focus on.

Higher level masters degrees give you the option of pursuing top level jobs, and you can study for your masters in computer science online while you work, which makes acquiring your advanced degree a more affordable option than going to school full-time. Some schools will require master’s students to already hold a relevant undergraduate degree, but others will accept you into their online MS computer science program with an associate’s degree or bachelor’s degree in another field.

While many degree programs leave students with a lot of debt and poor career prospects, a computer science degree is a wise investment in your future, and if you enter the computer security field, you will have the opportunity to work for some of the world’s biggest companies and earn a great salary.