Computer Science Degrees
A degree in computer science can open the door to a variety of career opportunities. The technology industry is growing rapidly, requiring many graduates every year to fill new positions. If you’re interested in computers and would like to learn more about careers involving computer engineering, software engineering, information technology, computer forensics or a range of other fields, a degree in computer science is a great place to start. See where computer science ranks among the degrees with the highest average starting salary in 2010.
Computer science encompasses a wide range of topics relating to technology. Degree programs often offer specializations in these topics for higher-level degrees and certifications, while most bachelor’s degree programs offer computer science as a unique major. Here are a few specialized degrees in computer science:
- Computer Systems Security– These computer science professionals are tasked with securing digital information. In a world where data can be so easily transferred, computer systems security personnel ensure that information isn’t leaked to the wrong person using firewalls, encryption and other Internet security methods.
- Database Systems– Databases can contain millions of pieces of data that must be organized correctly. Database systems professionals use database software to create, maintain and perform large-scale tasks using information databases.
- Software Engineering– A software engineer is responsible for the design and development of software for video games, business applications, operating systems, and network control systems. As a software engineer, you will need to analyze and then create software to meet various needs.
The level and focus of the degree you pursue will greatly affect your career outlook. Be sure to research potential degree programs and choose the one that will best prepare you for your career goals. Computer science degrees include:
- Associate’s: This two-year degree program provides a scientific approach to the study of computers. Computer hardware design, algorithms and coding may be covered as part of an associate’s-level degree program. This is an excellent program to pursue if you’re looking for a general computer science education, and would like to work in the technology industry after graduation.
- Bachelor’s: A bachelor’s degree program will offer training in computational principles, including algorithms and how they are implemented in code. This program is highly technical and requires a strong command of mathematics in addition to computer science. Graduates of this degree program may continue on to a master’s or doctoral program, or pursue employment as an entry- to mid- level employee. The range of career paths for a bachelor’s in computer science include programmer, software engineer, interface designer and many others.
- Master’s: This degree program usually follows a bachelor’s in computer science. The master’s program will provide an advanced study of algorithms and how they are used in code writing, computer programming, software engineering, interface design and artificial intelligence development. Graduates of this degree program can expect a favorable career outlook as a mid- to high-level employee.
- PhD: A doctoral computer science degree will allow students to become experts in a specific field of computer science. They will explore theoretical and practical uses of computer science, and how those uses can be applied to the development of technology. Graduates may take high-level research or administrative positions in the computer science field, or teach at a college or university.
- Certification: These classes usually supplement other degree programs and will provide additional training in a specific area. Certifications include software coding languages, webpage languages, networking, IT, software certifications and many others.
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