Do you enjoy working with computers and learning about new technologies? Are you Internet savvy and have a knack for troubleshooting and diagnosing IT problems? With a degree in computer science, you’ll be able to apply your interests in a number of exciting and rewarding career options. A computer science degree comes with many benefits, including higher starting salaries and advanced levels of responsibility.

What is Computer Science?

Computer science is a highly sought after degree. As technology continues to advance, so does the demand for qualified computer scientists. With a degree in computer science, you’ll be prepared to secure a position as a highly-skilled programmer, Web developer, and other IT-related occupations.

If you’re interested in computers and other forms of technology, pursuing a computer science degree is a good place to start. You can earn an associate, bachelor, master, and even a doctoral degree. Depending on your goals and skill level, going back to school will help you move forward in your career or start a new career path.

Computer science is not just programming. In fact, computer science covers a wide spectrum of areas including web design, graphics, multimedia, software engineering, and many other fields. In short, computer science is a discipline that involves the understanding and design of computers and computational processes. The construction and analysis of algorithms and data structures are fundamental aspects of computer programming and computer science. When you put this all together, computer science is a fast-moving, exciting field with unlimited potential.

And computer science is not just for “techies” or sophisticated computer users. Anyone with an interest in computers and technology can major in this field. As long as you have a passion for the subject and a willingness to learn, computer science will help you achieve your high-tech dreams.

Computer Science Subfields

It’s important to understand the various subfields that make up computer science, especially as you begin researching schools. Many computer science programs often allow you to specialize in a specific area such as:

  • Programming: Programming is the creation of code for computer software. Programmers essentially tell computers what to do.
  • Web Development: Web development is the process of creating a web page or site. Web developers know how to manage codes and web servers as well as how to make a site user-friendly.
  • Graphic Design: Graphic design is the process of making a site pretty by arranging text and images on a site to communicate a message. Graphic designers create logos, banners, and graphics and well as work with colors and fonts to help supercharge a site.
  • Software Engineering: Software engineering in the process of developing computer software systems. Basically, a software engineer is responsible for building and maintaining the programs that make our computers function better.

Computer science encompasses more than these subfields. Robotics, video gaming, and computer hardware architecture are other areas that a computer scientist can specialize in. The great thing about computer science degrees is that you have the option of taking classes in several different areas to get a feel for your academic and career interests.

What to Expect from a Graduate-Level Computer Science Program?

The level of education you wish to pursue will determine the type of coursework you’ll be required to complete. At the graduate level, you’ve already completed your general education requirements as well as most entry-level computer and technology courses. Now you’re ready to take on more advanced courses in your field with the option to specialize in a particular area of study such as:

  • Databases
  • Computer and Network Security
  • Computer Games
  • Robotics and Computer Vision
  • Intelligent Systems
  • Web Development
  • Mobile and Internet Computing
  • Computer Graphics

You’ll acquire a broad range of skills such as:

  • Expertise in your chosen area of computer science.
  • Programming and software development skills.
  • Knowledge of mathematical algorithms.
  • The ability to recognize and solve computational problems.

Some schools require students to complete an internship in addition to coursework. Internships provide the opportunity to gain experience and develop your talents. If you’re going to school while taking classes full or part-time, you might be able to shadow a co-worker who works in a position of interest. The more opportunities you have to network and connect with others in the field, the better your chances of advancing your career.

Popular Careers for Computer Science Majors

With a master’s degree in computer science, you qualify for a number of career options. Jobs in computer science are expected to grow faster than average for all occupations, according to The Bureau of Labor Statistics. In fact, prospects for qualified computer scientists and programmers should be excellent, especially those with advanced degrees.

Computer science is a growing field with a wide range of career opportunities. Once you have your master’s degree, it’s time to start exploring your options. O*NET OnLine provides comprehensive occupational data that includes a number of in-demand computer science careers including:

  • Computer and Information Systems Managers: Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming.
  • Database Architects: Design strategies for enterprise database systems and set standards for operations, programming, and security. Design and construct large relational databases. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality.
  • Web Administrators: Manage web environment design, deployment, development and maintenance activities. Perform testing and quality assurance of web sites and web applications.
  • Engineers: Design and develop solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions.
  • Software Developers: Research, design, develop, and test operating systems-level software, compilers, and network distribution software for medical, industrial, military, communications, aerospace, business, scientific, and general computing applications.
  • Video Game Designers: Design core features of video games. Specify innovative game and role-play mechanics, story lines, and character biographies. Create and maintain design documentation. Guide and collaborate with production staff to produce games as designed.

Useful Resources for Computer Science Majors

The Internet is full of useful information to help you learn more about computer science and information technology. Below is a list of blogs and websites that may be useful to you both personally and professionally.

  • Jason’s Computer Science Blog: This site is a collection of research, projects, and tutorials from a M.Sc. in Applied Computing graduate.
  • Computer Science Student: Here you’ll find a wealth of information about careers in computer science, advice and guidance for solving homework problems, writing technical reports, and preparing technical presentations as well as an analysis primer, and links to numerous math sites.
  • Information Week: Information Week is a trusted technology publication that provides business news, technological advances, and applications to professionals in the field.
  • Tech America: Tech America is a “leading voice” for the U.S. technology industry. The site provides links to informative articles as well as blog posts about recent developments in Microsoft and other big name companies.
  • Computer World: Computer World has been around for year and for good reason. This award-winning website and print publication has won more than 100 awards. With a collage of different bloggers and a section dedicated to IT jobs, you’re sure to find anything and everything you’re looking for.

Online Computer Science Programs – How Do They Word?

If you’re certain that a graduate degree in computer science is your ticket to a more rewarding career, it’s time to consider what and where you want to study.

Online computer science programs for graduate students are designed for individuals who want to continue working while getting their degree. By taking classes online, you can finish your degree at your own pace when it’s convenient for you. Many accredited schools now offer online computer science programs that meet the highest standards of educational excellence. Before you apply to an online computer science program, make sure the school is accredited and courses offered are transferable to other colleges and universities.

With a graduate degree in computer science, you have a broad range of opportunities ahead of you. Computer science is an exciting field with tremendous potential. You can work in government, the non-profit sector, education, and many other types of businesses. Take this opportunity to develop new skills, improve existing ones, and advance your career.

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