Let's go back to school for computer science

Successful computer science majors are analytical thinkers. They enjoy staying informed about the latest developments on the technological frontier. For some of these individuals, a cyber attacker isn’t someone to be afraid of, but a challenge to overcome on behalf of an enterprise or organisation.

Individuals that find this prospect exciting should strongly consider starting their journey in higher education with the computer science learning track and consider advanced training in exciting technology disciplines, such as cyber security, data analytics, information technology or software engineering.

So many options to choose from
Computer science graduates aren’t limited to working for technology firms. Nearly every industry and field in the United States employs technology professionals in some capacity. In the healthcare field, for example, computer science graduates are working on adopting Artificial Intelligence (AI) technology for meaningful use in the care provider environment.

The scientists are developing algorithms for use in areas such as accounting, research and development and supply chain logistics. Computer technology is affecting the field so much that there is a strong possibility for a complete transformation in the way that care providers interact with patients.

Computer science experts also find work in fields such as public service, where administrators are implementing big data technology to aid millions of refugees. Anirudh Ruhil, Professor of Leadership & Public Affairs at Ohio University, highlighted how big data could be used to improve efforts in an article published on The Conversation, noting that: “rolling migration data could be a game-changer for officials on the front lines of the crisis. Sophisticated analytics could help experts confidently chart where refugees are likely to head next.”

Ruhil added that: “Policymakers, spotting signs of a future influx, might reroute refugees to different countries. This real time data could also help organisations quickly and accurately shunt money and goods to the locales that need them the most.”

Working in the field
Computer science majors who successfully advance find many opportunities in the marketplace. Those who find employment as information security analysts, for example, monitor enterprise networks, investigate cyber breaches and safeguard sensitive information using powerful security software.

The analysts also aid organisations that have experienced data security breaches with network disaster recovery. Other graduates find employment in the criminal justice system as forensic investigators, gathering computer information from crime scenes to aid in upholding the law. These professionals also find employment with private agencies fulfilling duties such as testing the veracity of corporate network security for clients.

Information Technology (IT) specialists work with large enterprises, such as health care organisations, colleges and business enterprises, keeping their information network secure and functioning properly. IT experts protect organisations from internal and external threats, while software consultants engineer programmes by working with clients to discover computing solutions that facilitate and improve enterprise operations.

In another discipline, video game developers work with a team to design and create captivating programs that serve as entertainment and, in some instances, training tools. Professionals who work in this discipline may specialise in various specialties, such as computer programming, game design, evaluation and testing or 3D modeling.

There's earning power in a computer science degree
Earning a computer science degree is a lengthy proposition, however the work is worth the rewards. A relatively recent report issued by the Collegiate Employment Research Institute (CERI) states that the annual average salary for computer scientists is approximately $57,562 and goes as high as $130,000 per year. With a Master’s or doctoral degree, reports CERI, entry level computer scientists can start out earning annual salaries of $72,071 and $77,811 respectively.

Technology fields pay the most out all Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) related disciplines. In fact, the computer science major is the only learning discipline where the advancement rate matches graduates’ employment rate. Students don’t need previous technology experience to start on the path toward a career in computer science.

The road ahead is arduous, but well worth the effort. For those just starting out on the path toward digital enlightenment, it’s important to remember the skills and opportunities that will be acquired while successfully earning the degree.

Additional references used:
Bradley University

Dice – What a Computer Science Degree Earned You in 2017

Maryville University – Back to School for Computer Science