Computer Science

What can I do with this major?

The field of computer science is constantly changing. The areas listed below do not exhaust possible career options.

See also What Can I Do With This Major: Management Information Systems.

Programming

Area

  • Systems
  • Scientific Applications
  • Business Applications
    • Intelligence
    • Warehousing
    • Information Delivery
    • Maintenance
  • Project Management

Employer

  • Computer vendors
  • Software and computer companies
  • Any large organization including:
    • Banks
    • Retail chains
    • Manufacturers
    • Universities
    • Government agencies
  • Management consulting firms
  • Contract and temporary employers
  • Research laboratories

Information / Strategies

  • Develop strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Gain relevant experience through internships or co-ops.
  • Develop an attention to detail and a flair for creativity.
  • Learn to work well with a team and to meet deadlines.
  • Supplement computer degree with courses in business, science, or engineering.
  • Stay current on programming languages.
  • Earn a master’s degree for upper level positions.
  • Seek the Certified Computing Professional designation by completing a series of exams and experiential requirements.

Systems Development

Area

  • Analysis
  • Design
  • Support
  • Quality Assurance
  • Specialty Systems
    • Database
    • Client-Server
    • Expert

Employer

  • Banks and financial institutions
  • Insurance companies
  • Consulting firms
  • Manufacturers
  • Local, state, and federal government
  • Computer companies
  • Research institutions

Information / Strategies

  • Develop strong interpersonal skills. Learn to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical colleagues.
  • Gain programming experience. Many analysts begin their careers as programmers.
  • Become an effective problem solver.
  • Take business courses. Earn an M.B.A. degree for advanced positions.
  • Plan to continually educate self on new computer languages and technology.

Network Technology

Area

  • Installation and Maintenance
  • Administration

Employer

  • Variety of organizations and industries

Information / Strategies

  • Work in university computer labs.
  • Develop good communication skills and an interest in helping others.
  • Gain knowledge in a variety of computer areas including minor programming, software, and hardware.
  • Stay abreast of the latest technology and software.
  • Earn certifications in networking and computer security.

Internet

Area

  • Programming
  • Software Design
  • Systems Analysis
  • Hardware Production
  • Web Page Design

Employer

  • Network access points
  • Backbone operators
  • Online service providers
  • Internet service providers
  • Computer/equipment vendors
  • Internet-related companies including:
    • Browsers
    • Search engines
    • Website design services
  • Large businesses

Information / Strategies

  • Gain experience as a webmaster through part-time jobs, internships, or volunteering to design web pages for student organizations.
  • Learn web-related programming languages.
  • Take graphic design courses to develop creativity.
  • Learn to communicate and work well with others in a team by participating in group projects or student organizations.
  • Earn a master’s degree in computer science for advanced opportunities in programming, analysis, or hardware/software design.

Consulting

Area

  • System Installation
  • System Implementation
  • Training

Employer

  • Consulting firms
  • Self-employed

Information / Strategies

  • Obtain a strong technical knowledge of computers, a background in business management, and experience as a systems analyst.
  • Learn various programming languages and operating systems.
  • Develop exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills.

Education

Area

  • Teaching
  • Instructional Technology

Employer

  • Public and private schools, K-12
  • Colleges and universities

Information / Strategies

  • Certification required for public school teaching.
  • Earn a doctoral degree in computer science for post-secondary teaching.
  • Earn a graduate degree in information technology or a related field for instructional technology.
  • Develop a research specialty for university teaching.
  • Gain experience working with other students through tutoring or positions in computer labs.

Non-Technical

Area

  • Customer/Product Support
  • Technical Writing
  • Sales and Marketing

Employer

  • Software/hardware manufacturers
  • Retail stores
  • Software vendors

Information / Strategies

  • Develop excellent communication skills and an interest in helping customers solve problems.
  • Work in university computer labs.
  • Supplement curriculum with technical writing courses to develop skills.
  • Seek related work experiences.

General Information and Strategies

  • Complete informational interviews with current computer science professionals to help establish career goals.
  • Having related experience is critical to most employers that hire computer science majors. Obtain an internship, co-op, or part-time job in a relevant area to increase employability.
  • Obtain vendor specific certifications or networking certifications to gain a competitive edge.
  • Develop strong interpersonal, communication, and other “soft skills.” Learn to work well on a team.
  • Programming and consulting may go hand-in-hand. Many occupations in these areas have responsibilities that overlap.