Five Great Career Options for a Computer Science Major

If you are fresh out of college with a bachelor’s degree in computer science, you might be wonderingwhat you can do with your degree and the kind of jobs you can apply for. Here are fivecareer options for a graduate with a degree in computer science.

Computer Programmers

Computer programmers write code to create software programs. These programs are written in a variety of computer languages, such as Java and C++. Programmershave office-based jobs usually in thecomputer systems design and services industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer programmers can earn average yearly salaries of more than $114,180, depending on experience, education, and location. With employment opportunities expected to grow by 12 percent between 2010 and 2020, programmers with a bachelor’s degree will have the best job prospects.1

Network Systems and Data Communications Analysts

A network systems and data communications analyst’sjob entailsanalyzing, designing, testing, and evaluating network systems. These include local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), and other data communication systems. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, network systems and data communications analysts can earn average yearly salaries of upto $116,120, depending on experience, education, and location. Network systems and data communications analysts with post-secondary education degrees can find employment in industries such as:

● Wired telecommunication carriers● Computer systems design and related services ● Rail transportation ● Natural gas distribution ● Computer and peripheral equipment manufacturing.

Computer and Information Systems Managers

With a bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology, computer and information systems managers, also known as IT managers, can work for computer systems design and related services firms. Their job requires them toplan, supervise, and manage computer-related activities within an organization. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the median annual salary of computer and information systems managers in May 2010 was $115,780and that the top 10 percent earned more than $166,400, depending on education, experience, and location.3

Computer Science Teachers

Computer science teachers teach courses in computer science at the postsecondary level. They can find employment in colleges, universities, and professional and technical schools. They can earn salaries of up to $73,250, depending on their location and level of education and experience.4

Computer Systems Analyst

As the name suggests, computer systems analysts study and analyze current computer systems and procedures within an organization. Based on their findings, they recommend changes to make the work more efficient and effective. An analyst with a bachelor’s degree in computer or information science can pursueemployment in computer systems design companies as well asthe services, finance, and insurance industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer systems analysts can earn salaries of up to $119,070 depending on education, experience, and location.5

Where should you begin your search?

Begin your search by looking for colleges offering the computer science degree that meets your needs and preferences. Read as many reviews as you can and ask the college any questions you might have regarding their programs and services. If you’re looking for a college that provides well-rounded programs in computer science, you might want to consider CollegeAmerica. According to reviews about CollegeAmerica, abachelor’s program may be completed in as fewas 30 months, depending on the program you choose. This enables youto start working that much sooner.

Where you decide to go to college is a decision best made taking all your personal and professional goals into consideration; make it a wise one. Read a CollegeAmerica review to learn more about the college.

Resources:

1. http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm#tab-52. http://www.bls.gov/oes/2009/may/oes151081.htm#ind3. http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Management/Computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm#tab-54. http://www.bls.gov/oes/2006/may/oes251021.htm5. http://www.bls.gov/ooh/Computer-and-Information-Technology/Computer-systems-

analysts.htm#tab-5