So you have graduated college ready to start your career, but it’s not as easy as you expected right? First off, congratulations on completing your computer science degree.
But what seems like a dream job may turn out to be something you never want to do. This can leave getting a job start to seem more difficult than it needed to be.
Having patience is one thing, but being flexible is better advice. If your heart is set on the computer science field, there are many other paths you can use your newly earned degree for.
If you are interested in finding out more about what to do with a degree in computer science, read on. In this article, I will give you an overview of the job prospects for computer science graduates.
1. Become an Application Developer
Becoming an application developer after earning a degree in computer science is a great way to put your knowledge to good use.
To advance as an application developer, you’ll need appropriate knowledge, skills, and experience. You can do this either by getting an entry-level job at a large company or startup or by starting your own company.
Working as an applications developer is a great fit for any student who wants to combine their computer science degree with business and marketing knowledge.
The application developer will work closely with corporate clients to build new software or help existing programs become more user-friendly.
The overall median pay for an app developer across all industries in the United States is roughly $51.00 per hour or $107,000 per year. You can also make more money if you work as a freelancer.
2. Work as a Cybersecurity Analyst
Cyber security analysts are the detectives of the cybercrime world. If you’re interested in cybersecurity and programming, working as a cybersecurity analyst is a good place to start. In addition, the demand for cyber security analysts is rising rapidly.
These professionals diagnose and protect against computer system failures and attacks, including breaches of network security. They also track down the perpetrators, develop business continuity plans, and create essential documentation for future reference.
Cyber analysts are typically required to have expertise in programming and networking. They also work to create and maintain procedures for backing up data, recovering accidentally deleted files, and more.
The average annual income for cybersecurity security analysts is $107,580 and about $50 per hour.
3. Be a Database administrator
Database administrators (DBAs) can use their technical skills to help organizations create and manage large collections of data, such as customer information and sales records.
They also help to ensure that the data is secured and that it can be easily accessed and understood by those who need it.
Finally, they ensure that data is protected against accidental loss or damage.
The database administrator job is one of the most desirable jobs in the world if you have a degree in computer science. DBAs receive decent income and have plenty of opportunities, even if you have to work your way up from an entry-level position.
Working as a database administrator would allow you to work with large datasets and put your expertise into practice.
Database administrators can expect to make an average annual salary of about $98,000. Furthermore, the top professionals make about $123,000, while those with entry-level jobs can make around $72,000 per year.
4. Work as a Forensic Computer Analyst
If you have a degree in computer science, there are plenty of opportunities to use your skills in the real world.
One of the most interesting is working as a forensic computer analyst. This field primarily focuses on digital forensics, which involves examining computers (and other digital devices) for evidence that can be used in courts of law.
If you want to use your technical skills to make a difference, but don’t want to become a programmer, consider becoming a forensic computer analyst.
Law enforcement or private employers may hire you for this job, where you’ll investigate cybercrimes and other questionable computer activity.
If you’re great with details and have a knack for puzzles, consider a job as a forensic computer analyst.
These professionals try to find evidence that can solve criminal cases. Training is required, but most universities offer degrees in the field. Forensic computer analysts make an average of $74,000 per year. Salaries may differ widely by region and skill set.
5. Become a Network Architect or Engineer
If you’re looking to make a lot of money and you want to work with computers, then you may want to consider becoming a network architect or engineer. They can be some of the highest-paid people in the field of IT.
You may work for a company that designs, installs, and manages computer networks for other businesses or organizations. You might also become a freelance consultant who provides advice on setting up computer networks within small businesses.
You’ll develop blueprints for everything from setting up a company’s email system to designing networks for hospitals, schools, or government buildings.
A computer network architect’s typical annual salary is about $117,000. Furthermore, the top professionals can earn around $148,000, while those with entry-level appointments can earn around $88,000.
6. Consider a Career as a Game Developer
Game developers are in huge demand and this is predicted to increase significantly over the next decade. According to Recruiter, the employment of game developers is projected to have 32,090 new jobs filled by 2029.
A career as a game developer may be a good fit if you enjoy playing video games and are familiar with computer programming.
Game developers design and create video games. Besides, game development is an important part of the gaming industry and can be a fulfilling and rewarding career.
Game developers must have a passion for computer science, graphic arts, and science fiction. After completing your degree program in computer science, you’ll work as an entry-level employee at gaming companies.
You’ll generally need to gain experience as an intern or freelancer before advanced opportunities arise.
For entry-level positions, game developers earn roughly $44,000 per year. However, industry professionals can easily exceed $150,000 per year.
7. Become a Cloud Computing Engineer
One of the hottest job fields in tech is cloud computing. This is because it’s one of the fastest-growing technology fields, with a plethora of companies entering this market and expanding their offerings.
If you’re looking for a high-paying job in one of the fastest-growing fields, cloud computing engineering might be just the job for you.
Due to the rise in demand for computer programmers and database managers, there is a strong need for workers with expertise in cloud architecture.
If you have computer science skills and experience, consider applying for jobs at cloud companies like Amazon Web Services (AWS), Google Cloud Platform, or Microsoft Azure.
The average salary for a cloud engineer is between $100,000 and $140,000, with the possibility of exceeding $200,000.
8. Work as a Software Engineer
If you have a degree in computer science, you can work as a software engineer, either in a technical support role or building new software. This job requires good problem-solving skills and the ability to write clean code.
Being a software engineer is not just about programming. Software engineers are the real brains behind computer-based applications.
They take an idea from the beginning stages to production and continue working on it even after its release to make sure it works as efficiently as possible. Having a degree in computer science will allow you to learn everything there is to know about computers and software.
Hence, you will be a valuable asset to any company that needs help building applications or maintaining systems. The average annual income for software developers is $110,000.
Additionally, working multiple jobs allows you to earn more money. If you know what you’re doing, the earning potential is limitless.
9. Become a Systems Analyst
Systems analysts help put together computer systems in a way that makes it easier for companies and other organizations to use them.
This frequently necessitates extensive research into how the systems will be used as well as determining what hardware and software a company need.
Systems analysts also typically help manage upgrades and changes to existing systems.
Additionally, they must have a broad knowledge of both technical and non-technical areas to evaluate the needs of an organization and develop plans for implementation.
The average systems analyst income in the United States is $79,649. However, salaries can vary widely depending on location, skillset, and employer.
10. Become a Web Designer or Developer
If you can’t afford to become a full-time programmer, becoming a web designer or developer may be the perfect option for you.
Web designers are responsible for the look and feel of websites, while developers make sure that code is running smoothly to create great-looking sites.
With a growing demand for these positions, especially with small start-up companies, it is a good choice.
There are many benefits associated with this job, including working on the Internet and designing and building websites. You will also develop software applications and systems that meet specific goals, working in teams or individually throughout the process.
Besides, these positions are very lucrative and will also give you the chance to work from home. You can get several certifications to become more qualified for this career path.
The benefit of being self-employed is that you can choose when and where to work, so it may complement your lifestyle.
Depending on their experience, web designers can earn between $59,000 and $120,000 per year.
The amount of money you can make as a web designer might vary greatly depending on a variety of things. Certification, training, multitasking abilities, and other variables are among them.
What Are the Job Prospects for Computer Science Graduates?
According to BLS, IT employment is projected to grow by 13 percent before 2030, faster than the average for all occupations.
Also, as the demand for computer scientists grows, so does the demand for qualified graduates. With a degree in computer science, you can take many routes—and knowing what’s out there will help you make the right decision.
As a computer science graduate, you can expect a lucrative career and numerous work prospects outside of the subject of computer science.
Use your skills for business ventures or to pursue other interests like graphic design or filmmaking. There is no doubt that a degree in computer science will open up employment opportunities for you.
FAQs
What skills do you need to be successful in computer science?
Computer scientists need to have the ability to work in teams and the ability to work on their own. If you can think logically and are willing to learn, there is a place for you in computer science.
The best computer scientists can see a problem and know how specifically to solve it.
Is earning a computer science degree worth it?
Yes, a degree in computer science is a valuable tool for your career. The job market is increasingly favorable for computer science majors.
A degree in this subject can open doors to careers like app development, data science, and user experience design. With a background in computer science, you’ll also be ready for several different tech industry sectors.
Is computer science difficult?
Computer science is a challenging but rewarding field to enter. It’s also probably the best thing you’ll ever do to ensure your employability.
Final Thoughts
Having a background in computer science means that your career can be almost a blank slate. You’ll have the skills businesses are looking for.
With that in mind, there are plenty of job opportunities for computer science graduates.
Just make sure you’re getting the education you need to get hired. In addition to other training and experience, a computer science degree can lay the foundation for a well-paying career and a comfortable lifestyle.
A degree in computer science is only the beginning, and it’s up to you to apply those skills and follow your passions to something new.
This certainly isn’t an exhaustive list of options; feel free to explore more options in your free time.
If you’re interested in learning about what you can do with other careers, a few are on the website.
To get started, explore the degree section. You’re sure to find something that will excite you. All the best.
Thanks for reading.
