What Can You Do with a Computer Science Degree? 10 Best Jobs

A computer science degree opens up a wide range of career opportunities across industries. With technology driving almost every sector, companies are looking for skilled professionals to develop software, manage databases, secure systems, and analyze data.

Jobs in computer science are high-paying, in-demand, and constantly evolving. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and IT-related fields is projected to grow 13% from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations. This means thousands of new job opportunities every year for degree holders in this field.

If you’re wondering what jobs you can get with a computer science degree, here’s a breakdown of the best career options, their responsibilities, and salary expectations.

Key Takeaways

• Graduates can pursue roles in software development, cybersecurity, data science, AI, cloud computing, and more across industries like finance, healthcare, and tech.
• The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 13% job growth from 2022 to 2032, with salaries exceeding $100,000 for many positions.
• Employers seek proficiency in Python, Java, C++, cloud platforms, and cybersecurity, along with problem-solving, communication, and teamwork skills.

Is a Computer Science Degree Worth It?

With the rapid growth of technology, you may be wondering whether getting a computer science degree is the best path to a successful career. The answer depends on your goals, but for many, the benefits far outweigh the costs.

• High Earning Potential: The average salary for computer science graduates is significantly higher than in many other fields. BLS data shows that median annual wages for IT-related jobs are above $100,000 in many roles.
• Diverse Career Opportunities: A degree in computer science allows you to work in various industries, including finance, healthcare, cybersecurity, and tech startups.
• Job Security & Growth: With the digital world expanding, companies need skilled professionals to develop and maintain their tech infrastructure. This ensures job stability and long-term career growth.

While there are alternative ways to enter the tech industry, such as coding bootcamps or self-study, a computer science degree provides a strong foundation, credibility, and access to more advanced career paths.

10 Best Jobs You Can Get with a Computer Science Degree

Pursuing a computer science degree opens the door to a multitude of career opportunities across various industries. With technology becoming increasingly integral to modern life, your skills are in high demand. Here are some promising career paths you might consider:

Information Security Analyst

As cyber threats become more sophisticated, organizations need professionals to protect their data and systems. As an information security analyst, you’ll develop and implement security measures to safeguard an organization’s information infrastructure. 

This role involves monitoring networks for security breaches, conducting penetration testing, and staying updated on the latest cyber threats. The demand for information security analysts is projected to grow significantly, reflecting the increasing importance of cybersecurity.

Software Developer

Software developers are the creative minds behind computer programs and applications. In this role, you’ll design, code, test, and maintain software solutions that meet user needs. 

Whether developing mobile apps, desktop applications, or complex systems, your work enables users to perform specific tasks on computers or other devices. The field offers opportunities in various sectors, including finance, healthcare, and entertainment.

Database Administrator

Database administrators (DBAs) are responsible for managing and organizing data to ensure its availability, integrity, and security. 

As a DBA, you’ll oversee the performance of databases, implement backup and recovery solutions, and collaborate with developers to optimize database designs. 

Your role is crucial in environments where data is a valuable asset, such as in banking, education, and retail

Cloud Engineer

With the shift towards cloud computing, cloud engineers design, implement, and manage cloud-based systems for organizations. You’ll work with platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud to deploy applications and services, ensuring scalability and security. 

This role requires a blend of software development and system administration skills, and it’s essential in helping businesses transition to and maintain cloud infrastructures.

Web Developer

Web developers build and maintain websites, ensuring functionality, performance, and user experience. Depending on your interests, you can specialize in front-end development (focusing on the visual aspects users interact with), back-end development (handling server-side logic and databases), or full-stack development, which encompasses both. 

Proficiency in languages like HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and familiarity with frameworks is essential in this field.

IT Project Manager

IT project managers oversee technology projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within scope, and on budget. In this role, you’ll coordinate between teams, manage resources, and communicate with stakeholders to achieve project objectives. 

Strong leadership and organizational skills are crucial, as is a solid understanding of the technology being implemented.

Technical Writer

Technical writers create documentation that explains complex technical information in an accessible manner. This includes user manuals, online help guides, and system documentation. Your ability to translate technical jargon into clear instructions helps users and professionals understand and utilize products or systems effectively.

Machine Learning Engineer

With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) and automation, machine learning engineers are in high demand. These professionals develop and optimize AI algorithms, enabling machines to learn and make decisions based on data. They work on projects like chatbots, fraud detection systems, recommendation engines, and self-driving technologies. Employers seek expertise in Python, TensorFlow, and deep learning frameworks.

AI Research Scientist

AI research scientists focus on developing new AI models and pushing the boundaries of machine learning and deep learning. They work with neural networks, natural language processing (NLP), and computer vision to improve AI applications. This role is essential in industries like healthcare, finance, and autonomous technology, where AI innovation is rapidly expanding.

Data Engineer

Data engineers build and maintain the infrastructure that allows organizations to collect, store, and process massive amounts of data. They design data pipelines, optimize databases, and ensure data accessibility for analysts and AI systems. With big data playing a crucial role in AI-driven decision-making, this career is more relevant than ever.

Embarking on a career in computer science offers diverse opportunities and the potential for growth in various sectors. As technology continues to evolve, so too will the demand for skilled professionals in these roles.

Note: The job market is dynamic, and while a computer science degree provides a strong foundation, continuous learning and adaptability are key to staying relevant in the field.

What Skills Do You Need for Computer Science Jobs?

A computer science degree provides a strong foundation, but employers also look for specific skills to fill technical roles. Depending on your career path, some key skills include:

• Programming Languages: Proficiency in Python, Java, C++, or JavaScript is essential for software development, web development, and data science.
• Data Structures & Algorithms: Strong problem-solving skills and knowledge of algorithms are critical for software engineering and database management.
• Cybersecurity Fundamentals: Understanding network security, encryption, and ethical hacking is crucial for security-related roles.
• Cloud Platforms: Experience with AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud is beneficial for cloud engineers and system administrators.
• Soft Skills: Communication, teamwork, and adaptability are just as important as technical skills, especially for leadership roles like IT project managers.

Developing a mix of technical and soft skills will help you stand out in a competitive job market and open doors to high-paying computer science careers.

How to Land a High-Paying Computer Science Job

Earning a computer science degree is a solid foundation, but securing a high-paying job requires more than just academics. Employers look for hands-on experience, industry certifications, and problem-solving skills. Building a strong portfolio of coding projects or contributing to open-source work can help showcase your expertise. Internships and freelance projects also provide real-world exposure, making you a more competitive candidate.

Networking is another crucial step. Engaging with professionals through LinkedIn, GitHub, and industry events can open doors to job opportunities. Certifications like AWS Certified Solutions Architect, CompTIA Security+, and Google Professional Cloud Engineer can further enhance your credentials, especially in specialized fields like cloud computing and cybersecurity.

Since the tech industry evolves rapidly, continuous learning is essential. Keeping up with new programming languages, AI advancements, and cybersecurity developments ensures your skills stay relevant. 

University of the People offers a tuition-free, accredited online computer science degree that provides a flexible and affordable way to gain the necessary skills for the industry. With the right combination of education, experience, and strategic career planning, you can increase your chances of landing a well-paying and fulfilling job in the growing tech industry.

The Bottom Line

A computer science degree is one of the most versatile and rewarding educational paths you can take. It provides strong job security, high earning potential, and opportunities across multiple industries. Whether you want to work in cybersecurity, software development, AI, or cloud computing, the demand for skilled professionals continues to grow.

However, success in the tech field requires continuous learning and adaptability. The industry evolves rapidly, and staying updated on the latest technologies will help you remain competitive. Pursuing certifications, gaining hands-on experience, and networking can further increase your chances of landing a high-paying role.

If you’re passionate about technology and enjoy problem-solving, a computer science degree can be a valuable investment in your future. The wide range of career options makes it an exciting field for those looking for long-term growth and financial stability.

FAQs

What are the highest-paying jobs with a computer science degree?

Some of the highest-paying roles include machine learning engineer, AI specialist, cybersecurity analyst, and cloud architect. These jobs can offer salaries well above $100,000 per year, depending on experience and location.

Do I need a degree to get a job in computer science?

While many tech jobs require a degree, some positions—such as web development or data analytics—can be obtained through coding bootcamps or self-study. However, a computer science degree provides a strong foundation, making career advancement easier.

What industries hire computer science graduates?

Tech professionals work in finance, healthcare, government, retail, education, and entertainment. Almost every industry relies on technology, creating diverse job opportunities for computer science graduates.

How long does it take to get a computer science degree?

A bachelor’s degree typically takes four years to complete, but some accelerated programs allow students to graduate faster. Part-time and online options also provide flexibility for working professionals.