Skilled workers with a background in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) are currently in high demand in the US. In fact, figures published by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) show that STEM jobs will grow by 21.4% in the next decade. To put this in perspective, the average growth for all other jobs will be a modest 10.4% during the same period of time. BLS statistics also show that computer science graduates can expect to earn a median annual salary of $100,660. Here are some of the hot career options you can pursue with a computer science degree.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
In general, a computer and information systems manager oversees all computer related activities in an organization including the installation of new hardware and software, up-grade of existing hardware and software, securing company data, as well as keeping an eye on new technology developments. Other common job titles for this position include IT security manager, chief information officer (CIO), IT director, and chief technology officer (CTO). The annual pay for computer and information systems managers can go as high as $143,380 depending on employer and working experience.
Database Administrator
Most businesses normally store large amounts of information, some of which is very sensitive, including clients’ contacts, clients’ bank account details, and employees’ social security numbers. In an organization, a database administrator has the unenviable task of installing, configuring, and maintaining databases that store such data. In addition, he or she has to upgrade database structures, back up data onsite or offsite, and ensure databases perform at optimum levels. In Virginia, these professionals earn a salary of about $91,460 while those who work in Massachusetts take home $83,480 every year, according to the BLS.
Computer Hardware Engineer
Of course, there is more to computers than just software. For this reason, computer manufacturers require computer hardware engineers to design and develop chips, routers, and circuit boards. Furthermore, they liaise with software engineers to ensure that the hardware products they are developing work seamlessly with software programs. Aside from that, they collaborate with computer hardware manufacturers to bring to market properly functioning products. According to the BLS, the best places to work as a computer hardware engineer include California ($114,560), Maryland ($105,250), and District of Columbia ($108,260).
Software Engineer
The work of a software engineer is to develop programs and applications that can run on devices such as laptops, desktop PCs, and mobile devices. They also test the applications to eliminate software bugs and develop software upgrades as well. You can work for financial institutions, learning institutions, government agencies, medical facilities, and even the military. For this work, you can earn $100,160 in Washington, $101,050 in Virginia, and $91,970 in Colorado. The BLS expects work opportunities for professionals in this STEM niche to grow by 30% through 2020.
Web Developer
Technology has made it easy for people to communicate, trade, bank, and watch events in real time online. To make this happen, businesses and organizations rely on web developers. Responsibilities include designing and writing code for websites, integrating graphics, video, and audio into websites, as well as creating web applications. Another important duty is testing websites to ensure that they work well in all major browsers and mobile devices. The average pay stands at $66,100 although employers in Massachusetts, Washington, and District of Columbia pay a median annual salary of $74,000, $72,430, and $81,150 respectively.
If you would like to pursue a career that is most likely to grow in the near future, enrolling in a computer science program is a good starting point. You can work for a wide range of Fortune 500 companies including manufacturers, e-commerce retailers, banks, oil and gas companies, law firms, and social media companies. Depending on your expertise, you can work as a software developer, computer hardware engineer, database administrator, or computer and information systems manager. The pay depends on employer, location, and working experience.
Today’s guest post is by Ryan Ayers, a writer who creates informative articles in relation to education. In this article, he describes a few computer science degrees and aims to encourage further study with a master’s degree in computer science online.