Top 10 Computer Science Jobs
Career Options for Computer Science Majors
By
Mike Profita
Updated September 17, 2020
Prostock-Studio / Getty Images
Maybe you have always liked to solve problems or decipher codes. Perhaps you have a knack
for learning new languages, or maybe you were so intrigued with your computer that you
ripped off the cover and started to tinker with the inner workings. If so, computer science
might be an ideal career choice for you.
Computer science majors need to be able to think analytically in order to devise systems and
programs, but must also be sufficiently detail-oriented to troubleshoot problems. They must
be able to communicate well with non-technical people to assess their needs and convey
technical information in plain language.
Creativity is essential for those computer science majors who hope to come up with the latest
app or technology gadget. Given the rapid rate of change within technology, computer science
majors need to have a thirst for learning to keep up with the latest developments.
Computer science majors must also be curious about the world around them, since programs
and systems apply to every possible area of life and commerce.
Given the pervasiveness of computer technology in today's society, there are many different
job options open to the computer science major. The right job for you will depend on your
personal skills, values, and interests.
Software Developer
Software developers create software programs that allow users to perform specific tasks on
various devices, such as computers or mobile devices. They are responsible for the entire
development, testing, and maintenance of software.
Software developers must have the technical creativity required to solve problems uniquely.
They need to be fluent in the computer languages that are used to write the code for programs.
Communication skills are vital for securing the necessary information and insight from end
users about how the software is functioning.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), software developers earned a median
income of $107,510 in May 2019, and employment was expected to grow by 22% from 2019
to 2029—much faster than average for all occupations.1
Database Administrator
Database administrators analyze and evaluate the data needs of users. They develop and
improve the data resources used to store and retrieve critical information.
They need the problem-solving skills of the computer science major to correct any
malfunctions in databases and to modify systems in line with the evolving needs of users.
According to the BLS, database administrators earned a median income of $93,750 in May
2019, and employment was expected to grow by 10% from 2019 to 2029, which is faster than
average.2
Computer Hardware Engineer
Computer hardware engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and testing computer
components, such as circuit boards, routers, and memory devices.
Computer hardware engineers need a combination of creativity and technical expertise. They
must be avid learners who stay on top of emerging trends in the field to create hardware that
can accommodate the latest programs and applications.
Computer hardware engineers must have the perseverance to perform comprehensive tests of
systems, again and again, to ensure the hardware is functioning as it should.
According to the BLS, computer hardware engineers earned a median income of $117,220 in
May 2019, and employment was expected to grow by 2% from 2019 to 2029—slower than
average.3
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer systems analysts assess an organization's computer systems and recommend
changes to hardware and software to enhance the company's efficiency.
Because the job requires regular communication with managers and employees, computer
systems analysts need to have strong interpersonal skills. Systems analysts need to be able to
convince staff and management to adopt technology solutions that meet organizational needs.
Also, systems analysts need the curiosity and thirst for continual learning to track trends in
technology and research cutting-edge systems.
Systems analysts also need business skills to recognize what's best for the entire organization.
Similar job titles are business analysts or business systems analysts.
According to the BLS, computer systems analysts earned a median income of $90,920 in May
2019, and employment was expected to grow by 7% from 2019 to 2029—faster than
average.4
Computer Network Architect
Computer network architects design, implement, and maintain networking and data
communication systems, including local area networks, wide area networks, extranets, and
intranets. They assess the needs of organizations for data sharing and communications.
Computer network architects also evaluate the products and services available in the
marketplace. Computer network architects test systems before they are implemented and
resolve problems as they occur after the setup is in place.
Computer network architects need to have the analytical skills to evaluate computer networks.
According to the BLS, computer network architects earned a median income of $112,690 in
May 2019, and employment was expected to grow by 5% from 2019 to 2029—faster than
average.5
Web Developer
Web developers assess the needs of users for information-based resources. They create the
technical structure for websites and make sure that web pages are accessible and easily
downloadable through a variety of browsers and interfaces.
Web developers structure sites to maximize the number of page views and visitors through
search engine optimization. They must have the communication skills and creativity needed to
ensure the website meets its users' needs.
According to the BLS, web developers earned a median income of $73,760 in May 2019 and
employment was expected to grow by 8% from 2019 to 2029—faster than average.6
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts create systems to protect information networks and websites
from cyberattacks and other security breaches. Their responsibilities also include researching
trends in data security to anticipate problems and install systems to prevent issues before they
occur.
Security analysts also need strong problem-solving skills to investigate breaches, determine
the causes, and modify or repair security systems.
According to the BLS, information security analysts earned a median income of $99,730 in
May 2019 and employment was expected to grow by 31% from 2019 to 2029—much faster
than average.7
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Computer and information research scientists invent technology that solves complex problems
in fields like science, medicine, and business. They also find new uses for existing technology
that accomplishes the same goals.
Computer and information research scientists write algorithms that are used to detect and
analyze patterns in very large datasets. Some computer and information research scientists
create the programs that control robots.
According to the BLS, computer and information research scientists earned a median income
of $122,840 in May 2019 and employment was expected to grow by 15% from 2019 to 2029
—much faster than average.8
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and information systems managers analyze a company's technology needs and
oversee the implementation of appropriate data systems. They need to be able to evaluate
software, hardware, networking, and other technology resources for purchase or development
purposes.
Because computer and information systems managers hire, train, and supervise staff,
interpersonal skills are vital in this role. They must be strong leaders who can communicate
effectively with their staff. According to the BLS, computer and information systems managers
earned a median income of $146,360 in May 2019 and employment was expected to grow by
10% from 2019 to 2029—faster than average.9
IT Project Manager
Project managers in the IT sector coordinate the efforts of a team of programmers/developers
and analysts to complete projects. They also analyze technical problems for their company or
a client organization, proposing solutions and tips to enhance productivity.
Problem-solving skills and a broad knowledge of technology and computer systems help
computer science majors excel in this role. Strong communication skills are required to
decipher the needs of users and convey technical specifications to developers.
According to PayScale, project managers earn an average annual income of $88,896
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