A computer science degree will help you develop technical skills that qualify you for many specialised careers in technology, finance, business, gaming, and healthcare. Also, you can choose from various occupations to match your interests and career goals.
Many organisations across various industries are eager to recruit graduates with cutting-edge technology skills and are happy to pay a substantial sum for that talent. If you are ready to enter the professional world, here are the best career paths for someone with a computer science degree.
Application Support Engineer
A qualified application support engineer is responsible for the instalment and maintenance of one or more software applications. They strive to improve a software’s functionality by optimising its performance, introducing new architecture, installing updates, and following debugging procedures.
Other duties include the ability to manage code migrations and accurately document configuration changes. Also, you will need an in-depth knowledge of front-end and back-end programming languages, including:
- JavaScript
- Python
- C++
It is an intelligent career path for those with a computer science degree or a similar field. Many forward-thinking companies will depend on your skills and expertise for running innovative, reliable, and secure software applications.
Cyber Security Specialist
If you specialised in cyber security during a computer science degree, a career as a cyber security consultant or an information security specialist might be a natural next step. It is a wise pick, as many companies of all sizes are relying more on cybersecurity experts and solutions to protect their operations and sensitive data.
As a cyber security specialist, you must identify if or when a security breach occurred, restore hacked systems and data, and introduce more secure solutions to protect against future cybercrime. It is one of the most lucrative career paths in the tech field, and you can work in a diverse range of industries, from healthcare or government agencies to eCommerce or accounting.
Video Games Developer
Combine your love of gaming with your computer science skills by becoming a video games developer. You will use your vast tech knowledge to turn a game designer’s concept into a high-quality, playable game.
Also known as a video game programmer or games developer, you will write extensive code for games across various formats, such as consoles, PCs, smartphones, and web browsers. Yet, competition in the field is tough due to the job’s popularity among computer scientists, and you will need an impressive gaming demo to get your foot in the door. There are many developers who have chosen to specialise in creating slot games for online casinos, thinking that is the most successful way to get your name known in the industry.
To enjoy success as a video games developer, you must have more than a computer science degree or similar. You will need creativity, industry passion, an understanding of gaming trends, teamwork skills, and advanced knowledge of many programming languages.
Information Systems Manager
A computer science degree will have provided the knowledge to maintain an entire ICT infrastructure, but you will need the confidence to flourish in the role. After all, you are responsible for the security and efficiency of every computer system within a business.
The common daily duties may include:
- Purchasing the most appropriate hardware and software
- Backing up systems for smooth and secure operations
- Overseeing every system installation
- Setting up secure employee account access
- Maintaining data security
- Preventing internal and external attacks
- Providing users with IT support and advice when needed
It is an advantage to have a strong understanding of a company’s principles to maintain IT standards and contribute to strategic planning.
Multi-Media Programmer
If you love the idea of designing computer products for a living, you will relish a multi-media programmer career. Using creative and technical skills developed during a computer science degree, you will have the know-how to create many multi-media features, such as:
- Sound
- Text
- Graphics
- 2D/3D modeling
- Animation
- Video
- Digital photography
You will work alongside a designer, helping to develop computer products that match their concept, specifications, and operational rules. Once you understand their needs, you can write computer code or script to develop features, run product tests, and make any necessary adjustments. Also, you must provide technical support following a project’s completion and make improvements following any industry developments or changes.
Technical Writer
Many companies will pay good money for your technical writers. You will produce simplified descriptions or instructions to help readers learn how to use a product. A computer science degree will have provided an in-depth knowledge of software packages, which will help you write informative, helpful manuals for many high-tech products or services.
Also, you can find employment in many diverse industries, such as financing or nuclear energy. Of course, you must have excellent writing skills to simplify complex instructions for users with limited tech knowledge.
UX Designer
A UX designer must make innovative tech products and technologies entertaining, usable, and accessible for its end users. You must become an advocate for the customer during the development process.
For example, you must identify and recommend the best option for the end-user and the overall experience when designing a new product or feature or making improvements to an existing design or service. Also, you must ensure any recommendations you make suit the company’s needs, such as its revenue goals, loyalty aspirations, or a CEO’s vision for the product or service.
It is one of the most varied tech careers to enter, as you may one month work on design, websites, software, or mobile apps, and the next month you might create designs for AR, VR, or voice devices.
Conclusion
As you can see, the career opportunities are endless when you have a computer science degree, and each path can provide a high-paying salary, a rewarding working life, and much room for growth. Of course, like any occupation, you must ensure you have the soft skills, dedication, and hard work ethic to flourish in a role.
As many companies are relying on technologies, designing apps, and battling cybercrime, you can guarantee the demand for the above occupations will only grow throughout the years. Research each option above to find the best career path for your skills, passions, and personality.
