Jobs in computer science are in high demand. Of the 50 positions on Glassdoor’s list of the best jobs in the United States—which is based on earning potential, job satisfaction, and the number of job openings in 2021—17 of the positions listed are in the computer science and technology field. Show
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the average salary for these roles exceeds $126,000 per year. Even more promising is that job growth for computer and information science roles is expected to increase by 22 percent by 2030—more than three times the national average for growth across all jobs. The average unemployment rate for many STEM roles is also well below the national average, according to U.S. News & World Report. Computer Science Degrees and SpecializationsDue to the high demand and required skills for jobs in this field, many employers seek candidates with advanced computer science degrees to fill these high-paying roles. In fact, Burning Glass Labor Insight data shows that nearly four in 10 computer science job listings request candidates that have master’s degrees. Below we offer a look at some of the most common specializations within this field, the career options that best align with these specializations, and the annual earning potential for individuals within these concentrations. Download Our Free Guide to Breaking into Computer ScienceWhether you have a technical or non-technical background, here’s what you need to know. DOWNLOAD NOW 11 Common Computer Science Specializations1. Artificial IntelligenceDescription: Artificial intelligence (AI) refers to a computing system’s ability to solve problems, make predictions, or complete complex tasks. AI applications use emerging technology such as natural language processing, which interprets written and spoken words, and machine learning, which enables applications to make predictions and recommendations. Skills: Mathematics and analysis, algorithms, predictive modeling Common Roles: Artificial Intelligence Architect, Artificial Intelligence Researcher, Machine Learning Engineer Average Annual Salary for AI Skills: $125,000
2. Computer-Human InterfaceDescription: This specialization considers the many ways that people interact with computers, from websites and mobile phones to voice-enabled speakers and virtual reality. Effective interface development and deployment requires the use of standard libraries to ensure the compatibility and usability of applications across systems. Skills: Communication, interpersonal skills, attention to visual detail, mapping how people use software and systems Common Roles: User Experience (UX) Designer, User Experience Researcher, Interaction Designer Average Annual Salary for HCI jobs: $118,942
3. Game DesignDescription: In addition to the realistic images that make today’s computer games so appealing, the computer science specialization of game design looks at the AI and machine learning that determines how players progress through a game. Game design also considers how the work of front-end designers and back-end developers should come together for a cohesive product experience. Skills: Attention to visual detail, collaboration, coding, and scripting Common Roles: Video Game Designer, Video Game Developer, Software Engineer Average Annual Salary for Game Design Skills: $115,846
4. NetworksDescription: This specialization focuses on how organizations use both wired and wireless networks to exchange information with internal and external stakeholders. Responsibilities include managing bandwidth, traffic, user access, and the security of networks themselves, as well as any devices connected to the network. Skills: Diagnose and troubleshoot network issues, design network architecture Common Roles: Network Administrator, Network Analyst, Network Architect Average Annual Salaries for Network Management Skills: Ranges from $59,865 (Network Analyst) to $121,412 (Network Architect) 5. Computer GraphicsDescription: This specialization focuses on two- and three-dimensional images used in a variety of software applications, including games, computer-assisted design, manufacturing, and multimedia publishing. Beyond the concepts of creating realistic images, effective computer graphic design also considers the best way to display those images given limitations such as screen size, system memory, and bandwidth. Job options include in-house, agency, and freelance roles. Skills: Attention to visual and artistic detail, collaboration, creativity Common Roles: Mobile Application Developer, iOS Developer, Android Developer Average Annual Salaries for Computer Graphics Skills: $116,192 6. Information SecurityDescription: Information security professionals manage all aspects of an organization’s security, including software applications, networks, storage hardware, devices, and so on. This computer science specialization requires a deep understanding of security vulnerabilities and the various methods that internal and external attackers use to exploit them. These roles must also balance security requirements with the need for employee or end-user productivity. Skills: Communication, threat/vulnerability management, knowledge of security compliance rules and regulations Common Roles: Security Engineer, Network Security Analyst, System Security Analyst Average Annual Salary for Information Security Skills: $124,506 7. Data ScienceDescription: Data science refers to the ability to “mine” large data sets to gain useful information or insight. Organizations benefit most from data science as a practice when a variety of techniques are used to retrieve and analyze data, and when it is used to process large, complex, and sometimes unstructured sets of information, commonly referred to as “big data.” Skills: Mathematics and analytics, attention to detail, predictive modeling Common Roles: Data Scientist, Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Analyst, Machine Learning Engineer, Information Scientist, Database Administrator Average Annual Salaries for Data Science Skills: Ranges from $123,419 (Data Scientist) to $145,549 (Machine Learning Engineer)
8. Programming LanguagesDescription: Professionals who specialize in programming languages understand the key differences between common languages such as JavaScript, Python, Ruby, Visual Basic .NET, SQL, R, and C#. This includes knowledge about the types of applications, databases, or other use cases for which each language is best suited. Skills: Coding and scripting in multiple languages, collaboration Common Roles: Full-Stack Web Developer, Front-End Developer, Game Developer, Software Programmer Average Annual Salary for Programming Skills: $105, 240
9. Software EngineeringDescription: In addition to application development, the computer science specialization of software engineering focuses on the systems and protocols for using these applications. Professionals in these roles may have a number of different specialties, such as debugging and testing, security and scalability, or the ability of an application to add users or features without a negative impact on performance. Skills: Coding and scripting, communication, collaboration Common Roles: Software Development Engineer, Software Engineer Average Annual Salary for Software Engineering Skills: $119,923
10. SystemsDescription: This computer science specialization helps an organization make the most of the hardware, software, and services that employees use every day. These products can include home-grown systems as well as a wide range of third-party products. Key concerns in this role include performance, security, and productivity of both the systems themselves as well as the employees working with them. Skills: Diagnosing and troubleshooting hardware and software issues, patching and updating systems, designing system architecture Common Roles: Systems Engineer Average Annual Salary for Systems Management Skills: $122,180 11. TheoryDescription: This specialization focuses on advanced mathematical theories and principles that apply to computer science. These theories can include advanced cryptography, approximation algorithms, computational algebra, and randomness. Other theories examine techniques for data and system processing such as distributed computing and parallel computing. Skills: Mathematics and analytics, predictive modeling and probability, big-picture planning Common roles: Algorithm Scientist, Machine Learning Engineer Average Annual Salary for Computer Theory Skills: $102,754 Choosing the Right Computer Science SpecializationA rewarding and well-paying job in computer science is attainable for individuals with an interest in any of the above computer science concentrations. However, mid-career professionals may be hesitant to transition into the field due to common misconceptions about computer science, including that it requires exceptional math skills, or that it means sitting in front of a computer screen all day and night. It is true that some of the skills needed for a career in computer science are technical. The application development company, BHW Group, notes that reading code, evaluating frameworks, using debuggers, and practicing source control are important skills for anyone directly involved in the process of building software, for example. However, many computer science jobs require skills beyond writing and evaluating code. According to O*Net Online, these roles also require creativity, critical thinking, problem-solving, project or proposal evaluation, and communication with software end-users, management, or leadership staff. Individuals in these positions must also be comfortable working with teams of various sizes, as much of their work is done in groups. Ultimately, choosing the right computer science specialization comes down to your personal interests and professional goals. Consider some of the if/then scenarios below to see if your specific preferences align well with a particular career path:
Due to the array of specializations within the computer science industry, it’s important to find a career path that aligns with your abilities, technical background, and long-term goals. Computer Science at NortheasternRevised in 2021, the Master of Science in Computer Science curriculum at Northeastern is specifically designed to help you identify the computer science area that best matches your career interests, and to continue to develop the technical skills necessary to secure a fulfilling job within that specialization. In addition to the core curriculum, MSCS students take classes from three “breadth areas”—modeled after our PhD program—that enable students to gain a wider range of specialized skills, thus preparing them to work in many roles. Students must take three courses from at least two breadth areas during their studies. These breadth areas include:
With your focused master’s degree, you’ll be prepared to chart a bold future in computer science. Learn more about Northeastern’s Master’s in Computer Science program and explore with path is right for you. Editor’s note: This article was originally published in June 2019. It has since been updated for recency and accuracy. Which of the following computer degrees focuses on applying computers to business problems?Bachelor of Science in Information Science (BS IS)
If computer engineering applies technology in engineering, information science applies technology in business.
Which of the following certification exams covers basic computing knowledge and skills?The CompTIA ITF+ exam focuses on the knowledge and skills required to identify and explain the basics of computing, IT infrastructure, application and software, software development, database fundamentals and security.
Which of the following would be considered a third generation computer?Some examples of third generation computer are IBM 370, PDP-11, IBM System/360, UNIVAC 1108, Honeywell-6000, DEC series, and ICL 2900.
Is a set of guidelines designed to help professionals?A professional code of ethics offers a set of guidelines teams or organizations can use to make good decisions in the workplace. It allows you to set a baseline expectation for what is socially acceptable and how to approach problems.
|