Top Careers in Computer Science
Updated February 21, 2023
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Graduates seeking computer science careers can take advantage of a growing field.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects jobs for computer and information technology occupations will grow significantly — a 15% increase — from 2021 to 2031. This is significantly faster than the projected growth rate for all occupations nationwide. Some computer science jobs, such as computer and information research scientists, are projected to grow even more quickly.
Computer science job opportunities vary depending on the degree. Graduates with associate degrees often pursue roles as computer support specialists or web developers. Bachelor's degrees open doors to many more computer science careers in software development, database administration, and computer programming.
Employers may expect computer and information research scientists to hold master's degrees at minimum. Read on to explore top careers in computer science.
Explore Computer Science Careers
The Rise of the Computer Science Field
Since its inception during the Industrial Revolution, computer science has become essential to everyday life and changed nearly every part of society: Cybersecurity experts protect companies from foreign and domestic interference, while everyday people stream movies and connect with video conferencing technology.
Because of widespread computer use, there are boundless opportunities for what you can do with a computer science degree.
The BLS projects jobs for information security analysts will grow 35% from 2021 to 2031. Web developers, who use digital design tools to create and update online sites, navigation systems, and search engines, can also expect faster-than-average job growth, according to the BLS.
The federal government has become one of the biggest employers of computer scientists and analysts thanks to the relationship between computer science and national security. Among careers with a computer science degree, the field is highly profitable and likely to stay profitable for the foreseeable future.
Plus, computer science is strategically necessary to the world today. Computer science degrees open doors to exciting and lucrative professional opportunities, making the investment worthwhile.
Career Outlook and Salary Potential in Computer Science
From 2021 to 2031, the BLS projects that the U.S. will add 682,800 new computer and information technology jobs, a 15% growth.
Some computer science jobs should grow even more quickly: The BLS projects a 25% growth in jobs for software developers and a 35% increase in positions for information security analysts. Projections for some computer science careers, such as network and computer systems administrator, indicate growth slower than the national average for all occupations — about 3% from 2021 to 2031.
The BLS reported a median annual salary of $91,250 across all computer and information technology careers as of May 2021. As the chart below demonstrates, median salary can vary by job title. Computer support specialists make an annual median salary of $57,910 while computer and information research scientists earn $131,490.
| Career | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Research Scientist | $131,490 |
| Computer Network Architect | $120,520 |
| Software Developer | $109,020 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Database Administrator | $101,000 |
Source: BLS, 2020
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MATCH ME TO A BOOTCAMPComputer Science Salary by Location
Location plays a major part in salary potential for computer science graduates. For computer and information research scientists, top-paying states include California, Virginia, and Washington. In Virginia, computer and information research scientists earn an average annual salary of $129,680, while Texas employees make $146,180.
For computer network architects, California offers the highest average annual salary at $129,240. States like Colorado, Virginia, and Texas also offer high salaries. Software developers earn the highest average annual salaries in Washington, California, and Maryland.
Software Developer Salaries by State
The BLS projected 162,900 software developer openings in the U.S. as of May 2021. This profession houses the lion's share of computer science professionals (computer support specialists are projected to have 75,000 job openings as of 2021). These employees are spread across the United States, their average salaries varying substantially by state.
Average Annual Wage and Employment for Software Developers by State, 2021
Source: BLS
Major Employers of Computer Science Graduates
One of the largest tech companies in the country, Google employs a broad array of software engineers and computer scientists. The company boasts expanding investments in new and emerging software, including search engine optimization, AI technology, and digital security in the cloud.
FAA
Computer scientists are in high demand in the public sector. The Federal Aviation Administration is actively seeking to expand the quality and strength of its software. For example, the FAA relies on cybersecurity technology to keep air travel safe and smooth both at home and abroad.
CGI
A big name in the financial sector, CGI needs skilled computer technicians and engineers to keep software and services updated as the business world expands. In addition to consulting, CGI also works in IT, infrastructure, and cybersecurity.
Netflix
At the intersection of entertainment and digital media, Netflix has evolved into a platform for emerging and established filmmakers, writers, and actors. At its core, Netflix is a media service that relies on talented software engineers to keep up with its growing demand.
As one of the largest social media networks in the world, Twitter has also become one of the largest employers in the last 10 years. With a specific focus on making digital connections, Twitter employs data scientists, software engineers, and cloud data engineers among its ever-growing workforce.
Slack
The workforce is adapting to circumstances that require digital mass communication. Companies like Slack have stepped in to help companies easily and efficiently organize across and within departments. Slack uses digital and social media, plus the related skills of computer engineers, to help coworkers connect in their virtual office spaces.
Frequently Asked Questions About Careers in Computer Science
What is the highest-paid job in computer science?
With a median annual salary of $131,490 as of 2021, computer and information research scientists earn high average wages while working to expand the field of computer science with new technology designs, platforms, and systems.
Is computer science in high demand?
The BLS projects jobs for experts in computer science to grow significantly from 2021 to 2031.
What can you do with a computer science degree?
With a computer science degree, you can work in technological design, maintenance, and analysis, among other areas. Professionals may work for tech companies, government agencies, or in other sectors.
Is computer science a good career?
Yes! High demand for qualified computer science professionals means high projected growth for many careers. These jobs are often lucrative, with average salaries ranging from $80,000 to $130,000.
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