What Can You Do with a Computer Science Degree?

Computer science combines the principles of engineering, mathematics and science to study and develop computers, networks, hardware, software, databases and much more. Because of that, there is a wide range of potential careers within the field, from software engineering to computer programming or system analysis.

With a bachelor's degree in computer science, you can embark on a field of study – and career – with dozens of potential job roles suited to your interests. You can also use the knowledge you develop to apply the concepts and theories that are the foundation of computer science to work in a variety of industries, including technology, business, manufacturing and more.

In addition to working in various industries, computer scientists can specialize in a number of areas within computer and information technology. As a computer network engineer, for example, you could work designing and building communication networks. As a computer systems analyst, you would be able to analyze an organization’s computer network and find ways to make it more efficient and productive.

What Jobs can you Get with a Computer Science Degree?

Because computer science is such a broad field of study, you can determine which of many paths within the discipline you're best suited for – or most interested in.

Some employers may offer entry-level positions to candidates with just an associate degree in computer science, while others will require or prefer a bachelor's level education.

Computer and Information Scientists

Computer and information research scientists study problems that organizations in medicine, business and other sectors confront regarding computing. They use data science, robotics and computer programming principles to create or improve computer systems, software and algorithms and sometimes work with electrical and computer hardware engineers on complex projects.

Other typical duties, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), include:

Most computer research and information scientists work for the federal government, a computer systems design service or a research and development organization. They earned a median income of $131,490 in 2021, and a master’s degree is usually a requirement for the position, according to BLS.

Computer Programmers

Computer programmers specialize in different programming languages to manipulate program designs by engineers and developers into instructions the computer can better understand. “Computer programmers write the code that allows software programs to run. The programmer's job entails refining the ideas and solving the problems while converting the program into code,” said Dr. Albanie Bolton, an information technology and computer science adjunct at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU).

Computer programmers work hand in hand with software developers and engineers, and some of their job functions can overlap. Other duties for computer programmers include:

Most computer programmers have a bachelor's degree, and many certifications are available in specific programming languages and products. Some companies require their programmers to become certified in the company's programs. You might consider taking introductory courses in a computer programming certificate to gain some of the foundations in programming. If you earn it online at SNHU, for example, you may be able to transfer all of the credits you earned in the certificate program toward a related associate or bachelor's degree program.

To advance within a company, you may need to develop business experience and become a computer systems analyst or software developer, according to BLS.

Computer programmers earned a median salary of $93,000 in 2021, according to BLS.

Learn more about how to become a computer programmer.

Computer Systems Analysts

Computer systems analysts – or systems architects – study a business or organization’s computer systems, networks and protocols and find ways to make them work more efficiently. “The computer systems analyst is also generally responsible for identifying and solving problems with applications, operating systems and integration of items with the overall enterprise computing environment,” said Dr. Francis Manning, an information technology and computer science adjunct at SNHU.

Computer systems analysts also:

Many computer systems analysts have a bachelor’s degree in computer or information science, but those aren't your only options. Since you have to evaluate IT needs in the context of business goals properly, you might also consider business courses or choose a business major with a computer science concentration, according to BLS.

Computer systems analysts made a median salary of $99,270 in 2021, and the field is expected to grow by 7% through 2030, according to BLS.

Information Security Analysts

Information security analysts are charged with protecting a person or organization’s computer networks and data by monitoring those networks for cyber attacks and intrusions. Security analysts are often intimately involved in planning for a possible security breach and data recovery plan so companies can continue to operate if they are hacked.

Other duties include:

Learn more about what information security is and why it's important.

Most information security analysts have at least a bachelor’s in a computer-related field, such as a computer science or cyber security degree, and many companies look for candidates with previous experience in a related field.

Some companies prefer security analyst candidates with a Master of Business Administration in Information Systems, according to BLS. There are also many licensure opportunities for information security analysts, including the Certified Information Systems Security Professional designation.

Security analysts made a median salary of $102,600 in 2021, and the field is growing quickly. BLS estimates security analyst positions will grow 33% through 2030.

Software Developers

Software developers supply the creative inspiration behind the millions of software programs and applications available. “Software developers can or may create customized software for a specific customer or commercial software to be sold to the public," said Bolton. “They are in charge of outlining and creating the code and design for a program.”

Software developers can learn a range of programming languages, including Java and JavaScript, C# and Python, while completing their computer science degree. "A sufficient balance of hard and soft skills is an important element to have as a software developer,” said Bolton.

There are two main types of software developers, according to BLS:

Other typical core duties for software developers include:

Most software developers have a bachelor's degree and strong computer skills. In 2020, they earned a median income of $110,140, and the field is growing quickly. It is estimated to increase by 22% through 2030, according to BLS.

You might also consider becoming a software engineer, a type of software developer. Some computer science programs offer you the chance to focus on this role with a software engineering degree concentration.

Web Developers

Web development is a subset of computer programming. A web developer's role is to mainly focus on the creation of the website. In addition, they work on the everyday use of the website, ensuring it is both visually appealing and easy to navigate for the user.

While some web developers work on all aspects of a website, others have specialties, according to BLS:

Other duties common for web developers include:

Web developers need a good understanding of HTML programming, and some employers prefer developers with knowledge of multiple programming languages. A college degree isn't always a requirement, but some employers look for developers with a bachelor's degree in computer science or programming. You might also consider earning a web developer certificate focused on full stack web development.

Web developers earned a median salary of $77,200 in 2020, and the position is expected to grow by 13% through 2030, according to BLS.

Is Computer Science a Good Degree?

Most jobs in computer science require a degree in a computer-related subject – and, to earn one, you need to enroll in an accredited college or university that offers the degree you're interested in.

A bachelor's degree in computer science will teach you the theory, development, application and design of computer science as well as a number of programming languages and an array of other vital skills.

“The purpose of the computer science degree path is to provide the student with a significant amount of background information to understand why things work in a particular way,” said Manning. “If you want to be able to contribute to the overall body of knowledge for computer science, understanding 'why' things work is absolutely essential.”

A computer science program can include:

If you want to go further, a master's in computer science is another credential employers look for in job applicants. “A master's degree in computer science will help expand knowledge and experience from the undergraduate toolkit,” said Bolton.

A master's degree can provide you with a broader range of courses and subjects within the field to dive deeper into and prepare you for advancement and leadership in your career.

“This credential is often seen as a mechanism of providing proof that your skills in the discipline are at a level that the employer deems necessary to succeed in a defined role,” said Manning.

Is Computer Science for Me?

With a huge demand for computer science skills and a wide range of job roles, the time is ripe for you to decide, "is computer science right for me?" If you're interested in combining your knowledge of computers, mathematics and networking, the answer might be yes.

Discover more about SNHU’s bachelor's degree in computer science: Find out what courses you'll take, skills you’ll learn and how to request information about the program.

Joe Cote is a staff writer at Southern New Hampshire University. Follow him on Twitter @JoeCo2323.