Computer science is a booming industry with a large demand for skilled workers. A computer science degree takes a lot of hard work and dedication, so it’s reassuring to know there are many computer science jobs available once you graduate.
Computer science is the study of computers and computational systems. There are loads of opportunities available to computer science graduates, specialising in things such as robotics, machine learning and software engineering. Technology is constantly changing, and so is the role of a computer scientist. Read on to discover what those opportunities are and how to get into the field.
- Why work in computer science?
- What types of jobs are there for a computer science graduate?
- What skills are needed to work in computer science?
- What degrees help with a career in computer science?
1. Why work in computer science?
Global opportunities
Computer scientists provide their expertise to endless numbers of tech companies across the globe. Computer science is a globally growing industry, so experience abroad will complement professional qualifications and provide endless opportunities throughout your career. Furthermore, you can work from almost anywhere, assuming you have power and internet access, on anything virtual.
Career progression
Computer scientists are in high demand, so there will be lots of chances for career progression. With hard work and determination, you will be able to progress up the ladder giving you more responsibilities and overseeing more projects.
Needed in almost every industry
Graduates with a background in computer science have their pick of almost any industry, allowing them to specialise in what they find the most interesting. Whether you want to design software to solve problems in the healthcare industry, science, or app and game design, there are plenty of avenues you can take.
2. What types of jobs are there for a computer science graduate?
There is a wide range of graduate opportunities available to computer science graduates. A few of the most common routes are:
Data Science
Data scientists are in huge demand. Data scientists primarily analyse data and take actionable insights for companies to increase efficiency in a range of areas, from productivity to marketing, website users and app functions. Job roles within the data science field can include:
- Data administrator or analyst
- Data architect
- Statistician
Software Engineer
Software engineers are the industry’s product or service developers; they build the websites and applications we use in everyday life and aim to design computer programs to help solve real-world problems. They work creatively through coding and often work collaboratively across businesses to ensure build projects are effectively created.
Infrastructure Engineer
Some businesses have infrastructure engineers working within their IT departments. Their job role is like a software engineer, but rather than focusing on the external facing components of a business, they work on key internal elements such as storage, databases and The Cloud. They write scripts for infrastructure and ensure compliance with security and GDPR. This type of job role has lately seen links to working within artificial intelligence and robotics.
Other jobs directly related to a computer science degree include:
- Application analyst
- Website developer
- Technical writer
- IT consultant
- Cybersecurity consultant or information security specialist
- Information systems manager
- Database administrator
- Multimedia programmer
- Games developer
- App developer
3. What skills are needed to work in computer science?
Studying computer science gives you many key technical skills such as coding, programming languages, cloud skills and data analysis. A degree in computer science also demonstrates many non-technical skills which are highly valued by employers, things such as leadership, attention to detail, teamwork and time management. Technical knowledge will vary depending on the career path you choose, but here are a few skills that would benefit you in any role within the industry:
- Computer and technology knowledge and skills
- Strong knowledge of mathematics and statistical analysis
- Strong written and verbal communication skills
- A systematic approach to work and problem solving
- A creative approach to solving problems
- To work well in a team
Most careers in the computer science industry will rely on specific programs and technical knowledge. If you are interested in a particular role, we would suggest finding job adverts for that role and looking at the job description and person specification. Identify the skills and experience you already have, or where you need to improve to meet the essential criteria for the role. Read our guide to the top skills that employers want to see on your CV.
4. What degrees help with a career in computer science?
The most direct route into this career path is with a degree in computer science, although there is usually some flexibility within this. A lot of large IT companies have graduate schemes that are open to alumni from any subject with the understanding IT knowledge can be taught within the workplace. More technical roles are open to graduates with a background in mathematics, science or IT-business-related courses.
Take a look at the Unitemps job search portal to see if we have any roles available that would give you key experience and set you on the pathway to a career in computer science, or get more career advice by reading our other articles.
Last updated on 4 June 2024
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