As the world becomes more digital, an increasing number of students are beginning to consider the benefits of computer science degrees. Obviously, a master in computer science degree opens up a range of potential career opportunities. Employers from all industries require computer science experts to handle their technology requirements. Whether you prefer to work as a software developer, a computer security specialist, and more, the opportunities are virtually limitless.
Typically, graduates of this degree program will be able to find employment within a range of different businesses, including IT consultancies and service providers. Since most businesses now rely on computers and other computing devices, such as smartphones and tablets, to function more productively and efficiently, companies require people with a computer science degree in everything from healthcare to manufacturing, to aerospace and telecommunications.
The best way to open up more opportunities with your masters in computer science degree is to make sure that you have a portfolio of computing projects that you can show during the job interview. This might include insights into websites you have built, or applications you have helped to design. Here, we’ll look at just some of the best jobs that a masters in computer science can lead to.
#1 Applications Analyst
This is a professional who handles a range of maintenance IT tasks and has the ability to work face-to-face with people who require technical guidance. Application analysts take part in the administration, maintenance, and monitoring of applications and software. These professionals are expected to oversee different processes to make sure that data remains safe and secure throughout information systems. They will make sure that the processes that a business needs to run are capable of performing at their optimum levels.
Most application analysts will work alongside software engineers and application developers in IT departments. They are often responsible for:
- Training staff on how to use applications
- Diagnosing and repairing software issues
- Resolving problems with software
- Developing new applications
- Road testing new applications
- Attending meetings to provide updates and assistance on tech requirements
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a business analyst or management analyst had a median salary of $81,330 per year as of May 2016. The predicted growth rate is 14% from 2014 to 2024, which is much faster than average.
#2 Business Analyst
Another way you can use your master’s degree in computer science is to work as a business analyst. If you’re that sort of person who likes creating solutions for business productivity, evaluating processes, and communicating with a range of people about technology, then this career could be perfect for you. Business analysts work within an organization helping to plan for future goals according to the needs of a specific company. This might mean working towards a particular project, or helping with the overarching ambitions of the business.
To succeed as a business analyst, you’ll need a thorough understanding of how the company works and apply objective statistical analysis on business to make projections and simulations. You will be expected to communicate with internal colleagues to help you better understand the needs of the business and departments, and you will also need to use data modeling to analyze your findings and create strategies for operational improvement. Often, you will also be responsible for making sure that plans are followed, and processes are created to help you evaluate the impact of every change made.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a business analyst or management analyst had a median salary of $81,330 per year as of May 2016. The predicted growth rate is 14% from 2014 to 2024, which is much faster than average.
#3 Games Developer
If you enjoy video games and you want to take your hobby to the next level, then you could do that with a master’s degree in computer science. Games developers are professionals who handle the programming, design, art, and animation of games. The video games industry is a fast-paced sector, and you will be involved with creating games for a range of consoles, as well as online games, tablet games, and mobile games. Usually, you will be involved with the “programming” part of game development.
The exact tasks that a games developer will be expected to carry out will vary depending on their specialization. However, responsibilities usually include everything from creating the visual aspects of a game to programming the game and testing the quality of the performance factors. You will need to be able to perform well under strict deadlines and a lot of pressure, and you should also be able to work closely with a diverse team.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, game developers, which are under the category of “software developers” had a median salary of $102,280 per year as of May 2016.
#4 IT Consultant
IT consultancy is perfect for people with a master’s degree in computer science, because this career requires an in-depth knowledge of business and IT information. Most of the time, IT consultants will work alongside clients and businesses, helping them to understand how they can use information technology to overcome problems in their company and meet their business objectives.
IT consultants can have a lot of responsibilities depending on the nature of their position, including meeting with clients and planning timescales according to the type of IT resources that may be needed. An IT consultant may:
- Help businesses understand what kind of IT help they need
- Analyze and test IT equipment
- Develop IT solutions for companies and implement new systems.
- Define network, software, and hardware requirements for a company
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, IT consultants, which come under the category of “computer systems analysts” had a median salary of $87,220 per year as of May 2016.
#5 Web Developer
Finally, one of the most appealing jobs for people with a master’s in computer science degree is that of a web developer. If you’re looking for great opportunities for career progression and lots of variety in your job, then this is the perfect for you. Web developers are responsible for building and maintaining a variety of web applications. Although they often focus on databases and software, some will also offer visual design and interface solutions for websites, which is known as full-stack development.
The daily tasks will depend on where they work. They may be required to program or write code in a number of scripting languages, fix bugs in various projects, and make sure that features are thoroughly tested so that any potential errors in a website can be removed.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics indicates that web developers had a median salary of $66,130 per year as of May 2016.
References
- Computer Systems Analysts. (2015, Dec. 17). Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm
- Management Analysts. (2015, Dec. 17). Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/business-and-financial/management-analysts.htm
- Software Developers. (2015, Dec. 17). Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm
- Web Developers. (2015, Dec. 17). Retrieved from https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/web-developers.htm
