As the world integrates computer technology into more and more fields, there is a growing demand for those with a deep understanding of the technology. The people with the best broad-based understanding of the tech are those with a background in computer science.
Computer science isn’t just about programming or just about computer systems. It also encompasses deep problem-solving skills, design, algorithms, and even security.
Are you wondering what you can do with a computer science degree? It turns out that people with a bachelor’s degree in computer science enjoy a surprisingly wide range of options in terms of the career path.
Let’s jump in and look at some of the options.
1. Research
Researchers must contend with often enormous data sets.
Consider government applications, such as calculating the right balance between Medicare costs and available medical services. Medicare provides medical coverage for over 66 million people.
A computer scientist can write algorithms and use machine learning to get an answer that maximizes care while staying within cost limits.
Computer scientists can also help researchers test models or find patterns in vast volumes of data.
Sound like your cup of tea? You can get into the field by starting with an online computer science degree. Many colleges, such as Full Sail University, offer CS programs
2. Cybersecurity
Computer science majors study specialties like any other field. If you like the security side of things, you’re in luck. Just in the US, there is around 1 cybersecurity expert for every two jobs.
Cybersecurity pros wear a lot of hats these days, but their primary role is data protection. They monitor networks and look for hostile intrusions or atypical behaviors. They shore up holes they find in a company’s digital protection.
Some pros even specialize in cyber-forensics. Essentially, they look for ways to retrieve deleted data or follow digital breadcrumbs back to criminals.
3. Game Developer
Game development might not leave the same lasting footprint as research or protect people’s medical information, but it’s probably more fun in the long-term. People with a CS background typically gravitate toward the programming side of game development.
They help create physics engines, build the levels, and even write code that defines colors on screen. Some developers prefer working on small, independent games for mobile devices. Others prefer working on sprawling, open-world games like No Man’s Sky or Assassin’s Creed.
Either way, your CS background will help you with the programming and understanding the limits of the console hardware.
Getting the Most from Your Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science
Leveraging your bachelor’s degree in computer science means thinking long-term while you get your degree. Early on, note the subject matter that interests you most.
Then, look for jobs that call for those CS-related skills or knowledge. You should see a pattern emerge, which will help you pick the right career field after you get your degree.
Interested in some more tech-related content? Check out some of the blog posts in our Tech section.