Business Degree Overview

The IT world is unrivaled in its growth potential, and it is one of the fastest growing industries in the world. Advancement opportunities are excellent, and there is high demand for specialists with knowledge of network, data and communications. Specific careers in Computer Science include:

  • Database administrator
  • Computer programmer
  • Software publisher
  • Software engineer
  • Product manager
  • Computer systems analyst
  • Network systems communications analyst
  • Web developer
  • LAN administrator

Computer Science / Programming Salary Information

The average earnings for computer scientists range from $65,000 and $109,000 per year. Many people who have Computer Science degrees are self-employed and work as independent contractors and consultants. Others advance to Chief Technology Officers or other top management positions.

Computer Science / Programming Required Job Skills and Knowledge

Believe it or not, Computer Science is one of America’s top career choices. It makes sense since technology is constantly advancing leaving room for anyone to find a job in this field. The starting salaries are very impressive and just climb higher based on how advanced your degree may be.

What are the educational requirements for obtaining a degree in Computer Science? First, here is a breakdown by specific degrees to give you an idea what you would be working towards in order to obtain a degree in Computer Science and then what is required in order to get a job in this field. (Keep in mind every school is different based on what they require, this breakdown is just an example)

Degree requirements for Computer Science

Associates Degree in Computer Science:

GENERAL EDUCATION CORE:

  • Minimum of Three Semester hours of English Composition
  • Minimum of three semester hours of Mathematics
  • Minimum of six semester hours of Sciences
  • Minimum of six semester hours of Social and Behavioral Sciences
  • Minimum of six semester hours of Arts and Humanities

Additional General Education Requirements may be required ranging from Introduction to Web Authoring to Speech Communication.

Here is a breakdown of possible Major Areas:

    • Introduction to Computer Science and Object-Oriented Programming
    • Object-Oriented Data Structures and Algorithms
    • Database Management Systems
    • Discrete Mathematics
  • Applied Calculus

Bachelors Degree in Computer Science

FUNDAMENTAL GENERAL EDUCATION CORE

  • Minimum of three semester hours of English Composition
  • Minimum of three semester hours of Mathematics
  • Minimum of six semester hours of Sciences
  • Minimum of six semester hours of Social and Behavioral Sciences
  • Minimum of six semester hours of Arts and Humanities

Additional General Education Requirements range from Business and Professional Communication to Global Issues.

PREREQUISITE COMPETENCIES

  • Introduction to Web Authoring
  • Introduction to Databases

Major Areas (Average 72 hours)

*Classes range from Principles of Computer Organization to Information Systems Security.

If you are unable to complete a full degree at this time but have a few courses under your belt you can still pursue a job or career in Computer Science if you possess specific skills:

Computer Science Skills

In the field of Computer Science, according to career tips on careerrequirement.com, ‘you should be able to solve complex problems, advance virtual reality, build robots, design new programming languages, and/or much, much more.’

The skills necessary for working in Computer science include:

    • Strong problem-solving ability
    • Analytical Aptitude
  • Excellent personal dexterity

To get a job in Computer Science most employers look to see if you possess a Bachelors degree. But employers like to search for applicants that possess at Ph.D because of the extensive amount of research that must be conducted. You may be able to find a job with just an Associate’s Degree but your opportunities might be very slim. The higher your degree in Computer Science the greater the opportunities.

Useful courses for expanding your knowledge include but are not limited to:

    • Applied mathematics
    • Computer Science
    • Engineering
    • Physical Science
  • Systems Design

Salaries in this field are very broad since again, it is based on the level and experience of your education. According to the Payscale College Salary Report found on computer-shares.com, ‘you could potentially be making up to $120,000 a year. The minimum pay would be somewhere around $52, 000 a year for web developers. Software Architects are known to make around $115,000 a year.’

If you are wanting to become qualified for a Computer Science career, here is a list of excellent online schools to help you get on that fast track.
Computer Science Schools

    • Keiser University eCampus Online
    • DeVry University
    • Brown Mackie College
    • Lincoln Technological Institute
    • California College San Diego
  • ITT Technical Institute