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What are some good options for jobs in computer science?
I’m 18, I’m a senior at Burton High School! #computer #computer-science #science #technology #computer-software
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8 answers
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Bryan’s Answer
Computer Science is a very broad field. There are many careers you can pursue, here are some of the most common.
Software Development - You write code to develop software for other people to use. Some examples of software are any antivirus, Discord, Google Chrome, Adobe Photoshop, PowerPoint.
Game Development - You write code to develop video games. You also may be involved in designing certain parts of the game. Example games are the Witcher 3, God of War, FIFA.
Web Developer - Similar to software development, but you're primarily designing and building websites. You would use more frontend tools such as JavaScript. Some websites include amazon.com, youtube.com, wikipedia.org.
Data Scientist - You work very closely with raw data and analyze it to solve relevant problems. Some practical applications are Netflix recommendations, credit scoring, weather predictions.
Security Analyst - You analyze systems looking for security vulnerabilities. Your job is to prevent cyberattacks. Some examples of attacks to prevent are phishing, data leaks, database hacks.
Further reading: https://www.computerscience.org/careers/
Software Development - You write code to develop software for other people to use. Some examples of software are any antivirus, Discord, Google Chrome, Adobe Photoshop, PowerPoint.
Game Development - You write code to develop video games. You also may be involved in designing certain parts of the game. Example games are the Witcher 3, God of War, FIFA.
Web Developer - Similar to software development, but you're primarily designing and building websites. You would use more frontend tools such as JavaScript. Some websites include amazon.com, youtube.com, wikipedia.org.
Data Scientist - You work very closely with raw data and analyze it to solve relevant problems. Some practical applications are Netflix recommendations, credit scoring, weather predictions.
Security Analyst - You analyze systems looking for security vulnerabilities. Your job is to prevent cyberattacks. Some examples of attacks to prevent are phishing, data leaks, database hacks.
Further reading: https://www.computerscience.org/careers/
Updated
Hanish’s Answer
CS is a very broad area and there are multiple fields within it that you can work in like Artificial Intelligence, Software Engineering, Security Engineering, Embedded Systems Engineering, etc. If you're someone who wants to get into the tech industry quickly, I would suggest trying out for fullstack engineer roles. I would suggest focusing on data structures and algorithms and mastering at least one programming language. A lot of people start out with python or javascript because they’re easier to learn compared to an object oriented language like Java or C++. Data structures and algorithms are crucial for anyone that’s trying to learn CS concepts because once you start interviewing for jobs, most of these jobs will focus on your ability to solve problems using common data structures like linked lists, arrays, stacks, queues, etc. Try to solve questions on leetcode in different programming languages like python, javascript, java, c++, etc. Leetcode has a section of problems dedicated to just interview, from personal experience I can vouch that you can expect to get these in atleast 90% of the time. Good luck!
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Samuel’s Answer
Hi Garvin!
I graduated with a degree in Computer Science with the intention of going into software development. After applying for jobs for a while, the first position I got an offer from was for a position as a sales engineer. This was completely outside of the scope of what I intended to pursue, but I am glad that I accepted the position and continued to pursue this field.
In college, I had no idea this field even existed. Basically, a sales engineer or a solutions consultant is tasked with demonstrating the value of a technical product to a customer and enabling the implementation of that technical product. It does require coding skills and general knowledge of modern technology, but it's not so focused on churning out code or fixing bugs. It requires interaction with people and explaining complex technical concepts simply. I'd recommend looking into this field if you have technical skills but also communication skills.
Here's the department of labors definition of the position:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/sales-engineers.htm
As others have stated, the field of computer science is broad. I highly recommend taking a wide breadth of courses in college to experience that breadth, whether it's algorithm analysis, artificial intelligence, databases, or networking, find a subject matter that interests you the most and maybe take a few extra courses in that field.
I graduated with a degree in Computer Science with the intention of going into software development. After applying for jobs for a while, the first position I got an offer from was for a position as a sales engineer. This was completely outside of the scope of what I intended to pursue, but I am glad that I accepted the position and continued to pursue this field.
In college, I had no idea this field even existed. Basically, a sales engineer or a solutions consultant is tasked with demonstrating the value of a technical product to a customer and enabling the implementation of that technical product. It does require coding skills and general knowledge of modern technology, but it's not so focused on churning out code or fixing bugs. It requires interaction with people and explaining complex technical concepts simply. I'd recommend looking into this field if you have technical skills but also communication skills.
Here's the department of labors definition of the position:
https://www.bls.gov/ooh/sales/sales-engineers.htm
As others have stated, the field of computer science is broad. I highly recommend taking a wide breadth of courses in college to experience that breadth, whether it's algorithm analysis, artificial intelligence, databases, or networking, find a subject matter that interests you the most and maybe take a few extra courses in that field.
Updated
Leo’s Answer
Given your age and background, I'd say you could start by looking at internship positions offered by Tech Companies in your area. If you already know what sort of thing you'd like to do, you can start by looking at companies that offer similar jobs. For instance, if you like working with databases, you could look for companies that do work in that area. If you like web development, then maybe search for that. If you don't have a preference right now, then just browse open internship positions around you and see if there are any that catch your eye.
You'd also do well to start doing coding exercises. There are lots of on-line resources that can help you get started on that path.
You'd also do well to start doing coding exercises. There are lots of on-line resources that can help you get started on that path.
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Vivek’s Answer
Start improving your skill set for the industry. For example, you can start learning programming languages and make your expertise into one language. Search for demanding skill set in the industry.
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Bruce’s Answer
I decided on CS when I was at school because I enjoyed the first introductory programming class very much and knew that there would always be many jobs in many locations with good pay to do something I enjoy.
That was decades ago and in my career I have:
Done full on coding translating one language to another
- Written fresh code
- Designed and implemented databases and applications
- Worked in IT maintaining large computer system and writing many scripts
- Designed and implemented web pages and sites
- Worked in Customer Support configurating database setup specializing in automation solutions (scripts, formulas)
There are lots & lots of other options at huge international corporations (lots of opportunity for job changes once you're in the door) and tiny companies with no other tech knowledge, and startups, school districts, manufacturing, shipping, public sector (government, etc), non-profits, and on and on.
If you enjoy your CS program, you will find many job opportunities. Like other occupations, there will be lots of other qualified candidates each time you apply for a job. One person will get selected each time. It won't be you every time, but it will be eventually, so hang in there!
That was decades ago and in my career I have:
Done full on coding translating one language to another
- Written fresh code
- Designed and implemented databases and applications
- Worked in IT maintaining large computer system and writing many scripts
- Designed and implemented web pages and sites
- Worked in Customer Support configurating database setup specializing in automation solutions (scripts, formulas)
There are lots & lots of other options at huge international corporations (lots of opportunity for job changes once you're in the door) and tiny companies with no other tech knowledge, and startups, school districts, manufacturing, shipping, public sector (government, etc), non-profits, and on and on.
If you enjoy your CS program, you will find many job opportunities. Like other occupations, there will be lots of other qualified candidates each time you apply for a job. One person will get selected each time. It won't be you every time, but it will be eventually, so hang in there!
Updated
Bruce’s Answer
I have had discussions with a number of young people who are interested in careers in "IT". As technology evolves, there were always be a need for security. There are many different areas of security. A career in IT security will require ongoing learning and will evolve at a rate at least as fast as technology.
In today's environment, there are not nearly enough qualified security professionals, therefore salarys are high even for those just starting out. Working in security also allows you to experience both the business side and network side of a business or enterprise.
There are many different Security "Certifications". Many colleges and universities offer these courses to prepare you for the certification exam.
In today's environment, there are not nearly enough qualified security professionals, therefore salarys are high even for those just starting out. Working in security also allows you to experience both the business side and network side of a business or enterprise.
There are many different Security "Certifications". Many colleges and universities offer these courses to prepare you for the certification exam.
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Michael’s Answer
There are a number of career paths for someone with a degree in computer science and the choice of which path to take should be based on where your passion lies. Software engineering and development is an obvious choice for those that love programming and coding. IT operations is a great choice for those that love technology and are interested in computer networking and other aspects of technical engineering. Data scientist roles are growing in number and are great for those that love crunching through data and identifying ways to solve problems and create opportunities by analyzing data. Information security is also a great career choice and is a very hot area right now and is great for someone that thrives on finding ways to secure networks from hackers and prevent data fraud and theft. Finally, there are many career paths for computer science majors that are not deeply technical. Jobs such as project managers, scrum masters, and business analysts are great for individuals that thrive through interacting with people in applying technology to solve business problems. Regardless of which path you choose, it is key to note that careers in computer science are evolving and if you are open to change, you will find that there will be many different twists and turns and new opportunities that will make for an exciting and fulfilling career!