Explore nine of the highest-paying computer science jobs in the US, including their earning potential, job outlook, responsibilities, and requirements to get started.
Computer science is a broad field that involves the study of technology and many job titles with diverse responsibilities. Computer scientists use technology to solve social, business, and scientific problems. As a computer science major, you can choose from many specializations, such as software development, computer graphics, artificial intelligence, security, and data management.听
While education is not always directly related to career options, you have several ways to tailor your computer science education. Those holding a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science can go on to earn a graduate-level computer science degree or qualify for certifications and certificates. Some computer science degrees also have options to specialize in cybersecurity or artificial intelligence.
Computer science also offers many opportunities for IT careers. Many positions require you to have a bachelor鈥檚 degree, while others require you to have a master鈥檚 or doctoral degree. Explore some of the highest-paying computer science jobs and the skills you鈥檒l need.
The US Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow faster than all other occupations from 2023 to 2033 []. Approximately 356,700 openings each year should come from growth and replacement needs [].
The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations is $104,420 as of May 2023, which is higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $48,060 at that time []. Explore the high-paying computer science jobs in the US, their job outlook, and the career path for each.
Median annual US salary: $120,360 []
Job outlook: 33 percent []
Requirements: The position most often requires a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science and work experience. Some employers may require certification.
As an information security analyst, you鈥檒l initiate security measures for computer networks and systems, monitor for security vulnerabilities and breaches, and document attempted attacks on computer systems.
Median annual US salary: $130,160听摆]
Job outlook: 17 percent []
Requirements: Many employers look for software developers with a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science and strong knowledge of programming languages.
A software developer designs computer applications based on user needs. A developer is responsible for software upgrades and ensuring the software is functioning correctly.听
Median annual US salary: $138,080 []
Job outlook: 7 percent []
Requirements: Most employers require a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer engineering or a related field, and some prefer candidates with a master鈥檚 degree.
As a computer hardware engineer, you鈥檒l design, test, and analyze computer hardware. A computer hardware engineer may also oversee the manufacturing of computer hardware.
Median annual US salary: $108,020 []
Job outlook: 36 percent []
Requirements: To become a data scientist, you鈥檒l need a minimum of a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science, math, statistics, or a related field. Some employers want candidates with a master鈥檚 or doctoral degree.
As a data scientist, you would be responsible for determining the data that will be most useful for a project. In this position, you would develop and test algorithms to ensure they meet user requirements.
Median annual US salary: $129,840 []
Job outlook: 13 percent []
Requirements: Most employers require a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer technology, engineering, or a related field. You also may need certifications in the products used to design networks.
Computer network architects build the network infrastructure that connects users on a large or small scale. As a network architect, you鈥檒l develop plans for computer networks and keep up-to-date with the latest networking technologies.
Median annual US salary: $117,450听摆]
Job outlook: 9 percent []
Requirements: To work as a database architect, you鈥檒l need a bachelor鈥檚 degree in computer science or a related field, and certifications may be required. Some employers prefer candidates with a master鈥檚 degree in computer science or information systems.
Database architects design and build databases for applications and systems. In this position, you would maintain databases by backing them up and ensuring data integrity.听
Median annual US salary: $145,080 []
Job outlook: 26 percent []
Requirements: Most employers require a computer and information research scientist to hold a master鈥檚 degree in computer science or a related field.
As a computer and information research scientist, you鈥檒l solve complex computing problems, design computer architecture, and develop new programming languages.听
Median annual US salary: $169,510听摆]
Job outlook: 17 percent []
Requirements: The position typically requires a bachelor鈥檚 degree in a computer science-related field. Some employers may require a postgraduate degree and work experience in information technology.
As a computer and information system manager, also called IT manager, you鈥檒l oversee the technology needs of an organization. You鈥檒l be responsible for keeping computer systems running smoothly and up-to-date. You will likely work with other IT professionals and coordinate system needs.
Median annual US salary: $103,800听摆]
Job outlook: 11 percent []
Requirements: For most positions, you must have a bachelor鈥檚 degree. While a degree in a related discipline, such as computer science, information technology, or mathematics, is often preferred by employers, it is not always required if you can showcase relevant skills. Sometimes, employers may prefer you to have a master鈥檚 degree in business or computer science.
As a computer systems analyst, you might work with finances, manufacturing, or information. The role depends on the type of organization and its needs. Most positions require a system analyst to increase the efficiency of systems and analyze data. Some system analysts act as team leaders or project managers.
Computer science requires specific technical and interpersonal skills. You can include these skills in your resume or application for post-graduate studies.
Programming languages
Technical writing聽
Cloud skills
Project management
Data science
Attention to detail
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Creativity
Computer science is a steadily growing career with many career paths that have a high earning potential. You can pursue several degree options on 糖心vlog官网观看. Consider earning a Bachelor of Science degree (BSc) in Computer Science from the University of London. Coursework for this degree is completely online, and admission is offered twice a year. If you鈥檙e considering postgraduate studies, the Online Master of Computer Science offered by Arizona State University is a great choice that you can complete in 18 to 36 months.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. 鈥, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm.鈥 Accessed November 20, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm." Accessed November 20, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm." Accessed November 20, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/architecture-and-engineering/computer-hardware-engineers.htm." Accessed November 20, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/math/data-scientists.htm." Accessed November 20, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-network-architects.htm." Accessed November 20, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm." Accessed November 20, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm." Accessed November 20, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm." Accessed November 20, 2024.
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. ", https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm." Accessed November 20, 2024.
Federal Reserve Bank of New York. 鈥, https://www.newyorkfed.org/research/college-labor-market#--:explore:outcomes-by-major.鈥 Accessed November 10, 2024.
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