Computer Science

Area

Employer

Information/Strategies

Sub-Area:

• Systems
• Scientific Applications
• Business Applications
  • Intelligence
  • Warehousing
  • Information Delivery
  • Maintenance
• Project Management

Employers:

• Computer vendors
• Software and computer companies
• Any large organization including:
  • Banks
  • Retail chains
  • Manufacturers
  • Universities
  • Government agencies
• Management consulting firms
• Contract and temporary employers
• Research laboratories

Strategies & Information:

• Gain relevant experience through internships or co-ops.
• Develop an attention to detail and a flair for creativity.
• Learn to work well with a team and to meet deadlines.
• Supplement computer degree with courses in business, science, or engineering.
• Stay current on programming languages.
• Earn a master’s degree for upper level positions.
• Seek the Certified Computing Professional designation by completing a series of exams and experiential requirements.

Sub-Area:

• Analysis
• Design
• Support
• Quality Assurance
• Specialty Systems
  • Database
  • Client-Server
  • Expert

Employers:

• Banks and financial institutions
• Insurance companies
• Consulting firms
• Manufacturers
• Local, state, and federal government
• Computer companies
• Research institutions

Strategies & Information:

• Develop strong interpersonal skills. Learn to communicate effectively with technical and non-technical colleagues.
• Gain programming experience. Many analysts begin their careers as programmers.
• Become an effective problem solver.
• Take business courses. Earn an M.B.A. degree for advanced positions.
• Plan to continually educate self on new computer languages and technology.

Sub-Area:

• Installation and Maintenance
• Administration

Employers:

• Variety of organizations and industries

Strategies & Information:

• Work in university computer labs.
• Develop good communication skills and an interest in helping others.
• Gain knowledge in a variety of computer areas including minor programming, software, and hardware.
• Stay abreast of the latest technology and software.
• Earn certifications in networking and computer security.

Sub-Area:

• Programming
• Software Design
• Systems Analysis
• Hardware Production
• Web Page Design

Employers:

• Network access points
• Backbone operators
• Online service providers
• Internet service providers
• Computer/equipment vendors
• Internet-related companies including:
  • Browsers
  • Search engines
  • Website design services
• Large businesses

Strategies & Information:

• Gain experience as a webmaster through part-time jobs, internships, or volunteering to design web pages for student organizations.
• Learn web-related programming languages.
• Take graphic design courses to develop creativity.
• Learn to communicate and work well with others in a team by participating in group projects or student organizations.
• Earn a master’s degree in computer science for advanced opportunities in programming, analysis, or hardware/software design.

Sub-Area:

• System Installation
• System Implementation
• Training

Employers:

• Consulting firms
• Self-employed

Strategies & Information:

• Obtain a strong technical knowledge of computers, a background in business management, and experience as a systems analyst.
• Learn various programming languages and operating systems.
• Develop exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills.

Sub-Area:

• Teaching
• Instructional Technology

Employers:

• Public and private schools, K-12
• Colleges and universities

Strategies & Information:

• Certification required for public school teaching.
• Earn a doctoral degree in computer science for post-secondary teaching.
• Earn a graduate degree in information technology or a related field for instructional technology.
• Develop a research specialty for university teaching.
• Gain experience working with other students through tutoring or positions in computer labs.

Sub-Area:

• Customer/Product Support
• Technical Writing
• Sales and Marketing

Employers:

• Software/hardware manufacturers
• Retail stores
• Software vendors

Strategies & Information:

• Develop excellent communication skills and an interest in helping customers solve problems.
• Work in university computer labs.
• Supplement curriculum with technical writing courses to develop skills.
• Seek related work experiences.