Best Paying Jobs in Computer Science with a CS Degree

Computer science is an incredibly satisfying field devoted to the design, development, and implementation of software solutions. As it continuously changes with new breakthroughs and innovations emerging every day, being a computer scientist will open you up to many exciting career options, each offering its own duties and responsibilities. Before diving in headfirst into its highest-paying jobs in computer science careers it's essential that one has an in-depth knowledge of what it entails; here we begin by outlining its core definition.

Computer science careers offer some of the highest paying careers available today, including software engineers and programmers with average annual salaries near $110,000; alternative roles like information security analysts or data architects typically earn between $100,000-130,000 annually.

Demand for skilled computer science specialists is projected to remain high, with an anticipated job growth rate of 11% expected through 2029. Reliability engineers, software engineering managers and product managers all provide lucrative roles that come with lucrative annual salaries of over $130,000 annually - ideal opportunities for anyone considering a career in computer science!

Common Computer Science Education Requirements

Most high-tech careers require a bachelor's degree in computer science. This is not always the case. Students with an associate degree in computer science can pursue successful careers. Many certifications can be obtained regardless of formal academic training. Some employers will not look for applicants who have a bachelor or associate degree, but instead will focus on their certifications. It's certifications that focus one's skills on a particular skill set.

Many years ago, there were many self-taught computer wizards with little more than a High School diploma. This ethic still exists today because managers are looking for a unique approach to coding, not just a copy of textbooks. There are many online resources and books in your local library that you can use to learn.

Education and Experience is the Key to Earning Top Pay

Computer scientists are also rewarded based on their level of experience, as is the case in many other fields. Code writers learn to write new code that can accommodate specific hardware and software systems. It is useful to have a basic understanding of older technology when creating new applications. A computer scientist who has such a historical understanding will be able to predict what problems may arise in the future and what users have historically needed. As older systems become less popular, people who are able to troubleshoot them or code applications will be in high demand.

Continuing education is a valuable asset for every computer scientist. When they receive a certification, this is taken care of easily. Certifications are often renewed every year or so. Certificate holders must constantly study the language or technology to keep up with requirements. Employers can tell that a candidate's resume shows many years of certification because they know the candidate is constantly updating their knowledge to meet new requirements.

In many fields, a bachelor's is an implied requirement. Employers may prefer a bachelor's in computer science, but it is not a rule. This is because computer skills can be acquired and improved with an associate degree in computer science, along with certifications.

Future employers will take note of a person who is able implement their hard-earned skills. Even learning programming outside of university can be beneficial because these self-taught programmers often find unique and efficient ways to use code. They've also shown a passion for their field. They didn't just follow a curriculum, but forged their own path which is rewarded primarily by passion and satisfaction.

Computer Systems Analyst

Median Salary: $99,270

Job Outlook: 9% (faster than average)

Requirements: Experience in IT, associate computer science degree, and relevant certificates.

Software Developer

Median Salary: $109,000

Job Outlook: 25% (much faster than average)

Requirements: Those with an associate computer science degree should have many years of experience, as well as long-standing certifications in relevant programming languages and technologies.

Systems Engineer

Average Salary: $76,000

Job Outlook: 3% (slower than average)

Requirements: To become a systems engineer, a degree in IT or computer science is often required. An associate of science degree may suffice for those who have ample experience and certifications. For instance, many employers look for a networking certificate from Microsoft of Cisco Systems.

Learn more about additional computer science careers and salaries on the best paying computer science jobs @ University Headquarters - Salary data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics.