Whether you’re coming to the end of a computer science degree or you’re still deciding which course is right for you, it’s important to think about your future career. To help you plan ahead, here are some of the computer science job options available to you once you’ve graduated. Plus, a few tips on how to reach your career goals. 

Computer science students

Why you should study a computer science degree

Technology is becoming even more important in our daily lives, so there’s a growing need for software engineers, web developers and computer programmers. 

If you’ve always been quick to learn new technologies or you love solving puzzles, then a career in computer science might be perfect for you. 

Maybe you’ve always enjoyed taking things apart and putting them back together. Or you find it easy to pick up and learn a new language. These are just some of the signs that your mind is both creative and analytical enough to be a successful computer science graduate. 

Computer science career options after you’ve graduated

Software Developer

Could you help to design and build the next big smartphone application? Software Developers create and test all different types of computer software across a wide range of industries. 

If you’ve found it easy to learn a new language in the past, then this role is perfect for you. This is because you’ll need to learn programming languages like Python, C# and JavaScript.

Here’s an example of a Python code snippet:

Screenshot 2019-08-02 at 10.55.28

During your studies, you’ll learn Python so you’re ready to develop software after you’ve graduated. Knowing programming languages like these is a very valuable skill that employers look for. This can lead you to well-paying job roles in the future. 

Video Game Designer

If you have a passion for video games, then this could be your dream role. Game designers plan, test and create video games. Everything from the fun apps on your phone to the world’s biggest games right now like Fortnite, Call of Duty and FIFA. 

The skills you develop on a computer science degree can help you to build game mechanics and design gameplay that’s fun and exciting. Your creativity will help you to produce games that people want to play and you’ll build worlds and characters that players love. 

Game design allows you to turn a passion into a rewarding career that can take you all over the world. Universities often have gaming societies where you can meet other passionate players and maybe even create your first game. 

Security Administrator

Businesses and organisations store a lot of valuable and confidential computer data that thieves try to steal. With your computer science degree, you could be a Security Administrator and make sure this data is protected. 

You’ll use the latest software and encryption techniques to block unwanted access to files and data. Part of your job will be to make sure networks are kept safe through passwords and security measures. 

You’ll also respond to active distress calls when networks are attacked by cyber criminals and take action to prevent data from being taken. It’s an important role that pays well because businesses know how serious it would be if their data was lost. 

Computer Forensics Investigator

If you’ve ever watched a television show where a technician accesses files on a computer to help solve a case, then you’ve seen a Computer Forensics Investigator in action. Their job is to collect forensics and evidence that can be used by the police. 

Unlike blood or tissue samples, your job would be to search through fragments of deleted data to recover documents, files, photos and emails that someone may have tried to hide. This evidence can then be used during an investigation.

Depending on who you work for, whether it’s for law enforcement or a private company, you may be needed to attend court to present your findings. Experienced Computer Forensics Investigators can earn a lot of money because of how important their work is. 

Software Tester

If you’re good at spotting problems with software and you’re detail-oriented, then a career as a Software Tester could be perfect for you. Software Developers design and build programmes before passing the software to Testers.

It’s their job to use, test and try to break the software to make sure it’s ready for others to use. If you become a Software Tester after you’ve finished your degree, then you’ll be spotting all of the problems that need to be fixed before it can be launched. 

These are just some of the career options that are available with a computer science degree from the right university. It’s always important to plan ahead so that you’ve done everything possible to make sure you have the career you’ve always wanted. 

Plan your career with our eBook

To make things easier, we’ve created a free eBook that can help you to develop your career in the right way. It features a career development checklist that covers things like work experience and creating your CV.

Download the eBook now using the link below.

 

Develop your career with Newcastle University