The Merits of Computer Programming and Other Computer Science Degrees

By Sarah Clark
sarah.clark@careertrainingdirectory.com
Career Training Directory Columnist

Computer science graduates enjoy some of the highest starting salaries. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers, computer science graduates with bachelor’s degrees earned average starting salaries of $51,070. With that knowledge, you might consider the merits of a computer programming or information technology degree.

Average starting salaries for students graduating with bachelor’s degrees in other disciplines are significantly lower. For example, those with degrees in the liberal arts typically garner starting salaries in the low thirty thousands, according to the NACE report. Those with business degrees do a bit better, but still fall short of the average earnings of computer science majors.

Computer Science Degrees

What can you expect during a computer science degree program? There are many types of computer science degrees, which makes researching your program very important. For example, some programs will offer a general computer science education, focusing broadly on networking, systems management, and computer programming. Others may allow you to focus more in areas like security, real-time programming, or networking. Here’s what you can expect to learn in each of these disciplines.

Computer Programming

As a programming student, you’ll likely learn one of the more powerful programming languages like C++ or JAVA. You’ll focus on the theoretical underpinnings of program development and how programming languages can be used to solicit the best performance outcomes. Security will also likely play a role in your education, such as how to manipulate security features embedded in many programming languages.

Networking

During a networking-centered course of study, you’ll learn how to design, develop, integrate, and maintain secure networks in a variety of operating environments, such as Linux, Unix, OS10, and Microsoft. You’ll learn how to use scripting languages to manage your system. There will also be a strong focus on network security.

Information Systems

During a degree program in information systems you’ll learn how to organize an entire information system for an organization. Professors will show you how to create and integrate database structures. You’ll also learn how to seamlessly integrate technology, including Internet, intranet, e-mail, client relationship management tools, and desktop applications.

So if you were considering a degree in computer programming or information technology, give it more serious thought. Starting salaries are high, and the future looks pretty good for computer science grads.

Source

The National Association of Colleges and Employers

About the Author

Sarah Clark is a freelance writer who specializes in postsecondary education and career development.