[hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”aboveTheFold” /] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Computer science degrees equip you with valuable technical skills that many employers and industries seek. In these programs, you learn to code, design and analyze algorithms, and develop software. You also learn to think critically, solve problems, and create new technologies.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Depending on your skills and interests, you can even use your computer science major to launch a career in nontech fields like business, finance, and healthcare. As the role of technology expands, the demand for computer science professionals continues to grow.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-dynamic-experience placement=”editorialListings” /] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Is a Computer Science Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A computer science degree teaches you to design, test, and analyze different computer systems and software. It also covers the theory and mathematics of computation so you can find solutions to problems.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/bachelors/best-online-bachelors-computer-science/”]bachelor’s degree in computer science[/hen-ui-link] can help you develop in-demand hard skills like coding, networking, technical writing, and design and development. Soft skills you can build during a computer science (CS) program include critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, collaboration, and organization.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Types of Computer Science Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In addition to generalized degrees that cover a broad array of computer science topics, some programs offer specializations. These focus areas delve more fully into niche subfields and can prepare you for advanced, in-demand careers requiring specific expertise.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Common computer science degree concentrations and focus areas include:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Artificial intelligence[/hen-ui-text]: In an AI specialization, learners study human-computer interactions, natural language processing, and machine learning. They also learn about AI principles and how to program AI software.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Cybersecurity[/hen-ui-text]: A cybersecurity concentration trains students to protect sensitive information systems and networks. Enrollees study subjects like cybersecurity principles, information security policy, digital forensics, and cryptography.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Game Design:[/hen-ui-text] This specialization focuses on video game development and planning. Classes cover topics like game programming, graphics theory, and game design. Learners also study the development process for games.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Robotics[/hen-ui-text]: In a robotics computer science concentration, students learn about robotics principles, control systems, and machine learning. Classes typically cover subjects like engineering and programming.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Software Engineering[/hen-ui-text]: Software engineering specializations teach enrollees to create software systems using engineering approaches. Classes cover program analysis, the software process, testing methods, and development process management.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Web Development:[/hen-ui-text] This concentration explores how to build, maintain, and design web applications and websites, including front-end and back-end development.[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Computer Science Degrees: From Associate to Doctorate[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your career opportunities depend on your training and education. Use this guide to explore the major types of computer science degrees and credentials and what they can teach you.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Associate Degree in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Program Length[/hen-ui-text]: 2 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Required Credits[/hen-ui-text]: 60 credits[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Potential Jobs[/hen-ui-text]: Computer network support specialist, computer technician[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]An [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/associates/best-online-associate-computer-science/”]associate degree in computer science[/hen-ui-link] usually includes coursework in computer systems, information technology (IT), and programming. You can strengthen your programming skills while learning about operating systems, web development, and database administration.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Some four-year schools have agreements with two-year schools that facilitate easy credit transfers if you decide to pursue a computer science bachelor’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Program Length[/hen-ui-text]: 4 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Required Credits[/hen-ui-text]: 120 credits[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Potential Jobs[/hen-ui-text]: Computer network architect, computer programmer, software developer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]In a [hen-ui-link href=”/degrees/computer-science/accelerated/”]bachelor’s in computer science program[/hen-ui-link], you can master foundational computing skills while taking upper-division coursework in your concentration. Classes explore topics like network administration, database management, and software development. A bachelor’s degree meets the entry-level requirements for most IT and computer science jobs.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″ tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]”If you are looking to get a job as a developer at a tech company, a bachelor’s [in computer science] is all you need. […] If you are looking for a job with more of a data focus, getting a master’s degree and taking coursework related to data science and statistics can help.”[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Master’s Degree in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Program Length[/hen-ui-text]: 2 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Required Credits[/hen-ui-text]: 30-40 credits[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Potential Jobs[/hen-ui-text]: Computer scientist, lead software developer, senior software engineer[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A [hen-ui-link href=”/rankings/masters/best-online-masters-computer-science/”]master’s in computer science[/hen-ui-link] provides advanced training in areas like computing theory, systems architecture, and software development. Most master’s programs offer concentrations that include managerial coursework.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A master’s degree can help you qualify for leadership roles, which often provide higher-than-average salaries. For example, many employers prefer candidates with master’s degrees for positions like lead software developer and senior software engineer.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-card variant=”background-white” border=”shadow” rounded=”lg” padding=”lg”] [hen-ui-card-content] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Doctorate in Computer Science[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Program Length[/hen-ui-text]: 4-5 years[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Required Credits[/hen-ui-text]: Varies by program (60-120 credits)[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″][hen-ui-text tag=”strong” weight=”bold”]Potential Jobs[/hen-ui-text]: Computer science professor, researcher, senior computer scientist[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A doctorate is the highest degree you can get in computer science. In these programs, you take advanced classes, complete original research, and write a dissertation. After meeting coursework and doctoral examination requirements, you must defend your dissertation.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Many computer science Ph.D. graduates work in research or academia as computer scientists and professors.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-card-content] [/hen-ui-card] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What to Consider Before Applying to a Computer Science Program[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Before applying to a computer science program, consider the school’s available specializations, admissions requirements, and accreditation to find a program that best matches your academic strengths and career plans. Here is an overview of key considerations:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Accreditation for Computer Science Programs[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You should only apply to accredited institutions. [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/accreditation/”]Accreditation recognizes[/hen-ui-link] schools and programs that meet high standards. Independent, nonprofit accrediting agencies evaluate institutions’ student learning outcomes, academic missions, and faculty qualifications. Institutional accreditation ensures that employers and other schools recognize your degree. Attending an accredited school also allows you to [hen-ui-link href=”/resources/college-finances/online-college-financial-aid/”]apply for federal financial aid[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Individual computer science programs can pursue programmatic accreditation, which is optional, but signifies that the department’s courses align with standards and expectations relevant to the career field. For computer science degrees, look for [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.abet.org/accreditation/” target=”_blank”]ABET accreditation[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]You can check a school’s accreditation status with the U.S. Department of Education’s [hen-ui-link href=”https://ope.ed.gov/dapip/#/home/” target=”_blank”]accreditation database[/hen-ui-link] or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation’s [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.chea.org/directories/” target=”_blank”]school directory[/hen-ui-link].[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Computer Science Degree Type[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Determining your job goals can help you determine which degree suits your needs. Many computer science programs allow you to select a concentration or focus area to prepare for specific CS career paths. For example, if you’re interested in protecting sensitive information and defending against cyber threats, look for programs with cybersecurity concentrations.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Admission Requirements[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Undergraduate CS programs typically maintain standard admissions requirements, such as:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Official high school transcripts[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Letters of recommendation[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Standardized test scores, such as the ACT or SAT[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A personal statement or essay[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Graduate-level CS programs usually maintain admissions requirements like:[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-list variant=”unordered” bullet-style=”bullet”] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A resume or CV highlighting relevant experience[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Ability to demonstrate relevant CS background and knowledge[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [hen-ui-list-item][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]GRE scores[/hen-ui-text][/hen-ui-list-item] [/hen-ui-list] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]To strengthen your application, consider highlighting your relevant experience and unique strengths. Compelling letters of recommendation from teachers, professors, or supervisors can also help bolster your application.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]What Can You Do With a Computer Science Degree?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Your salary and specific career path depends on the CS field you specialize in. Generally speaking, computer science graduates have many career options with higher-than-average earning potential.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]With an undergraduate CS degree, you can qualify for roles as a computer network architect, computer programmer, computer systems analyst, and database administrator. You can pursue advanced roles, like research and development or management jobs, with a master’s degree.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]10 Careers You Can Pursue With a CS Degree[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Science Career Paths[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Median Annual Salary (2024)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Projected Job Growth (2023-33)[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Minimum Degree Required[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Programmers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$98,670[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]-10%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Systems Analysts[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$103,790[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]11%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Database Administrators and Architects[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$123,100[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]9%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Information Security Analysts[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$124,910[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]33%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Network and Computer Systems Administrators[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$96,800[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]-3%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Software Developers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$133,080[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]18%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Data Scientists[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$112,590[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]36%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Web Developers and Digital Designers[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$95,380[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]8%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer and Information Research Scientists[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$140,910[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]26%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Science Professor[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Career Paths”]$96,690[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Median Annual Salary (2024)”]6%[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Projected Job Growth (2023-33)”]Doctorate[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h3″]Computer Science Degree Salary[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]IT careers typically earn higher-than-average wages, including jobs requiring computer science degrees. According to data from the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), the average starting salary for workers with computer science bachelor’s degrees was $91,411 in 2023, while professionals with master’s degrees averaged a starting wage of $114,144 — both tens of thousands of dollars higher than the national average starting salary of $63,721 for all college graduates that year.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Average Starting Salaries for Computer Science Majors[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Computer Science Degree Level[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Average Starting Salary (2023)[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Degree Level”]$91,411[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Computer Science Degree Level”]$114,144[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]How Much Does a Computer Science Degree Cost?[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The average tuition for online bachelor’s degrees is 42% lower than on-campus programs’ average tuition, according to 2020 data from the National Center for Education Statistics. Using these figures over the course of four years, the total average cost for online and campus-based CS bachelor’s degrees is $46,000 and $79,000, respectively.[/hen-ui-text] [hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-table-caption]Average Annual Tuition Cost of a Computer Science Degree[/hen-ui-table-caption] [hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Degree Level[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Online Computer Science Programs[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]On-Campus Computer Science Programs[/hen-ui-table-head] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-header] [hen-ui-table-body] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Associate[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$3,063[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online Computer Science Programs”]$3,261[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Bachelor’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$11,480[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online Computer Science Programs”]$19,747[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Master’s[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$10,877[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online Computer Science Programs”]$22,003[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-row] [hen-ui-table-head scope=”col”]Doctorate[/hen-ui-table-head] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Degree Level”]$16,004[/hen-ui-table-cell] [hen-ui-table-cell data-title=”Online Computer Science Programs”]$24,919[/hen-ui-table-cell] [/hen-ui-table-row] [/hen-ui-table-body] [/hen-ui-table] [hen-ui-heading variant=”h2″]Frequently Asked Questions About Computer Science Degrees[/hen-ui-heading] [hen-ui-accordion variant=”no-background”] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”How much can you make with a computer science degree?” expanded=”true”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]How much you make with a computer science degree depends on factors like your chosen field of specialization, industry, location, and experience. According to NACE, the average starting salary for workers with a computer science bachelor’s degree was $91,411 in 2023.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]When it comes to the top-paying jobs in the field, computer and information research scientists [hen-ui-link href=”https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm” target=”_blank”]earned a median salary of $140,910[/hen-ui-link] in 2024, and the top 10% of earners earned wages higher than $232,120.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”What is the best computer science degree?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]The best computer science degree depends on your career goals. If you want to work in a high-paying CS field, the best computer science degree for you may be a concentration in computer information systems, software development, or database administration.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]If your goal is working in a CS field with strong future job prospects, consider specializing your computer science degree in information security or computer network architecture. According to the BLS, both fields are projected to grow much faster than average from 2023 to 2033: 33% and 13%, respectively.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Do you need a bachelor’s in computer science to pursue a master’s in computer science?”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A bachelor’s in computer science can help you in a master’s program, but it’s not always required for admission. While some graduate programs require a BS in computer science specifically, others accept applicants from other backgrounds who can demonstrate proficiency in CS. However, these schools may require prerequisite courses or subject entrance exams.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is a computer science degree worth it​?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Yes, a degree in computer science can be worth it if you enjoy working in technology.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]A computer science degree can lead to many in-demand careers that pay higher-than-average wages.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]On the other hand, a CS degree is not for everyone: The field is highly technical and requires a significant commitment to computers and technology. Additionally, while computer science majors are in high demand, the field is very competitive, so you may need to specialize to stand out — and specializing can mean more education and upskilling.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [hen-ui-accordion-item title=”Is a certificate in computer science worth it?”] [hen-ui-text-stack gap=”sm”] [hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Though not technically a degree, a certificate in computer science generally costs less than a degree and can qualify you for several entry-level computer science jobs. You can learn skills like coding, programming, and computer networking from certificate programs.[/hen-ui-text][hen-ui-text variant=”b4″]Schools offer certificates in areas like web development and software development. With a CS certificate, you may be able to find roles as a computer support specialist or web developer.[/hen-ui-text] [/hen-ui-text-stack] [/hen-ui-accordion-item] [/hen-ui-accordion] [hen-ui-section-header title=”Discover More College Resources” /] [hen-ui-article-row variant=”2-col” ids=”970,1236,1286″][/hen-ui-article-row]