What Do Computer Scientists Do?
Have you ever wondered what is the job of a computer scientist? What are computer science responsibilities? What is a computer science job description?
Computer scientists invent new technologies and capabilities, and they often apply these advances to problems in other fields. This may require computer scientists to work closely with other kinds of specialists, like engineers. Some of these computer scientists may specialize in a particular area, including programming or data science. What do computer scientists do? In general, computer scientists' job duties may include:
- Develop and/or simplify algorithms
- Create new computing languages
- Determine new methods for working with computers
- Test new systems and designs
- Develop models and theories to address issues in the field
- Present findings to the scientific community
- Improve computer hardware performance
- Increase the efficiency of computer software and/or hardware
What Are the Computer Scientist Education Requirements?
Have you ever wondered what are the computer science qualifications? How to become a computer scientist?
Education in computer science is widely available, from free online computer technology courses and associate's degrees in computer programming to doctoral degree programs in the field. Students wondering how to become a computer scientist should know that you typically need a master's degree in computer science or a related field, like computer programming, but some jobs may only require a bachelor's degree. Here we provide a brief overview of the different degree levels for computer science.
Bachelor's Degrees in Computer Science
Bachelor's degree programs in computer science are commonly offered as Bachelor of Science (BS) degrees. These programs can be taken on-campus or online and traditionally take 4 years to complete. Students may take courses in subjects like:
- Programming
- Data structures
- Algorithms
- Mathematics
- Software security
- Operating systems
Master's Degrees in Computer Science
Master's degree programs in computer science usually award Master of Science (MS) degrees. These programs are available in online formats and can usually be completed in 2 years, but part-time students may take 3 to 5 years to complete. Students may be able to choose from a thesis or final project option and take coursework in areas like:
- Software engineering
- Experimental design
- Algorithms
- Databases
- Modeling
PhD-Level Programs in Computer Science
Students may also choose to pursue their Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Computer Science. Most of these degree programs are on-campus and may have additional research and/or teaching requirements. Students typically complete a dissertation and may be able to focus their studies in specific areas of the field such as robotics, human-computer interaction, or theory.
Computer Scientist Salary and Job Outlook
The work of a computer scientist has a promising future.
Based on computer science job descriptions and salary information, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that computer and information research scientists made an average annual salary of $122,840 in 2019. The federal executive branch had one of the highest numbers of employment for these scientists, and they made an average salary of $109,370. The highest-paid computer and information research scientists worked in navigational, measuring, electromedical, and control instruments manufacturing and made an average salary of $170,350.
The BLS also reported a 'much faster than average' job outlook of 16% from 2019 to 2029 for computer and information research scientists. This outlook may be attributed to the demand for new technology and advances in cybersecurity.