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With the rapid developments in the online sector, advances in
technology, and new computer systems and programs launched
daily, computer science degrees offer many attractive career
opportunities in technology and information management.
Organizations of all sizes are looking for skilled professionals
who hold a computer science degree for a variety of critical
projects including web management, technical applications, and
developing efficient programs and applications. Distance learning is just one option for completing a computer
science degree with success.
What is a
Computer Science Degree?
Computer science is a branch of informational and programming sciences that
focuses on different methods of computation, data synthesis, programming, and
analysis. It can be applied in a variety of industries such as business,
military operations, and engineering and demand for skilled professionals in the
field is growing rapidly in today's technologically-driven society. Computer
science school graduates can work in a variety of industries such as military
operations or the business sector, but may also pursue specialized fields such
as game development, computer aided design, and robotics.
Degrees are designed to provide in-depth study and analysis of
computer programming languages and applications, along with understanding
algorithms, advanced computations, and machine learning. These degree
programs often include courses covering advanced mathematics, information
technology principles and history, computer engineering, and applications in
economics. With the growth in internet-based degree offerings, completing a
computer science degree online offers another option for students who desire a
more flexible schedule.
What Types of
Jobs are Available for Computer Science Degree Majors?
Specializing in a particular field, or becoming certified in various programming languages, can further increase career
opportunities. Computer science school trains students on the fundamentals of
programming, computer applications, and information management needed for
success in their career. Online degree programs enable students
to work with a variety of web-based applications and modules, helping them
further their web and internet skills even more, while becoming proficient with
almost all web-based programming and applications over the course of their
studies.
Career opportunities for students graduating from computer
science college, or after completing related coursework, include:
Job Description
and Responsibilities with a Computer Science Degree
Completing a computer science degree offers many opportunities at even the
entry-level stages, especially in the online sector where programmers,
developers, and analysts are in high demand. Common responsibilities include:
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Developing and testing new software programs
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Determining problems in applications and configuring programs accordingly
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Working with a team of analysts and designers on a variety of project
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Sorting and organizing large volumes of data
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Analyzing reports and making sound decisions and forecasts
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Creating new databases and processes for organizational operations
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Understanding data structures and operating systems
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Employing software engineering and program design applications
Skills Acquired
With Computer Science Degrees
A computer
science degree offers a variety of technical, mathematical, and analytical
courses that challenge students to acquire new skills. Programs and coursework can help students become proficient in:
- Project
management, development, and execution
- Various
programming languages including C++ , Java, and C
- Web
development and website construction
- Information
management, organization, and control
- Identifying
user requirements and needs
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Understanding how databases run, and how to implement effective changes for
improvement
- Systems
security and implementing processes to enable security of data
The most common
courses include:
- Foundations
of Computer Science
- Software
Development Methods
- Web
Development
- System
Architecture and Software
- Artificial
Intelligence
- Principles
of Programming Languages
- Computer
Graphics
- Machine
Learning
- Advanced
Networking
Pursuing An
Online Degree
Online degree programs offer students the flexibility of taking
classes on their own time, and can easily become a valuable addition to anyone
interested in working full-time and completing a degree in the
process. Online programs are very similar in structure
and curriculum as those found at a computer science school, but they make use of web-based platforms for all instruction. Students
are required to participate in online discussion forums, collaborate in
internet-based workgroups, and submit projects to their professors over the
internet. Lectures, presentations, and tutorials are also a significant
component of online programs; these allow students to
make the most of today's valuable media applications, and they can enjoy easy
access to lectures and notes from any location around the world.
Computer science distance learning offers an alternative to 'traditional'
schools, and enhances a student's web communications, online work capabilities,
and furthering their skills to manage multiple projects. By completing a
computer science degree online, students have the chance to demonstrate advanced
technology and communication skills to prospective employers.
Master Degree Programs
The opportunity to complete a computer science master degree is attractive for
those interested in supervisory and managerial roles within their field. A master degree program is a professional degree that may also be
offered in an online format. A master degree program is often
specialized in the fields of:
Career Potential
and Employment Prospects
The field of computer science offers many career opportunities in the areas of
artificial intelligence, systems development and administration, and computer
database management. Graduates can look forward to
a variety of highly attractive, and lucrative, careers within the field.
Specializing in a particular field or area of study increases career options
even further; those who pursue a computer science master degree have many
valuable opportunities for a rewarding, lifelong career in the industry. With
the global advancements in technology and increased needs for security in
information management, demand for computer scientists, database administrators,
analysts, and programmers is on the rise.
After receiving the necessary training, many
graduates choose to become self-employed. This allows them the freedom to work
on their own schedules and offer their services as an independent contractor.
Job opportunities for computer scientists and database administrators are
expected to grow much faster than average through 2014. Median annual earnings
of computer specialists were $59,480 in 2004, and pay scales range widely
depending on skills, background, experience, and the degree
level or specialization achieved.
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