What can I do with a major in Computer Science?
Computer Systems Analysts plan and develop methods for computerizing business and scientific tasks or for improving systems already in use.
Computer Programmers write the detailed instructions that list in logical order the steps a computer must follow to organize data, solve a problem, or do some other task.
Related occupations:
| Computer Animator |
Computer-aided Designer |
Computer Security Specialist |
| Computer Operator |
Computer Programmer |
Computer Applications Engineer |
| Data Base Analyst |
Data Base Manager |
Computer Science Engineer |
| Educator |
Chief Information Officer |
Computer Service Technician |
| Entrepreneur |
Data-Entry Manager |
Computer Security Specialist |
| Mathematician |
Data Processing Manager |
Data-Entry Equipment Operator |
| Hardware Sales Rep |
Hardware Service Person |
Electronic Data Processing Trainer |
| Operations Manager |
Media Center Manager |
Software Package Developer |
| Robotics Technician |
Software Engineer |
Software Package Marketer |
| Statistician |
Magnetic Media Librarian |
Software Salesperson |
| Systems Analyst |
Systems Consultant |
Systems Manager |
| Technical Writer |
Word Processor |
|
Possible employers of Computer Science majors:
| Airlines |
Census Bureau |
| Communication Companies |
Computer Companies |
| Consulting Firms |
Engineering Firms |
| Banks and Investment Firms |
Colleges/Universities |
| State/Federal Government |
Local Government |
| Telecommunications Companies |
International Agencies |
| Military |
Professional and Technical Journals |
| Research and Development Firms |
Software Developers |
| State/Local Grant Agencies |
Test Development Companies |
| Transportation Companies |
Weather Bureaus |
Skills important for Computer Science majors:
- Ability to analyze, make appropriate decisions and solve problems
- Ability to think logically
- Detail-oriented, organized, excellent communication skills
- Work well independently or as part of a team
- Ability to work well under pressure
Personal attributes important for Computer Science majors:
- Curiosity and enthusiasm for technology and life long learning
- Objectivity, creativity, and sensitivity to multiple perspectives
- Patience, thoroughness, responsibility
Related activities for Computer Science majors:
- Do an internship
- Work part-time or volunteer in a computer firm or computer science department
- Writing, practicing electronics, working on a PC as a hobby
- Join a computer club or organization
- Read and keep up to date on computer publications and journals
Print Resources:
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Colleges for Careers in Computing: The Only Combined Career and College Guide for Future Computer Professionals. (Editors). Peterson's, 1996.
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Computer and Peripheral Equipment Operators. Pp. 261-263, Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Dept. of Labor, (latest edition).
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Computer Mathematical, and Operations Research Occupations. Pp. 91-101, 222, Occupational Outlook Handbook, U.S. Dept. of Labor, (latest edition).
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Kanter, Elliot. Opportunities in Computer Maintenance Careers. VGM Career Books, 1995.
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Kling, Julie. Opportunities in Computer Systems Careers. VGM Career Books, 1996.
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Resumes for Computer Careers. (Editors). VGM Career Books, 1996.
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Rohrbough, Linda, et. al. Start Your Own Computer Repair Business. McGraw-Hill, 1995.
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Stair, Lila. Careers in Computers. VGM Career Books, 1995.
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Yanuck, Deborah. Opportunities in High Tech Careers. VGM Career Books, 1995.
Internet Resources:
Professional Associations:
- Association for Computer Operations Management
- Association for Women in Computing
- Association for Systems Management
- ACM Computing Club
This information was adapted from:
