Degree Overview: Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree in Computer Science
Majors Overview April 21, 2014Biometric systems refer to the examination of unique behavioral and physical human traits, like fingerprints, to verify and recognize individual identity. Biometric Security bachelor’s degree programs are uncommon in the United States; those still interested in biometric technology should look into bachelor’s degree programs in Computer Science and Engineering, which prepares students for various professions utilizing that technology. Also, graduate certificate and training programs are available.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Computer Science
Students enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs in Computer Science are taught technical skills, including computer programming, employed in computer-centered professions. It usually takes about four years to complete a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) program.
Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or high school diploma, addition to demonstrating computer proficiency.
Coursework
Coursework includes several computer classes introducing basic computer programming concepts. Students can develop skills in various areas including language programming, systems security, software writing, data structures and computer design. Students may opt for a concentration area of study, including software engineering, in keeping with their career goals and interests. Coursework may commonly include classes in mathematics. Biometrics programs may be offered at certain universities. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Operating systems
•Algorithm analysis
•Software engineering
•Computer science
•Computer and information architecture
Career Choices
Graduates of the bachelor program may seek entry-level careers in biometrics technology, technological security companies, law enforcement, government agencies, and biometrics companies. They may opt for positions such as:
•Biometric analyst
•Biometric engineer
•Computer security professional
•Biometric security technician
•Biometric system designer
Continuing Education Choices
Graduate certificate programs in Biometrics can serve the needs of individuals seeking careers in the field of biometric security. Additionally, biometric companies and government agencies offer professional development and training programs in Biometric Technology and provide computer professionals and students training in areas such as troubleshooting and installation of biometric devices. In some universities, there are research departments dedicated to biometric technology that offer research programs and courses.
Overview of Biometrics Graduate Certificates
Study focus on current security technologies, including biometric applications, is offered through graduate certificate programs in Biometrics. Schools may offer such programs along with 2-year Master of Science (M.S.) programs in Computer Engineering and Computer Science. Core biometrics courses, as well as elective computer courses, are required to be taken by students.
Coursework
Courses in biometric technologies include the examination of various methods of automated identification used in the evaluation of unique human traits, such as voice, iris, handwriting and fingerprints. Coursework may include topic areas such as:
•Computer image processing and graphics
•Information assurance
•Data mining and pattern recognition
•Network and database security
Job and Wage Outlook
In May 2014, computer security specialists earned an average annual wage of $90,120. A faster-than-average job growth rate of 18% has been predicted for information security analysts, (considered as belonging to the same category as computer network architect and web developers) during the decade between 2010 and 2020.