Overview of Bachelor Degree Programs in Computer Science
Majors Overview February 17, 2015Students enrolled in bachelor’s degree programs in computer science will be taught computer literacy in order to become experts in computer systems. Many computer science programs will provide students with technology facilities or hands-on research training.
Bachelor of Science (B.S.) Degree Programs in Computer Science
Schools typically offer bachelor’s degree programs in computer science as a Bachelor of Arts (B.A.) or Bachelor of Science (B.S.). Graduates from computer science programs can expect to become adept at designing, constructing, and maintaining computer software and hardware.
Students are informed about computer languages, logic design and system organization, and automation theory as well as software management, computer systems, bioinformatics, and scientific computing, among other practical applications.
Four-year computer science programs are offered by numerous technology institutes, colleges, and public and private universities. Admission criteria typically require incoming students to hold a GED certificate or a high school diploma. Students enrolled in computer science bachelor’s degree programs are required to take particular computer and mathematics classes before seeking admission.
Coursework
Coursework in computer science programs combines classroom instruction with hands-on learning via research facilities, on-campus technology centers, and projects. Students explore computer and information science subjects, in addition to cutting-edge techniques employed in information technology. Coursework typically includes these topic areas:
•Programming languages
•Computer organization
•Data structures
•Constructive logic
•Probability
•Operating systems
•Algorithms
•Calculus
•Object-oriented programming
•Software engineering
Career Choices
Computer science graduates gain the computer support knowledge and the problem-solving skills they would need to seek various information technology careers in public and private industries, including medical device companies, insurance groups, financial institutions, and technology companies, among others. Graduates may seek the following job positions:
•Computer systems analyst
•Network administrator
•Computer programmer
•Software engineer
•Database administrator
Job and Wage Outlook
A job growth rate of 8% has been predicted for computer programmers over the 2012 – 2022 decade (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics); over the same period, corresponding job growth rates of 12% have been projected for network and computer systems administrators.
In May 2012, computer programmers banked an average annual wage of $74,280 (BLS), while computer systems administrators took home $72,560 on average.
Continuing Education
Students may pursue a computer science master’s or doctoral program, whereby they may seek advanced positions or careers in teaching or research. Coursework in graduate programs involves more research projects and advanced computer science classes. Those that aspire to become computer scientists are usually required to earn a doctoral degree.
