Computer Science Degree - Online and Campus Programs

Computer science in its purest form is the theory of computation and the study of algorithms, computer architecture, software systems, and artificial intelligence. Computer Science is closely allied with the mathematics and engineering disciplines.

How to Prepare for a Career in Computer Science

Whether you are aiming at a career in computer science engineering or intend to become a pure researcher in computer science, you need to enroll in an accredited computer science program. A computer science degree can include coursework in: operating systems, numerical methodology, databases, computer graphics, networks, simulation and software engineering. Computer science also as a number of specialties including:

• Hardware engineering
• Software engineering
• Computer science certification
• Computer science research

Although many jobs in the field require only a bachelor's or master's degree, a position such as computer scientist usually requires a doctorate. A computer scientist can perform research with the aim of creating new technology or finding alternative uses for existing technology, and often works in an academic setting.

Computer Science Career Outlook and Salary Information

The employment outlook is good for anyone with a computer science degree. According to estimates by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer scientists are expected to see job growth of 24% through the decade ending in 2018. The most recent BLS wage statistics from May 2008 put the median annual income for a computer scientist at $97,970, with the highest 10% averaging $151,250.