Top 20 Exciting Careers in Computer Science

1. 3-D Animator

3-D animators are professionals who use high-tech animation software to bring characters and illustrations to life. They work in various fields such as advertising, website development, mobile application development, game production, and more.

The job prospects for 3-D animators are promising, and earning a computer and IT bachelor’s degree is the best way to enter this field. You should concentrate your studies on animation or graphic design if possible. A professional portfolio of work is also a requirement for many employers.

According to PayScale, the average salary for a 3-D animator in 2023 is $60,942 in the United States. The job growth for 3-D animation jobs is expected to rise by 4% from now to 2028, making it a great career choice with growth in opportunity and advancement.

The following skills that film and game studios may look for in 3-D animators:

Knowledge of 3-D animation software such as Maya, 3ds Max, Blender, etc.
Understanding of the principles of animation such as timing, spacing, and weight.
Knowledge of rigging and skinning.
Understanding of lighting and shading.
Knowledge of modeling and texturing.

2. Artificial Intelligence Specialist

If you’re interested in using your creative and technological skills to bring inanimate objects to life, then a career as an Artificial Intelligence Specialist might be perfect for you. These professionals program robots and other devices to process information and respond to commands in a way that is similar to humans.

Artificial Intelligence is a rapidly growing field that is at the forefront of new technologies. To pursue a career in AI, a bachelor’s degree in computer and information sciences is usually the first step. Most Artificial Intelligence Specialists have a master’s degree in IT, and some even have a PhD.

In addition to being intellectually stimulating, AI specialists are also well-compensated. According to PayScale, these IT professionals earn an average of over $122,000 per year.

Coursera offers a course called “AI for Everyone” that breaks down artificial intelligence into accessible concepts for those who may not need to understand the technical side of AI.

3. Back-End Developer

A back-end developer is a type of web developer who specializes in the behind-the-scenes aspects of a website. While front-end developers focus on the visual presentation of a website, back-end developers concentrate on the site’s inner workings.

This requires a different type of creativity, as back-end developers must write intricate instructions or code to instruct the website to perform certain tasks.

Back-end developers can benefit from academic training in the field of web development. Often, this means they hold a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer programming, or web design.

Some employers may also require successful applicants to hold professional certifications proving fluency in certain programming languages.

According to PayScale, back-end developers make an average salary of nearly $55,000.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in back-end development, you can start by learning the technical skills needed to be a back-end developer. Coursera offers a course on Introduction to Back-End Development that can help you get started.

4. Bioinformatics Software Developer

Bioinformatics software developers are professionals who design and develop software programs that store, organize, and analyze human biological information, including data at the cellular level.

This is a rapidly growing field, and the demand for creative technical professionals to fill the roles of these special types of software developers is reaching an all-time high.

To be effective in this field, bioinformatics software developers must use creative problem-solving skills combined with knowledge of computer and information technology.

A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology is recommended for entry-level positions in bioinformatics software development. Some schools also offer relevant specializations in areas like Bioinformatics or Bioinformatics Engineering.

According to PayScale, the average annual wage for bioinformatics software developers is nearly $78,000.

5. Computer Science Professor

The role of a computer science professor may seem mundane at first glance, but it is a highly creative position that demands a wide range of skills.

These postsecondary instructors are responsible for developing a curriculum that is both engaging and effective in facilitating student learning.

In addition to teaching, computer science professors are often involved in scholarly research in their respective fields, making discoveries and developing innovations in the field of information technology.

To become a computer science professor, you will need a credential beyond a bachelor’s degree in computer and information technology.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer science professors are well-compensated, with an average annual salary of just over $85,000.

6. Data Scientist

Would you like me to provide more information on data science or computer science professors? If you are interested in data science, I can tell you that data scientists are highly creative IT professionals who can detect patterns and make sense of large amounts of data.

Doing so empowers them to achieve insight and solve problems for a variety of different industries and employers. As a result, companies and organizations can make better-informed decisions and offer higher-quality products and services to consumers.

While a bachelor of computer and information technology may be sufficient for some entry-level data science jobs, most employers will require an advanced degree such as a master’s in data science or a related field.

According to PayScale, data scientists working in the field of information technology make well over $86,000 per year.

7. Digital Copywriter

Digital copywriters are professionals who create written content for online sources. They write engaging and persuasive content used in online advertising, educational, and marketing campaigns.

Digital copywriters can work for digital agencies, corporations, or as freelancers. They can produce online content for any type of company or organization.

They usually write creative, persuasive, educational, and technical articles. They also write pieces to provide informative data to consumers about educational materials and craft persuasive content to clients about products, programs, and services.

According to Salary.com, the average annual salary for digital copywriters is $53,656 as of October 25, 2023, but the salary range typically falls between $46,654 and $63,113.

8. Digital Marketer

Digital marketing is a subfield of marketing that combines creative and technical skills in the computer and IT realm.

Digital marketers help companies achieve their online marketing goals by using their knowledge of search engines, algorithms, and content marketing, among other things. They may work for start-ups, large corporations, or be self-employed.

A bachelor’s degree is the preferred academic training for a position as a digital marketer. While some degree programs exist in the specialized field of digital or Internet marketing, a credential in computer science or marketing may also be sufficient.

According to PayScale, digital marketers tend to be well-compensated professionals in the field of information technology, with an average annual wage of nearly $70,000 for specialists in digital/web marketing.

9. Ethical Hacker

An ethical hacker, also known as a white-hat hacker, is a computer security expert who uses their knowledge of computer systems and networks to identify and exploit vulnerabilities to improve the security of those systems.

Ethical hackers are hired by companies to test their security systems and identify weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them. They must think like the bad guys who want to infiltrate or corrupt a company’s or organization’s private data.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career as an ethical hacker, an undergraduate degree in computer science or IT is a good place to start.

Employers usually prefer some experience in the field, preferably in an information security role. Professional licensure as a Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) will also give you a leg up on the competition.

Ethical hackers are well-paid, with an average annual wage of just over $80,000 according to PayScale.

10. Front-End Developer

A Front-End Developer is a type of web developer who specializes in creating the visual elements of a website that a visitor can see when they arrive on the site. This includes the layout, text, graphics, and navigation, among other things. Unlike back-end developers, front-end developers focus on the user interface and the user experience.

To become a front-end developer, you need to have a degree in computer science, programming, or web design. Some companies prefer their front-end developers to have some training in graphic design as well. You can also learn front-end development through online courses, boot camps, or self-study.

If you’re interested in becoming a front-end developer, you should have a good understanding of HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. You should also be familiar with front-end frameworks such as React, Angular, and Vue.js. Additionally, you should have a good eye for design and be able to create visually appealing websites.

11. Full-Stack Developer

A full-stack developer is a professional who works on both the front-end and back-end of a website. They are responsible for designing, building, and maintaining websites and applications for various platforms.

Full-stack developers need to have expertise in both front-end and back-end development processes. They must have strong academic training in computer science or a related field like software development or computer programming.

Many employers will also request a portfolio of successful work before hiring an applicant. Full-stack developers are generously compensated for their work, with an average salary of just over $75,000.

12. Game Designer

Game designers are professionals who work with developers and other IT professionals to create games for consoles, computers, and mobile devices.

They have a wide range of responsibilities in the game design process, including developing characters, writing scripts, animating, managing projects, and more.

A bachelor’s degree in computer science or another broad IT-related field has been the standard educational preparation for a game designer, but many colleges and universities are now offering degree programs specific to the niche of game design.

Game designers are highly creative and are compensated handsomely, making just over $65,000 per year on average.

13. Graphic Designer

A graphic designer is a professional who creates visual concepts, using computer software or by hand, to communicate ideas that inspire, inform, and captivate consumers.

They develop the overall layout and production design for applications such as advertisements, brochures, magazines, and reports.

Graphic designers use advanced photo editing and layout software to create designs and images used in a variety of contexts such as on websites, magazine covers, book jackets, and merchandise, for example.

A bachelor’s degree program in graphic design is the recommended educational training for a career in graphic arts. Typically, a degree program specific to graphic design is preferred. Some employers will give special attention to graduates of programs accredited by The National Association of Schools of Art and Design.

14. Information Technology Consultant

An information technology consultant is a professional who provides advice, guidelines, and a roadmap for sourcing, utilizing, and managing IT assets and resources.

They help organizations with best practices for IT solutions and services to achieve their business objectives and solve problems. IT consultants must rely on their knowledge in the field of computer science as well as their ability to think outside of the box to devise creative solutions and strategies for their corporate clients.

Above all, IT consultants must discover or create ways to ensure a business thrives using innovative technical concepts and approaches.

According to PayScale, IT consultants are among the most well-paid computer and information technology professionals with a bachelor’s credential in the field. The average salary for consultants in the IT field is over $83,500.

15. Information Technology Project Manager

An Information Technology Project Manager is a professional who manages large-scale IT projects by leading teams from various IT departments.

They are responsible for carrying out a project from conception to execution, which requires comprehensive planning and the ability to foresee potential obstacles that could delay or derail the project.

To be hired as an IT project manager, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree in a computer/IT field, but some employers may require additional management courses.

These professionals must have excellent creative problem-solving skills to manage complex IT projects. They shoulder a lot of responsibility daily, but they are paid quite well for carrying these burdens. According to PayScale, the average annual salary for IT project managers is nearly $89,000.

16. Mobile Application Developer

Mobile application developers are professionals in the field of computer and information technology who develop various applications for mobile devices such as smartphones and tablets.

These applications may be developed for entertainment or serve important purposes in all types of industries, including government, education, eCommerce, and healthcare.

A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology provides a good foundation for a successful career in mobile app development.

Some employers may also require or prefer professional licenses or certificates in certain programming languages. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, software development is a fast-growing field, so prospects for mobile app developers should be promising in the coming years.

Mobile app developers are well compensated, with an average salary of just over $73,000 according to PayScale.

17. Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Specialist

A Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Specialist is a professional who specializes in improving the visibility and ranking of a website or web page in search engine results pages (SERPs).

The primary responsibility of an SEO specialist is to evaluate search trends and assist in the development of web pages that properly optimize for the desired keywords.

They focus on improving the rank of a site within search engines to increase its visibility, which ultimately increases the chances that it reaches more people.

The academic background of an SEO specialist may include training in both computer science/IT and marketing. Some postsecondary schools offer specific degree programs in digital marketing and/or search engine optimization.

The average annual salary of an SEO specialist is around $55,500.

18. Software Developer

Software developers are IT professionals who create computer programs to meet the needs of consumers.

They are highly creative and anticipate the needs of their clients. Their tasks include designing software applications, troubleshooting software, and providing instructions to programmers who write the code for the software.

To become a software developer, you will need a degree in an IT field such as computer science or software engineering. Some employers may also require or prefer experience in computer programming as well as specific programming languages.

According to US News, the median salary for software developers in the US is $120,730 per year. However, the salary may vary depending on factors such as experience, location, and industry.

19. Software Product Designer

Software product designers are creative professionals who work in various industries, including the tech field. They are responsible for developing and improving the visual design of software products to make them appealing to consumers and increase sales.

In the tech industry, they are often referred to as software product designers. They may also be involved in developing the actual software product or making enhancements to the final product.

To be successful in this field, software product designers need graphic design experience and an academic background in computer and information technology.

According to PayScale, software product design is a lucrative sub-field of IT, with professionals in this role earning over $82,000 per year.

20. User Experience Designer

A User Experience Designer is a creative professional who plays a crucial role in the information technology field. They are responsible for ensuring that consumers have a positive and intuitive experience when navigating a company’s website or mobile app.

Sometimes called UX designers, these IT professionals are the “big picture” thinkers who focus on the overall user experience. They work to optimize the interaction between humans and products, which includes the design of the entire process of acquiring and integrating the product, including aspects of branding, design, usability, and function.

While a bachelor’s degree in IT or computer science provides a good foundation for success in the user experience design field, some employers prefer academic training in marketing, graphic design, or even psychology.

According to PayScale, User Experience Designers are well-compensated for their efforts on behalf of companies in the IT sector, making just over $74,000 annually.

FAQs on Exciting Careers in Computer Science

How do I get started in a career in software development?

To start a career in software development, it's essential to gain a solid understanding of programming languages and software development practices.

What skills are essential for a career in data science?

Key skills for a career in data science include proficiency in programming languages (Python, R), statistical knowledge, data visualization, and machine learning expertise.

What is the role of an ethical hacker in cybersecurity?

Ethical hackers, also known as penetration testers, use their skills to identify and fix security vulnerabilities in systems. Their goal is to strengthen security measures by proactively identifying weaknesses before malicious hackers can exploit them.

How is AI transforming different industries?

AI is transforming industries by automating processes, improving decision-making, and enhancing efficiency. In healthcare, for example, AI is used for diagnostics, while in finance, it aids in fraud detection and risk management.

What is the significance of cloud computing careers?

Cloud computing careers involve managing and optimizing cloud-based services. This is essential for businesses to scale their operations, increase flexibility, and reduce infrastructure costs. Roles include cloud architects and DevOps engineers.

Are there opportunities for remote work in computer science?

Yes, many computer science roles offer remote work opportunities. With advancements in technology, remote collaboration tools, and the increasing acceptance of virtual work, professionals in the field can often work from anywhere in the world.

Conclusion

And yes, many individuals successfully transition to computer science careers from diverse backgrounds. Consider enrolling in coding boot camps, pursuing online courses, or obtaining a degree in computer science to gain the necessary skills.

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Top 20 Exciting Careers in Computer Science

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List of the Top 20 Exciting Careers in Computer Science