Beating all odds stacked against them, computer degrees seem
to have regained favor with students. At least that's what the data released by
the Computing Research Association (CRA) suggests.
According to the CRA Taulbee Survey report, Computing Degree
and Enrollment Trends, 2010-11, enrollments in undergraduate computer science
degree programs rose 9.6 percent in the 2011-12 school year. This was the
fourth straight year of increased enrollments in computer science degree
programs*.
The increase in demand for computer degrees among students
indicates a corresponding growth in computer-related careers that can be
monetarily rewarding, personally fulfilling, and intellectually stimulating.
Here's a selection of some computer degree programs and the careers they can
lead to:
1. Computer Science Degree: The computer science degree has
been ranked among the top ten undergrad college programs by salary in a 2011-12
college salary report published by payscale.com. According to the report,
computer science graduates earn a starting median pay of $56,600, and by
mid-career, it can go up to $97,900, depending on location, education, and
experience**.
And what kinds of career can you pursue once you graduate
from this program? Computer science graduates have the option of choosing from
a variety of exciting careers.
For instance, software engineers are responsible for
designing and developing software applications that allow people to complete
specific tasks on the computer, while an information systems manager or
information technology manager plans, coordinates and directs computer-related
activities in an organization.
2. Computer Programming Degree: Like the name suggests, a
computer programming degree is focused on training graduates in various
programming languages and providing them the skills to keep learning new
languages as and when they are developed. This degree program can be pursued at
both the associate's and bachelor's levels, depending on your personal and
professional aspirations.
A computer programming degree prepares graduates for the
role of a programmer, who writes the code needed to convert the designs
developed by software engineers into actual software applications. They do this
by writing a series of instructions using a programming language such as Java
or C++ that the computer can follow.
Computer programmers work with some of the latest
technological developments that have taken the world by storm, including apps
for mobile phones and tablets. Computer programmers also develop video games;
web applications; financial, business process, medical, or educational
software; and more.
A fascinating job, a well-defined career path, and the
possibility of a paycheck of $71,380 per year, depending on location,
education, and experience: a computer programming degree can help you pursue
all this and more***!
3. Computer Technology Degree: A computer technology degree
is designed to train graduates in the nuts and bolts of computer repair and
networking. This computer degree is ideally suited for individuals interested
in IT support roles such as helpdesk technician, user support technician,
technical support specialist, etc.
Depending on their role, computer support specialists help
IT and non-IT staff of an organization with the proper use of computers and
equipment. They install software programs and equipment; fix hardware and
software breakdowns; maintain computer networks; install security software; and
educate and train users.
According to the U.S Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median
pay of computer support specialists in May 2010 was $46,260 per year, depending
on education, location, and experience****.
Now that you know at least three IT programs that can lead
to very promising careers, it's time to find out which one is the right fit for
you. Once you do that, shortlist some IT schools that offer these computer
degrees and request college information from them, so you can start the most
thrilling ride of your life!