Is a Computer Science Degree Worth It? Forecasting the Future for M.S. in Computer Science Degree Graduates
“Computers are incredibly fast, accurate, and stupid. Human beings are incredibly slow, inaccurate, and brilliant. Together they are powerful beyond imagination.”
The above quote—widely attributed to Albert Einstein—offers an insightful description of computer science. From launching humans into space to getting pizza delivered to your front door, computers have become a critical component of our world. But computers require humans to design, build, program, and operate them.
In this article we’ll answer questions like:
- Is a computer science degree worth it?
- What jobs can you pursue with a computer science degree?
- What can I do with a master’s in computer science?
But First, Consider Your Goals
Before addressing the questions such as “is a computer science degree worth it?” or “what can you do with a master’s in computer science?” you should ask yourself a few questions about your goals.
What would make obtaining your Master of Science in Computer Science degree “worth it” to you?
Maybe it’s high pay. Maybe it’s working in a high-growth field. Or maybe your dream is to create a next-generation computer (think Microsoft or Apple), a social media platform (think Facebook or Instagram), or a retail giant (think Amazon) that will change the world.
How does a computer science master’s degree fit into your desired career path?
The job market for computer science master’s degree holders is strong and growing. But if your goals are more academic, obtaining your master’s in computer science to prepare for a Ph.D. program is a solid career route.
Where should you get your master’s degree in computer science?
Illinois Institute of Technology offers two master’s degrees in computer science options (master of science or master of applied science) that offer you the opportunity to gain professional expertise and learn from leading experts and accomplished researchers. Each program can be customized to fit your busy life and career goals.
What Can You Do With a Master’s in Computer Science Degree?
As computer science encompasses such a wide array of career paths in nearly any industry you can imagine, answering the questions “what can you do with a master’s in computer science?” or “what jobs can I get with a computer science degree?” depends, again, on your career goals.
Many of Illinois Tech’s computer science master’s degree program graduates go on to pursue Ph.D. programs at leading institutions across the country, including Northwestern University, Columbia University, Boston University, and others.
Jobs in the computer science industry are continually transforming based on breakthroughs in technology and consumer preferences. The demand for computer science graduates is growing rapidly. Industries involved in artificial intelligence, robotics, and video games, for example, are attracting some of the best and brightest minds among computer science graduates.
Illinois Tech’s master’s degree in computer science graduates who enter the workforce immediately after graduating have accepted career opportunities at companies such as Accenture, Google, Amazon, JPMorgan Chase, and Apple in positions such as:
- Data systems designer: Systems design involves developing the design of computer hardware or software. Systems designers consider inputs ranging from size requirements (is the product a nanobot or a giant supercomputer?) to the end use (will it be used by a consumer or a computer expert?).
- Program developer: Program developers research, design, implement, and manage computer software programs. They test and evaluate new programs, identify areas for improvement, and write and implement efficient computer code to make those improvements.
- Security systems designer: Security systems designers develop computer systems for video surveillance, access control, communication networks, duress alarms, intrusion detection, perimeter detection, and more.
- Master data analyst: Master data analysts design and build databases to meet organizational needs. These analysts develop data standards, guidelines on data ownership, data access procedures, coding structures, and data replication to ensure the integrity of datasets.
- Operations manager: Operations managers plan and implement computer systems to achieve productivity, quality, and cost goals. They manage teams and workloads, determine equipment needs, oversee projects, and evaluate the performance of both equipment and personnel.
There are many other computer science jobs and career paths you can pursue. Illinois Tech’s master’s degrees in computer science will prepare you for any computer science career path you choose.
Is a Computer Science Degree Worth it Financially?
Graduating with a master’s degree in computer science offers you strong earning power. Let’s take a deeper dive into the compensation you can expect for possible career paths with your master’s degree in computer science.
What jobs can I get with a computer science degree and what do they pay?
Let’s look at salary, job growth, and other data from Lightcast, the global leader in labor market analytics:
Disclaimer for prospective students, please read.
Or how about creating your own job?
Many computer science degree graduates create their own jobs. Consider how starting your own business as a computer consultant, programmer, repair technician, or other related computer science service could help you achieve your dreams.
Earn Your Master’s Degree in Computer Science
In review, we’ve discussed:
- Is a computer science degree worth it?
- What jobs can I get with a computer science degree?
- What can you do with a master’s in computer science?
- Is a computer science degree worth it financially?
Now, let’s wrap up by discussing where you should consider earning your master’s degree in computer science.
Illinois Tech offers you two options for earning your master’s in computer science—an M.S. and an M.A.S. (typically referred to as a “professional” master’s degree).
Our programs offer:
- A customizable master’s degree to fit your needs and goals
- The opportunity to live and learn in Chicago, or learn online
- Guaranteed hands-on experience through our Elevate program
- An affordable degree that is highly valued by employers
- A personalized, mentored education with expert faculty
- A master’s in computer science degree that doesn’t require you to have a computer science undergraduate degree