As the world becomes increasingly digital, jobs in computer science are becoming increasingly popular. Companies in every industry seek out skilled, trained, and qualified developers of these innovative technologies.
Thus, it’s no surprise that the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations, resulting in a projected average of 377,500 job openings each year to 2032.
Yet, employers aren’t looking for just anyone. They need highly skilled candidates with advanced degrees, such as a Master’s in Computer Science.
This article will discuss whether a Master’s in Computer Science is a worthwhile endeavor and share some of the key benefits of this popular degree.
What is a Master’s in Computer Science?
Computer Science programs provide students with the skills, experience, and understanding of the theoretical foundations of computer science in order to stay on top of future computing trends.
More specifically, Master’s in Computer Science programs provide students with advanced mathematical, scientific, and technical backgrounds and knowledge, preparing them to work in advanced positions and strategic levels. Students also learn how to design, test, and analyze different scenarios and software applications, such as building websites, programming robots, and mining data.
A Master’s in Computer Science typically consists of courses focused on programming, algorithms, operating systems, and engineering colloquium as students learn how to solve problems as they arise.
While programs vary by institution, students can expect to take both core and elective credits in a Computer Science program. For example, at University of Bridgeport, both our Master’s in Computer Science curriculum and Master’s in Computer Science Online curriculum consist of thirty-four semester hours. The former degree consists of six core credits and twenty-eight elective credits, whereas the latter degree consists of sixteen core credits, fifteen elective credits, and three credits for the capstone project.
Students should research and consult their prospective program to understand what will be asked of them.
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Three Benefits of a Master’s in Computer Science
While obtaining a Master’s degree is a personal decision, it is often an incredibly useful, rewarding, and valuable experience.
Master’s degrees, such as Master’s degrees in Computer Science, help candidates achieve higher salaries and personal and professional goals, as well as grow their knowledge and skills.
Benefit #1 – Leadership Positions and Higher Salary
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for employees in computer and information technology occupations is $100,530, more than double the median annual wage of $46,310 for all occupations.
Master’s in Computer Science graduates are equipped with in-depth, advanced, and comprehensive knowledge that further qualifies them for leadership positions, some of which pull even higher six-figure salaries.
Some of these positions and their median annual salaries, as reported by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), include:
- Database administrators – $99,890, with the highest ten percent earning more than $153,870.
- Network and computer system administrators – $90,520, with the highest ten percent earning more than $140,430.
- Telecommunications and computer systems analysts – $102,240, with the highest ten percent earning more than $161,980.
- Lead software developers – $127,260, with the highest ten percent earning more than $198,100.
Benefit #2 – Promising Job Growth
In addition to higher salaries, many of the above positions, as well as positions associated with computer science, have higher-than-average job growth. Not to mention, students earning a Master’s in Computer Science are extremely versatile hires, meaning they can work and advance in almost any industry or field.
Boosting the credibility of this claim is the employment growth rate for the above positions to 2032. Let’s look at a few choice facts from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Database administrators have an employment growth rate of eight percent.
- Network and computer system administrators have an employment growth rate of two percent.
- Telecommunications and computer systems analysts have an employment growth rate of ten percent.
- Lead software developers have an employment growth rate of twenty-five percent.
Further, a Master’s degree in Computer Science demonstrates strong business acumen, communication skills, and big-picture problem-solving skills. This, in turn, better markets and showcases candidates to employers and recruiters.
Benefit #3 – Advanced Subject Knowledge
Master’s degrees present many opportunities to specialize and focus on a certain area of one’s industry or field, and a Master’s in Computer Science is no different.
With the high number of elective courses available and offered by Computer Science programs, students can focus on areas like network security, data analytics, machine learning, software and game development, and artificial intelligence.
In addition to the advanced knowledge and development of skills, Master’s in Computer Science degrees pave the way for further study for students interested in doctoral programs.
With high salaries, promising levels of job growth and job security, and opportunity to expand and grow one’s knowledge and skills, it’s no wonder students choose to earn a Master’s in Computer Science degree.
If you enjoy technology, are a strong, logical thinker, and looking for a challenging and rewarding career, apply to University of Bridgeport’s Master’s in Computer Science or our Master’s in Computer Science Online degree program.
Financial aid is available with financial stipends, graduate merit scholarships, and graduate assistantships, research assistantships, and student worker employment opportunities. We are committed to ensuring you get through college and into a great career.
Contact us today for more information. We can’t wait for you to join the Purple Knight family!