Jobs in the US: Computer Science and IT

Why are Computer Science and Information Technology Important? 

Technology is an integral part of our life now. Just look around you, and you can see technology being used in so many ways. Our cellphones, for example, have a lot of useful applications that can make things more convenient, such as shopping, hiring a car for transportation, and talking to our family and friends in different parts of the world. Computer technology has also become integral in many organizations, companies, and even educational and governmental institutions. No wonder, skills in computer science and information technology are in demand now. In fact, according to the Princeton Review, computer science is one of the most popular majors in the US these days. 

Where Can a Degree in Computer Science and IT Take You? 

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the computer and information technology sector is estimated to grow 11% between 2019 and 2029 when it comes to occupations, a rate that is faster than other sectors and occupations. IT and computer science are also projected to add around 531,200 new jobs, with great demand in cloud computing, information security, and big data collection and storage. 

Below are the jobs you can get in the US with a degree in computer science and IT. 

Computer and Information Research Scientists

In 2020, the median pay for these job roles in the US cost around $126, 830. The highest salary in this sector. A computer and information research scientist’s job includes creating and designing new approaches to computing technology. They are also tasked with finding innovative uses for existing technologies and improving them. Most of the time, the work of computer and information research scientists leads to technological advancements in the field. 

Computer Network Architects

Computer Network Architects create and build data communication networks, such as Intranets, Local Area Networks (LAN), and Wide Area Networks (WAN). Moreover, computer network architects also work in various industries and businesses. Thus, vast knowledge of an organization’s business plan is needed, so they can design a network that is parallel to the organization’s goals. In 2020, a computer network architect’s median salary is $116,780. 

Computer Programmers

A computer programmer’s role is in writing and testing codes to allow computer applications and programs to function well. Moreover,  they turn program designs created by software engineers and developers into instructions recognizable to a computer.  If the programs tested by a computer programmer do not work properly, they are also the one in charge of correcting the mistakes in the code. In 2020, a computer programmer’s average yearly salary is around $89,190. 

Web Developers and Digital Designers 

Web developers and digital designers’ median pay in 2020 is $77,200, and unlike other jobs in the IT and computer science industry, a career in web development and designing can be accessed through an associate’s degree. A web developer generally creates and maintains websites. Thus, they are the ones in charge of a website’s technical aspects, such as its capacity and performance.

A web developer also creates content for a website if needed. Digital designers, meanwhile, are responsible for developing, creating, and testing a website, interface layout, functions, and navigation. Basically, they are in charge of the face and usability of the website or its interface.

Learn more about the degrees you can take in computer science and IT in the US. Check out MSM Unify’s list of courses to start. If you are unsure how you can fund your  education in the US, check out our article on How to get Financial Assistance as an International Student in the US.