What Can I Do with My Computer Science Major?
Overview
There is no question that a computer science graduate has a bright future in today’s job market. As technology continues to advance, information technology experts are needed to develop, test, and maintain computer systems. Computer science students become expert problem solvers, mapping the best and most practical solutions to the problems of processing, storing, and accessing information.
A computer science degree offers more than just technical knowledge—many theoretical and mathematical concepts are used in developing software and hardware solutions to diverse problems. Additionally, there are computer science courses in which a computer is never used, such as investigating the theoretical nature of artificial intelligence. Many graduates enter the job market after graduation, while some choose to continue their education in law, medicine, or other graduate programs.
Skills
The study of computer science facilitates the development of a core set of skills sought after by employers in a wide range of occupational settings. A sampling of representative skills and abilities follows.
Critical Thinking
- Understanding patterns and algorithms
Assessing needs
Defining problems
Integrating theory and practice
Considering alternatives
Generating solutions
Making projections
Technical Skills
- Computer architecture
- High-level programming and algorithm design
- Database design and data mining
- Software engineering
- Networking
- Information assurance
- Internet computing
Communication
- Work in groups on projects
- Present projects and information logically
- Train others
- Explain technical and theoretical concepts to others
Sample Internship Opportunities
- Computer/Software Trainers (e.g., PeopleSoft, Oracle, Blackboard)
- Computer Support Centers (e.g., Consumer Electronics Association)
- Consulting (e.g., Bearing Point, IBM, Booz Allen Hamilton, Accenture, The MITRE Corporation))
- Government (e.g., Department of Defense, United States Congress, French Embassy, Department of Justice Cybercrime Lab)
- Information technology/Operating Systems and Networks (e.g., Vantage Technologies Systems Integration, NIH, KPMG)
- Programming and Web Design (e.g., Roblox Corporation, LLC, OpenPad, QuakeFinder, Hispanic Alliance for Career Enhancement (HACE), Hello Design, World
- NetMedia, Mediafly, Inc.)
- Publications and Media (e.g., U.S. News and World Report, CNN, The News Hour, The Washington Post)
Where are Georgetown Computer Science Majors Now?
- Software Programmer
- Technical Writer
- Software Tester
- Professor
- Network Administrator
- Computer Software Trainer
- E-commerce Developer
- Website Designer
- Technical Analyst
- Consultant
- Database Administrator
- Hardware Programmer
- Internet Entrepreneur
- CIA or FBI Agent
- High School Teacher
- Telecommunications Expert
- Artificial Intelligence-Quality Engineer
Relevant Websites and Publications
Professional Organizations
- American Computer Science Association, Inc.
- Association for Computing Machinery
- Computing Research Association
- Computer Science Teachers Association
- IEEE Computer Society
- International Association of Science and Technology for Development
- Software and Information Industry Association
For information about career options, internships, and full-time opportunities, contact the Career Education Center at One Leavey Center, (202) 687-3493 or visit our Web site. For more information about the major and degree requirements, contact the Department of Computer Science at 3rd Floor, St. Mary’s Hall, (202) 687-5874.