What Can You Do With a Computer Science Degree? 10 In-Demand Fields

Computer and information technology (IT)-related careers are projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations in the coming years, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) [1]. Earning your computer science degree—either your bachelor's in computer science or master's in computer science—opens up numerous career opportunities.  

While computer science tends to be thought of as a hard major, it's also considered a good major because of the job opportunities it can often lead to. In this article, we've compiled 10 established and emerging fields that are worth exploring as you get ready to apply for your computer science degree and move into the workforce.

Computer science degree salary expectations

While the actual salary depends on the field and job title you choose, the median wage for computer science occupations is $104,420, which is much more than the median salary for all occupations of $48,060 [1].

10 in-demand computer science fields of work for graduates

Whether you're looking for entry-level computer science jobs or opportunities that require more training and experience, consider these relevant computer science career paths.

1. AI and machine learning

Artificial intelligence (AI) has been named a key driver of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. We experience AI in our homes, our cars, our businesses, and even in public spaces. Machine learning enables an AI system to learn from data. Working in the field of AI and machine learning means innovating the technology of tomorrow. 

This industry may be good for you if: You can think creatively and analytically. You want to play a role in transforming the global economy.

AI and machine learning job titles: 

• Machine learning engineer

• Data scientist

• AI researcher

Common job requirements: Bachelor or Master of Computer Science, knowledge of Python, Java, and R coding languages

2. Robotics

The growing field of robotics focuses on building robots that can replicate human actions (from building cars to assisting in surgery). A foundation in computer science equips you to program the software that helps physical and virtual bots operate effectively.

This industry may be good for you if: You’re interested in computer programming as well as electrical and mechanical engineering. You enjoy hands-on projects.

Robotics job titles: 

• Robotics engineer

• Robotics technician

• Software developer

Common job requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or software, mechanical, or electrical engineering, experience with computer-aided design (CAD) software, proficiency in C++ or Python.

3. Computer forensics

Computer forensics exists at the intersection of law and computer science. Computer forensics, also called data or digital forensics, deals with the recovery and analysis of digital evidence recovered from computers, networks, and digital storage devices. You might work for a crime lab, law enforcement department, public agency, or private contractor.

This industry may be good for you if: You’re naturally inquisitive and are interested in cybercrime and law enforcement.

Computer forensics job titles:

• Digital forensics specialist

• Computer forensics investigator

• Forensic computer analyst

Common job requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or computer security, recognized digital forensics certification

4. Cybersecurity and ethical hacking

Cybersecurity refers to the practice of protecting computer systems, networks, programs, and mobile devices from unauthorized access or digital attacks. Cyberattacks rank among the fastest-growing crimes, fueling global demand for cybersecurity skills.

Ethical hacking takes a proactive approach to cybersecurity by trying to find vulnerabilities before malicious hackers do.

This industry is perfect for you if: You naturally think ahead to what could go wrong before it happens. You take a methodical approach to problem-solving.

Cybersecurity job titles: 

• Information security analyst

• Systems engineer

• Cybersecurity manager

Common job requirements: Bachelor of Computer Science or Master of Business Administration in Information Systems, information security certification like the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) or Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

5. Video game design

While video game design isn’t a new industry, it’s one that will likely continue to evolve. As games get more advanced, gaming companies will need more people skilled in designing and programming virtual reality, graphics, game physics, networks, and user interfaces.

This industry is perfect for you if: You’re a creative thinker with a passion for video games.

Video game design job titles:

• Games developer

• Programmer

• Technical support specialist

Common job requirements: Bachelor of Computer Science or related field, knowledge of the latest gaming trends, proficiency in C++ or Java programming languages

6. Cloud computing

With the emergence of cloud computing technology, companies no longer need their own servers to build products. As the cloud continues to grow, so will the demand for professionals with cloud computing skills, including cloud security, database management, and network architecture.

This industry is perfect for you if: You’re interested in how the internet can help transform businesses.

Cloud computing job titles:

• Cloud engineer

• Network architect

• Cloud security specialist

Common job requirements: Bachelor’s degree in computer science, certification from Google Cloud Platform (GCP), Amazon Web Services (AWS), Cisco, or Microsoft Azure  

7. Bioinformatics

Bioinformatics combines mathematics, biology, and computer science to better understand biological data. Scientists in this field use the growing stream of biological data by storing, analyzing, and interpreting big data sets using computer technology.

This industry is perfect for you if: You like analyzing facts and working with ideas. You’re interested in biological science as well as computers.

Bioinformatics job titles:

• Bioinformatics scientist

• Research associate

• Bioinformatics engineer

Common job requirements: Master’s degree in computer science or computational biology, proficiency with Python, Perl, and R programming languages

8. UX design

User experience (UX) design helps shape a customer’s emotions and attitudes when using a particular product, service, or system. Whether for a physical product or, more often, for a website or app, user design is concerned with gathering and analyzing data to craft the most enjoyable and efficient user experience.

This industry is perfect for you if: You are interested in human behavior. You want a career where you can use your creativity.

UX design job titles:

• UX designer

• Information architect

• Product manager

Common job requirements: Bachelor’s degree in human-computer interaction, computer science, or psychology, knowledge of design and prototyping tools like Sketch, InVision, or AdobeXD

9. Big data

Businesses are often inundated with data each day, more data than the human mind can make sense of on its own. That’s where big data analytics comes in. This field deals with collecting and analyzing large data sets to find valuable information that can be leveraged to make better business decisions. 

This industry is perfect for you if: You enjoy mathematics and making sense of large data sets. 

Big data job titles:

• Data scientist

• Data visualization developer

• Business intelligence engineer

Common job requirements: Bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer or data science, proficiency with SQL, knowledge of Python, Java, or R programming languages

10. Internet of Things (IoT)

Physical objects around the globe—from thermostats and lightbulbs to toys and audio speakers—are now connected to the internet. The Internet of Things (IoT) refers to this collection of devices and the technology used to connect the physical with the digital. As the number of “smart” objects grows, companies will need professionals with the skills to design, develop, and program them.

This industry is perfect for you if: You’re a natural tinkerer obsessed with the latest gadgets.

Internet of Things job titles:

• IoT developer

• Embedded systems designer

• Vulnerability analyst

Common job requirements: Bachelor of Computer Science, IoT or cloud development certification, proficiency with JavaScript and Python

Progress toward your computer science degree requirements on Coursera

Now that you’ve learned about what you can do with a computer science degree, it’s time to take the next step on your career journey.

• Develop niche skills in high-demand areas like AI through DeepLearning.AI's Generative AI for Software Development Skill Certificate.

• Learn about what it’s like to earn your bachelor’s or master’s in computer science online. Sign up for more information on degree programs through Coursera, or contact a Coursera enrollment counselor to get your questions answered.

• Experience a degree program for yourself by sitting in on a degree course from the University of Illinois.

Computer science degree frequently asked questions (FAQ)

Read on for answers to some frequently asked questions about degrees in computer science.