Computer science and its applications have spread across virtually all industries. Today, people see the importance of a computer science career because of its value in the workspace, our everyday lives, and its future potential. This makes computer science degrees some of the most sought-after degrees in the world.
Are you still skeptical about pursuing a career in computer science? This article will open your eyes to some reasons why choosing a career in computer science is one of the best decisions you can make.
Why Computer Science?
Thanks to computer science, our daily activities have been made easier and do not require much effort. Computer science continues to leave an indelible impact in every sphere of human endeavor.
For one, computer science, technology, and engineering fields have created fascinatingly impressive improvements in effective health care delivery. Additionally, they allow easy communication, improve the ease of doing business, and provide key tools for technological advancement.
Most of our everyday activities are executed with our computer devices. Today, even our door locks, light bulbs, televisions, speakers, and other household appliances are connected to our computers and personal assistant devices. What would we do without computer science? Besides the evident importance of computer science in our everyday life, here are more reasons you should pick up a career in computer science.
1. Fantastic Job Growth Opportunities
Computer science, information technology, and allied fields are some of the fastest-growing industries in the world. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the computer and information technology industry will grow by 13% from 2016 to 2026, faster than most other industries.
Additionally, according to the same data, the employment rate for computer scientists is forecast to grow by 22% from 2020 to 2030, with an estimated average of 3,200 job openings per year. So, you can rest assured that you will find an opportunity to work and remain relevant years from now with a career in computer science.
2. Lucrative Financial Rewards
Demand for computer science professionals continues to rise, leading to mouth-watering financial benefits. As of 2018, the average annual salary for computer science occupations in the US was $86,000, and computer science professions boast some of the highest-paying tech jobs in the world. For example, US News figures indicate that an information technology manager earns at least $139,000 annually.
Also, if you have high entrepreneurial spirits and are a computer science expert, you can start your own business. Why wait for employment when you can offer your skills to people or organizations at your own will and price? For instance, as a software developer, you can go into the business of making or selling functional software to organizations and receive good compensation.
In addition, many individuals specializing in computer science-related skills can maximize their skills and improve their earnings potential by freelancing. Many companies offer freelance jobs to people with skills in computer science to handle projects like website design and mobile app development, to mention a few. These companies rely heavily on freelance services because outsourcing some computer-related services is a cost-effective method of getting great work done on time.
3. Job Stability
It is established that the services of computer science professionals are needed in every industry. This means that people with a career in computer science need not worry about job security. As long as you stay abreast with the latest trends in your field, you do not need to be worried about being replaced by the younger generation.
Contrary to unpopular speculation, the computer science industry will not be oversaturated anytime soon. This is because computer science is a broad field having vast career options and areas of specialization to select from. Moreover, new frontiers are being explored and discovered regularly in computer science. So, individuals with skills in computer science always have new developments to look out for.
4. Tremendous Networking Opportunities
A career in computer sciences allows you to network with other professionals in different fields. Computer science professionals typically work with individuals from other occupations, giving you an insight into various professions and helping you develop solutions to problems across several fields with your expertise in a computer-science-related discipline.
Additionally, with a career in computer science, you gain transferrable skills that help you take on challenges in other fields. Attributes like critical and analytical thinking, problem-solving skills, teamwork, and data management skills are invaluable skills you can develop with a career in computer science, which in turn helps you to succeed in other fields.
5. Diverse Career Opportunities
A career in computer science offers you unlimited opportunities to switch between disciplines in computer science and information technology. These careers are intertwined and typically require similar foundational programming knowledge and general IT skills. For example, a website designer can easily transition to software development without going back to school to obtain another degree.
However, computer science professionals enjoy the luxury of working in fields other than computer science and information technology, including telecommunications, manufacturing, education, healthcare, defense, aerospace, retail, public, and even agricultural sectors. Therefore, if you need a career that offers you the flexibility to explore other options, you should pick a profession in computer science.
6. Strong Research and Analytical Skills
Computer science disciplines require extensive research and analytical skills to be successful, and computer science experts rely on their technical and interpersonal skills to brainstorm ideas for solutions to the challenges around us.
Furthermore, a career in computer science arms you with hard and soft skills you can add to your resume, all of which are relevant to the workspace. These include attention to detail, synergy, and excellent written and oral communication skills. Once you gain these skills, you are on your way to developing ideal IT solutions.
In this computer age, if you do not have basic knowledge of computer operations and tech skills to add to your resume, you are at risk of being swept away by the wind of technological advancement. Thankfully, a career in computer science provides you with all the necessary skills and technical knowledge you need to have a fulfilling career.
Pick a Computer Science Career Now
Having seen the vital role computer science plays in our lives, now is the time for you to take on a career in computer science. The benefits are innumerable, and the rewards are far-reaching. With a career in computer science, you have the opportunity to contribute your quota to the development of the world and enjoy a fulfilling career.