A career in computer science could be intellectually stimulating and financially fulfilling. Computer scientists help scientists and engineers solve complex computing problems, and they help make computers more user-friendly by inventing new languages and tools. There is, however, more to the career then working long hours in computer labs, computer scientists write scholarly articles in journals and present their findings in seminars and conferences as well. Computer science is a vast field with various sub-fields. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predict an upward growth in computer science jobs from 2010 to 2020. Some computer scientists may also earn in excess of $100,000 annually.
What Computer Scientists Do
Depending upon their area of expertise, computer scientists perform a variety of roles in their chosen field of work. For example, computer programmers will:
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Write programs in various computer languages like Java and C++
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Debug programs by testing for and fixing errors
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Expand and update existing programs
Computer systems analysts perform the following duties:
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Design and develop new systems for their employers
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Consult with managers to determine the role of information technology system in an organization
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Perform tests to ensure that the systems work
How to Become a Computer Scientist
Computer scientists have advanced college degrees in computer science. It is not uncommon for them to graduate with a Ph.D. degree in computer science. Many hold master's degrees and bachelor's degrees in computer science, while others may have taken college-level courses in computer science. While most computer science jobs in the fields of software development, network and computer systems administration, database administration, and computer systems analysis may require a bachelor's degree in computer science, a master's degree would be required by employers in the same fields if the job requires handling complex computing issues.
Online Master's in Computer Science
Online master's in computer science programs are available, and their course materials may be accessed from home. An accredited program should provide students with adaptable, leading-edge, and relevant computer science education; and preparing students to fit into challenging environments in today's ever changing business world. An online Master of Science in Computer Science is both for computer professionals working full-time and those who intend to start a career in the field. Students will complete their required credit hours online. Class lectures and material may be downloaded by the student to review, and coursework will be submitted by email or uploaded onto a school server. Some universities will make writing master's thesis optional while in others it may be mandatory.
The degree will be divided into core and elective courses. Some of the core courses taught may be titled as:
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Software Engineering
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Computer Language Theory
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Operating Systems
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Analysis of Algorithms
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Database Management
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Computer Networks
Admission requirements may also differ for each university. Some will admit only those with a bachelor's degree in computer science while others may be more flexible. Most universities will ask for:
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Completed online application
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Application fee
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Transcripts
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Official TOEFL scores (if applicable)
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Official GRE scores
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Three recommendation letters
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Resume
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Statement of Purpose
An online master's degree in computer science will provide the same quality of education that a traditional on-campus program provides.a