Career Paths
Some jobs for computer scientists:
Software Developer
Research, design, and develop computer and network software or specialized utility programs. Analyze user needs and develop software solutions, applying principles and techniques of computer science, engineering, and mathematical analysis. Update software or enhance existing software capabilities. May work with computer hardware engineers to integrate hardware and software systems, and develop specifications and performance requirements. May maintain databases within an application area, working individually or coordinating database development as part of a team. Overall employment of software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers is projected to grow 17 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Plan, direct, or coordinate activities in such fields as electronic data processing, information systems, systems analysis, and computer programming. Excludes “Computer Occupations.” Employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 17 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Computer Systems Analysts
Analyze science, engineering, business, and other data processing problems to develop and implement solutions to complex applications problems, system administration issues, or network concerns. Perform systems management and integration functions, improve existing computer systems, and review computer system capabilities, workflow, and schedule limitations. May analyze or recommend commercially available software. Employment of computer systems analysts is projected to grow 11 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Database Architects
Design strategies for enterprise databases, data warehouse systems, and multidimensional networks. Set standards for database operations, programming, query processes, and security. Model, design, and construct large relational databases or data warehouses. Create and optimize data models for warehouse infrastructure and workflow. Integrate new systems with existing warehouse structure and refine system performance and functionality. Excludes “Database Administrators.” Overall employment of database administrators and architects is projected to grow 9 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Financial and Investment Analysts
Conduct quantitative analyses of information involving investment programs or financial data of public or private institutions, including valuation of businesses. Excludes “Budget Analysts” “Financial Risk Specialists”, and “Securities, Commodities, and Financial Services Sales Agents.” Overall employment of financial analysts is projected to grow 9 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Information Security Analysts
Plan, implement, upgrade, or monitor security measures for the protection of computer networks and information. Assess system vulnerabilities for security risks and propose and implement risk mitigation strategies. May ensure appropriate security controls are in place that will safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure. May respond to computer security breaches and viruses. Excludes “Computer Network Architects.” Employment of information security analysts is projected to grow 33 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers
Develop and execute software tests to identify software problems and their causes. Test system modifications to prepare for implementation. Document software and application defects using a bug tracking system and report defects to software or web developers. Create and maintain databases of known defects. May participate in software design reviews to provide input on functional requirements, operational characteristics, product designs, and schedules.
Web Developers and Digital Designers
Web developers create and maintain websites. Digital designers develop, create, and test website or interface layout, functions, and navigation for usability. Overall employment of web developers and digital designers is projected to grow 8 percent from 2023 to 2033, faster than the average for all occupations.
Computer and Information Research Scientists
Computer and information research scientists design innovative uses for new and existing computing technology. Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to grow 26 percent from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Game Developers**
A game developer, often referred to as a programmer, is responsible for bringing the game designer’s vision to life through coding. They focus on the technical aspects of game creation, ensuring that the game runs smoothly and is free from bugs.
Sources of Information:
*”Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics.” United States Department of Labor: Bureau of Labor Statistics, https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes_stru.htm.
**TASDELEN, Serhat. Understanding the Roles in Game Development: Game Developer vs. Game Designer.” Indeed, https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/understanding-roles-game-development-developer-vs-serhat-tasdelen-hxx0f. Accessed 3/6/2025.
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