How to Become a Computer Scientist
Computers have gone from a novelty to an essential part of life in just a few decades. No wonder so many students are now pursuing training in this field.
“Computer science programs have doubled and tripled in size,” said Eelke Folmer, professor and chair of the Department of Computer Science and Engineering at the University of Nevada, Reno. He has been with the University of Nevada, Reno, since 2006 and has witnessed firsthand how interest in the faculty has grown over the years.
While computer science jobs can be appealing and lucrative, they are not for everyone. Read on to learn how to become a computer scientist and if this career path is right for you.
How do I know if computer science is right for me?
An interest in computers is a natural prerequisite for working as a computer scientist or in a comparable profession. In addition, “we need a lot of math,” says Folmer.
Computer scientists usually focus on research. You may be involved in the development of artificial intelligence, the development of new computer languages, or the improvement of existing hardware. However, computer science degrees can lead to a variety of careers, including data scientists, cybersecurity specialists, and game developers.
Regardless of which specialty you choose, careers in computer science almost always require collaboration.
“You won’t find a job where you’re the only programmer on a project,” explains Folmer.
Communication and team skills are therefore indispensable for a computer scientist today. “[In a way]these soft skills are more important than coding,” says Folmer.
If you are looking for a position where you can work alone, this may not be the right career path for you.
This is how you become a computer scientist
High school students should take math classes and, where appropriate, computer or technology electives. However, coding knowledge is not required to take up a computer science degree.
Her college courses cover subjects such as computer science, data structure, digital design and programming. Many schools also offer the opportunity to complete an internship or otherwise gain practical experience in this field.
Students can also pursue research opportunities outside of the classroom. The Computing Research Association maintains a website with information on conducting research as an undergraduate, as well as tips for those planning to attend graduate school.
At the University of Nevada, Reno, computer science and engineering majors complete a final project that spans two semesters. “It’s incredible,” says Folmer. “That’s the closest thing to a job.”
On Innovation Day, students present their projects, and Folmer notes that many companies come to campus during the event to recruit graduates. After completing their studies, students can immediately enter the labor market or continue their education.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, about a third of computer and information researchers are employed by the federal government. Other jobs may be available at computer systems design or research and development firms. Software manufacturers and universities can also hire computer scientists.
Training opportunities: How long does it take to become a computer scientist?
Some computer science jobs require a bachelor’s degree, while others require at least a master’s degree. There is also Ph.D. Programs for computer scientists and those engaged in advanced research may require this level of education.
This means that you should plan to study at least four years of college to become a computer scientist, but it can be much longer if you’re going to graduate school.
While a computer science degree may seem logical for computer scientists, some professionals study a related field such as information systems.
“Some people start with computer science and then switch to a business informatics course,” says Folmer.
Some course content overlaps, with computer science being more mathematically and theoretically oriented, while business informatics is more application-oriented. In any case, you should expect to split your time between the lab and the classroom for your foundation courses.
According to a 2020 curriculum guide developed by the professional associations IEEE Computing Society and Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), students should have the following competencies after graduation:
- Algorithms and Complexity
- Software development fundamentals
- System Basics
- programming languages
- Discrete Structures
- Social issues and professional practice
Careers in Computer Science
Working as a computer scientist is just one option for those studying this field in college. “You can get completely different jobs with computer science,” says Folmer.
Careers in computer science include all of the following and more:
- Data Analyst
- computer programmer
- software developer
- Information Security Analyst
- computer network architect
Those with work experience may eventually rise to the ranks of manager or executive in their company.
The Computing Research Association notes that 60% of Ph.D. Computer scientists work in industry, while 30% find a job in academia. A smaller number work in government or set up their own businesses.
For those who want to improve their skills without committing to an advanced degree, many professional organizations offer professional development courses, webinars, and conferences.
Future of computer scientist jobs
The job market is looking good for new computer science graduates. “We’re not graduating nearly enough students to meet demand,” says Folmer. That means employment opportunities should be plentiful.
Computer scientist jobs are expected to grow 21% from 2021 to 2031, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This is much faster than the average for all professions.
Computer science careers are likely to continue to evolve in the years to come. “Computer science as a field is very young, and that makes it attractive to some extent,” says Folmer. “Who knows where it will be in 30-40 years.”
Given the rapid pace of technological progress in recent years, there is a good chance that tomorrow’s computer scientists will be working on projects that we would not even have dared to dream of today.