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Technology degrees can provide basic knowledge to move into an information technology (IT) or computer systems specialty. The challenge is to select a tech degree���ٳ󲹳���helps you build specific skills to specialize without limiting yourself to one area of the rapidly developing IT industry.

If you pursue a computer science bachelor’s degree, you can gain a broad knowledge base from which to specialize. For example, a degree in computer science includes courses in computer and network analysis, data science, cybersecurity, programming, and algorithm design and deployment.

After getting a degree in information systems, you may choose to pursue a job that leads to a specialty or enroll in a Master of Information Systems program. These advanced studies will provide specific skills for more complex roles in information technology, data science, computer security or software development.

10 computer information systems jobs to consider

Here are several career paths to consider after earning a computer information systems degree.

1. Computer systems analyst

Computer systems analysts find the best ways to implement technology for a company or organization. In this career, you often act as a bridge between management and IT professionals. You analyze current systems by designing, choosing or configuring them to meet operational standards and improve overall performance.

The minimum qualification for an entry-level job in this field is a in computer science, information technology or computer information systems. Many employers also like to see applicants with experience or professional certification in backend languages like SQL and C++. Decision-making roles within this field may require a master’s degree.

Systems analysts don’t need professional certifications to find employment, but some, such as the  credential, can prove helpful for career enhancement. Because corporate systems analyst positions often involve making decisions based on both business and tech needs, you may need an MBA specializing in IT.

The job outlook for this career is projected to , according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). That’s an estimated 37,600 open positions each year.

The BLS Projected Growth for 2021-2031 is published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects BLS projections of national (not local) conditions. The data points are not specific to SM������ students or graduates.

2. Data analyst

Similar to computer systems analysts are data analysts. These professionals collect and organize information and use it to make reports that inform business decisions. Data analysts may specialize in business or marketing analytics, work for financial firms or find employment in any industry that relies on data for operations and decision-making.

Data analysts typically need a in computer science, information systems or a related field, but a degree may not always be required, depending on experience and skills. BLS also states that some employers will hire candidates with business degrees and relevant skills. You typically need to know basic computer languages, such as C++ or Python, and big data tools like Hadoop or Spark.

BLS doesn’t provide job outlook data for data analysts, but the numbers for computer and information research scientists offer comparable projections. Because of the rise of machine learning and big data,  from 2022 and 2032, according to BLS.

3. Data scientist

A data scientist creates programs, algorithms and applications to collect, organize and interpret data. Experts in this field often use machine learning and mathematical modeling to simplify complex data sets and complete specific tasks. Many data scientists perform analyses and report their results to stakeholders and decision-makers.

Data scientists typically need at least a in math, computer science or computer information systems. Some employers require industry-related experience as well. For some senior positions, graduate-level studies may be required.

This occupation is projected to grow , according to BLS. That’s an estimated 17,700 open positions each year.

4. Computer programmer

A computer programmer writes code to run software, applications and embedded systems. In this career, you typically work as part of a team to create, test, debug and update software.

To become a computer programmer, applicants in computer science or computer information systems or have equivalent experience with specific computer languages. Some companies may require their programmers to have industry-specific certifications.

5. Software developer

Software developers create programs and applications that meet specific purposes. In addition to designing software and writing code, these specialists also test and debug their creations. Developers typically work as part of a team using an established development framework, like Agile, to ensure proper building and testing of their product.

Software developers in computer science, math, computer information systems or IT. Some employers may prefer applicants with a master’s degree.

Demand for qualified software developers is projected to increase by , according to BLS. This represents an estimated 162,900 job openings each year.

6. Web developer

A web developer creates and maintains websites. In this role, professionals work on entire websites or specific aspects of a site’s user interface, databases or content management systems. Some developers work for companies that create and maintain websites for clients, while others develop and maintain their employer’s website as part of the IT department.

It’s possible to get a web development job with a and experience. However, a bachelor’s degree in computer science, computer information systems or IT is preferential for many employers. Most importantly, web developers need knowledge of design languages such as HTML and CSS. Those who work as backend and full-stack developers need to know JavaScript, SQL, Python, Ruby or similar programming languages.

7. Information security analyst

Information security analysts audit an organization’s cybersecurity systems and implement additional protections as needed. In this career, you typically focus on computer systems and databases, internet networks and all connected devices used by employees. You might also run penetration tests to check for vulnerabilities in firewalls. Some positions require training other employees in cybersecurity best practices.

Because cybersecurity is becoming more important to companies, most entry-level positions require at least a in computer science, computer information systems or cybersecurity. It’s possible for employers to require work experience as well as specific professional certifications.

The job outlook for information security analyst roles is  from 2022 and 2032 as more companies move operations online, according to BLS. This is estimated to be 16,800 job openings each year.

8. Computer and information systems manager

Computer and information systems managers are responsible for the goals of an organization, and they oversee the implementation of computer systems to meet those goals. Tasks may include planning the maintenance of new hardware and software, directing the work of other IT professionals on this list (like information security analysts and software developers) or analyzing and advocating for an organization’s IT needs.

To become a computer and information systems manager, employers typically require candidates to have a like computer science or information systems. Some managers also have a graduate degree in the same field.

The job outlook for computer and information systems managers is projected to grow . This is an estimated 46,900 job openings each year.

9. Technical consultant

IT consultants analyze a company’s computer and network needs and offer advice on improving information technology operations, security and efficiency. In this career, you may also help clients make long- and short-term plans for IT operations, guide the hiring process of skilled personnel and help upgrade a computer or network system.

This career requires expert-level knowledge of IT. Most consulting firms seek candidates with a  or computer information systems. Gaining a computer information systems degree will give you a broad knowledge base to specialize in several different in-demand careers in information technology.

10. Database administrators and architects

Database administrators and architects create and oversee an organization’s IT systems. These systems can house critical data like financial records or customer information. Database administrators and architects are responsible for the organization, security and efficiency of these systems. They must also ensure data is both accessible to authorized users and backed up in case of an outage.

To become a database administrator or architect, applicants in either computer or information technology or a related field. Some employers may prefer an applicant with a master’s degree that focuses on database management. SM������ does not have an aligning degree that can guarantee this position as a job outcome.

Employment within this occupation is projected to  from 2022 to 2032, according to BLS. This is an estimated 10,200 job openings each year.

Computer science and IT programs at SM������

If you’re interested in pursuing a job in computer information systems, the first step is learning skills often taught in an information technology degree program or a degree program in a related field. SM������ offers bachelor’s degrees in the following fields of study. 

• Bachelor of Science in Computer Science — This computer science degree equips you with knowledge to apply information technology theory and principles to address real-world business challenges. Advanced concepts in math, programming and computer architecture are covered.
• Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity — This program teaches top skills such as security policies, network security, information systems security and cybersecurity.
• Bachelor of Science in Data Science — Gain fundamental skills and knowledge needed to analyze, manipulate and process data sets using statistical software. Learn ETL (extract, transform, load) processes for integrating data sets for business intelligence and more.
• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — This program is designed to teach top skills such as business process, cybersecurity, information systems, operations and systems analysis.

Learn more about these and other information technology degrees at SM������!