WHAT TO DO WITH A MAJOR
IN . . .
Computer Science
| Computer
Science is the study of computers and their
applications. Although the field has been criticized
historically for being more of a vocational field than
an academic one and of appealing only to individuals of
genius-level IQ and of extremely poor social skills, the
fact of the matter is that Computer Science is an
exciting field attracting all sorts of people interested
in the roles that computers play in society. In
particular, the program at NMU is attracting people from
all spheres of society, including more women than ever
before. In fact, when you think of all the obvious ways
people interact with computers (e-mail, video games,
online research, medical technology, musical
composition, income tax preparation, and this is just a
very small sample), you have to realize that |
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|
computer education should be for everyone, not just an
elite few. The linguistic and analytical skills that
you will develop in the course of completing the program
will not only prepare you for a career but is a solid
asset for the appreciation of a comprehensive liberal
arts education. |
A degree in Computer Science can allow you to
work in a large computing firm (like Microsoft or Intel) or in a
computer division of a smaller company. You can choose to work
designing the next generation of computers themselves, or you can
use your computer expertise to work in a seemingly unrelated field
of interest to you. (One recent graduate was able to combine his
computer knowledge with his baseball hobby to build a career in
sports statistics, for example.)
The Computer Science major will train you in
computer programming (including graphics programming and Internet
programming), computer theory, and even some computer hardware
design. Many of our graduates go on to get advanced degrees in
Computer Science and many use their degree to open the door to a
fascinating career. Our majors have the opportunity to compete in
regional programming contests, to attend undergraduate research
conferences, to participate in our student-oriented computing clubs,
and even (for our most prepared and dedicated students) to work on
original research projects!
Please arrange an appointment with any of our
dedicated Computer Science faculty to obtain more information or to
decide if a major in Computer Science is right for you!
Job Outlook
Starting salaries are contingent upon
geographic location and the individual applicant’s work experience
and initiative and can range anywhere from $49,000 to $101,000.
Computer science is projected to be one of the fastest growing
occupations over the next decade increasing 14 to 20 percent. Strong
employment growth combined with a limited supply of qualified
workers will result in excellent employment prospects for this
occupation and a high demand for their skills.
Additional Resources
For hundreds of different types of jobs in areas such as
computer science,
network computing,
mathematics, and
mathematics education,
the Occupational Outlook
Handbook tells you the training and education needs,
earnings, expected job prospects, what workers do on the job, and
working conditions.
Northern Michigan University Career
Information
Career Information with
National
Organizations
Federal Job Opportunities
Other Internet Resources
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Career
Information in . . .
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