WHAT CAN I DO WITH A MAJOR IN...
COMPUTER
SCIENCE
Computer science focuses on the theory and design of computing systems and software as well as application areas. It
explores the development of information technologies and computer programming to adapt and apply computers to new uses.
This includes designing and deploying IT infrastructures that
deliver integrated, secure, reliable, and easy-to-use services.*
through internships, co-ops, or volunteering, develop
patience and creativity for designing programs, learn to work
effectively on teams and independently while meeting
deadlines, stay current on programming languages, obtain
vendor or professional certifications
Network Technology: Keep abreast of innovations in
computer hardware and software systems, develop analytical
and problem-solving skills, develop an interest in helping
others and strong communication skills, consider earning certifications such as Cisco or Microsoft for certain positions
Database Administration: Develop knowledge of computer languages and database management software and consider
specializing in one for increased marketability, build strong
communication and teamwork skills to work with staff who
may have limited computer training, get experience through
internships or volunteering, develop the ability to concentrate
for long periods of time
*Taken from the College Board Book of Majors and the
UNC Charlotte Department of Software & Information Systems Website
SAMPLE OCCUPATIONS
Technical Support
Network Administrator
Technical Consultant
Hardware Designer
Technical Support Specialist Interface Designer
Trainer
Systems Development
Internet
Systems Analyst
Web Developer
Computer Engineers—
Information Research
Software
Scientist
Project Manager
Database Administration
Programming
Database Manager
Senior Programmer
Risk Analyst
Software Developer
Information Security AnaGame Developer
lyst
Research & Development
Database Architects
Manager
Network Technology
Software Quality Assurance
TYPES OF EMPLOYERS
Internet Service Providers
Telecommunication Companies
Consulting Firms
Data Processing Firms
Game Manufacturers
Corporations—Any Industry
Biotech Firms
Contract & Temporary Employment Agencies
Software Developers
PREPARING FOR YOUR CAREER IN
Technical Support: Develop patience and the ability to
communicate complex topics in simple terms, gain experience
in an internship or university computer lab, hone teaching and
helping skills, obtain retail or customer service experience,
supplement education with technical writing courses
Programming: Develop strong attention to detail, analytical, and logical thinking skills, seek programming experience
RELATED WEBSITES
Association for Computing Machinery’s Career Resources
campus.acm.org/crc
Institute of Electrical & Electronics Engineers (IEEE)
www.ieee.org/education_careers
Information Systems Security Association
www.issa.org
Network Professional Association
www.npanet.org
HOW DO I KNOW IF IT’S RIGHT FOR ME?
ASSESS: Take a career assessment, such as the Strong
Interest Inventory or MBTI, to see how your interests,
values, and personality fit with majors and careers.
RESEARCH: Research the careers on this WCIDWAMI and
thousands of other careers using these top career websites:
http://onetonline.org
http://www.bls.gov/oco
EXPLORE: Observe a professional in action by participating in the Job Shadowing program (individual shadowing and
group site visits) and attending career panels. Further your
exploration while gaining valuable skills by completing an
internship, co-op, volunteer, or research experience.
For the expanded version of this WCIDWAMI, visit
career.uncc.edu/majors/ComputerScience 6/15