What Does a Computer Scientist Do?

Technology is advancing at a breakneck pace. In recent years, smartphones, fiber internet, artificial intelligence (AI), and cloud computing have changed not just the economy but also how we interact with the world and each other. Computer scientists make it all possible.

Equal parts creative and tech savvy, computer scientists design and improve the algorithms, software, and similar tools that run everything from tablets to sophisticated supercomputers. Their work plays a crucial role in breaking the limits of what modern technology can do.

But what does a computer scientist do every day? How do you become one? And, just as important, what type of labor market are today’s computer science degree graduates walking into?

Key Takeaways

• Computer scientists design algorithms, software, and systems, solving complex computing problems through research, testing, and continuous optimization.
• A computer science career typically requires a bachelor’s degree, hands-on experience, and strong skills in math, programming, and problem-solving.
• Computer scientists earned a median annual salary of $140,910 as of May 2024, with a projected 20%  job growth between 2024 and 2034, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Computer Scientist Job Description

Computer scientists develop solutions to computing-related problems. This often means improving existing software to increase its speed and computational efficiency. In some cases, though, computer scientists create entirely new technologies to meet that goal.

The types of problems and projects computer scientists work on depends on what type of organization they work for, but their responsibilities typically include:

• Evaluating a computer’s or system’s needs and identifying possible improvements
• Researching current hardware and software limitations
• Developing theories to overcome limitations
• Creating new software, programming languages, operating systems, and other tools to make improvements possible
• Testing new technologies, running experiments, and making changes as needed
• Advising executives and other decision-makers about tech-related policies and procedures

To carry out their duties, computer scientists typically must have a solid background in mathematics, statistics, data analytics, and programming. They also need soft skills such as communication, creative problem-solving, and critical thinking capabilities to be able to develop new innovative technologies.

Computer Scientist Work Environment

Computer scientists often work in industries focused on science, technology, engineering, or math (STEM) and for companies that develop new technologies for either consumers or other organizations. However, in today’s data-driven economy, computer scientists are essential to organizations in just about every sector.

Industries that employ computer scientists include:

• Software development
• Research and development
• Engineering (bioengineering, mechanical engineering, etc.)
• Software as a service
• Cloud computing
• Robotics
• Cybersecurity
• Finance
• Logistics
• Government

Each industry has its own unique work environment. For example, at a software as a service company, most of what a computer scientist does might revolve around designing custom solutions for clients. On the other hand, a computer scientist working in cybersecurity might be focused on protecting system infrastructure and designing countermeasures against emerging threats.

Requirements to Become a Computer Scientist

The requirements to become a computer scientist vary among industries and individual companies. For instance, a computer scientist working in robotics may need a slightly different skill set from one working in cloud computing.

That being said, professionals looking to get into this always-evolving field often earn a bachelor’s degree, acquire work experience, then build their skills and progress to more advanced positions.

Earning a Bachelor’s Degree

Many computer scientist positions require a bachelor’s degree at minimum. While a degree in software development, programming, or a similar subject can be helpful, earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Computer Science is a great way to learn the diverse skills these professionals use.

Computer science degree programs often include classes in areas that computer scientists need expertise in, such as:

• Mathematics, statistics, and other foundational topics
• Algorithms
• Security
• Programming
• Databases
• Data analytics
• Computer architecture
• Operating systems
• Web development

The curriculum for computer science bachelor’s degrees also usually includes hands-on projects that allow students to test their new skills and apply them to different computational issues. Earning this type of degree can prepare students to pursue other computer science roles as well such as software developer or data engineer.

Gaining Hands-On Experience

While some early-career computer science positions require just a bachelor’s degree, many also require a few years of experience in related roles. Working as a programmer or cybersecurity analyst, for example, can expose professionals to common issues in the field. Gaining this type of experience can help them hone their programming and problem-solving skills.

Professionals can also gain experience by taking part in projects and internships as bachelor’s students. These activities help students acquire specialized skills, meet potential employers, and explore the role of computer scientists in different sectors.

Continuing Education and Taking on More Advanced Roles

The highest-level computer scientists often have years of experience and a master’s degree in computer science or a niche area such as AI, cybersecurity, or computer engineering. Some professionals choose to go on to earn a doctorate. At this level, computer scientists can often guide the direction of the projects they are working on and develop more advanced technologies.

Computer Scientist Salary and Job Outlook

As key players in many industries, computer scientists are often in demand and well paid. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual salary of information and computer research scientists was $140,910 as of May 2024, with the highest-paid 10% of professionals making salaries above $232,120.

The BLS projects that employment of information and computer scientists will increase by an astounding 20% from 2024 to 2034, which is far higher than the 3% average growth rate projected for all occupations in the same time frame. This indicates that as technologies such as AI continue to become more integrated into business operations, research, security, and daily life, the expertise of computer scientists will likely become more important than ever before.

A Global Community of Innovators

With classes on computer security, AI, data analysis, and programming languages such as Python and JavaScript, the BS in Computer Science program at Schiller International University (SIU) is designed for tomorrow’s tech leaders and innovators. However, technical skills aren’t the only thing needed to navigate the ever-changing field of computer science.

With campuses in Tampa, Paris, Madrid, and Heidelberg, Schiller also gives students the chance to learn and collaborate with a global network of peers, mentors, and industry leaders. And with our Career Placement Services team on their side, students can find the right hands-on experiences for their specific goals.

To find out more about our bachelor’s degree program in computer science and the support our students have at their disposal, you can request more information today.

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