The Highest Paying Computer Science Careers
Individuals graduating with computer science degrees will be pleased to know that information sciences and systems was one of the highest paying degrees in 2011, according to the National Association of Colleges and Employers. On average, graduates commanded an annual starting salary of over $54,000. The highest paying computer science careers vary in terms of duties and level of responsibility.
Computer and information systems manager is one of the highest paying computer science careers at a management level. This professional may work in a corporation, hospital, government, school, or other setting. Responsibilities include ensuring the reliability of the computer system. Managers also perform typical supervisory tasks. This job requires at least a bachelor’s degree and a graduate degree is usually preferred. In 2011, individuals in this role earned an average annual salary of $105,000.
Information system manager is one of the highest paying computer science jobs in the industry.
Computer and information scientists not only create software but also make the computers they run. These folks deal with high-end equipment like servers and workstations and often work with virtual reality, robotics, or in medicine. Their job involves research and development, making it more diverse than many computer science careers. This fascinating role offers an average annual salary of $100,000 but it also requires at least a master’s degree. To receive the best computer science jobs in this area, a doctoral degree will be necessary.
Computer software engineers design and create different kinds of software, including the ever-expanding world of computer games. After receiving their bachelor’s degree in computer sciences, individuals can find themselves working for some of the coolest employers in the country. To keep pace with a constantly changing industry and continue to earn an average annual income of $90,000, individuals in this role must frequently update their knowledge.
Those who are changing careers might not want to attend school for four more years. In that case, they can obtain an associate’s degree and explore a career as a computer programmer. This is one of the highest paying computer science careers for someone with only a two-year degree, with an average annual salary of $65,000 in 2010. Programmers create, code, and maintain computer programs, a task that provides them with full-time work in a large organization.
One of the most misunderstood and highest paying computer science careers is a professional hacker. This is not the malicious individual who hacks into a bank account or steals private information. It is a person who works for the government or law enforcement trying to prevent those other folks from being successful. Tracking down computer criminals on a regular basis earned hackers an average of $90,000 during 2011.
