Computer science is one of the fastest-growing and most popular fields of study. But, with so many students interested, starting a career in tech and computing is much more easily said than done.
Ross Maciejewski is the director of the School of Computing and Augmented Intelligence at Arizona State University. He says that practically every company has had a need for computer science students.
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Depending on your pathway, learning computer science can take multiple years of studying, interning, and training—all of which isn’t cheap. So, one of the golden questions is: what is going to be your return on investment? Looking at salaries is one part of this puzzle.
How much do computer scientists make?
Before we get to the numbers, it is important to consider that becoming a computer scientist is only one of dozens of career pathways you can take with a degree in computer science or related fields. Other titles to look out for include engineer, developer, and scientist roles paired with software, computers, AI, networking, and data.
Learn more: Data science vs. Computer science
And, salaries may vary depending on one’s educational background, experience level, and job location. However, one thing that is clear: Pay hovers close to six-figures—if not higher—even for entry-level positions.
Data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics pin the average salary of computer and research scientists at $136,620. However, when looking at Glassdoor, that estimate is much higher—with total pay averaging at $175,000 and a pay base ranging from $110,000 to $180,000.
However, the best indicator might be actual job postings. For those graduating with an advanced degree, entry-level computer scientist positions at Adobe, for example, offer pay ranging from $113,700 to $200,300 annually.
“I think an engineering education and computer science especially provides people with the ability to move up the socio-economic ladder,” Maciejewski says—adding that many of his computer science students are able to obtain starting salaries close to low six-figures.
But he says it’s also important for students and candidates to look outside of the box from traditional tech companies like Meta, Apple, and Google—especially during times of layoffs or hiring downtime. Instead look toward less glaring tech companies like John Deere, Deloitte, and Walmart—or even nonprofits—which may be increasingly hiring tech experts.
How can you learn computer science?
Luckily, studying computer science is increasingly becoming easier. While it is true that four-year and advanced degree programs at many top universities still have competitive admissions processes, there are a seemingly endless number of certification, bootcamp, and tech training programs.
Learn more: Is an online M.S. in computer science even worth it?
They may be hosted by universities or even top companies that are hiring—like Cisco, IBM, and Salesforce. Plus, as compared to a degree program, earning a skills certification online may be a quicker, cheaper, and more flexible way to learn.
Overall, Maciejewski says it is a great time to be in computer science since the field can be tied to practically any other—whether its art, agriculture, or robotics. He adds that not only is computer science great for those who want a secure socioeconomic status, it can also be used to truly make a difference in the world.
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