- 1.Computer science is the study of computation, algorithms, and information systems—the foundation of modern technology
- 2.Software developers earn median $130,160/year with 25% job growth projected through 2032
- 3.742 accredited CS programs in the US, from community colleges to elite research universities
- 4.MIT, Stanford, and Carnegie Mellon lead national rankings; state flagships like UC Berkeley and Georgia Tech offer excellent value
- 5.Bachelor's degree is the standard entry point; master's enables specialization in AI, security, or management
Source: A CS degree is worth it for most students. With $130,160 median salary, 25% job growth, and 140,000+ annual job openings, CS offers among the best career outcomes of any major. ROI analysis shows graduates recoup tuition costs within 2-4 years of employment.
What is Computer Science?
Computer science is the study of computation, algorithms, data structures, and the design of computer systems. Unlike information technology (which focuses on using and managing technology) or software engineering (which emphasizes development methodology), CS provides the theoretical and practical foundations that underpin all of computing.
A CS degree covers programming in multiple languages, mathematics (discrete math, linear algebra, calculus), algorithms and data structures, operating systems, computer architecture, databases, networking, and specialized topics like artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, or distributed systems.
CS graduates work across virtually every industry: tech giants (Google, Microsoft, Meta), startups, finance, healthcare, entertainment, government, and research institutions. The degree provides both specific technical skills and transferable problem-solving abilities valued by employers.
Who Should Study Computer Science?
Computer science is ideal for students who enjoy logical problem-solving, have curiosity about how technology works, and are comfortable with mathematics. You don't need prior programming experience—most programs start with introductory courses—but you should enjoy analytical thinking.
- Problem solvers who enjoy breaking down complex challenges into logical steps
- Math-comfortable students willing to engage with discrete math, algorithms, and some calculus
- Curious builders who want to understand how software, systems, and technology work
- Career-focused students seeking high-paying, in-demand jobs with strong growth
- Flexible thinkers who want a degree that opens doors across many industries
CS is also excellent for career changers who want to transition to tech from other fields, as the analytical skills transfer well from backgrounds in engineering, mathematics, science, or business.
Computer Science Degree Levels Compared
CS degrees are available at multiple levels, each suited to different goals and career paths.
| Degree Level | Duration | Typical Cost | Career Access | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate Degree | 2 years | $5,000-$15,000 | Entry-level, technician roles | Transfer path to bachelor's, budget start |
| Bachelor's Degree | 4 years | $40,000-$200,000 | Software developer, analyst, most roles | Standard entry point, most students |
| Master's Degree | 1-2 years | $30,000-$120,000 | Senior roles, specialization, management | Career advancement, AI/ML specialization |
| PhD | 4-6 years | Often funded | Research, academia, R&D leadership | Research careers, faculty positions |
| Certificate | 6-12 months | $5,000-$20,000 | Skill upgrades, career pivots | Working professionals, specific skills |
Computer Science Career Outcomes
Computer science graduates have access to some of the highest-paying and fastest-growing careers in the economy. The BLS projects 25% job growth for software developers through 2032—much faster than average. For detailed salary breakdowns, see our software engineer salary guide and data scientist salary guide.
Career Paths
Design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems using various programming languages.
Analyze complex data using statistical methods and machine learning to extract insights.
Build and deploy machine learning models and artificial intelligence systems.
Protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats and security breaches.
Automate and streamline software development and deployment processes.
Computer Science Curriculum Overview
CS programs typically include core courses in programming, data structures and algorithms, discrete mathematics, computer organization/architecture, operating systems, databases, and software engineering. Upper-level courses allow specialization in high-demand areas.
- Core Programming: Python, Java, C/C++, functional programming concepts
- Mathematics: Discrete math, linear algebra, probability, calculus (1-2 courses)
- Theory: Algorithms, data structures, computation theory, complexity
- Systems: Operating systems, networks, databases, computer architecture
- Software Engineering: Development methodology, testing, version control, teamwork
- Electives: AI/ML, security, graphics, HCI, distributed systems, mobile development
Most programs also require capstone projects, internships, or research experiences. For details on what you'll learn, see our CS curriculum guide and CS fundamentals you need.
Find the Right Computer Science Program
Explore our comprehensive rankings to find the best computer science program for your goals, budget, and learning preferences:
CS Program Rankings
Top 50 ranked CS bachelor's programs by academic quality and outcomes
Top graduate programs for career advancement and specialization
Quality ABET-accredited programs under $15K/year tuition
Flexible online options for working students and career changers
Highest ROI programs balancing quality and affordability
Complete breakdown of what you'll learn in CS programs
Computer Science Programs by State
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Computer Science vs Related Fields
Choosing between related tech degrees? Here's how CS compares to similar programs:
Which Should You Choose?
- You want broad foundations in computing theory and practice
- You're interested in algorithms, systems, or research
- You want maximum career flexibility across tech roles
- You enjoy math and abstract problem-solving
- You want to focus specifically on building software products
- You prefer practical engineering methodology over theory
- Your primary goal is becoming a developer quickly
- You're less interested in algorithms/theory
- You're specifically interested in analytics and ML
- You want to work with data rather than build systems
- You have strong statistics and math interest
- You want to focus on insights over infrastructure
- You prefer managing technology over creating it
- You're interested in networking or systems administration
- You want an IT management career path
- You prefer less programming and more operations
Is a Computer Science Degree Worth It?
For most students, yes. The combination of high starting salaries ($75,000+ for new grads), strong job growth (25% through 2032), career flexibility, and 140,000+ annual job openings makes CS one of the highest-ROI degrees available.
When it's worth it: You're interested in tech careers, comfortable with math, and willing to engage with challenging coursework. The credential opens doors at top companies, provides structured learning, and offers networking and internship opportunities bootcamps can't replicate.
When to consider alternatives: You're certain you only want web development (bootcamps may be faster), you have significant financial constraints (start at community college), or you're already working in tech and just need specific skills (certifications or online courses).
Consider the tech job market trends for 2025 and whether self-taught paths might work better for your situation.
Alternative Paths to Tech Careers
While a CS degree is the most common path, alternatives exist for those with different goals, timelines, or budgets:
- Software Engineering Bootcamps — 12-24 week intensive programs for career switchers
- Data Science Bootcamps — Fast-track to data and analytics roles
- AWS Certifications Roadmap — Cloud credentials for career advancement
- Self-Taught Programming — Combining online resources with portfolio building
- IT Certifications — CompTIA, Cisco, and other vendor-neutral credentials
Many successful developers combine paths—starting with a bootcamp or self-study, then adding a degree later for advancement. For career-specific guidance, see how to become an AI engineer or transitioning to tech.
Preparing for a Computer Science Degree
Success in CS starts with solid preparation. While no prior programming is required for most programs, building foundations helps:
- Learn basic programming concepts through free online courses (Python or Java recommended)
- Review algebra and pre-calculus math—discrete math will be new, but algebra skills help
- Practice logical thinking through puzzles or introductory algorithms
- Build simple projects to confirm interest and demonstrate initiative
- Research career paths to understand specialization options
For comprehensive preparation strategies, see CS fundamentals you need and building a portfolio that stands out.
Computer Science Degree FAQ
Related Resources
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.