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Computer Science
The growth and importance of computer technology has created demand for trained and creative specialists with expertise in theoretical applications. These specialists, popularly known as computer scientists, develop new computer technology. By inventing new computer technology, or discovering new uses for current resources, these specialists solve complicated computing, scientific, and business problems. Certain computer scientists work closely with engineering professionals or other specialists on projects that are multidisciplinary.
Computer scientists participate in research on various subjects, which could include robotics, virtual reality, and hardware development. Scientists conducting hardware improvement research seek to improve computer technology designed to process and transport data. They develop computer processors and chips that process information quicker and perform more operations. When developing virtual reality technology, computer scientists seek to invent or improve technology designed to create real-life scenarios. For example, they develop new video games intended to give gamers the impression that they are inside the game. Computer scientists developing new robotics technology attempt to invent devices that complete tasks independent of direct human control, which could include house cleaning, automobile manufacturing, and autopilot control.
Computer scientists conducting research at universities have duties similar to computer scientists working for companies. Usually, they have the option of conducting research to test theories; whereas, their colleagues employed by scientific research companies usually seek to develop technology with practical applications that can be sold. However, certain computer scientists working for research companies have the option of choosing the type of research they conduct.
Work environment. Computer scientists usually spend their days working in comfortable labs or offices. Since they can be in front of computer screens for hours at a time, computer scientists must take precautions to avoid back pain, eyestrain, and carpal tunnel problems.
Employment
During 2008, there were nearly 28,900 computer scientists employed throughout the United States. These specialists were found in every industry, but nearly one fourth of computer scientists worked in computer systems development and related fields. They also worked for companies specializing in education, organizational development, and software publishing.
Job Outlook
Job growth is projected to be better than average, so there should be plenty of job opportunities for people entering this profession.
Employment change. Job growth for computer scientists is projected to increase by 24 percent through 2018, which is a faster rate than projected average growth in other industries. Increased demand for new technology will be part of the impetus behind job growth. Another factor behind job growth will be increased demand for software publishing technology and computer networks. These two fields are among the quickest growing fields in America.
Computer scientists hypothesize the theories that serve as the basis for new technologies. The need for more efficient software, computer processors, and network technology will drive job growth in these fields. Likewise, increased demand for improved information security will spur job creation.
Job prospects. Computer scientists more than likely will have numerous job opportunities to choose from. Those with doctorate degrees in engineering and computer science will be highly sought after by companies seeking skilled specialists. Moreover, there should be plenty of opportunities for computer science specialists as people already in the industry retire or make career transitions.
Earnings
During 2008, median annual incomes for information and computer science professionals exceeded $90,000. Those in the 50th percentile made anywhere from $75,340-124,370 a year. Specialists in the bottom 10th percentile made under $57,480 a year, while those in the upper 10th percentile made over $151,250 a year. During 2008, computer and information specialists working in computer network development and similar fields earned median yearly incomes near $100,000.
Computer scientists participate in research on various subjects, which could include robotics, virtual reality, and hardware development. Scientists conducting hardware improvement research seek to improve computer technology designed to process and transport data. They develop computer processors and chips that process information quicker and perform more operations. When developing virtual reality technology, computer scientists seek to invent or improve technology designed to create real-life scenarios. For example, they develop new video games intended to give gamers the impression that they are inside the game. Computer scientists developing new robotics technology attempt to invent devices that complete tasks independent of direct human control, which could include house cleaning, automobile manufacturing, and autopilot control.
Computer scientists conducting research at universities have duties similar to computer scientists working for companies. Usually, they have the option of conducting research to test theories; whereas, their colleagues employed by scientific research companies usually seek to develop technology with practical applications that can be sold. However, certain computer scientists working for research companies have the option of choosing the type of research they conduct.
Work environment. Computer scientists usually spend their days working in comfortable labs or offices. Since they can be in front of computer screens for hours at a time, computer scientists must take precautions to avoid back pain, eyestrain, and carpal tunnel problems.
Employment
During 2008, there were nearly 28,900 computer scientists employed throughout the United States. These specialists were found in every industry, but nearly one fourth of computer scientists worked in computer systems development and related fields. They also worked for companies specializing in education, organizational development, and software publishing.
Job Outlook
Job growth is projected to be better than average, so there should be plenty of job opportunities for people entering this profession.
Employment change. Job growth for computer scientists is projected to increase by 24 percent through 2018, which is a faster rate than projected average growth in other industries. Increased demand for new technology will be part of the impetus behind job growth. Another factor behind job growth will be increased demand for software publishing technology and computer networks. These two fields are among the quickest growing fields in America.
Computer scientists hypothesize the theories that serve as the basis for new technologies. The need for more efficient software, computer processors, and network technology will drive job growth in these fields. Likewise, increased demand for improved information security will spur job creation.
Job prospects. Computer scientists more than likely will have numerous job opportunities to choose from. Those with doctorate degrees in engineering and computer science will be highly sought after by companies seeking skilled specialists. Moreover, there should be plenty of opportunities for computer science specialists as people already in the industry retire or make career transitions.
Earnings
During 2008, median annual incomes for information and computer science professionals exceeded $90,000. Those in the 50th percentile made anywhere from $75,340-124,370 a year. Specialists in the bottom 10th percentile made under $57,480 a year, while those in the upper 10th percentile made over $151,250 a year. During 2008, computer and information specialists working in computer network development and similar fields earned median yearly incomes near $100,000.