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What Can You Do With a Computer Science Degree?

Pursue careers in software engineering, cybersecurity, data science, web and mobile development, cloud computing, and product or UX-focused roles. Computer science skills are used across industries, including healthcare, finance, education, and entertainment.

Shape the Future of Innovation

Computer science is a hands-on field where students design, build, and solve real-world problems. Whether you’re interested in software development, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, or data analysis, computer science skills are essential across industries. With 5.18 million jobs and strong earning potential, this growing field rewards both technical ability and human-centered skills.

At Willamette, you’ll develop in-demand skills through hands-on learning and real-world experience. Choose a STEM major with a liberal arts foundation to gain the adaptability, resilience, and critical thinking needed to grow, evolve, and pursue your long-term career goals.

Is Computer Science a Good Major?

Computer science majors develop strong skills that employers value. A 2024 report from Payscale revealed that computer science majors have a better 20-year return on investment than other degrees. A 2024 Bankrate study also found that STEM majors experience a lower average unemployment rate.

Additionally, the National Association of Colleges and Employers found that those with a bachelor's degree in computer and information science had the highest average starting salary of $88,907. This places ahead of majors such as engineering, math and statistics, business, and even healthcare professions. Computer science offers strong earning potential and high demand, making it a solid choice for students planning for the future.

A professor talking to students in front of a transparent white board

What Skills Do You Learn?

By studying computer science, students can expect to develop skills such as:

  • Computer programming languages. Explore Python, Java, C++, SQL, and web technologies like HTML, JavaScript, and CSS while building expertise across multiple programming paradigms.
  • Data structures and algorithms. Learn how to structure data and apply algorithms to solve problems efficiently and at scale.
  • Secure systems and networks. Explore how networks operate, how attacks occur, and how to design systems that protect users and data.
  • Problem-solving skills. Handle complex bugs, test code, and address complex challenges by applying logic to programming tasks.
  • Critical thinking. Debug programs, optimize code, and design efficient systems using data-driven reasoning.
  • Communication skills. Work within teams, discuss technical ideas, write documentation, and review concepts with people from different backgrounds.
  • Adaptability. Learn how to acquire new skills and keep up with a constantly changing industry and environment.
  • Creativity. Tackle open-ended problems by exploring multiple approaches and developing innovative, user-focused solutions.
A student sitting in a classroom in front of their laptop highlighting a programing language

What Jobs Can You Get With a Computer Science Degree?

Explore roles in finance that rely on modeling, cybersecurity, and data. In healthcare, your skills can be applied to medical imaging, bioinformatics, and analytics. You can also work in government, focusing on AI ethics and data privacy regulations. A computer science degree leads to a variety of career opportunities in tech, business, healthcare, education, transportation, and even manufacturing.

Popular roles include:

  • Software Developer / Software Engineer

    • 2024 Median Pay: $131,450
    • 2024-34 Job Outlook: Growing 15% (faster than average)
    • Role: Design, build, test, and maintain software applications and systems that solve problems and support user or business needs.

  • Web Developer

    • 2024 Median Pay: $95,380
    • 2024-34 Job Outlook: Growing 7% (faster than average)
    • Role: Build and maintain websites and web applications, focusing on functionality, performance, and user experience.

  • Information Security Analyst

    • 2024 Median Pay: $124,910
    • 2024-34 Job Outlook: Growing 29% (faster than average)
    • Role: Protect computer systems and networks by monitoring for security threats, implementing safeguards, and responding to cyberattacks.

Explore other job titles and industries such as:

  • Cybersecurity Analyst / Engineer
  • Network Security Engineer
  • Forensic Computer Analyst

*Salary information and pay ranges are based on 2024 data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Some roles may require additional certification, degrees, or requirements. Speak to an advisor about what you need to do for specific roles within the computer science field.

Is a Computer Science Degree Worth It?

Computer science is a great fit for students who love change, enjoy crafting creative solutions, and want to build technology that makes an impact. Students develop critical thinking, creative problem-solving, ethical reasoning, and emotional intelligence. While computer science is constantly changing, there is still a need for human-centered skills that can't be automated.

AI tools are changing how software gets built, especially for routine coding tasks. But organizations still need people who can define requirements, design systems, validate results, secure data, and ship software reliably. The BLS notes that demand for software developers is supported by the continued expansion of software development for areas like AI, Internet of Things, robotics, and automation across a variety of industries.

A bunch of hands with markers hovering over a white board filled with math equations

Is Computer Science a Hard Major?

Like any STEM major, computer science can be challenging, but it is also highly rewarding. Students should expect to work with advanced math and tackle a rigorous course load, which can be tough at times. Success comes from developing strong study habits, seeking guidance from professors, and collaborating with peers.

With practice and persistence, many students excel. Working through problems independently and alongside classmates helps build the skills needed to design real-world solutions. By the time they graduate, computer science majors not only master technical concepts but also gain the problem-solving abilities that employers value most.

A professor pointing to an equation on a white board

Should I Major in Computer Science?

If you enjoy solving problems, thinking logically, and creating real-world solutions, computer science is a great choice. Students develop critical thinking, adaptability, and programming skills, leading to a valuable combination of skills that employers value. The major combines technical expertise with human-centered skills, opening doors to diverse careers and graduate programs.

From building websites and mobile apps to designing games, developing AI tools, or programming robots, computer science is about using logic and creativity to turn ideas into solutions.

Two students chatting and collaborating in front of their laptops

Real-World Examples

At Willamette, students are encouraged to find internships. Internships provide tangible experience that both graduate programs and employers appreciate. However, some employers or career paths might require an advanced degree. Consider programs such as an MS in Computer Science, an MS in Data Science, or an MBA.

Willamette students have found internships, jobs, and graduate programs such as:

  • Internships

    • Cloudflare
    • ExcelMandarin
    • Fred Hutch Cancer Center
    • JEMCO Components and Fabrication, Inc.
    • Maps Credit Union
    • Missoula County Public Schools
    • Network Ninja
    • Pedalheads
    • Race Entry
    • Revature
    • Qualcomm Institute
    • TeamLogic IT
    • The Coders School
    • White Castle Corporate

  • Graduate Programs and Employment Outcomes

    • Agerpoint
    • Cambia Health Solutions
    • Carrier
    • eWorld Enterprise Solutions, Inc.
    • Hawaii State Department of Health
    • International Computer Science Institute (ICSI)
    • Livongo
    • Morrow
    • PDM Automotive
    • Portland State University
    • Salem Health
    • Symbotic
    • Willamette University
“I’m very interested in pursuing a career in the sports industry focused on data analytics and performance analysis, and this project helped me strengthen my ability to translate technical analysis into insights while having to account for the real-world context of the sport.”

Why Choose Willamette for Computer Science?

Develop the communication, problem-solving, collaborative, and critical thinking skills you will need to thrive in your career through our liberal arts approach. At Willamette, students build meaningful connections with classmates and receive personalized mentorship from professors. Our small class sizes lead to a built-in network of support that can help students long after graduation.

Students can use on-campus resources like the Computer Science Lab and work alongside professors on research projects. Recent research projects include:

  • Beating Vegas: Predicting Sports Betting Outcomes with Machine Learning
  • Willamette Leaders: Managing Club Connections and Communication at Willamette University Through an Interactive Website
  • Visualization of Soccer Matches with Real-World Match Results
Computer Science Faculty
Academics at Willamette

Build your resume, connect lectures to real-world applications, and learn through real-world actions. At Willamette, we focus on hands-on learning, providing a variety of options for students to develop and grow. Work alongside faculty or conduct independent research projects with opportunities typically reserved for graduate students. Consider studying abroad to learn from different perspectives and broaden your understanding.

On campus, students can also participate in TechBytes. Engage with peers and faculty beyond the classroom through biweekly events, discussing computing topics beyond the curriculum. Students can also connect with like-minded peers through clubs such as:

  • Chess Club
  • Computer Science Students Association
  • Financial Literacy Club
  • Millstream Board Games Collective
  • Nerf Club
  • Physics Club
  • Video Game Club
Study Abroad
TechBytes
Student Clubs

Students can choose to earn an accelerated graduate degree while they earn an undergraduate degree. Many computer science majors enroll in our 3+1 MS in Data Science program to save time and money. Students can also consider a dual degree in law, art, engineering, forestry, or business.

Students can also find a wide range of strong course options. Popular courses within the computer science program include:

  • Mobile Development Interaction. Learn how to design and build mobile apps, from supporting multiple screen sizes to beta testing to the process of publishing and distributing an app. 
  • Foundations of Human-Computer Interaction. Explore the ways in which computer systems can be designed to meet the needs of the humans who use them on a day-to-day basis. 
  • Analysis of Algorithms. Apply different methods to analyze algorithms for correctness, efficiency, and design. 
Dual Degrees
Majors and Minors
Computer Science Courses

Career support is a top priority for our students. Just steps from the State Capitol and downtown Salem, students have easy access to internships, networking, mentorship, and job opportunities across a variety of industries. Build connections and gain access to unique opportunities.

We also have an extensive Career Development Center, with advisors who specialize in career communities. Make adjustments to your resume, join workshops about career exploration, or practice your interview skills with our team. Discuss your career goals and gain the support you need to transition after college.

Learning in the PNW
Career Development Center

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