What Can you do with a Computer Science degree?
Students get top preparation for a career in the dynamic computer industry by earning a Bachelor of Science degree in Computer Science from PennWest California.
In this four-year, on-campus undergraduate program, PennWest California blends theoretical knowledge about computer science with practical, hands-on experience. You'll acquire computer skills that are in high demand by employers in today's business environment.
Computer science is one of the fastest growing academic disciplines today, and it promises an excellent future career pathway. Nationwide, there is strong demand for computer science experts in government and public sectors, in corporations of all sizes, in nonprofit organizations, and in colleges and universities.
Software developer is the most common job title for computer science graduates. Employment of software developers is projected to grow 24% through 2026, faster than the average for all occupations, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Demand for computer science graduates is expected to grow in response to demand for computer software.
Get Ready for Top Careers
Employment in computer science professions are exptected to grow 13% from 2020-2030 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics. Some of the top careers for Computer Science graduates include:
- Web Developer
- Database Administrator
- Programmer
- Software engineering
- Web Design
- Information Security
- Network Administrator
- Systems Analyst
- IT Architect
- Data Scientist
PennWest California computer science students complete hands-on projects through internships or co-ops in companies such as U.S. Steel, FedEx, PTC, Mellon Bank and other firms. For example, one PennWest California student developed an internal transaction system for PTC during a summer internship.
On campus, students also develop systems to solve real-life problems during their capstone project course. An early version of an online virtual campus tour was developed by computer science students to enable prospective students to explore the PennWest California campus.
The Computer Club at PennWest California gives students the chance to share knowledge, make networking connections beyond campus, and participate in activities, speaker events and computer building programs.
Computer science students can choose to participate in PennWest California's annual Strike a Spark Conference, where undergraduates are encouraged to present their research work via posters, oral sessions, creative displays and performances. Students can present research they've done by themselves or under the supervision of faculty members. PennWest California's Center for Undergraduate Research also accepts proposals to support undergraduate research. With a faculty sponsor, students can submit a proposal with a maximum funding level of $2,000 for a semester.
Your PennWest California computer science courses will give you the opportunity to explore and learn in-depth about computer programming, database applications, visual programming, analysis of algorithms and more. You’ll also examine the broader context for computers in our world. For instance, the course Global, Economic and Social Ethical Issues in Computing focuses on ethical challenges within computer technology, computer crimes and hacking, database privacy, professional liability, and international laws and governance.
Be Job-Ready and In-Demand
At graduation, 100% of PennWest California computer science graduates are in jobs or pursuing graduate study. The job outlook is strong. Among the top employers hiring PennWest California computer science graduates:
- Advanced Acoustic Concepts.
- Amazon.
- Bayer.
- Chestnut Ridge Counseling Services.
- Computer Distance Learning Foundation.
- Datel Software Solutions.
- Ernst & Young.
- Fastenal.
- The FBI.
- GNC.
- Goodwill Industries of Pittsburgh.
- Ingersoll-Rand.
- Medrad.
- Miller's Ace Hardware.
- Northrop Grumman Corp.
- PTC
- State Farm Insurance.
- S. Steel.
- Vigilant Minds.
- UPMC
The most common job for computer science graduates is software developer, with a median pay in 2017 of $103,560. Computer science graduates currently work in a range of career positions, including director of IT, programmer, web developer, clinical systems analyst, professor, software engineer and applications analyst.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, demand for computer and information systems managers will grow in response to the increasing demand for computer software. Software developers will be responsible for implementing these goals.
Employment growth also will increase to meet the need to bolster cybersecurity in computer and information systems used by businesses. Industries such as retail trade will need to implement more robust security policies as cyber threats increase.
An increase in the popularity of cloud computing may result in firms outsourcing services from in-house IT departments to cloud-computing companies. This will shift IT services from IT departments in noncomputer industries, such as financial firms or schools, to firms engaged in computer systems design and related services and those in data processing, hosting and related services.
PennWest California opens the way for you to find exciting careers and a solid future in the global computing industry. Apply now!
Top 10 Reasons to Get a Computer Science Degree
Get Prepared
Your PennWest California computer science degree can put you on the path to top jobs and salaries, help you build a strong career trajectory and enable you to explore in-depth a field you’re truly passionate about.
Get Hands-on Computer Science Experience
Internships and Co-ops
Solid internship experience, plus training from expert computer science faculty and instructors, puts PennWest California students on a premier career path.