Computers & Technology

This guide is designed for prospective college students who are considering a career in the fields of computers and technology. We’ll look at the kinds of degree programs that make up this field, in addition to the common career choices made by graduates, and the kind of salaries you can earn in the many roles available.

If you’re still unsure as to whether a career in the tech field is for you, this complete guide to computers and technology should steer you towards making a decision either way. You’ll also gain an insight into the admission requirements for programs in this domain.

The Best Colleges for Degrees in Computers and Technology

By now, you’ll hopefully have an idea of whether a degree in these fields is for you. We’ve put together a broad range of guides to the best schools and colleges for specific types of degrees. Check out our rankings below for more information on the best degree programs for computer science, database management, information, and other related areas of study.

We’ll also continue to add to these lists over time, so check back regularly if you’re going to be applying soon.

Computer Programming

Best Online Computer Programming Degrees

Computer Science

Software Engineering

Best Online Master’s in Computer Software Engineering

Database Management

Best Online Master’s in Database Management

Information

Game Design

Web Development

Coding

Top 10 Best Coding Bootcamps

What Degrees Are There in Computers and Technology?

Computers and technology drive our world forward; there’s no doubt that this is the place to be right now. As a well-educated professional working within tech, you stand to earn some of the highest salaries around, while being professionally trained and experienced in an area that will continue to grow exponentially as technology advances.

Computers and Technology Certificate Programs

Gaining a certificate is a good way to advance your current career or move into a different field of work. The programs are shorter than you’ll find on an associate’s, bachelor’s, or master’s degree, and you’ll have less costly tuition fees. Often, these programs are administered by nonprofit or professional organizations, including companies such as Microsoft; it’s entirely possible to study for a certificate while working full time, fitting your studies into the evenings or weekends. Below, you’ll find examples of certificates that you can gain online, from some of the most well-recognized organizations in the industry:

CompTIA

Microsoft

Computers and Technology Associate’s Degrees

While certificates can help you to specialize in a specific area, the quickest and one of the most common routes into a computer-related role is to pursue an associate’s degree. Typically lasting for two years, these programs will often allow you to specialize in a concentration that interests you, like software or web development.

Some of the most popular associate’s degrees include computer science, information technology, web development, and game development. According to careers site monster.com, graduates of an associate’s degree program can hope to earn an entry-level salary of around $46,600 in web development, advancing to nearly $80,000 after gaining some experience in the role.

Computers and Technology Bachelor’s Degrees

Whether you’re a college freshman or have already earned an associate’s degree and want to top it up to a bachelor’s, these programs can enhance your employability and earning potential further. Bachelor’s degrees in computers and technology usually include 120 credits and last for four years if you’re studying full time.

Your bachelor’s degree is your chance to focus on a concentration that interests you. Depending on your career aspirations, you might choose courses that specialize further in software development, database administration, network design and maintenance, or cybersecurity. The complexity of modern computer systems mean that it’s far more preferable to specialize in one or two programming languages than to try to be a jack-of-all-trades straight out of university. Web developers might work with HTML, CSS, or Python, for example, while database administrators will want to be proficient in Python, SQL, and Powershell.

Computers and Technology Master’s Degrees

Extending your studies beyond the bachelor’s degree level will prepare you for senior leadership roles. As a graduate with experience as a software engineer, network architect, or systems analyst, pursuing your master’s degree can lead to more advanced positions with greater earning potential.

On the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) website, in May 2018, the lowest 10% of software developers earned less than $66,740, while the top 10% earned over $165,000 annually. In many unrelated occupations, there is less of an extreme divide between the lowest and highest earners, but the scope for salary progression within software development—and related professions—is huge. This reflects the continued skills and knowledge development brought about by both experience in the field and master’s or doctoral level education.

Computers and Technology Doctoral Degrees

A doctoral degree in computers and technology is the highest level of academic achievement that you can attain. Many roles within central government or higher education will require a doctoral degree, which requires a strong understanding of software development, research methods, and data analysis and visualization.

While many roles within IT can be obtained with a bachelor’s or master’s degree, a select few demand a higher level of education owing to the complexity of the job. For example, computer and information research scientists often need to be educated to a master’s degree level in some organizations, such as the central government. They typically work with the latest cutting-edge technology, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, and cloud computing. It’s a long path, but the rewards are worth it; in 2019, the median pay for this role was $122,840 according to the BLS.

What Degrees Are There in Computers and Technology?

Once you’ve decided on the type of degree you want to study, it’s time to pick a speciality. While computer science and software development are becoming hugely popular choices for prospective students, there are other options available depending on your career goals. Here are some of the most common majors available.

Cyber Security

Cyber security is an increasingly in-demand field, with a huge number of opportunities; it’s also a highly lucrative field to become specialized in. You’ll understand how to prevent cyber attacks, project computer systems and networks, and implement readiness plans for businesses. You’ll study how to monitor for attacks and mitigate them if and when they do happen.

Data Science

This is another growing field, with an increasing number of companies looking for qualified data scientists who can extract, analyze, and visualize data for businesses to use. Depending on the program you choose, you might study data extraction computer languages such as SQL, which are commonly paired with another programming language like Python. Python can also be used for a whole range of other applications, like building websites. Google, YouTube, and Reddit all run on Python!

Digital Forensics

Computer or digital forensics relates to the field of forensic computer science, with professionals being trained to recover information from computers and other storage mediums in criminal investigations. These courses are often called “Digital Forensics,” and they include other devices such as smartphones. You’ll learn how to locate, examine, analyze, and extract information for use in criminal cases.

Graphic Design

Graphic design involves the use of computers in the creation of digital art or animations. Your courses might include publishing, animation, digital photography, and web graphic design for websites or marketing purposes. You might be asked to create a final portfolio or participate in an internship as part of your program.

IT Project Management

The curriculum for a degree in IT project management can vary from one institution to another. Some programs teach a certain level of computer programming, while others focus purely on project management principles and leadership. Companies are increasingly looking for IT project managers who have a technical background and understanding, so finding a degree that blends the two areas together can be beneficial.

Machine Learning

Machine learning isn’t the same as robotics. Machine learning is the study of computer algorithms that can improve through their application over time; this is an automatic process, where the machine learns and improves without human influence. You’ll study statistical approaches and algorithms, and learn how to create computer software that can learn autonomously.

Network Systems Administration

These degrees require a highly analytical person with proficiency in mathematics. You’ll understand how to create networks containing numerous devices that can efficiently speak to one another. Your courses might include JAVA and web programming, the study of operating systems, and the management and maintenance of databases.

Robotics

If you’re studying for a degree or specialization in robotics, you’ll learn about automation, engineering, artificial intelligence and machine learning. You’ll learn how to program computers specifically for application in the field of robotics, while understanding the practical applications of these machines in the modern world.

Software Development

When you enroll in a software development program, you’ll learn how to create new software applications and services from scratch. Your course will teach you essential computer programming languages, but you’ll also learn how to write tests that ensure your code runs smoothly, how to manage versioning, and other essential administrative tasks that make for a well-rounded developer.

Web Design and Development

Specializing in web design and development can lead to a career as a web developer, digital artist, computer animator, and more. These are all lucrative careers with opportunities for advancement. You’ll learn programming languages that allow you to build beautiful yet functional websites, but you’ll also have skills that can be applied to a career as a graphic designer.

What Are the Admission Requirements for a Degree in Computers and Technology?

You can start preparing for a career in these fields as early as high school. Taking courses in mathematics, computing, and science can make your college application more competitive, especially for the top colleges and universities. Extracurricular work in these areas can further boost your chances of being successful.

Entry requirements for a college degree program vary from one institution to the next, in addition to the type of program chosen. While the GPA requirements vary, most institutions will look for problem-solving skills, proficiency in analytics, a good level of communication skills, and a general love and passion for technology. Of course, the usual requirements will apply, including the potential need for you to submit letters of recommendation, high school transcripts, and SAT or ACT scores.

If you want to look in more detail at specific college programs and their entry requirements, scroll on down to the bottom of this article. There, you’ll find a list of rankings of the best colleges and universities for specific subject areas within computers and technology.

What Can I Do with a Degree in Computers and Technology?

Computer and technology careers are among the fastest growing in the nation. According to the BLS, employment in related occupations is predicted to increase by 12% between the years 2018 and 2028, which is much faster than the national average for all other occupations. This translates to an increase of nearly 550,000 new jobs being created across the decade.

While the demand for skilled and educated professionals in every sector ebbs and flows, computers and technology graduates are in an incredibly strong position. We only need to look back on the past few decades to see how rapidly technology has advanced, from smartphones and computers, to home automation and cloud computing. It’s unlikely that this boom will slow down anytime soon, and with a degree from one of the top colleges or universities, you’ll be one of the faces behind the scenes, developing new technologies and ensuring that existing systems and services function properly. Let’s take a look at some of the most popular careers for graduates in these fields.

Popular Careers for Computers and Technology Graduates

A degree in computers and technology could see you developing software that’s beautiful and responsive for its users, or working on the architecture that sits behind the scenes and makes everything work smoothly. Alternatively, you could be researching new computer software and technologies, or teaching a new generation of students what you’ve learned. Below, you’ll find some of the most popular career choices for graduates of a degree in these fields.

Computer Hardware Engineer

As a computer hardware engineer, you’ll be diagnosing and repairing computer components and systems. You could be working as part of an IT support team within an organization, or even starting a new business that specializes in computer repairs. To succeed in this role, you’ll learn about all the components of a computer and its associated parts, including processors, routers, memory, and the motherboard.

However, the scope of this role isn’t limited to simply repairing other people’s computers. You may get involved in the design and development of new computer systems and components, ensuring that they work with the latest software and operating systems. Due to this, computer hardware engineers often work directly with software developers. One great example of a company that uses this kind of multidisciplinary team is a name that everybody will recognize: Apple.

Computer and Information Research Scientist

Computer and information research scientists research new applications for existing computer technology, while designing and developing new technologies too. While this role may sound similar to a computer hardware engineer, they are quite different disciplines.

These roles do not generally focus on the invention of new hardware. Instead, research scientists solve computing problems for scientific, medical, and business purposes. Many tasks performed by computers involve extremely complicated algorithms—instructions that tell a computer how to function and what tasks to perform—and research scientists work to make these algorithms less complex and more efficient. This can lead to technological advancements in areas like artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Computer and Information Systems Manager

You’ll find a computer and information systems manager in most organizations that have a dedicated IT support team. These professionals have a high degree of responsibility; they manage all computer-related operations within a company. This includes ensuring service availability and often working outside of normal office hours to perform upgrades and system maintenance.

Due to the complexity of this field, the role is often split out into different jobs. These include chief information officer (CTO), chief technology officer (CTO), IT director, and IT security manager. Depending on its size, a company may have people in all these roles or delegate all these responsibilities to a single person. Computer and information systems managers are usually supported by a team of computer support specialists and potentially other roles.

Computer Network Architect

Computer network architects work on the design and implementation of data communication networks. This could be anything from a small network that connects two company sites, to a vast cloud infrastructure that’s used by hundreds or thousands of customers or organizations. To succeed in this area, you’ll need a deep understanding of software and hardware such as LANs (local area networks) and WANs (wide area networks). You will also need to have a solid understanding of the client’s needs so that its expansion is not hampered by limited network capabilities.

In addition to implementing new networks, some network architects support and maintain existing infrastructure within an organization, ensuring availability of service. They also monitor and analyze network usage to predict how and when a company might need to upgrade their network to support a greater capacity of data traffic.

Computer Support Specialist

Computer support specialists often go by other names, like “IT technical support specialist.” They’re the frontline of an organization’s IT team, commonly working with ticket systems through which users’ technical support queries are managed. They troubleshoot and repair problems with software and hardware. You may be backing up critical files for your organization, adding new users to the network, removing former employees’ credentials, or training new users in the use of company software.

Depending on the level of responsibility assigned to the role, you might not even need a college degree to become a computer support specialist. Often, a deep understanding of computer systems, gained through personal study or experience, is enough. However, competition is continually growing and even a certificate program in this area can help increase your chances of landing an entry-level position.

Database Administrator

Database administrators create, update, and maintain the databases that hold an organization’s essential data. This could be anything from a company’s record of all employees and their personal data, to financial information about customers who purchase goods through the organization’s website. Owing to the highly sensitive nature of the information contained within these databases, there are often different types of administrator that handle specific responsibilities.

A systems database administrator is typically accountable for the technical side of a database, including its installation, upgrade, and maintenance. You’ll typically need a strong understanding of systems architecture. On the other hand, application database administrators usually focus on the database that supports a specific application. This could be a CRM (Customer Relationship Management) software platform.

Graphic Designer

While many graphic designers work by hand, some use computer software such as Adobe Photoshop to create new designs for websites or software applications. It’s not uncommon to see a UX (user experience) professional within a software development team, and it’s increasingly becoming a choice for computer science graduates with an interest in design. You’ll need to keep up-to-date with the latest developments in computer software and technologies, which makes this an ideal career path for computers and technology graduates.

Information Security Analyst

Cybersecurity is a rapidly expanding field in computers and technology, and information security analysts are a piece of the puzzle. As an analyst, you’ll be involved in the creation of an organization’s disaster readiness plan. This plan is what IT teams use to restore business as usual in the event of an emergency, such as backing up files to a secure location on a regular basis, or restoring failing services following a cyberattack. You’ll need an up-to-date understanding of the latest in IT security, in addition to knowledge of the latest evolving methods of cyberattacks.

Network and Computer Systems Administrator

What does BSS Stand for in Computer Science?

The day-to-day responsibilities of a network and computer systems administrator aren’t too far removed from those of a computer network architect. But rather than designing new architecture, they’ll typically work to maintain and support an organization’s services. On any given day, you could find yourself making network upgrades, performing needs assessments to determine future system needs, and working with automated monitoring services that alert your team to problems within a network.

Postsecondary Teacher

The classrooms of the late 80s and early 90s may have been lucky enough to share a single computer, but technology has moved on and schools are now teaching children to code from an extremely early age. That means that schools need teachers with backgrounds in computer science. The most lucrative positions exist in postsecondary education, teaching computer science or similar subjects at the college level.

Software Developer

When you think about a degree in computers and technology, one of the first roles that likely comes to mind is that of a software developer. These are the specialists behind computer programs, mobile phone applications, smart home assistants, and a whole range of other devices. Some software developers work on applications that facilitate the roles of other computer users, while others work hard to ensure that the systems underpinning these applications work quickly and reliably.

Most companies work within project management frameworks that include software developers, testers, business analysts, and product or project managers. A client’s requirements are gathered and documented, before being fed into the software development team to be built. However, these requirements are usually specified at a high level and are often specified in layman’s terms, for example: “A user must be able to create an account and log in.” As a software developer, it’s down to you to ensure that the solution meets the requirements.

Web Developer

It’s written on the label; web developers spend their time designing and building websites. They’re accountable not only for the look and feel of the website, but also the technical aspects, such as how fast it runs, the number of users that it can support at any one time, and errors and defects. In some cases, they may even contribute content to websites, like blog posts or instructions.

The broad spectrum of programming languages means that two roles aren’t necessarily the same. A front-end web developer might focus solely on the look and feel of a website, while a back-end web developer spends time ensuring that it can handle a high volume of traffic, building a back-end authentication server, or working on the systems that allow devices to speak to one another.

When employed by a major company, web developers often work with other professionals like project managers, business analysts, and other support staff. These people are often responsible for the client-facing side of development projects, feeding requirements directly into a technical team of developers.

How Much Can I Earn with a Degree in Computers and Technology?

Graduates from a degree program in computers and technology stand to earn some of the highest salaries available outside of the most senior roles within large organizations. To give you an idea of the earning potential for different roles within these fields, we’ve collected the median salary and job growth potential for a variety of roles. These figures are based on information that’s publicly available from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), in addition to the U.S. government’s Occupational Information Network (O*NET).

	Median Salary (2019)	Projected Growth (2018–2028)
Computer Hardware Engineer	$56.36 hourly / $117,220 annually	Average (6%) 4,000 new openings
Computer and Information Research Scientists	$59.06 hourly / $122,840 annually	Much faster than average (16%) 5,200 new openings
Computer and Information Systems Manager	$70.37 hourly / $146,360 annually	Much faster than average (11%) 46,800 new openings
Computer Network Architect	$54.18 hourly / $112,690 annually	Average (5%) 8,400 new openings
Computer Programmer	$41.61 hourly / $86,550 annually	Decline (-7%) 17,900 fewer openings This is generally an outdated term—most companies have switched to using the term “Software Developer,” which is likely part of reason for the decline.
Computer Support Specialist	$26.33 hourly / $54,760 annually	Faster than average (10%) 83,100 new openings
Computer Systems Analyst	$43.71 hourly / $90,920 annual	Faster than average (9%) 56,000 new openings
Database Administrator	$45.07 hourly / $93,750 annually	Faster than average (9%) 10,500 new openings
Graphic Designer	$25.05 hourly / $52,100 annually	Slower than average (3%) 8,800 new openings
Information Security Analyst	$47.95 hourly / $99,730 annually	Much faster than average (32%) 35,500 new openings
Network and Computer Systems Administrator	$40.15 hourly / $83,510 annually	Average (5%) 18,200 new openings
Postsecondary Teacher	$79,540 annually	Much faster than average (11%) 150,000 new openings
Software Developer	$50.77 hourly / $105,590 annually	Much faster than average (21%) 284,100 new openings
Web Developer	$35.46 hourly / $73,760 annually	Much faster than average (13%) 20,900 new openings

Can I Get an Online Degree in Computers and Technology?

Degree programs in computers and technology are among the easiest to study via online or distance learning. Whether you’re a student based on campus or a remote learner, the vast majority of your work will be completed on a computer: writing code, building software programs, conducting research, and analyzing and visualizing data.

One of the major benefits of pursuing an online program is in the savings on the overall cost of your college education. While many colleges and universities charge separate tuition rates for in-state and out-of-state students, online programs typically have the same tuition. This means that getting your degree from one of the top colleges doesn’t have to be out of reach, even if you’re not a resident of the state. Plus, you’ll pay no fees for room and board.