Is Computer Science a Good Major?

Key takeaways

With strong career prospects and opportunities to develop numerous skills, computer science can be a good major.

• Computer and information technology occupations earn salaries significantly higher than the median annual wage for all occupations, $105,990 compared to $49,500 as of May 2024, making computer science a potentially lucrative major [1].

• As a computer science major, you can pursue careers as an information security analyst, network systems administrator, digital designer, or computer programmer.

• You can benefit from a computer science degree in many ways, including having the opportunity to specialize in an area you're interested in and gaining both workplace and technical skills to showcase on your resume.

Find out what makes computer science a good major and whether it’s the right choice for you.

Why is computer science a good major? 5 benefits for computer science majors

Computer science can be a good major when looking for strong career prospects after graduation and opportunities to develop numerous skills. Graduates are often in demand across sectors, have the potential to earn higher-than-average salaries, and may be able to advance more quickly in their careers. Additionally, computer science degree programs often expect you to develop valuable skills such as problem-solving, critical thinking, programming, and project management.

Computer science bachelor’s degrees have developed a reputation for their rigor because many programs expect you to learn a programming language and complete advanced math courses.

Although some companies have dropped the bachelor’s degree as a requirement for certain entry-level tech jobs, many benefits come from selecting computer science as your college major.

Does computer science pay well?

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations, as of May 2024, was $105,990 [1]. This is significantly higher than the median annual wage for all other occupations reported by the BLS, at $49,500 [1]. 

1. Subject matter immersion

When you major in computer science, you will not only immerse yourself in the fundamentals of computer systems but also likely specialize in an area such as data science, game design, artificial intelligence, or security.

As a computer science major, you'll typically learn a programming language and take math and physical science courses before completing coursework in your specified area.

Sample foundational coursework can include:

• Programming skills

• Calculus

• Discrete mathematics 

• Probability and statistics

• Computer systems

• Data management and analysis

• Basic algorithms

• Artificial intelligence and machine learning

• Natural language processing

2. Skills development

Employers value applicants who have a mix of workplace skills (sometimes called “soft skills”) and technical skills. Thanks to the computer science coursework you take, the projects you participate in, and the portfolio you develop, you can expect to learn and strengthen various skills to showcase on your resume.

3. Internships 

Many schools foster relationships with companies to offer their students an array of computer science internships. You can also use a job board, such as LinkedIn, to apply to relevant opportunities and potentially receive college credit. 

4. Networking 

Becoming more acquainted with your faculty members, peers, and even professionals who visit or participate in your computer science program can be an excellent way to network and gain greater visibility for your work. The connections you make in your computer science major can be helpful once you begin looking for a job after graduation. 

5. Time to discover other interests

While your major coursework will focus on computer science and related subjects, the general education requirements and electives you take are an excellent opportunity to explore your interests.

In fact, you can choose to minor or double major in a complementary subject and expand your career prospects after graduation. If you're still choosing a major, consider five factors to help guide your decision.

Is computer science a very hard major?

A computer science major can be rigorous, but it's also intellectually rewarding. To be successful and maintain a high grade point average (GPA), you should feel comfortable analyzing complex problems, working with advanced math, learning programming languages, and paying attention to detail. Many schools offer resources, such as academic tutoring and study groups, to help you learn and practice.

What can you do with a computer science degree? Computer science major jobs

Computer science majors can explore many opportunities across sectors. The types of jobs you pursue will likely depend on the area in which you specialize. For example, a student studying machine learning may seek to become a machine learning engineer. Similarly, a student studying game development may seek to become a product manager at a game design firm.

You can find a wealth of opportunities to consider. The BLS states that a bachelor's degree is the most common entry-level requirement for the computer science roles below [1]:

• Computer programmer

• Digital designer

• Computer network architect

• Network system administrator

• Information security analyst

• Web designer

Learn more about the top five entry-level computer science jobs and what you can do with your computer science degree after graduation.

Learn more: What Can You Do with a Computer Science Degree?

Is computer science the right major for you? 

Majoring in computer science may be a good choice for you if you’re interested in the subject matter and have some ability to do the work. Programs do not necessarily expect you to know a programming language when you enroll, but getting a head start can be beneficial.

If you do not have an aptitude for or interest in advanced math or programming languages, a major other than computer science may be a better choice for you. However, if you’re interested in working in computer science to some extent, say as a data scientist, then a comparable major like mathematics or statistics may be a suitable alternative. It’s worth noting that many data scientists understand how to work with SQL, a programming language. 

Explore free computer science resources

If you’re interested in tips to help you navigate decision-making when it comes to college and career advancement, subscribe to our YouTube channel. You can also explore free resources to guide you in career and college-related decisions.

• Hear insider stories: The Ultimate Course on Problem-Solving: Professor Sriram Sankaranarayanan Talks Algorithms

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• Explore career paths: AI Career Progression: Job Levels & Skills to Advance

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