How Specialized Skills Boost Your Profile for Computer Science Degree Jobs

Rapid technological advancements and evolving consumer demands drive constant change in the computer science industry. Businesses are hustling to keep up, with 75 percent of companies likely to implement new technologies—including big data analytics, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence (AI)—by 2027. The job market reflects this trend; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 377,500 new job openings in computer and information technology annually over the next eight years. 

To qualify for the most attractive roles, you’ll need a strong foundation in computer science principles. Specialized expertise in a computer science subfield can also help distinguish you among candidates for top computing roles. Read on to learn about in-demand computer science skills, potential career paths for specialists, and specialized computer science degree programs that can bolster your resume. 

The Demand for Computer Science Skills in 2024 

From leveraging AI assistants like chatGPT to developing the first wireless-charging public roadway, our interactions with technology are constantly evolving. In line with these trends, employers increasingly seek computer scientists with specialized skill sets to drive innovation and implement these new tools. 

According to Robert Half’s 2024 Salary Guide, hiring skilled technology professionals remains a priority for companies across industries. The report highlights the top five skills managers deem worthy of salary premiums in 2024. 

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity specialists help protect computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, data breaches, and cyberattacks. With cyber threats on the rise, businesses need computer science professionals with the skills to implement encryption, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. 

Cloud Computing 

Cloud computing enables the delivery of on-demand computing services, such as email platforms and streaming services, without local infrastructure. As businesses expand their offerings, they need cloud engineers to develop, maintain, and upgrade cloud-based applications. 

AI and Machine Learning

Artificial intelligence and machine learning allow computers to learn from large datasets and perform routine tasks like pattern recognition and language processing. Specialists can help companies implement new AI technology by developing algorithms, organizing data, and training machine learning models. 

Software Development

Software developers use computer programming languages to design, code, test, and maintain software applications. As technology advances, companies need specialists who can leverage their technical skills to create new product features and improve existing systems. 

Data Science and Database Management 

Data scientists and database managers organize and analyze large, complex datasets to inform strategic decision-making and problem-solving. They typically bring expertise in predictive modeling, machine learning, data structures, and data visualization. 

What Computer Science Career Paths Can Specialists Pursue?

With 97 million jobs worldwide predicted to emerge from the overlap of humans and machines, computer scientists with specialized skills can pursue various career paths. The median salaries below are drawn from Robert Half Salary Guide and Handshake. 

Artificial Intelligence

• Machine Learning Engineer: $122,500
• Natural Language Processing (NLP) Engineer: $115,000
• Data Engineer: $114,000

Software, Web and Applications Development

• Mobile Applications Developer: $145,000
• Software Developer: $129,000
• Web Developer: $115,000

Data Science and Database Administration 

• Data Architect: $164,000
• Data Scientist: $144,000
• Database Administrator: $116,000

Networking and Cloud 

• Network/Cloud Architect: $166,000
• Wireless Network Engineer: $141,000
• Network/Cloud Engineer: $128,000

Security 

• Systems Security Manager: $168,000
• Security Architect: $152,500
• Data Security Analyst: $147,500

Your skill set, location, and years of working experience may impact the computer science degree jobs and salaries available to you.

How to Build Specialized Computer Science Skills 

Computer scientists can develop skills through various in-person and online learning options. Look for options that serve your career goals, fit your schedule, and offer robust support resources. Certificate programs can help you develop discrete skills; degree programs typically do a much better job of teaching across computer science principles and laying the foundation for the lifelong learning essential to stay current in this field.

Online master’s programs, like the online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) program at Tulane University, offer a flexible, supportive environment for seasoned professionals and newcomers alike. The Tulane MSCS program offers six focus areas: computational geometry, computational biology and bioinformatics, algorithms and theory, systems, data science, and artificial intelligence and machine learning.

Develop the Specialized Skills for Your Career Goals at Tulane

According to the 2024 Robert Half salary report, 61 percent of technology hiring managers plan to expand their teams this year. By developing your computer science skills and earning a master’s degree in computer science, you’ll position yourself to advance your career in the field more rapidly. 

With small classes taught by industry experts, the Tulane online MSCS program helps you solidify your understanding of computer science concepts, including multi-agent systems theory, game programming, information security, and more. Depending on the program pace you choose, you’ll graduate in 20-36 months with the niche skills needed to pursue specialist roles. 

To learn more about the Tulane online master’s in computer science, visit our frequently asked questions page. If you’re ready to apply, schedule a call with an enrollment advisor to review the admissions process and tuition and aid or start your application.