If you’re trying to break into the tech industry, getting your master’s degree in computer science can get you there. With a whopping $1.8 trillion market value in 2022 and expected growth each year, the job market for overall computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Already have a bachelor’s in computer science? Earning your master’s degree can bump your salary by 15-30%, depending on your job role and industry. You also have a higher chance of grabbing more mid- and senior-level positions by gaining new skills and capabilities to diversify your competencies. Here are just a few jobs that make getting a master’s degree in computer science worth it:
Software Engineer/Software Developer
Average Salary: $109,020 per year
Jon Growth: 25% by 2031
Software engineers and software developers are some of the hottest jobs in America. Hundreds of companies are seeking to hire these positions — including big names in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, like Lockheed Martin and AT&T. From designing software like using fingerprint log-in services to get into an ATM or coming up with ways to print 3D models of aircraft designs, software development and engineering plays a large role in the way technology is used for day-to-day processes.
Data Scientist
Average Salary: $100,910 per year
Job Growth: 36% by 2031
If you love being the first to figure out a solution that can change the future, being a data scientist could be a great career option for you. As part of the job, you’ll gather data to discover how people are interacting with programs and machines and provide predictions on future trends. In fact, Google dived into data science by tracking flu outbreaks, collecting location data on flu-related searches. While there were some complications, the information and technology developed by data science is helping Google lead technological advances in healthcare, including earlier detection of breast cancer tumors that are too small for the eye to see.
Side note: If you have a background in biology or chemistry, getting your master’s in computer science can help further your career. Many biologists, chemists and more need data scientists with both a background in computer science and natural sciences to keep up with data that is needed to support research and development.
Machine Learning Engineer
Average Salary: $131,490 per year
Job Growth: 21% by 2031
If self-driving cars, facial recognition and ads that know your shopping preferences fascinate you, being a machine learning engineer could be a great career for you. These engineers help design and build technology that can help solve problems through data and algorithms. A big plus: Fortune Business Insights estimates that the machine learning industry will reach nearly $226 billion by 2030—a massive growth compared to the $19.2 billion in 2022. Many machine learning engineers are also required to have a master’s degree.
Cybersecurity
Average Salary: $102,600 per year
Job Growth: 35% by 2031
With the growing amount of data being created and used, keeping everything secure and out of the hands of criminals has become one of the most important jobs in technology. From investigating security breaches to developing pro-active practices to keep a company's data secure, cybersecurity specialists have a wide range of responsibilities when it comes to keeping information secure. Almost every industry needs people working in cybersecurity, too — places like the FBI, TopGolf, Southwest Airlines, the U.S. Navy, Tesla and more. This means you get endless opportunities to work at a place you’re passionate about.
Software Architect
Average Salary: $136,535 per year
Job Growth: 21% by 2031
Love being the one planning goals, creating long-term plans and deciding the right strategy? As a software architect, you can help create systems that follow business plans and make recommendations on the right IT elements to achieve the objectives. You’ll be making the blueprints for how technology should be designed and implemented. There’s a big demand for software architects as technology needs continue to grow — someone’s got to keep it all organized! Top employers in Dallas-Fort Worth, like Lockheed Martin, Bell and Costco, employe software architects.