Application of a computer science degree at the master's level is available in a variety of specializations that are challenging and rewarding. Working with science, engineering, health care and business allows a graduate with a master's degree to enter fields that are in demand. Forbes projects the demand for jobs to increase by 27 percent by 2018.
Choosing an Opportunity in Business
In the business field, upper level skills in computer science help graduates qualify for jobs that include management positions. Serving as a business analyst from the standpoint of a computer scientist can give a company a competitive edge. With a master's degree, graduates can obtain positions as program director and direct the work of others. Setting the course for a company's cyber security program can set standards that protect data resources and deny unauthorized access.
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As a manager of operations, a person who holds a master's in computer science has control of a company's network, a position of great responsibility. For graduates who do not want to have supervisory duties, more traditional positions as master data or customer data analysts can provide a path for making significant contributions to a company's financial status.
Working in Healthcare
Paired with some knowledge of the healthcare industry, a master's in computer science allows a graduate to conduct studies that give business entities access to wider markets. Development of computer programs for targeted markets with data modeling and statistical analysis contributes valuable products. At the master's level, a graduate may get to define data requirements for specific purposes and to implement data collection methods. Designing secure systems for the storage of data helps a company comply with the requirements of the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act of 1996. Protecting medical records and personal health information is an essential area of concern to healthcare facilities.
Focusing on Engineering
Companies that are engaged in engineering are like a home base for graduates of computer science master's programs. The field offers opportunities for senior positions in these areas:
• systems
• storage
• software
• communications
• testing
• malware
• desktop
• embedded subject matter
• operations support
The variety of specializations allows a graduate to select a field that is well suited to the focus area in a master's program.
Specializing in Design
Design is appealing to computer science master's graduates for the innovative opportunities it provides. Managing the development of web properties is an outgrowth of recommendations that map a website's functions, and conceptualizing it is a welcome challenge to qualified designers. Operating at a senior level, designers supervise the work of subordinates.
Developing instructional materials that support online learning can allow a graduate with a master's degree to bypass requirements for work experience. Online students comprise a growing segment of the educational market, and the systems that they use must operate without fail around the clock.
Earning a master's degree in computer science provides access to a diverse range of employment opportunities that include business, design, healthcare and engineering among others. Graduates have the opportunity to find a rewarding position.
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