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If you enjoy and excel at math, problem solving, and all things computer-related, you may want to consider majoring in computer science (or CS). As the world becomes increasingly dependent on technology, computer science majors are standing out from the crowd as competitive job applicants and higher-than-average earners.
Of course, getting a four-year degree in computer science involves taking on challenging coursework and investing a significant amount of money. For many students, however, it can be well worth the time, hard work, and expense. Here’s what you need to know about becoming a CS major.
Key Points
• A computer science degree focuses on software development, programming, and theoretical concepts, with less emphasis on hardware.
• Coursework includes advanced mathematics, programming languages, and topics like algorithm design and cryptography.
• Graduates can enter high-paying careers in software engineering, web development, IT, and network administration, with a median salary of $140,910.
• Computer science differs from computer engineering by focusing more on software and theory versus hardware.
• Options to help students afford a CS degree include grants, scholarships, work-study, and federal and/or private loans.
What Is a Computer Science Major?
A computer science major is a course of study that focuses on computer hardware and software systems. Students learn how to develop software, design websites, and manage databases. Graduates with a computer science degree can pursue jobs in an array of fields, including software engineering, web development, information technology, and network systems administration.
Since the world is increasingly dependent on computer technology, computer scientists are in demand in a wide range of industries, from more traditional paths like corporate web development or information security to positions in fintech startups, healthcare, communications, and more.
Basically, if a job has to do with programming or maintaining computer software or networks, computer science can help prepare you for it. In some cases, you may need to pursue studies at the graduate level in order to unlock access to certain positions — but it all starts with a computer science major in college.
Computer Science vs Computer Engineering
It’s worth noting that computer science isn’t the only degree path for those pursuing jobs in technology. Computer engineering is another course of study — but there are some important differences between the two.
Generally speaking, computer engineers get more education about the hardware side of computing: how to build a computer from scratch and a complete understanding of the architecture of a PC.
Computer science, on the other hand, focuses primarily on computer theory and software. Computer scientists work with complex software systems, machine learning-based algorithms, and more.
However, students with either major will graduate with a basic understanding of common coding languages and a general aptitude around computer software that will set them up for a job in technology.
Recommended: Are Coding Bootcamps Worth the Money?
What Are Common Computer Science Degree Requirements?
A computer science degree can grant you access to a wide range of opportunities — but you do have to do the work to earn one first. Given its focus on programming and problem-solving, computer science is a math-heavy degree that requires students to grapple with some heady, abstract concepts. As college majors go, it’s definitely considered a challenging course of study.
For instance, computer science majors are typically required to take calculus courses, as well as other complicated types of math like linear algebra and statistics. Students will also likely need to master — or at least demonstrate proficiency in — several different programming languages (for example, Java, JavaScript, C#, and Python®). They can also expect to face classes that cover complex and often theoretical topics, such as algorithm design, data visualization, neural networks, and basic cryptography.
Of course, the specifics of your degree requirement will depend on which institution you’re attending and also which specific computer science degree you’re after.
For instance, both bachelor of science (B.S.) and bachelor of arts (B.A.) degrees in computer science are available at the undergraduate level. Generally speaking, a B.A. might allow for more electives and studies outside of the computer science department, whereas a B.S. might have more stringent requirements.
There are also master- and doctorate-level computer science studies for those who’ve already completed their undergraduate degree. However, you’ll very likely need to have chosen a major related to computer studies rather than, say, a course of study in the humanities.
Recommended: 20 of the Most Popular College Majors
How Much Can You Earn With a CS Degree?
While there are many exciting reasons to pursue a computer science major, given how much money it costs to go to college, many students want to know how much they can stand to earn once they have the degree. (This is also sometimes referred to as figuring out your ROEd or return on education — most degrees in America can cost a lot, but not all of them offer great earning prospects in return!)
And the good news is that a computer science major can put you in line for some of the most lucrative and in-demand job positions out there.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information research scientists earned a median of $140,910 per year in 2024.
Along with great pay, computer scientists can also look forward to great job availability; the BLS expects job prospects to grow 26% from 2023 to 2033, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Affording Your College Degree
But, of course, a computer science degree comes at a cost. According to College Data, the average cost of tuition and fees to attend a public college in 2023-24 was $11,260 for in-state students and $29,150 for out-of-state students. The tuition and fees for a private college was $41,540 per year. And, these numbers don’t include the cost of room and board and other expenses.
Fortunately, there are several options for parents and students who need help paying for a computer science degree. A great first step is to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This form opens up opportunities for students to receive grants, scholarships, work-study positions, and federal student loans.
There are different types of student loans to consider as well.
Another option for covering the cost of attendance for college is to take out a private student loan. These are available through banks, credit unions, and online lenders. Rates for private student loans tend to be higher than federal student loans, but borrowing limits are typically higher. These loans are not need-based and generally require a credit check. Borrowers (or cosigners) with excellent credit tend to qualify for the lowest rates.
Keep in mind that private student loans may not offer the same borrower protections that federal student loans offer, such as forbearance, Public Service Loan Forgiveness, or income-driven repayment.
The Takeaway
Computer science can be a great course of study for people who are interested in learning about computer programming, software development and maintenance, and really all things tech. As a computer scientist, you might code the next smash-hit video game or develop a new kind of AI tool, while earning a solid salary and enjoying plenty of job opportunities. To afford a computer science degree, you might look into scholarships and grants as well as federal and private student loans.
If you’ve exhausted all federal student aid options, no-fee private student loans from SoFi can help you pay for school. The online application process is easy, and you can see rates and terms in just minutes. Repayment plans are flexible, so you can find an option that works for your financial plan and budget.
FAQ
Is a computer science degree worth it?
While a computer science degree can be challenging to achieve, it can lead to diverse, well-paying positions in a field that is expanding quickly, according to Bureau of Labor Statistics data.
Is a CS degree still worth it?
Many people believe that a CS degree is still worthwhile, since the forecast is that jobs will grow by 26% between 2023 and 2033. However, there has been somewhat less demand for computer programmers in recent years.
Does a computer science degree have good ROI?
Yes, a computer science degree generally has a good return on investment or return on educational costs. One study found that computer science degrees can have as high as a 716% return on investment.
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