Is a computer science degree worth it?
Written by: Susan Maphis, Edited by: Jenny Kiesewetter
Published: February 10, 2025
If you enjoy problem-solving, have an eye for detail, and want to work in a technical field, a bachelor's in computer science may be an ideal program to consider.
Discover courses, potential careers, salary expectations, and the job market outlook to help determine if pursuing a bachelor's in computer science degree is the right choice for you.
What is a bachelor's degree in computer science?
A bachelor's in computer science is an undergraduate program that teaches students the fundamentals of computer science and how to apply them in computer and data science industries.
Computer science programs may offer minors in specialties such as mathematics, data science, cybersecurity, software engineering, and computer architecture. Core courses may include:
- Computer programming
- Operating systems
- Networking
- Information assurance and security
Electives may include courses in popular fields such as machine learning and cloud computing.
Benefits of a bachelor's degree in computer science
Earning a bachelor's degree in computer science can potentially:
- Provide you with many career options: The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) notes that 79% of computer science bachelor's degree-holders work in one of these occupational groups: computer and mathematical, management, business and financial operations, office and administrative support, and sales and related occupations.
- Offer you stable career opportunities: One of the many roles attainable with a bachelor's in computer science degree is information security analyst, which has a 33% projected job growth rate from 2023 to 2033, according to the BLS. This rate is much faster than the average growth rate for other occupations.
- Prepare you to meet various computer certification requirements: These can include such examples as CompTIA A+, Certified Information Security Manager (CISM), and Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA), each of which can increase your earning potential.
If you enjoy analyzing situations, developing and implementing strategic plans, and solving problems, earning a bachelor's degree in computer science might be worth it.
How much money can you make with a bachelor's degree in computer science?
Here are some job titles held by graduates of bachelor's in computer science programs, along with their corresponding median annual salaries as of May 2023, as reported by the BLS:
- Information security analyst:$120,360
- Computer and information systems managers: $169,510
- Computer systems analyst: $103,800
- Management analyst:$99,410
Moreover, a bachelor's in computer science degree can help you qualify to work in a variety of roles within various industries, including technology, manufacturing, finance, insurance, education, and healthcare. You may also find employment in federal, state, and local government, as well as in the private sector, public sector, and nonprofit organizations.
Your earning potential will depend, however, upon your location, industry, experience, and additional certifications.