Computer Science
What Can I Do With A Major In Computer Science?
The use of computers in the modern world continues to increase, with a corresponding increase in the demand for people having a knowledge of computers and information technology.
The objective of the undergraduate curriculum in computer science is to convey an understanding of the theoretical basis for computers and computation, and to develop professionally competent computer scientists who have a diverse understanding of the computer science field, and are ready to begin to specialize in an area of interest.
Because computers have proven useful in so many fields, areas of specialization are emerging as computer science disciplines in their own right.
Some examples of specialization include:
- basic research (using advances in science to create more powerful computers)
- networking (creating and maintaining computer networks)
- research (supporting the research efforts in a particular field)
- artificial systems (automating human capabilities via computers)
- entertainment (computer games, movie industry, music industry)
The areas of expertise of the Computer Science Department faculty are diverse:
- biological and biologically inspired systems (genetic algorithms, machine learning, bioinformatics)
- human-computer interactions
- scientific computing and data visualization
- software engineering
The Computer Science Department at the UM offers B.S. and M.S. degrees. The B.S. program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Techonolgy, Inc. (ABET), a specialized accrediting body. The UM Computer Science Department curriculum, therefore, is similar to those of other recognized computer science programs.
Computer Science majors choose between the Software Systems option and the Scientific Computing option. A combined major in Computer Science and Mathematical Sciences is also offered.
Employment Projections
Professional information technology occupations experienced rapid growth in the 1990s, and higher-than-average job losses between 2000 and 2002, with some occupations affected less than others. Projections indicate a return to growth, but not quite as rapid as in the 1990s. Some of the occupations that are expected to show the most growth over the next 7 years are: network systems and data communications analysts, computer software engineers (applications and system software), and database administrators.
A Sample of Related Occupations
Types of Employers
Private and Non-profit Organizations
Banks
Brokerage Houses
Chemical Manufacturers
Colleges/Universities
Construction Firms
Consulting Firms
Credit Unions
Engineering Firms
Finance Companies
High Technology Companies
Hospitals
Insurance Companies
Manufacturing Companies
Nonprofit Organizations
Pharmaceutical Companies
Private Accounting Firms
Public Accounting Firms
Service Organizations
Transportation Companies
Wholesale/Retail Operations
Government Agencies
Export Bank of the U.S.
Federal Bureau of Investigation
Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation
Federal Trade Commission
Financial Management Service
General Accounting Office
Health Care Financing Administration
Internal Revenue Service
International Trade Administration
Local Governments
National Credit Union Administration
Comptroller of the Currency
Office of Budget and Management
Office of the State Auditor
School Districts
Securities and Exchange Commission
State Governments
U.S. Forest Service
Related Web Links
Professional Associations
For additional career information, see the
Occupational Outlook Handbook
