8 answers
F
Student
Richmond, Texas
1
Question
Asked
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Is majoring in computer science worth it even though I'm not the most passionate about it??
I've been in comp sci classes all through high school and found them fun so I thought I might as well major in it but Im not really sure if im that passionate about it
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8 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1594
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Computer science can lead to many different career paths F, including those that are creative, technical or analytical:
• WEB DEVELOPER - A creative role that involves coding, database work, and sometimes graphic design to create websites and applications for businesses, blogs, and more
• CYBERSECURITY ANALYST - A technical role that involves monitoring computer systems and networks for security breaches and then investigating what went wrong
• DATA SCIENTIST - An analytical role that involves collecting and transforming data into insights that can help businesses solve problems and make decisions.
Other computer science career paths include COMPUTER PROGRAMMER, NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR, INFORMATION SECURITY ANALYST, or a MOBILE APP DEVELOPER. Some of the most in-demand fields for computer science graduates right now are ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, MACHINE LEARNING and ROBOTICS.
The good news F, is that there is no sign computer science-related fields are slowing down, and opportunities will likely be available for the foreseeable future as the world becomes more tech reliant.
• WEB DEVELOPER - A creative role that involves coding, database work, and sometimes graphic design to create websites and applications for businesses, blogs, and more
• CYBERSECURITY ANALYST - A technical role that involves monitoring computer systems and networks for security breaches and then investigating what went wrong
• DATA SCIENTIST - An analytical role that involves collecting and transforming data into insights that can help businesses solve problems and make decisions.
Other computer science career paths include COMPUTER PROGRAMMER, NETWORK ADMINISTRATOR, INFORMATION SECURITY ANALYST, or a MOBILE APP DEVELOPER. Some of the most in-demand fields for computer science graduates right now are ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE, MACHINE LEARNING and ROBOTICS.
The good news F, is that there is no sign computer science-related fields are slowing down, and opportunities will likely be available for the foreseeable future as the world becomes more tech reliant.
Zach Whicker
Sales Engineer
5
Answers
Orlando, Florida
Updated
Zach’s Answer
It depends on where you are at in your college journey. If you're towards the latter end of your college journey, it may make sense to finish that degree, and learn other skills through free resources like Coursera, Standford eCorner, Khan Academy, etc.
Most importantly, get your degree so that you are more valuable to companies when job searching. If you want to pivot to a new career of interest, provide recruiters with information on your learnings or projects you've done outside of your degree. As I write this, myself and my team all are doing a job that is not directly related to the degree we obtained from college.
Whereas, if you're newer in college, you can pivot to something that may interest you more. But the key outcome is to graduate with a degree and show value to companies.
Statistically speaking "..Men with bachelor's degrees earn approximately $900,000 more in median lifetime earnings than high school graduates. Women with bachelor's degrees earn $630,000 more." -- https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/research-summaries/education-earnings.html
Most importantly, get your degree so that you are more valuable to companies when job searching. If you want to pivot to a new career of interest, provide recruiters with information on your learnings or projects you've done outside of your degree. As I write this, myself and my team all are doing a job that is not directly related to the degree we obtained from college.
Whereas, if you're newer in college, you can pivot to something that may interest you more. But the key outcome is to graduate with a degree and show value to companies.
Statistically speaking "..Men with bachelor's degrees earn approximately $900,000 more in median lifetime earnings than high school graduates. Women with bachelor's degrees earn $630,000 more." -- https://www.ssa.gov/policy/docs/research-summaries/education-earnings.html
Francesco Pierfederici
Principal Engineer
4
Answers
Amsterdam, North Holland, Netherlands
Updated
Francesco’s Answer
Hey F, some great answers here already. My 2 cents here. What I like about computer science is the fact that it is a very creative job which pays well and opens a tremendous amount of job opportunities. Computers are everywhere nowadays and as somebody who knows how to use them, build them and program them, you will be able to work in many different fields from science to finance, from travel to manufacturing, from small companies to huge corporations. It will also be comparatively easier to start your own company with little or no funding etc. In short not a bad choice ;-) Of course, if you ever find something you are truly passionate about outside of software / computers pursue that instead or as well but computer science is a fairly safe bet. Best of luck!
Rebecca Tang
Banking
1821
Answers
Hong Kong
Updated
Rebecca’s Answer
Thank you for your question. Firstly, have you thought about what career you want to do in the future? There are plenty of careers I. Computer science, eg web developer, apps developer, ERP developer, system administrator, application support, database administrator, network engineer, etc
Below are my suggestions:
1. Find out more computer science related careers. There is plenty of information online.
2. Find out more on these careers and anything you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Attend information session hosts by computer science department in colleges. Speak to the professors and alumni.
5. If you find yourself really interested in computer science related careers, find out the entry criteria of the subject in colleges. Work hard on your academic to meet the criteria.
Hope this e! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
Below are my suggestions:
1. Find out more computer science related careers. There is plenty of information online.
2. Find out more on these careers and anything you have interest
3. Speak to someone who are working in these careers. Seek guidance from your mentor, school career counselor, your parents, etc
4. Attend information session hosts by computer science department in colleges. Speak to the professors and alumni.
5. If you find yourself really interested in computer science related careers, find out the entry criteria of the subject in colleges. Work hard on your academic to meet the criteria.
Hope this e! Good Luck!
May Almighty God bless you!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6193
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello F!
You could be like me and have another area of concentration and just use the computing as a tool like I do. Do not get me wrong, I have enjoyed computer programming since 1972. When things got tough with Visual Basic 4 in 1996 I just increased my work. I spent all Winter 1998 mastering Structured Query Language. Yes, it is worth it because persistence dominates. Take a lesson in persistence from Asian students.
Is Majoring in Computer Science Worth It?
When considering whether to major in computer science (CS), especially if you don’t feel a strong passion for it, it’s essential to evaluate several factors that can influence your decision. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the considerations involved:
1. Job Market Demand
The demand for computer science professionals remains robust and is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer and information technology occupations is expected to grow by 13% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates into numerous job opportunities across various industries, including finance, healthcare, education, and entertainment.
2. Financial Considerations
Majoring in computer science often leads to lucrative career options. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was around $93,710 as of May 2020, with many entry-level positions offering salaries well above the national average. If financial stability and earning potential are significant factors for you, CS can be a wise choice.
3. Skill Development
Even if you’re not deeply passionate about computer science, pursuing this major can equip you with valuable skills that are applicable in many fields. Skills such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, programming languages (like Python or Java), and understanding algorithms are highly transferable and sought after in various professions beyond traditional tech roles.
4. Interdisciplinary Opportunities
Computer science intersects with numerous other fields such as biology (bioinformatics), psychology (human-computer interaction), business (data analytics), and more. If you have interests outside of pure CS but still enjoy technical subjects, consider how a CS degree could complement another field of study or career path.
5. Personal Interest vs. Career Viability
While passion can enhance your educational experience and career satisfaction, it is not always necessary for success in a field like computer science. Many students find that their interest grows as they delve deeper into the subject matter during their studies. If you enjoyed your high school classes but don’t feel an intense passion for CS now, it might be worth exploring introductory college courses before making a final decision.
6. Alternative Paths
If you’re uncertain about committing fully to a CS major but still want to leverage your skills in technology, consider related fields such as information technology (IT), software engineering, or data science that may align better with your interests while still providing solid career prospects.
7. Networking and Experience
Engaging with peers through clubs or internships can help you gauge your interest level further while building connections within the industry. Real-world experience often provides clarity on whether this path suits you long-term.
In conclusion, majoring in computer science can be worth it even if you’re not extremely passionate about it, especially considering job market demand and financial benefits. However, it’s crucial to weigh these factors against your personal interests and long-term career goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
National Center for Education Statistics
Pew Research Center
God Bless You!
JC.
You could be like me and have another area of concentration and just use the computing as a tool like I do. Do not get me wrong, I have enjoyed computer programming since 1972. When things got tough with Visual Basic 4 in 1996 I just increased my work. I spent all Winter 1998 mastering Structured Query Language. Yes, it is worth it because persistence dominates. Take a lesson in persistence from Asian students.
Is Majoring in Computer Science Worth It?
When considering whether to major in computer science (CS), especially if you don’t feel a strong passion for it, it’s essential to evaluate several factors that can influence your decision. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the considerations involved:
1. Job Market Demand
The demand for computer science professionals remains robust and is projected to grow significantly in the coming years. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in computer and information technology occupations is expected to grow by 13% from 2020 to 2030, which is faster than the average for all occupations. This growth translates into numerous job opportunities across various industries, including finance, healthcare, education, and entertainment.
2. Financial Considerations
Majoring in computer science often leads to lucrative career options. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was around $93,710 as of May 2020, with many entry-level positions offering salaries well above the national average. If financial stability and earning potential are significant factors for you, CS can be a wise choice.
3. Skill Development
Even if you’re not deeply passionate about computer science, pursuing this major can equip you with valuable skills that are applicable in many fields. Skills such as problem-solving, analytical thinking, programming languages (like Python or Java), and understanding algorithms are highly transferable and sought after in various professions beyond traditional tech roles.
4. Interdisciplinary Opportunities
Computer science intersects with numerous other fields such as biology (bioinformatics), psychology (human-computer interaction), business (data analytics), and more. If you have interests outside of pure CS but still enjoy technical subjects, consider how a CS degree could complement another field of study or career path.
5. Personal Interest vs. Career Viability
While passion can enhance your educational experience and career satisfaction, it is not always necessary for success in a field like computer science. Many students find that their interest grows as they delve deeper into the subject matter during their studies. If you enjoyed your high school classes but don’t feel an intense passion for CS now, it might be worth exploring introductory college courses before making a final decision.
6. Alternative Paths
If you’re uncertain about committing fully to a CS major but still want to leverage your skills in technology, consider related fields such as information technology (IT), software engineering, or data science that may align better with your interests while still providing solid career prospects.
7. Networking and Experience
Engaging with peers through clubs or internships can help you gauge your interest level further while building connections within the industry. Real-world experience often provides clarity on whether this path suits you long-term.
In conclusion, majoring in computer science can be worth it even if you’re not extremely passionate about it, especially considering job market demand and financial benefits. However, it’s crucial to weigh these factors against your personal interests and long-term career goals.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
National Center for Education Statistics
Pew Research Center
God Bless You!
JC.
Justin Lee
Frontend developer
12
Answers
New York, New York
Updated
Justin’s Answer
The job market in the US for programmers right now is not great. By anecdote I know a number of people who are struggling to find a job. I can't guarantee this clears itself up when you leave college. However, some people say employment goes in cycles, and we're at the moment going through a period of stagnation.
But if you find it fun, then that's really enough. I personally don't think "passion" means much. If you're curious about it and find it interesting, go for it. As others have said, it's a cross-disciplinary field i.e. it has applications in other fields of study. For example, I recently heard about a lawyer with a CS degree who uses it for patent law. It's definitely going to be a useful degree going forward into the future, that's for sure.
But if you find it fun, then that's really enough. I personally don't think "passion" means much. If you're curious about it and find it interesting, go for it. As others have said, it's a cross-disciplinary field i.e. it has applications in other fields of study. For example, I recently heard about a lawyer with a CS degree who uses it for patent law. It's definitely going to be a useful degree going forward into the future, that's for sure.
Biplab Panda
Engagement Director
70
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Biplab’s Answer
My advice would be to avoid majoring in something if it isn't something you love. That said, nothing is stopping you from taking some introductory computer science courses in college and then changing track if it isn't for you.
(This is incidentally how I found out I didn't REALLY want to be in pre-medicine...)
(This is incidentally how I found out I didn't REALLY want to be in pre-medicine...)
Jon Devaney
Procurement Manager
3
Answers
London, England, United Kingdom
Updated
Jon’s Answer
Hi F,
This question talks a lot to me, as I was fairly similar back in my studying days. I did a Physics undergrad but wasn't getting on with it so followed up with a Masters in Comp Sci as I'd always enjoyed messing around with computers. I found the course OK but I wouldn't say I loved it. So when I left and got first Software Engineering job I soon found I graduated to the parts I preferred - interacting with users, Business Analysis, Architecture, Project Management, etc. I now work as a Procurement Manager in tech.
What I realised was that I still had that interest in the tech world, in how systems fit together and in technical problem solving, but I'm not a coder or conventional software engineer. What the tech world needs a lot is folk who understand the fundamentals, can "speak the language" of computing, but perhaps are able to link to the "real world" better than more traditional SEs.
This may not be you or match your reasons for feeling underwhelmed, but serves as an example of how you can take the good bits of Comp Sci and focus on those. It's a HUGE area with so many different types of jobs that branch out of it, so analyse which bits you do like and figure out where to get most of that and less of the bits you don't enjoy.
This question talks a lot to me, as I was fairly similar back in my studying days. I did a Physics undergrad but wasn't getting on with it so followed up with a Masters in Comp Sci as I'd always enjoyed messing around with computers. I found the course OK but I wouldn't say I loved it. So when I left and got first Software Engineering job I soon found I graduated to the parts I preferred - interacting with users, Business Analysis, Architecture, Project Management, etc. I now work as a Procurement Manager in tech.
What I realised was that I still had that interest in the tech world, in how systems fit together and in technical problem solving, but I'm not a coder or conventional software engineer. What the tech world needs a lot is folk who understand the fundamentals, can "speak the language" of computing, but perhaps are able to link to the "real world" better than more traditional SEs.
This may not be you or match your reasons for feeling underwhelmed, but serves as an example of how you can take the good bits of Comp Sci and focus on those. It's a HUGE area with so many different types of jobs that branch out of it, so analyse which bits you do like and figure out where to get most of that and less of the bits you don't enjoy.