What Can You Do With a Computer Science Degree?

What Kind of Accreditation Should My Degree Program Have?

Accreditation is the process by which colleges and universities are evaluated and validated. Colleges and universities that have earned accreditation have met the standards set by accrediting organizations. These organizations are comprised of faculty from various accredited colleges and universities. Legitimate regional and national accrediting organizations are recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (ED). Typically, the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognizes the same institutions, although CHEA recognition isn’t mandatory. A college or university must be accredited by a Department of Education-recognized accreditor in order for its students to receive federal financial aid.

For a detailed look at the differences between regional and national accreditation, check out What Do I Need to Know About College Accreditation?

What is Regional Accreditation?

Regional accreditation is the signifier of quality education; this includes the currency of curriculum, credentials of educators, and credibility of degrees. Regional accrediting agencies only accredit institutions in their geographical area.

The Six Regional Accrediting Agencies

• Middle States Commission of Higher Education (MSCHE)
• New England Commission on Higher Education (NECHE)
• The Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

To find out if a college or university on your list is regionally accredited, check the Department of Education’s Database of Postsecondary Institutions and Programs.

What Is National Accreditation?

National accreditation is often perceived as a less rigorous standard than regional accreditation and is governed by educational accreditors agencies that are not restricted by region or geography. This means that one such agency can provide accreditation to any college or university in the U.S. that meets its criteria. National accreditation is commonplace among trade schools, religious schools, and for–profit colleges.
 
Most regionally–accredited colleges do not accept or recognize credits or degrees earned from colleges that lack regional accreditation. However, national accreditation may be a useful indicator of quality for students pursuing vocational training, competency-based education, or other education models that operate under a for-profit model.

To learn more about National Accreditation, check out Understanding National Accreditation.

For help safely navigating the For–Profit Sector, check out our Guide to For–Profit Colleges: What You Need to Know.

What is Programmatic Accreditation?

There is one additional form of accreditation that is distinct from regional accreditation and national accreditation. Regional and national accreditation are institutional forms of accreditation. By contrast, programmatic accreditation is typically given to specific departments, colleges, or degree programs within a broader institution. While programmatic accreditation agencies often have national jurisdiction, this form of accreditation is totally distinct and separate from institutional national accreditation. In fact, programmatic accreditation will often coexist with regional accreditation. In some disciplines, a degree with programmatic accreditation may even be required to earn a license or enter into professional practice.
 
Computer science is a unique discipline when it when it comes to accreditation. Independent technical certifications and computer programming boot camps can actually carry a lot of merit. These programs are not always affiliated with accredited institutions, but can still offer valuable practical computer programming, mathematics and science skills. In fact, some programming boot camp programs can be downright necessary even for students who have already earned bachelor’s degrees.
 
Like accredited degree programs, the reputation of your programming boot camp does matter. Find online reviews, consult prospective employers, and conduct research before enrolling, but don’t let a lack of accreditation frighten you away from this kind of educational option.

If you plan to pursue an associate, bachelor’s or master’s degree in computer science—either online or through a traditional institution—look for the stamp of approval from one of the above–noted regional associations.

The easiest way to determine accreditation status is to contact your school of choice. You can also look at the Department of Education’s database of all recognized accreditors within its purview.

To learn a little more about navigating the tricky accreditation landscape, check out Accreditation of Colleges and Universities: Who’s Accrediting the Accreditors?

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What Kinds of Computer Science Degrees Are There?

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What Kind of Licensing or Certification do I Need?

Certifications are uniquely important in the fields of computer science, programming, and IT. Whether you plan to become a network administration, a webmaster, a security specialist, a video game designer, or any number of other exciting professions in the field, there is likely a certification (or several) that applies directly to you. As you advance in your concentration, you can speak to fellow students, academic advisors, or even future prospective employers to find out which certifications are required for your profession as well as those that might make you a more competitive candidate in the computer science job market.

For more information about the IT certificates, check out The Best Online IT Certificate Programs.

Below are a few of the most important (and highest–earning) certifications in computer science and IT.

CompTIA A+ Technician

Sponsored by CompTIA, an organization comprised of industry participants, this is a globally-recognized, entry-level certification in vendor-neutral PC technology. It is an advisable certification for computer service and repair technicians.

CompTIA Network+

Also sponsored by CompTIA, Network+ is a globally-recognized, vendor-neutral networking certification qualifying the professional skill set to design, configure, manage and troubleshoot any wired and wireless networks.

Certified Information Systems Security Professional

Granted by the ISC², the CISSP is a globally recognized standard in cybersecurity certification and is even considered the baseline certification in IT security for the U.S. Department of Defense and the National Security Agency.

Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control

This certification is issued by ISACA, an independent, nonprofit association providing advocacy for information security, assurance, and risk management professionals. According to ISACA, the CRISC is “the only certification that prepares and enables IT professionals for the unique challenges of IT and enterprise risk management, and positions them to become strategic partners to the enterprise.”

Certified Information Security Management

Also issued by ISACA, CISM certification “promotes international security practices and recognizes the individual who manages, designs, and oversees and assesses an enterprise’s information security.”

Certified Information Systems Auditor

Another ISACA-granted certification, the globally-recognized CISA demonstrates audit experience, skills and knowledge, as well as the capacity to assess vulnerabilities, report on compliance, and institute controls within an enterprise.

Cisco Certified Network Association

Granted by Cisco, the CCNA Routing and Switching certification provides knowledge of foundational technologies and the relevant skill sets needed for the adoption of next generation technologies.

Citrix Certified Enterprise Engineer

A vendor-specific (Citrix) certification, the CCEE is recommended for “experienced IT professionals who combine the coordination of operational planning efforts with tactical design expertise and integration know-how for Citrix XenServer, XenDesktop, and XenApp products across Citrix Delivery Center virtualization solutions. Individuals who hold a CCEE have the knowledge and experience to build optimal Citrix environments that include datacenters, private clouds, and desktops.”

The above is really just a small sampling of certifications in the field of computer science. The certifications that apply to you will depend in large part on your intended career path. It is always a good idea to seek advice from those who have already traveled down a similar path. And, as always, before entering into a certification program, be sure that it is awarded by a reputable association or group. Most associations or groups will require you to complete an education program or workshop to earn your certification.

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What Can You Do with a Computer Science Degree?

Do you find yourself asking, “What can I do with a computer science degree?” Automation, information technology, game design, and cybersecurity are just a few of the rapidly growing fields that call for an education in computer science or a related discipline. Your computer science degree degree could open the door to an enormous array of opportunities. Below are a few of the leading Computer and Information Technology Careers that could begin with a degree in computer science:

• Computer, ATM, and Office Machine Repairers
• Computer and Information Research Scientists
• Computer and Information Systems Managers
• Computer Hardware Engineers
• Computer Programmers
• Computer Support Specialists
• Computer Systems Administrator
• Computer Systems Analysts
• Database Administrators
• Graphic Designers
• Information Security Analysts/Web Developers/Computer Network Architects
• Multimedia Artists and Animators
• Network Systems Administrator
• Software Developers

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What Kind of Salary Can I Earn With a Computer Science Degree?

The Bureau of Labor Statistics provides data on the potential earnings for some of the leading jobs in the computer science and IT fields. The following data reflects median annual salaries as of 2018.

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Are There Professional Computer Science Degree Associations or Societies I Should Join?

Professional associations are a fantastic way to make connections in your field, learn about valuable seminars or certifications, and improve your own credentials. The association or associations you choose to join will depend to an extent on the career path you take. Look for computer science, IT, or cybersecurity associations that correspond with your academic or professional concentration. Below are a few of the leading associations in the field of computer science:

Association for Computing Machinery

“The world’s largest educational and scientific computing society,” the ACM “delivers resources that advance computing as a science and a profession” and “provides the computing field’s premier Digital Library.”

Computing Research Association

The CRA’s “mission is to enhance innovation by joining with industry, government and academia to strengthen research and advanced education in computing. CRA executes this mission by leading the computing research community, informing policymakers and the public, and facilitating the development of strong, diverse talent in the field.”

IEEE Computer Society

The IEEE Computer Society is “the leading provider of technical information, community services, and personalized support to the world’s computer science and technology communities,” and is "recognized for the contributions of technical professionals in developing and applying technology to improve global conditions."

Institution of Engineering and Technology

The IET works “to encourage a pipeline of future engineers” by delivering “a range of services and scholarships to support engineering and technology students throughout their educations.”

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