Computer-Related Careers With a Positive Job Outlook
There are many career paths that a graduate can take after receiving a computer degree. He/she can become a game designer to assist in the process of creating video games, a software engineer to create the latest cell phone, or a computer programmer to make the blueprint of the operation of machines such as ATMs, cash registers, terminals at airports, or the very laptops and desktops we use to do our everyday tasks like surf the Internet or check our email. Whatever a graduate chooses as a computer career, it is a good chance that the occupation is among some of the more popular jobs in the computer market today.
Some Top Growing Computer Careers
Computer Software Engineers – Applications/Systems Software
These professionals design programs that provide instructions for applications to run on our computers, as well as establish commands for software that run our ATMs, cell phones, and tablet computers. These engineers also work on programs on a systems-level, meaning that they develop programs for systems running applications. So, for instance, to run Adobe Photoshop on your desktop, you need Microsoft Windows OS operational; otherwise, you will only have a blank screen or, in many cases, a “blue screen of death.”
Because of the expansion of the technologies we use, the continuing growth of the Internet, and the emergence of new computer breakthroughs like the iPad, there will be a greater demand for Computer Software Engineers to design programs for all of these wonderful technologies.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for computer software engineers will grow by 21 percent between 2008 - 2018. (BLS.gov)
Network, Systems, and Data Communications Analysts
These specialists are responsible for the planning and development of local and wide area networks. They also solve problems related to computer technology to meet organizations' networking needs. The Crittenton Women's Union's Hot Jobs 2010 Briefs mentions that this is a complicated occcupation yielding many jobs with different educational and duty requirements. These positions include database administrators, database managers, and computer specialists.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for network, systems, and data communications analysts will grow by 30 percent between 2008 - 2018. (BLS.gov)
Computer Support Specialists
These people provide technical support to customers or answer questions regarding hardware or software problems with their computers. Usually, these professionals communicate with clients by phone, online, or in person. Other positions under this title include technical support specialists or help desk technicians.
Computer support specialists will definitely be needed in the near future. Despite how far computer technology has advanced, there will always be people who need help using computers and dealing with the many hardware and software problems that come with them.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for computer support specialists will grow by 14 percent between 2008 - 2018. (BLS.gov)