91ÖÆƬ³§

As technology continues to evolve and become more deeply embedded in daily life, the demand for skilled computer science and IT professionals keeps rising. From artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing to cybersecurity and data engineering, organizations across every industry rely on technology experts to innovate, protect systems, and solve complex problems.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and information technology occupations isÌýÌýthan the average for all occupationsÌýfrom 2024 to 2034. These roles also offer strong median salaries—well above the national average—and long-term job security.

This guide covers 10 of the most popular and in-demandÌýtech andÌýcomputer careers, including what each role does, typical salary ranges,ÌýrequiredÌýskills, education pathways, and why the job matters in today’s tech-driven economy. Most roles require at least a bachelor’s degree, while some advanced or leadership positions may prefer a master’s degree or industry certifications.

The Tech Job Market in 2026 and Beyond

Computer science careers continue to expand as technology reshapes how organizationsÌýoperate. Several major trends are driving demand across the tech workforce:

AI and Automation Expansion

AI and machine learning continue to transform industries,ÌýevidentÌýin everything from healthcare diagnostics to financial modeling to customer service. As AI tools scale, businesses and organizations need engineers and data scientists who can design, implement, andÌýmaintainÌýthese systems effectively and responsibly.

Cybersecurity as Critical InfrastructureÌý

Cybersecurity is no longer optional. With ransomware attacks, data breaches, and threats to critical infrastructure on the rise, organizations depend on cybersecurity professionals to protect sensitive data, networks, and systems from malicious cybercriminals.

Cloud Migration and Remote Work

Companies consistently migrate digital infrastructure to cloud platforms like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud. This shift, combined with long-term remote and hybrid work formats, has increased demand for cloud engineers, network architects, and cloud systems leaders.

Ongoing Tech Talent ShortageÌý

Despite robust interest in technology careers, demand still outpaces supply for many specialized roles. Professionals with strong foundations in computer science, data analytics, information security, and cloud computing remain highly sought after.

10 Most Popular Computer Careers

Below are some of the most in-demand computer science and IT careers today. Salary ranges reflect current (or recent) national averages and vary by experience, industry, location, and organization.

1. AI/Machine Learning Engineer

Average Salary:Ìý

AI and machine learning engineersÌýdesignÌýsystems that learn from data to make predictions, automate tasks, and improve decision-making. They work on applications such as recommendation engines, computer vision, natural language processing, and intelligent automation.Ìý

Key Skills:ÌýPython, machine learning frameworks, data modeling, algorithms

Education:ÌýBachelor’s or master’sÌýdegree in computer science, data science, or another AI-related field

Why It Matters:ÌýAI engineers are shaping the future of technology acrossÌýnearly everyÌýindustry.

2. Data EngineerÌý

Average Salary:Ìý

Data engineersÌýbuild andÌýmaintainÌýthe pipelines that move, transform, and store data for analytics and business intelligence. Their work enables data scientists and analysts to extract insights efficiently.Ìý

Key Skills:ÌýSQL, Python, ETL pipelines, cloud data platforms

Education:ÌýBachelor’s degree in data analytics, computer science, or IT

Career Growth:ÌýSenior data engineer, analytics architectÌý

3. Computer Scientist

Average Salary:ÌýÌý

Computer scientistsÌýexplore fundamental problems in computing, develop new algorithms, design systems, and test innovative technologies.ÌýResearch-focused roles often support long-term innovation rather than immediate applications or solutions.Ìý

Key Skills:ÌýProgramming, algorithms, theoretical computing, research methods

Education:ÌýBachelor’s degree in computer science, IT, or data analytics; many research roles prefer a master’s degree

Job Outlook:ÌýFaster-than-average growth () due to demand for advanced computing solutionsÌý

4. Cybersecurity AnalystÌý

Average Salary:Ìý

Cybersecurity analystsÌýprotectÌýorganizations from digital threats byÌýmonitoringÌýnetworks, analyzing vulnerabilities, responding to incidents, implementing security controls, and performing risk management.

Key Skills:ÌýNetwork security, risk analysis, incident response

Education:ÌýBachelor’s degree in cybersecurity and information assurance or IT; some roles prefer a master’s

Certifications:ÌýCompTIA Security+, CISSP, CISM

Job Growth:ÌýAmong the fastest-growing tech roles (Ìýgrowth rate)

5. Software Developer/Software Engineer

Average Salary:Ìý

Software developers and engineersÌýdesign, build, test, andÌýmaintainÌýapplications and systems used across industries, from mobile apps to business enterprise platforms.

Key Skills:ÌýProgramming languages, system design, debugging

Education:ÌýBachelor’s degree in software engineering or computer science

Job Outlook:ÌýÌýas software underpinsÌýnearly allÌýindustries

6. Web Developer

Average Salary:Ìý

Web developersÌýbuild andÌýmaintainÌýwebsites and web applications, translating designs into functional, user-friendly experiences.

Key Skills:ÌýHTML, CSS, JavaScript, front-end or full-stack frameworks

Education:ÌýBachelor’s degree in IT or computer science or combination of education and certifications (AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, CIW)

Career Progression:ÌýSenior developer, front-end architect

7. Cloud Engineer/Architect

Average Salary:Ìý

Cloud engineers design, deploy, and manage cloud-based systems and services such as Microsoft Azure and AWS.ÌýCloud architectsÌýfocusÌýon scalable, secure infrastructure across cloud platforms.

Key Skills:ÌýAWS, Azure, cloud security, DevOps

Education:ÌýBachelor’s degree in IT or cloud computing

Why It Matters:ÌýCloud infrastructure is foundational to modern businessÌý

8. Network Architect

Average Salary:Ìý

Network architectsÌýdesignÌýand manage complex communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and hybrid cloud environments.

Key Skills:ÌýNetworking protocols, network security, infrastructure design

Education:ÌýBachelor’s degree in computer science or cloud and network engineering

Job Growth:ÌýSteady demand (Ìýgrowth rate) as organizationsÌýexpandÌýdigital operations

9. Database Administrator

Average Salary:Ìý

Database administratorsÌýmanage, secure, andÌýoptimizeÌýdata storage systems, ensuring data availability and smooth data migration for organizations.

Key Skills:ÌýSQL, data management, data security, database backups

Education:ÌýBachelor’s degree in data management or data analytics

Job Outlook:ÌýÌýas data volumes and AI data processes increase

10. Information Systems Manager

Average Salary:Ìý

Information systems managersÌýoversee an organization’s technology strategy, budgets, teams, and infrastructure, aligning IT systems with business goals.

Key Skills:ÌýLeadership, systems planning, information security, budgeting

Education:ÌýBachelor’s degree in IT or IT management; many roles prefer a master’s

Job Outlook:ÌýFaster-than-average growth () as organizations need effective management of IT systems and services

Where Do IT Graduates Work?

Computer science and IT graduates work acrossÌýnearly everyÌýsector, including healthcare, finance, education, government, and technology. Well-known tech companies often rank high in employer desirability, butÌýthey’reÌýalso highly competitive.Ìý

Ìýinclude:

• Google
• Microsoft
• Apple
• Meta
• Netflix
• Tesla

While these companies attract top talent, many graduates build equally rewarding careers at mid-sized companies, startups, healthcare organizations, financial institutions, and public-sector organizations, where opportunities for growth and impact are often broader.

How Do I Get Started?

The first step isÌýidentifyingÌýwhich tech path fits your interests and strengths, whether that’s coding, security, data, networking, or leadership. Next, enroll in a degree program to gain the fundamental knowledge and skills for your intended career.Ìý

Bachelor’s degree options at WGU include:

• Cloud and network engineering
• Computer science
• Cybersecurity and information assurance
• Data analytics
• Information technology
• Software engineering

IfÌýyou’reÌýalready working in IT, the following WGU master’s programs can help you advance:

• Data analytics
• Cybersecurity and information assurance
• Computer science
• Software engineering
• IT managementÌý

91ÖÆƬ³§â€™s degree programs are 100% online, allowing you to study on your schedule while continuing to work. Our competency-based learning model lets you move faster through material you already know—helping you earn your degree sooner.Ìý

Take the Next Step

Technology careers offer strong job growth, competitive salaries, and long-term stability. WhetherÌýyou’reÌýjust starting out or looking to advance in your role, earning the right degree can help you build the skills that employers value.

Learn more about WGU’s online technology degree programs and start building your future in tech.

Frequently Asked Questions

Before choosing an ITÌýcareerÌýpath, many prospective students haveÌýcommon questions. Here are a couple to consider:

Is computer science a good major?Ìý

Yes.ÌýComputer scienceÌýisÌýa strong major for students interested in applying math, logic, and technology to real-world problems. It opens doors to high-paying, in-demandÌýtechÌýcareers across industries.

What can you do with a computer science degree?

Graduates can pursue careers in software development, cybersecurity, data engineering, cloud computing, systems management, and more acrossÌýnearly everyÌýindustry.