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 The
rapid and widespread use of computers and information technology has
generated a need for highly trained workers proficient in various job
functions. These computer specialists include computer scientists,
database administrators, and network systems and data communication
analysts. Job tasks and occupational titles used to describe these
workers evolve rapidly and continually, reflecting new areas of
specialization or changes in technology, as well as the preferences and
practices of employers.
 Computer
scientists work as theorists, researchers, or inventors. Their jobs are
distinguished by the higher level of theoretical expertise and
innovation they apply to complex problems and the creation or
application of new technology. The areas of computer science research
range from complex theory to hardware design to programming-language
design. Some researchers work on multidisciplinary projects, such as
developing and advancing uses of virtual reality, extending
human-computer interaction, or designing robots. They may work on design
teams with electrical engineers and other specialists.
Computer science researchers employed by academic institutions have job
functions that are similar in many ways to those employed by other
organizations. In general, researchers in academic settings have more
flexibility to focus on pure theory, while those working in other
organizations usually focus on projects that have the possibility of
producing patents and profits. However, some researchers in non-academic
settings have considerable latitude in determining the direction of
their research.
 With
the Internet and electronic business generating large volumes of data,
there is a growing need to be able to store, manage, and extract data
effectively. Database administrators work with database management
systems software and determine ways to organize and store data. They
identify user needs and set up new computer databases. In many cases,
database administrators must integrate data from outdated systems into a
new system. They also test and coordinate modifications to the system
when needed, and troubleshoot problems when they occur. An
organization's database administrator ensures the performance of the
system, understands the platform on which the database runs, and adds
new users to the system. Because many databases are connected to the
Internet, database administrators also must plan and coordinate security
measures with network administrators. With the growing volume of
sensitive data and the increasing interconnectedness of computer
networks, data integrity, backup systems, and database security have
become increasingly important aspects of the job of database
administrators.
 Network
systems and data communications analysts, also referred to as network
architects, design, test, and evaluate systems such as local area
networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), the Internet, intranets, and
other data communications systems. Systems are configured in many ways
and can range from a connection between two offices in the same building
to globally distributed networks, voice mail, and e-mail systems of a
multinational organization. Network systems and data communications
analysts perform network modeling, analysis, and planning, often
requiring both hardware and software solutions. For example, a network
may involve the installation of several pieces of hardware, such as
routers and hubs, wireless adaptors, and cables, while also requiring
the installation and configuration of software, such as network drivers.
Analysts also may research related products and make necessary hardware
and software recommendations.
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Computer
Science Resources |
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Online |
Downloads |
Profiles of Computer
Scientists:
Video and PDF Profiles |
PDF on each profile
page |
Overview:
Overview of Computer Science |
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Preparation:
Admission Requirements, Alternate Degree Paths, Graduate
Programs, Accredited Programs |
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Specialty Areas:
Special Areas of Study |
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Day in the Life:
Teams and Coworkers,
Tasks, the Workplace |
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Earnings:
Employer Options, Salary Ranges, Types of Employers |
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Employment:
Statistics, Industries, Employers |
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Career Path Forecast:
Predictions |
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Professional Organizations:
Resources, Networking, Support |
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Podcast:
Overview of Computer Science |
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Internet Resources:
 Association
for Computing Machinery
Association
for Women in Computing
Computer
Science Teachers Association
IEEE
Computer Society
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Note: Some resources in this section are provided by the US Department
of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics
and the
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign.
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