Demand for computing professionals is rising; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment in the sector to grow much faster than average through 2032. Professionals with expert technical skills or leadership expertise should be in exceptionally high demand, with many specialized computer science occupations featured among the BLS’s 20 fastest-growing occupations.
Earning a computer science master’s degree, like the online Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS) offered by Tufts University, can help you gain the skills needed to take advantage of job market trends. Master’s degree holders can access a broader range of job opportunities and qualify for top jobs with attractive salaries. This article explores how earning an MSCS degree can impact your earning potential.
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Industry Overview: Computer Science Salary Outlook
Computer science professionals typically earn substantial incomes. The BLS reports a median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations of over $104,000, more than double the median income across all occupations. Computer science average salary projections differ depending on specialization and job level. According to the BLS, software developers earn an average annual income of $132,270; software quality assurance analysts, in contrast, make about $102,000 annually.
How an MSCS Degree Impacts Salary
Education level impacts earning potential. According to the BLS, computer science professionals with master’s degrees typically earn more than their counterparts with bachelor’s degrees. Web developers with master’s degrees earn 23 percent more than those with bachelor’s degrees; network and computer systems administrators with master’s degrees earn 26 percent more than their peers with bachelor’s degrees.
That difference adds up over a lifetime of earnings. Data from the U.S. Department of Education shows that master’s degree holders earn around 17.5 percent more in their lifetime than workers with bachelor’s degrees. Master’s degree holders also enjoy a higher employment rate.
Employers pay a premium for workers with an advanced degree for many reasons. MSCS programs build students’ subject matter expertise and help them develop the problem-solving and leadership skills needed to qualify for senior-level positions. Tufts online MSCS students also gain hands-on industry experience through practical assignments. Furthermore, earning a master’s degree demonstrates your commitment to continuous improvement and learning–an attractive quality to hiring managers.
A Closer Look: Careers with an MS in Computer Science
Most computer science occupations require at least a bachelor’s degree. However, qualifying for senior or specialized roles often requires a master’s degree. With an MSCS degree, you can specialize in high-growth fields like cybersecurity, data, programming, artificial intelligence (AI), and machine learning.
Computer science skills remain in demand across industries, enabling MSCS graduates to work in various business settings outside of tech. Read on to learn about jobs you can pursue with an MSCS and their salary potential. Remember that job titles and responsibilities vary among employers; the descriptions below serve only as general guidelines. Similarly, salaries also vary by geography, industry, and company size.
VP of Information Technology
Vice presidents of information technology plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization. They also manage departmental budgets, oversee long-term planning and implementation, and handle vendor relationships. This executive-level position draws an average salary of over $182,000, according to ZipRecruiter; executives typically receive other compensation benefits that can include bonuses, incentive pay, and stock options.
Information Security Manager
Information security managers oversee an organization’s efforts to protect their networks, computers, and data from cyberattacks, viruses, and other security breaches, and lead cybersecurity teams. Professionals in this field earn an average salary of around $126,000.
Machine Learning Engineer
A machine learning engineer designs, develops, and implements algorithms and models to enable computers to learn from and make predictions or decisions based on data. According to PayScale, machine learning engineers earn an average salary of about $119,000.
Senior Product Manager
A senior software product manager oversees the development and lifecycle of a software product from conception to launch and beyond. They gather and prioritize requirements, define the product roadmap, and collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure the product meets customer needs and business goals. These professionals earn an average salary of close to $107,000.
Senior Software Developer
A software developer creates applications, programs, and systems to meet user needs by writing code in various programming languages. They also maintain and improve existing computer systems or applications. Senior software developers typically hold advanced credentials and specialize in their field. On average, they earn between $102,000 and $126,000 a year.
Senior Software Engineer
While some companies may use the terms “software engineer” and “software developer” interchangeably, software engineers generally have a broader focus than developers (who primarily write code). Software engineers typically focus on the engineering aspects of software development, including designing complex systems, architecting solutions, and applying engineering principles to software development processes. Senior software engineers earn an average yearly salary of around $127,000.
Network Architect
A network architect designs and implements complex computer networks for organizations. They analyze business requirements, evaluate current network infrastructure, and design solutions to meet performance, security, and scalability needs. The BLS estimates network architect annual income at $129,840.
Computer and Information Research Scientist
Computer and information research scientists design innovative uses for new and existing technology. They study and solve complex problems in computing for business, science, medicine, and other fields. According to the BLS, they earn a median yearly income of about $145,000.
Earn Your Master’s Degree in Computer Science at Tufts
Opportunities for increased income and professional advancement are among the returns on investment possible with a master’s degree in computer science. Many MSCS graduates parlay the skills and knowledge they acquire into opportunities to innovate and lead.
You can earn your MSCS 100 percent online at Tufts in less than two years. The Tufts online MSCS degree program provides students with a foundation in computer science theory and programming practice. In addition to completing core course work, students can choose electives aligned with their interests and career aspirations. Elective courses focus on such areas as security, database systems, web programming, AI, and machine learning.
The Tufts online MSCS program resides within Tufts School of Engineering and features expert faculty members with in-depth industry experience. As a graduate of the Tufts online MS in Computer Science program, you will have the skills to pursue the highest-earning computer science roles in areas such as software development, solutions architecture, cybersecurity, and data science, among others.
Next Steps: Apply to Tufts Online MSCS
The demand for skilled computer science professionals continues to rise; the time to take advantage of this trend is now. With an online MSCS degree from Tufts, you can accelerate your career, qualify for the top computer science jobs, and boost your earning potential.
If you’re ready to take the next step, start your application, or contact the admissions team if you have any questions or need assistance.