Potential Career/Occupation Information

Occupation Information table

Overview:	Conduct research into fundamental computer and information science as theorists, designers, or inventors. Solve or develop solutions to problems in the field of computer hardware and software.
Duties:	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. Those employed by academic institutions work in areas ranging from complexity theory to hardware to programming-language design. Some work on multidisciplinary projects, such as developing and advancing uses of virtual reality, extending human-computer interaction, or designing robots. Their counterparts in private industry work in areas such as applying theory; developing specialized languages or information technologies; or designing programming tools, knowledge-based systems, or even computer games.
Degree(s):	A.A.S. Computer Information Systems
Job Outlook:	Employment in this field is projected to grow 9% to 13% from 2018 to 2028, which is faster than the average projected growth for all occupations.
Starting Salary:	Starting offers for graduates with a doctoral degree in computer science average $93,050. Starting offers averaged $58,000 for graduates with a bachelor’s degree in computer science; $56,000 for those with a degree in computer systems analysis; $52,500 for those with a degree in management information systems; and $52,000 for those with a degree in information sciences and systems.
Growth:
Education Level:	Typically, a Bachelor’s Degree from a 4-year college (some are 5 years) is required to be considered for this occupation.
Additional Training/Education:	Rapidly changing technology requires an increasing level of skill and education on the part of employees. Companies look for professionals with an ever-broader background and range of skills, including not only technical knowledge, but also communication and other interpersonal skills. While there is no universally accepted way to prepare for a job as a network systems analyst, computer scientist, or database administrator, most employers place a premium on some formal college education. Relevant work experience also is very important. For more technically complex jobs, persons with graduate degrees are preferred.
Advancement Info:	Computer scientists employed in private industry may advance into managerial or project leadership positions. Those employed in academic institutions can become heads of research departments or published authorities in their field. Computer specialists with work experience and considerable expertise in a particular subject or a certain application may find lucrative opportunities as independent consultants or may choose to start their own computer consulting firms.
Recommended Skills:	Analyzing requirements for a new product or service and creating a design to satisfy those needs. Paying attention to what other people are saying, and taking time to understand the points being made. Using mathematics and/or statistics to solve problems. The ability to understand complex written paragraphs, instructions, or reports. Using logic to identify the strengths and weaknesses of alternative solutions, conclusions or approaches to problems. Using scientific methods to investigate and conduct experiments. Teaching others how to do something. Composing and communicating your ideas in written form.
Recommended Values:	Gaining the respect of others by the nature and/or level of responsibility of your work. Having a routine job where the duties are very predictable and not likely to change over a long period of time. Being able to decide on how to get something done without significant direction from someone else. Having a level of income that will afford you with luxuries, and which will allow you to become financially independent. Create new ideas, programs, things, or anything else not previously developed by another person.

* National data collected by the Department of Labor in 2014 with projections through 2024. For New York green job information .

* For New York salary data information .

* For New York green job information .

Understanding acquiring positions in this field may be enhanced through continuing academic study (i.e. earning a baccalaureate or a master's degree) and/or work experience in the field, Queensborough Community College has established transfer agreements with other institutions for students who wish to further pursue their educational goals. Students are highly encouraged to meet with one of our Career Services to fully understand the opportunities available through study in their degree program.