International study programs: Computer science and information technology
New data technologies, like artificial intelligence and machine learning, are spurring demand for tech-savvy professionals in the workplace. For this reason, it’s no surprise computer science and information technology – two separate and related programs – are among the most popular international study programs for students from other countries who are studying in the U.S.
With college costs into the tens of thousands of dollars, it’s important to understand what you might gain from investing in these academic programs before committing. Here’s an overview of what computer science and IT programs involve, the return on investment and career prospects.
About computer science and IT programs
Computer science is a broad academic discipline, which includes IT as a specialty under its umbrella. Some schools offer these disciplines as a combined undergraduate program. Depending on your college or university, these might be separate areas of study. For example, your school might offer a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science and a Bachelor of Science in computer information technology.
Computer science
In general, computer science combines a theoretical and practical approach to computer technology and its systems. As a computer science major, you’ll learn about the various programming languages, like Javascript, Python, HTML, cascading style sheets (CSS), Structured Query Language (SQL).
You’ll also gain knowledge about computing, computer theory and architecture, operating systems, and software engineering. Computer science includes courses such as introduction to programming, algorithms and data structures, and advanced mathematics.
With a computer science degree you’re equipped to apply these concepts, algorithms and critical thinking skills toward computing problems in an organization.
Information technology
Information technology teaches you about the practical application and management of computing systems and networks. You’ll learn about information infrastructure and installing, setting up and maintaining various hardware and software. You’ll also learn programming languages and testing and troubleshooting techniques to solve real-world problems.
Program requirements vary by institution, but you might encounter courses, like internet technologies and computer architecture, in addition to their respective lab requirements. You might also be required to complete courses related to how humans interact with computers.
Demand for computer science and IT degrees
In general, computer science and IT are top degree choices among international students. The 2023 Open Doors Report by the Institute of International Education revealed that in the 2022-23 school year, 240,230 international students chose computer science as their field of study. This figure accounts for 22.7% of students surveyed and was nearly a 20% increase overall compared to the previous academic year.
The demand for enrollment in computer science programs is so great that some schools are implementing ways to curb overcrowding in classrooms. The University of Michigan, for example, now requires undergraduates to submit a separate application into its computer science program. Acceptance into the program is not guaranteed.
Based on the latest data from the National Center for Education Statistics, as many as 104,874 computer and information sciences bachelor’s degrees were granted in 2020-21.
Computer science and IT return on investment (ROI)
The reward of earning your bachelor’s degree in computer science or IT can be different for everyone. You might choose these disciplines because of their future career opportunities or simply because you’re passionate about the subjects. Understanding the ROI from computer science and IT degrees can help you gauge how soon after graduation you might start seeing financial gains.
According to Education Data, students who earned a bachelor’s in computer science or information science saw a 40.3% ROI 10 years after graduation.
As you develop your experience, the ROI of a computer science and IT degree climbs exponentially:
-
- 20 years: 229% ROI
- 30 years: 482% ROI
- 40 years: 823% ROI
According to Education Data, computer science and IT have the best lifetime ROI at 716.6%, outpacing other popular programs, like business finance, business accounting and electrical engineering.
5 jobs you can get with a computer science and IT degrees
As complex technology and data systems evolve, the demand for talented and skilled professionals in computer science and IT will increase. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) revealed that data occupations are projected to grow rapidly through 2031.
Below are just a few popular career paths these degrees can unlock.
1. Machine learning engineer
Machine learning is a subset of artificial intelligence (AI). As a machine learning engineer, you’ll research, design and run algorithms that help machines quickly identify patterns as new data emerges.
Machine learning engineers are key in a range of industries, including manufacturing, finance and health care. According to Indeed salary data, the average base salary in the U.S. for this profession is US$161,531 per year.
2. Computer network architect
As a computer network architect, you’ll support an organization’s data communication network. This includes the planning and implementation of network systems and infrastructures, like intranets and local- and wide-area networks. You’ll also be responsible for testing and upgrading software, hardware and other systems.
The BLS reports that the median annual wage for computer network architects is US$126,900. Demand for the profession is expected to increase by 4% through 2032.
3. Computer and information research scientists
Computer and information research scientists are fixers. Through collaboration with data scientists and engineers, they design complex computing models to address computing problems within an organization. Additionally, they develop instructions that tell a machine how to function and analyze its performance. From their experiments, they explain their findings and provide recommendations for new or improved computing solutions.
Generally, a master’s degree is required to enter this profession, but a bachelor’s degree in computer science is a stepping stone toward this career. The median annual wage pay for this career is $136,620, with a faster-than-average job outlook of 23% by 2032.
4. Computer and information systems manager
Computer and information systems managers are known by many titles, such as IT managers. These managers evaluate the current state of computer-related hardware and software systems. When needed, they identify upgrades and oversee their installation or implementation of these enhancements. Additionally, these individuals commonly manage a team of employees, such as software developers and IT support specialists.
The BLS reports that computer and information systems managers earn a median wage of US$164,070 annually. By 2032, it projects this profession to grow in demand by 15%.
5. Information security analyst
With a bachelor’s degree in computer science and information technology, you can enter the workforce as an information security analyst. In this role, you’ll evaluate an organization’s computer security practices and protections to ensure it keeps its data – and that of its clients and vendors – safe. You’ll investigate networks and the organization’s systems for security breaches. Then, you’ll propose solutions to prevent future attacks and establish data security protocol for the organization.
Information security analysts earn $112,000 per year, according to BLS data. Compared to the demand in 2022, employment for this position is expected to rapidly grow 32% by 2032.
Getting a computer science and IT degree
Computer science and IT are highly sought after programs, especially for international students wanting the best ROI potential from their education. However, it’s a competitive area of study to enter, with some schools limiting the number of students who can enroll in their program or additional requirements necessary to enroll.
If you plan on studying for a computer science degree in the U.S., make sure you have sufficient financial aid. MPOWER Financing offers an international student loan that can bridge the gap between your existing aid and the cost of a computer science or IT degree.
