Computer Science | Career Centre

Have you always been fascinated by how computers function and perform or how hardware and software is developed? Majoring in Computer Science at York will help you take the first crucial step in developing the skills and knowledge necessary to do this. It will prepare you for a career centered in the technological world where programming, development and consulting are but a few of the options available following graduation.

Career Options in Computer Science

This list is not exhaustive but provides an idea of what options graduates have and what they have gone on to do. Some options are more directly associated with a Computer Science degree than others.

Air Traffic Controller
Chief Information Officer
Computer Hardware Designer
Computer Scientist
Database Developer
Entrepreneur
Internet Consultant
Law Enforcement Officer
Materials Researcher
Meteorological Technician
Optical Technician
Robotics Consultant
Security Systems Programmer
Special Effects Director
Teacher
Video Game Developer
Artificial Intelligence Designer
Computational Physicist
Computer Network Specialist
Computer Support
eCommerce Consultant
Industrial Designer
Internet Safety Analyst
Light and Optics Specialist

Materials Tester
Mining Consultant
Professor
Safety Engineer
Seismologist
Special Effects Coordinator
Technical Writer
Web Page Developer
Business Systems Analyst
Computer Engineer
Computer Programmer
Computer Technology Analyst
Electronics Technician
Interface Designer
IT Specialist
Manufacturing Machine Designer
Mathematician
Network Administrator/Support
Researcher
Satellite Communications Consultant
Software Designer
Systems Analyst
Telecommunication Consultant

Some of these career choices may require additional education or preparation in the form of graduate studies, experiential education or professional formative courses and exams. For a more in-depth description of some of the careers mentioned above visit Career Cruising (login information can be found on the home page of the Career Centre's online system) or the National Occupational Classification website.

Skills Developed through a Computer Science Degree

Studies in Computer Science can develop many different professional abilities and can introduce you to a vast body of technical, mathematical and theoretical knowledge.

Core Computer Science Skills

A comprehensive understanding of the processes involved in the storage, transmission and transformation of information in the context of modern electronic technology
Knowledge of both theoretical and applied areas of computer science
Computer programming skills
Practical skills for designing software and/or hardware
The ability to comprehend complex technical material
The skills to collect various types of information, assess them, analyze and incorporate potential linkages from different fields, put them into writing and efficiently convey your message and the goal of your work, be it individual or in the context of group work in any professional environment

Communication, Data Gathering and Organizational Skills

The ability to present your thoughts clearly and intelligently in written statements
Deduction of information from various sources and the ability to concentrate on relevant resources
An ability to prepare written presentations and reports using current data and technology
The ability to learn new information and apply this to professional demands
The capacity to critically analyze problems, think creatively and make sound and well-reasoned decisions while considering different sides of an argument

Management and Teamwork

The ability to interpret and analyze information presented by peers and efficiently and constructively support or challenge their proposals, theories, ideas and reports in order to achieve a project’s intended and successful end result
Logical thinking skills and the ability to lead and interact with a variety of people with different approaches and personal and professional backgrounds
Skills enabling you to work effectively in group situations, partaking in decision-making, leading and contributing in various capacities to the ultimate success of the team and task
The capability to identify priorities and proper courses of action, to plan the execution of tasks and to determine and delegate responsibilities to group members to most effectively carry out projects

Professional Associations and Organizations

Knowing an industry and how to excel in it after receiving a degree are key elements of future success. University study sets up the building blocks you will need to develop and enhance your understanding and knowledge in your career. Being part of a professional organization or network and gaining further insight through training are excellent ways of increasing your knowledge of the field.