Online Master of Computer Science Jobs

As enthusiasm for new technologies rises, computer science professionals play a central role in shaping the digital landscapes of today and tomorrow. Because of their coveted knowledge and highly applicable skills, the number of companies hiring computer science graduates is rising quickly.1

If you want to reach the next step in your tech career, discover the variety of computer science jobs and industries that are available and how an Online MS in Computer Science will prepare you to excel.

Career Outlook

23%
job growth through 20321
$1 trillion
in investments in tech trends2
$145,676
average salary for computer scientists in California3

Tech Jobs Behind the Screens

The news about computer hacks, data breaches, and failing technology highlights one glaring truth: the world needs more computer science professionals. But the specialized knowledge and skills required to excel in this field can’t be taught quickly. To meet (and exceed) employer expectations, Chico’s Online Master of Science in Computer Science goes in-depth on cutting-edge topics and constantly evolves to meet industry demand.

View the MS in CS Curriculum

Essential Skills

  • Computer programming
  • Data science
  • Information technology
  • Software development
  • Problem solving
  • Technical writing

Go From Job-Seeker to Sought-After

A master’s degree in computer science prepares you for a career, not just a job. Because of the in-demand skills that a computer science education provides, master of computer science jobs could include information technology, computing, software development, cybersecurity, and much more. In fact, 8 out of 10 of the best technology jobs are in computer science.4

Master of Computer Science Salaries

$103,800 – Computer systems analyst5

$151,694 – AI engineer6

$164,070 – Computer and information systems manager7

$119,324 – Cybersecurity specialist8

$127,260 – Software developer9

$112,000 – Information security analyst10

Projected Percent Employment Change, 2021-31: Total, all occupations 5.3%; Information security analysts 34.7%; Web developers 30.3%; Software developers 26%; Computer and information research scientists 21.3%; Software quality assurance analysts and testers 20.8%; Web and digital interface designers 16.3%

Rise in the Ranks

Computer science, IT, or tech professionals who want to reach the next step in their careers need more than one-off training and certificates. With an Online MS in Computer Science degree, you will receive the type of education that employers want to see on their tech team. Technical knowledge and skills are highly important, but communication skills and a broader understanding of the industry will make you a more thoughtful and collaborative team member.

On average, master’s degree in computing holders earn:

  • $30K more per year than those with only an undergraduate degree in computing12
  • $60K more per year for those transitioning from outside the field of computing12
  • 26% higher salary than those with only a bachelor’s degree in computing13

Where Chico State’s Accomplished Alumni Have Worked

Amazon
Chevron
Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory
Hewlitt Packard
Pacific Gas and Electric Company

Academic Excellence at California State University, Chico

Top 10
Best California Colleges Online of 202414
#11
Top Public University in the West15
#8
Best Value School in the West16
#20
Regional Universities—West17

Admissions Dates and Deadlines

Dec
9
Priority Application Deadline
Spring 2025 Term
Jan
3
Application Deadline
Spring 2025 Term
Jan
21
Next Start
Spring 2025 Term
Sources
  1. Retrieved on February 28, 2024, from bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm
  2. Retrieved on February 28, 2024, from mckinsey.com/capabilities/mckinsey-digital/our-insights/the-top-trends-in-tech#new-and-notable
  3. Retrieved on February 28, 2024, from indeed.com/career/computer-scientist/salaries/CA?from=top_sb
  4. Retrieved on February 28, 2024, from money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/rankings/best-technology-jobs
  5. Retrieved on February 28, 2024, from bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm
  6. Retrieved on February 29, 2024, from glassdoor.com/Salaries/ai-engineer-salary-SRCH_KO0,11.htm
  7. Retrieved on February 29, 2024, from bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm
  8. Retrieved on February 29, 2024, from glassdoor.com/Salaries/cyber-security-specialist-salary-SRCH_KO0,25.htm
  9. Retrieved on February 29, 2024, from money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/software-developer/salary
  10. Retrieved on February 29, 2024, from money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/information-security-analyst/salary
  11. Retrieved on February 29, 2024, from blog.dol.gov/2022/12/01/computer-science-education-week-explore-in-demand-it-jobs
  12. Retrieved on February 29, 2024, from fortune.com/education/articles/how-much-can-you-make-with-an-online-masters-degree-in-computer-science/
  13. Retrieved on February 29, 2024, from fortune.com/education/articles/these-3-computer-science-masters-jobs-pay-at-least-120000/
  14. Retrieved on February 29, 2024, from forbes.com/advisor/education/online-colleges/best-online-colleges-in-california/
  15. Retrieved on November 21, 2024, from usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-universities-west/top-public
  16. Retrieved on November 21, 2024, from premium.usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-universities-west/best-value
  17. Retrieved on November 21, 2024, from usnews.com/best-colleges/rankings/regional-universities-west