1. Mobile App Developer

Not a career you necessarily need a degree in, as numerous app developers have successfully demonstrated. However, there are far more career opportunities here than creating your own app (and all the risks that go with that). The seemingly non-stop demand for mobile phone apps has created a huge IT skills gap in the market – there are more mobile application development job openings than skilled candidates to fill them. With a degree in computer science and strong programming skills, you can work to develop a variety of apps as part of a team. Familiarity with multiple mobile development platforms is the way to get ahead.

2. Computer Systems Analyst

Working as a Computer Systems Analyst is a great way to use your degree, experience different company cultures, and gain valuable business experience, opening up even more future opportunities. This role involves analysing a company’s existing computer systems and procedures and either updating or re-designing them so the organisation operates more efficiently. It’s an ideal role for someone who wants to move from project to project after finishing their bachelor degree. 

3. Information Security Analyst

Protecting data on company websites and servers from fraud is one of the fastest-growing sectors in IT, with the US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a huge 32% growth in the field over the next decade. Such is the demand, in fact, that universities are increasingly providing modules and majors in this area – something worth considering before you graduate. Most companies require an undergraduate degree in a relevant discipline but attitude matters too. These roles require quick-thinking and flexibility to combat threats, not just book smarts.

4. Web Developer

Another area of significant growth, with 13% (above average) predicted over the next 7-8 years. Web developers require multiple programming languages with a formal degree often an optional extra so it is a field so you can move into with some extracurricular work. Because web developers are responsible for the look and functionality of company websites, intranets, and applications, it is an excellent career for those who want to be self-employed and perhaps want to continue with their own projects on the side.

5. Healthcare Information Technician

Healthcare is an area where major disruption is expected from Big Data and technology over the next decade and therefore has huge potential for graduates entering the job market. While starting salaries might be lower than other employment areas early on, development is likely to be quicker because of the increase in major IT health projects going forward and the relatively small pool of current professionals. Additional qualifications may be required, depending on where you work.

6. Database Administrator

Not the most exciting job title in the world but, if you’re looking for job security, this might be the career path for you. Moreover, it can be much more interesting than it sounds. Ensuring that databases run efficiently and are secure from unauthorised users is both increasingly complex and important. There are many similarities with Information Security Analysts if you also want some flexibility. The position usually requires an undergraduate degree in management information systems or a computer-related field, as well as a knowledge of database languages.

7. Computer and Information Manager

If you are looking to get into management early, a computer science degree and some carefully considered career steps could see you in a relatively senior position early on. Five years of experience can see you take the lead on IT projects in many organisations and, with the US Bureau of Labor Statistics expecting the position to see an 11% growth by 2028 and median pay currently at $142,530 per year, this is an area worth considering. 

8. Computer Network Architect

Further on in your career, you might consider using your experience to move into Computer Network Architecture, designing and building data communication networks between groups of businesses or a large networks of users. Significant expertise in a specific industry will likely prove useful, as there are crucial variations to be aware of, as well as business experience and at least an undergraduate degree. Career opportunities for this type of role is sure to increase as small and large firms expand their use of wireless and mobile networks. 

Of course, this is a field that is continually developing and expanding and, if you continually add technical skills to your portfolio as well as experience, you should be able to move from one role to another with relative ease. Perhaps more than in any other industry, the job you have ten years from now may well not have been invented yet but the path you take over the few years will lead you there.