As the world of work and technology moves on at incredible speed there has arguably never been a better time to invest in a computing degree and pursue a career with highly desired skills.
If you’re considering studying for an online computing degree but haven’t got a final career destination in mind, then you’re probably not alone. With digital services firmly integrated into everyday life, the opportunities open to those with the skills and experience have expanded rapidly in recent years – touching all sectors and creating new industries along the way.
Computing graduate jobs continue to pay well, with good prospects of progression and the likelihood of varied and interesting work. Career paths could include:
- Software Engineer
- Web Developer
- Requirements Analyst
- Network Analyst
- Information System Administrator
- Digital Project Manager
- Cyber Security Analyst
- Database Administrator
- User Experience (UX) Designer
- Game Developer
- IT Consultant
Popular computing careers
To give you an idea of the variety of career options that a computing degree can lead to, we’ve looked at some of the roles above in more depth.
Web Developer
A web developer will work to create stable and feature-rich applications, websites and services, which can be accessed by users online. They are often divided into back-end specialists (focusing on databases, APIs and architecture) and front-end specialists (focusing on visual design and the user interface). The work of a web developer can be extremely varied, with many types of projects tackled simultaneously. Remote work and self-employment are common, as are roles within digital agencies and technology companies.
Digital Project Manager
A digital project manager’s role is to manage technical projects from initiation to completion, ensuring delivery to time, budget and scope. Digital Project Managers are expert relationship builders (managing clients, stakeholders, creative and technical resources) who are responsible for ensuring communication is clear, issues and risks are managed, and all aspects of a project are kept on track. They combine these strong communication, organisation and people management skills with technical know-how and a solid understanding of how different IT disciplines work together. Digital project managers are in-demand with roles available in-house and in-agency, as well as freelance opportunities.
Cyber Security Analyst
A cyber security analyst helps to protect an organisation’s IT infrastructure, including networks, hardware and software, from malicious activity or accidental compromise. They monitor networks and systems, detect and report on threats and analyse and assess alarms. They often need to liaise with technical and non-technical staff and will take the time to keep up-to-date with the latest technology and security developments. Cyber security analysts often work as consultants advising different clients, or in-house working to protect the systems of an employer.
Database Administrator
A database administrator has responsibility for using, maintaining and developing computer database systems. This includes managing integrity and security, controlling user access, monitoring performance and overseeing storage and archiving procedures. They often work closely with other IT staff, operational staff and developers. Data management and storage is critical for many public and private organisations and a strong knowledge of information legislation is required. In-house employment, as well as contract work for more experienced database administrators, is common.
User Experience (UX) Designer
A UX designer works to design digital applications and services, ensuring that these systems function smoothly for the end-user. They will seek to understand product and user requirements, develop wireframes and prototypes, as part of the development process, define interaction models and task flows and run user testing sessions to identify improvements. An eye for detail and design is important, as are strong computing skills. UX roles exist across all sectors including private companies, public bodies and not-for-profit organisations.
Our computing courses
University of Essex Online offers 100% online computing degrees at postgraduate level, including MSc Computer Science and MSc Cyber Security. These qualifications are also available as shorter PG Cert and PG Dip courses designed as stand-alone qualifications or as a stepping-stone towards a full Masters.
We know that many people from non-traditional backgrounds will succeed on our courses. That’s why we offer two different entry routes, taking into consideration your prior work experience and relevant qualifications.
Our courses are designated for postgraduate student loans in England, with other funding and payment options available. We also charge the same fees for domestic and international students, with no hidden fees.
To find out more about our online computing degrees, fees and entry requirements, downloading a prospectus today.