Computer science is about exploring and creating solutions to complex problems. Computer science students will study computational methods for solving problems by encoding, storing, tracking, and transforming information. Students learn the theory, architecture, and applications of computers and how to process information and design software to perform specific functions. As a career path, the field is rapidly growing and offers a plethora of opportunities.
Common employers
- Amazon
- Charles Schwab
- Hewlett Packard Enterprise
- Lockheed Martin
- Madwire
- Microsoft
- YouSeeU
Common job titles
- IT Analyst
- Quality Assurance Engineer
- Software Engineer
- Systems Engineer
- Technical Support Engineer
- Functional Consultant
- Information Administrator
Factors of success
- Engagement with the CSU Career Center
- Internship or research involvement
- GPA
- On campus employment
For more information visit the Department of Computer Science’s website:
Career checklist
- Go to the Career Center’s drop-in hours or schedule an appointment with a Career Educator to discuss what you should be doing to develop career skills. The Career Center is located at room 120 of the Lory Student Center. See https://career.colostate.edu/ or call (970) 491-5707 to see an advisor or to explore the many resources available.
- Log into Handshake, the CSU Career Center’s online location for on-campus jobs, internships, and careers.
- Learn about the computer science concentrations: https://catalog.colostate.edu/general-catalog/colleges/natural-sciences/computer-science/computer-science-major/
- Join a student organization relevant to computer science: https://compsci.colostate.edu/get-involved/
- Create a resume and learn how to write a cover letter based on the handouts in the Career Center and on the website. Then have your resume and cover letter reviewed in a drop-in session at the Career Center or make an appointment with a Career Educator.
- For more research opportunities, visit: https://www.natsci.colostate.edu/undergraduate-research/
- Apply for summer internships related to computer science such as computer systems design firms, software and systems developers, data processing firms, and/or software vendors: https://compsci.colostate.edu/undergraduate-students/career-resources/
- To learn more about possible research opportunities in this department: https://compsci.colostate.edu/research/
- Run for a leadership role in a student organization.
- Update your resume and/or CV for internships or on-campus jobs.
- Attend an appointment or drop-in at the Career Center to discuss job/internship search strategies and tips for interviewing.
- Apply for undergraduate internship options: https://compsci.colostate.edu/undergraduate-students/career-resources/
- Learn about graduate school options in the Computer Science Department: https://compsci.colostate.edu/degrees/
- If planning on attending graduate school, make an appointment with a Career Educator to create a plan.
- Update your resume and/or CV.
- Present research at CSU:
- Attend a mock interview session at the Career Center to prepare for the job search or graduate school interviews.
- Attend many networking events to meet employers and increase your chances of landing a job.
- Ask three professors and/or employers to be professional references.
- You may continue to use the Career Center for guidance! All services are still available to you at no cost for one year after graduation and for a small fee after that.
