A primary goal of computer scientists is to develop or validate models, often mathematical, to describe the properties of computational systems (processors, programs, computers interacting with people, computers interacting with other computers, etc.) with an overall objective of discovering designs that yield useful benefits (faster, smaller, cheaper, more precise, etc.).
Software engineering – the application of engineering to software development in a systematic method
Employment
Employment prospects for computer scientists that hold master's or Phds degrees are said to be excellent. Such prospects seem to be attributed, in part, to very rapid growth in computer systems design and related services industry, and the software publishing industry, which are projected to be 19% among the faster growing industries in the U.S. economy by the Bureau of Labor Statistics back in 2012.[4] Recently in 2025, projections were 26% growth.[5] Current 2026 projections for 2024-2034 has fallen to 20% growth.[6]
Computer scientists are often hired by software publishing firms, scientific research and development organizations, or universities where they develop the theories and computer models that allow new technologies to be developed.
Computer scientists can follow more practical applications of their knowledge, doing things such as software engineering. They can also be found in the field of information technology consulting, and may be seen as a type of mathematician, given how much of the field depends on mathematics.[7] Computer scientists employed in industry may eventually advance into managerial or project leadership positions.[8]
↑Orsucci, Franco F.; Sala, Nicoletta (2008). Reflexing Interfaces: The Complex Coevolution of Information Technology Ecosystems, Information Science Reference. Information Science Reference. p.335. ISBN978-1599046273.
