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Computer Science

WHAT IS COMPUTER SCIENCE?

Computer Science is the study of computation, automation, and information applying principles of mathematics, engineering and logic. Computer Science spans theoretical disciplines (algorithms, computational theory and information theory) and practical application (design and implementation). 

 

Computer Science incorporates techniques from areas such as queuing theory, statistics, and circuit design. Computer Science also makes use of hypothesis testing and experimentation during conceptualization, design, measurement and refinement of algorithms, information structures, and computer architectures.

WHAT DOES A COMPUTER SCIENTIST DO?

Computer Scientists work in a wide variety of industries. Some common tasks include: 

  • Designing software that interacts with hardware for integration and optimization 

  • Writing program software, creating applications, developing websites

  • Developing, designing, and analyzing methods, architectures, data structures, and algorithms to solve problems

  • Developing applications to operate within future frameworks (i.e. Metaverse)

  • Assessing and improving computer processes and performance, and information storage and retrieval

  • Building software enabling autonomous drones, devices, robots, and vehicles to do assigned tasks

COGNATE

Cognates can be selected from the following and can influence a career direction:

15 or more credits outside The College of Engineering in a specific subject area

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6 courses from The Eli Broad College of Business

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At least 4 courses in a foreign language

CAREER DATA

Below you will find data collected from graduates for the period 2021 – 2023. The data provides a sampling of industries, companies, and jobs that Computer Science graduates pursue. However, this data set is not the only story. Computer Science graduates work in a variety of industries and jobs. This information is meant to encourage your exploration. It’s your journey and we’re here to help. Connect with a career coach to discuss options and possibilities.  

Common Industries

 

  • Mobility/Automotive

  • Internet & Software

  • Manufacturing

  • Financial/Consulting

  • Insurance

  • Information Tech/Health Informatics

  • Food & Beverage

  • Retail

  • Ecommerce

  • Cybersecurity

 

 

Top Employer Representation (Companies hiring 5 or more graduates during the period 2021 – 2023)

 

  • General Motors

  • Amazon

  • Epic Systems

  • Auto Owners Insurance

  • Ford Motor Company

  • General Mills

  • Microsoft

  • Deloitte

  • GE

  • IBM

  • Target

 

 

Common Entry-Level Job Titles (Sample job titles from graduates during the period 2021 – 2023)

 

  • Software Engineer

  • Software Developer

  • Data Engineer

  • Embedded Software Engineer

  • Data Analyst

  • Cloud Engineer

  • Game Designer

  • Software Consultant

  • Web Developer

  • Cybersecurity Analyst

KEY STATISTICS

Learn about the specific data associated with Computer Science graduates so that you can better understand the average compensation and placement rates within the major. (Represents 2023 data.)  

91.8%
Placement Rate
(Employment/Education)

$89,826
Average Starting
Salary

$30.39/hr
Intern Average
Hourly Wage 

RELATED STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

  • Artificial Intelligence Club

  • Association for Computing Machinery

  • iOS Club

  • SpartaHack

  • Spartan Hackers

  • Women in Computing

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Full list of MSU Engineering Student Organizations

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