Explore This Path

Computer Occupation

💰 Earn $87K-$180K

📚 Bachelor Degree

⏱️ 24–48 Month Training

📈 5.1% Job Growth

Innovate in tech fields like AI, VR, and robotics with diverse career paths.
Drive technological advancements that shape industries and improve lives globally.
Collaborate with experts to solve complex problems and create cutting-edge solutions.

What Computer Occupations DoAll computer occupations not listed separately. Computer occupations include software engineering, web development, network engineering, data science, and IT support. Depending on a candidate's skills and interests, one could also find jobs in virtual reality, artificial intelligence, and robotics. Most occupations under this career cluster requires a four-year bachelor's degree, although alternative paths for technical skills have grown.

Develop and code functional and efficient software applications, systems, or websites.
Analyze issues that arise in software, hardware, or systems, identify underlying causes, and apply problem-solving skills to develop innovative solutions.
Collaborate with other developers, designers, engineers, project managers, and other stakeholders to ensure effective communication, coordination, and successful technology outcomes.

Computer Occupations Education, Salary, and Growth

Minimum EducationBachelor Degree

Career ProspectsExcellent (Increasing by 5% or more)

Training Time2 to 4 years

Job Openings27,000 Annually

Median earnings

California Median

$134,440

Most earn within this range

median ▾

$87K25th percentile

$180K75th percentile

National Median

$116,580

Most earn within this range

median ▾

$79K25th percentile

$158K75th percentile

Only you can decide how much you need to earn — but knowing what it actually costs to live in your area can help. The Family Budget Calculator can guide you.

Is This Career Right For You?

YOU Like

Thinking and problem solving
Using data or completing tasks
Working with my hands

you value

Accomplishing things
Having freedom
Job security

you are skilled in

Systems Evaluation
Systems Analysis
Critical Thinking
Reading Comprehension
Active Listening
Complex Problem Solving

Go Deeper: Computer Occupations Explained

Computer OccupationExplore career pathways, key skills, and what each role has to offer.

How Do You Train for This Career?

Learn about the education and training paths that can lead to this career — and what to expect from each one.

Bachelor's DegreeA bachelor's degree typically results in increased knowledge about a variety of academic subjects, specialized knowledge in a focused field of study, and is considered the foundational qualification for many careers.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 4-5+ years

Associate's DegreeAn associate's degree typically provides graduates with foundational knowledge and skills for entry-level jobs in the graduate's industry, or serves as a stepping stone towards further education.

🎓 College

⏱️ Finish in 2-3 years

Vocational SchoolA vocational school typically equips students with specialized skills and practical training in specific trades or occupations, enhancing their employability and providing direct pathways to relevant careers.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

Technology BootcampA technology bootcamp typically offers intensive training in specific tech skills, preparing participants for entry-level roles in the tech industry in a relatively short period of time.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in Less than a year

ApprenticeshipAn apprenticeship typically offers a combination of hands-on training and classroom instruction, leading to practical skills, industry-specific knowledge, and the potential for long-term employment in a specific trade or profession.

🎓 Paid Work

⏱️ Finish in 2-5 years

Workforce Development ProgramA workforce development program typically enhances participants' opportunities to succeed in the workforce through employment skill-building, career counseling, connections to employers, and pathways to high-demand and high-wage jobs.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 6 months - 2 years

Professional UpskillingProfessional upskilling typically results in acquiring new or enhanced skills and knowledge relevant to a participant's current job or desired career path, leading to improved job performance, opportunities for career advancement, and greater employability.

🎓 Skills-Focused

⏱️ Finish in 1 week - 3 months

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What Is the Technology & Math Industry?