Job opportunities for computer science professionals continue to grow, with demand particularly fierce for those with specialized skills or leadership experience. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information technology positions will increase much faster than the rest of the job market in the coming decade, creating about 356,700 openings expected annually through 2033. Industries that rely on technology and use large data sets—technology, finance and healthcare, to name a few—need computing professionals to develop and maintain computer applications, systems and networks.
High demand and competitive salaries are hardly the only reasons to pursue a computer science career. Diversity of opportunities, potential for advancement, rewarding and interesting work, and entrepreneurial potential all motivate prospective computer scientists. Continue reading to explore an array of popular computer science roles, gain insights into the stability and earning potential this field provides, and learn how an Online Master of Science in Computer Science from Case Western Reserve University can improve your profile in the computer science job market.
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The 2025 Computer Science Job Market
Computer science drives innovation, efficiency and insight in business, government, healthcare, academia and other essential enterprises. Software developers, information security analysts and data scientists rank among the most in-demand roles. The growth of emerging areas such as AI and machine learning further drives demand for computer science professionals.
Competitive pay, stability, flexibility and career satisfaction attract top talent to the market. U.S. News & World Report‘s list of the 100 Best Jobs, ranked by projected growth, salary potential, employment, safety and work/life balance, features four computing jobs in its top 10 and many more in the top 100.
The 2025 computer science job market should see strong demand for specialized roles, especially those focusing on emerging technologies and industry demands. Many of these jobs require high-level skills one can develop through graduate study. In-demand computer science jobs for 2025 include:
- Data scientists and analysts
- Software developers
- Machine learning engineers
- Cybersecurity specialists
Salary and Demand: Computer Science Jobs Overview
The computer science job market spans multiple careers and industries, offering opportunities in both specialized and foundational roles. While positions in emerging fields such as AI and machine learning are in high demand, employers also need skilled professionals for essential areas such as networking, IT support and cybersecurity.
Below, we’ll explore careers for computer science professionals and provide an overview of each role’s responsibilities and salary potential. Keep in mind that salaries vary depending on such factors as industry, location, experience and education.
Software Engineer Salaries
Software engineers design and maintain software applications, systems and solutions. They earn an average annual salary of about $95,000; the BLS projects demand for these professionals to increase by 17% through 2033. Specializations within software engineering focus on specific areas. For example, full-stack engineers, who earn about $87,000 per year, can work in both front-end and back-end development. Meanwhile, back-end engineers, who earn around $101,000, focus on building and maintaining databases and server infrastructure. At the senior level, principal software engineers earn about $151,000; they typically focus on leading teams and guiding technical strategy.
Systems Engineer Salaries
Systems engineers design, implement and maintain an organization’s IT infrastructure to ensure everything operates efficiently. Systems engineers earn close to $88,000 per year. With 16,400 openings anticipated annually, companies will be looking to hire systems engineers to help maintain and upgrade computer networks. Principal systems engineers lead the design, development and management of complex systems to ensure they align with company goals. These senior-level leaders earn about $143,000 annually.
Data Engineer Salaries
Data engineers collaborate with stakeholders to design and maintain systems that collect, store and process large datasets to inform decision-making. With an average salary of almost $98,000, data engineers are projected to see a 9% growth in employment through 2033.
Machine Learning Engineer Salary
Machine learning engineers design and develop machine learning models that teach computers to use data to make predictions or solve problems. Machine learning engineers earn around $119,000 per year; they should see a 26% increase in employment between 2023 and 2033.
Software Developer Salary
Software developers design and create software using programming languages and make improvements as needed to meet the end user’s needs. They apply their expertise in many industries, building software applications for various business and consumer demands. U.S. News & World Report named software developer its third-best job, reporting an average annual income over $127,000.
Data Scientist Salary
Data scientists gather and analyze large data sets to create algorithms and predictive models, which they share with stakeholders to guide informed decision-making. Data scientists often work on tasks such as building identifying trends, optimizing processes, and communicating findings through data visualizations and reports. Their role is crucial in transforming raw data into actionable strategies that drive business growth and innovation. With a projected 36% growth rate, data scientists rank #4 on the BLS list of fastest-growing occupations. These individuals earn about $101,000.
Data Analyst Salary
Data analysts gather, process and examine data to uncover trends and useful insights that help solve problems and answer questions. Organizations increasingly rely on data to drive decision-making, creating a strong demand for data analysts in various roles across industries. Data analysts earn around $82,000, with the top 25% earning at least $97,000 annually. They should see a 23% increase in job opportunities between now and 2033.
IT Manager Salaries
Information technology (IT) managers (sometimes called IT directors), manage and oversee the technology-related functions in an organization. IT managers, ranked second on the Best 100 jobs list, earn a median salary of $164,000 and should benefit from a projected 17% increase in employment through 2023.
Boost Your Earning Potential With an MSCS from Case Western Reserve
Many of the computer science jobs mentioned above prefer or require a master’s degree or, at least, the specialized skills and knowledge gained from a robust graduate program like the online MSCS from Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). In addition to qualifying you for more advanced positions, a master’s degree can boost your salary. According to the BLS, individuals with a master’s degree earn approximately 16% more than those with a bachelor’s degree.
Case Western Reserve’s MSCS meets the needs of today’s computer science job market with an industry-relevant curriculum that delivers a progressive and cutting-edge education. Students can choose between two tracks—a pathways track or an advanced track—allowing them to tailor their curriculum based on their technical background. Both tracks cover programming, artificial intelligence and algorithms to prepare students for roles in machine learning engineering and software development. The curriculum also prioritizes data science skills to equip students with the expertise for data analyst or data science careers. With self-paced coursework, peer collaboration and extensive support services, students enjoy the flexibility and resources they need to succeed.
Next Steps: Applying to the Online Computer Science Master’s Program at Case Western Reserve
With the increasing use of technology across industries, a strong 2025 computer science job market should offer many exciting opportunities. Earning an online MSCS from Case Western Reserve provides students a flexible way to build the expertise to take on specialized and high-paying roles while balancing other responsibilities (e.g., work, family obligations). Connect with an enrollment advisor to learn more about CWRU’s online Master of Science in Computer Science, or start your application if you’re ready to take the next step.