The data tells the story:  

• Industries that have adopted artificial intelligence (AI) have tripled their revenue growth per worker since 2022, according to PwC; also, there is a 56 percent wage premium for workers with AI skills.  

• Demand for cybersecurity professionals remains strong, with 3.5 million cybersecurity jobs projected to be unfilled worldwide in 2025, according to Cybersecurity Ventures.  

• The number of computer science and information technology (IT) degrees awarded tripled from 2011 to 2023, and more than 1.3 million students were enrolled in tech programs as of the fall 2024 term — a 43 percent increase since 2019, according to research firm Validated Insights.  

As organizations adopt emerging digital technologies such as AI tools, cybersecurity vulnerabilities rise in parallel. While AI offers ways for an organization to strengthen its defenses through automation, threat intelligence and faster response times, it also brings challenges, from AI-powered adversarial attacks to the need for reliable AI training data, which can affect its effectiveness.  

Students considering different computer science specializations and types of computer science degrees can be best served by looking for a degree program that allows them to choose advanced courses in their areas of interest, and enables them to develop the technical and professional skills needed in today’s evolving digital landscape. 

What Is a Computer Science Specialization? 

Computer science is a wide-ranging field with many areas to explore. Professionals often choose to focus on one area of study or application, known as a specialization.  

Through a computer science specialization, a computer scientist can develop deeper expertise in a specific domain, making them more competitive in the job market. At the same time, many computer science skills are transferable, and professionals frequently draw on knowledge from multiple specialties. 

Types of Computer Science Specializations 

Looking at key employment data for professionals in certain computer science specializations — education requirements, salary potential, job outlook, career opportunities — can help individuals determine which type of computer science best aligns with their professional goals. Common computer science specializations include artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, data science and software engineering. 

Machine Learning/Artificial Intelligence 

Artificial intelligence adoption is growing globally, with two-thirds of people using AI regularly, according to a 2025 KPMG report, yet less than half of people fully trust AI systems. AI tools provide many conveniences — from automating tasks to simplifying processes — but their increased adoption also brings risks. For example, a 2023 CFO.com survey found that 85 percent of cybersecurity professionals believed that generative AI enables cybercriminals to launch faster, more sophisticated attacks. 

This divide between use and trust and between adoption and risk underscores the need for professionals who can design, secure and govern AI responsibly. The influence of AI and machine learning, which extends to software development, database administration, architecture and engineering, is a key driver of job growth in these fields, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).  

The need for professionals with AI expertise is reflected in their compensation, with Payscale data showing that machine learning engineers with AI skills had a median annual salary of approximately $130,000 as of June 2025. 

Information Security/Cybersecurity 

Cybersecurity is a concern across industries. The 880,418 cybersecurity-related complaints in 2023 reported by the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) represented a 10 percent increase from the previous year and $12.5 billion in losses — which is 22 percent more than in 2022.  

Information security and cybersecurity roles have various titles, but in general, these professionals are on the front lines designing, implementing and monitoring safeguards to protect organizations’ networks and data. As threats continue to evolve and grow, employment of information security and cybersecurity professionals is expected to increase 29 percent between 2024 and 2034 — significantly faster than the average growth projected for all occupations — according to the BLS.  

With increased demand comes increased opportunity for competitive compensation. As of May 2024, information security analysts, also known as cybersecurity analysts, had a median annual salary of $124,910, according to the BLS. 

Data Science 

Data scientists use analytics and AI-driven algorithms to extract insights and build predictive models. AI is now central to the data science field, supporting tasks such as data preparation, anomaly detection, code generation, prototyping and natural language queries. According to the BLS, positions for data scientists are projected to grow 34 percent between 2024 and 2034, much faster than the average growth projected for all occupations.  

Data scientists had a median annual salary of $112,590 in 2024, according to the BLS. Salaries are often higher for those with AI expertise: Payscale reports that the median salary for data scientists was approximately $102,000 as of August 2025, while for those with specific AI skills it was around $119,000. 

Software Engineering 

Generative AI tools are cutting costs across business functions, with 52 percent of software engineering teams reporting savings due to its use, according to a 2025 McKinsey & Co. survey. By automating coding, testing and deployment, AI technology helps organizations reduce errors and frees developers to focus on higher-level creative work.  

While AI is reshaping software engineering roles, the field itself is expanding: The BLS projects 16 percent job growth for software developers between 2024 and 2034, which is much faster than the average projected for all occupations. This job growth is expected to be driven by the continued expansion of the use of AI, smart devices, robotics and other automation applications.  

Software developers, including engineers, had a median annual salary of $133,080 as of May 2024, according to the BLS. 

Types of Computer Science Degrees 

Different types of computer science degrees are offered at several levels, each designed to support different academic goals and career paths. Some degree programs prepare students to enter the workforce quickly, while others focus on advanced study and specialized expertise. The right choice depends on an individual’s interests, timeline and long-term aspirations. 

Computer Science Associate Degree 

An associate degree program in computer science prepares students to pursue entry-level positions. Completing an associate degree program typically takes two years. These programs introduce students to programming languages, databases and networks, and provide a foundational introduction to computer science theory. The degree program also can serve as a pathway toward a bachelor’s program, as many credits can be transferred to four-year institutions.  

By combining hands-on training with core technical knowledge, an associate degree program generally appeals to students who want to begin their careers quickly while earning credits toward possible higher education later. 

Computer Science Bachelor’s Degree 

A bachelor’s degree in computer science is the most common entry point into the field. Each institution is different, but bachelor’s programs commonly take four years to complete. Bachelor’s students in computer science study algorithms, data structures, software engineering and specialized subjects such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity.  

Roles that computer science bachelor’s degree graduates can pursue range from software engineer to systems analyst. Employers value the technical skills and problem-solving abilities gained through these bachelor’s-level programs. Many programs also include internships or capstone projects, which provide students with real-world experience and professional connections before graduation. 

Computer Science Graduate Degree 

Graduate degree programs in computer science are available at the master’s and doctoral levels. Computer science graduate degree students have the opportunity to select advanced courses of study that align with their interests and career goals. Specialized degrees can be earned in fields such as the following: 

• Computer architecture 

• Data analytics 

• Software engineering 

• Machine learning 

• Information security 

• Applied computer science 

A student with a bachelor’s degree can typically complete a master’s degree program in about two years. This degree option prepares students for advanced roles or leadership positions in the technology sector.  

Doctoral programs, by contrast, emphasize in-depth research and innovation. These programs generally take between four to six years to complete. Graduates with doctorates often pursue careers in academia, research institutions or leading industry laboratories. 

What Is Applied Computer Science? 

Applied computer science degree programs focus on using technology skills — in areas such as programming, systems management and networking — in real-world settings. Students also develop project management, teamwork and communication skills, which help them connect their technical expertise with their organization’s business needs.  

By contrast, many traditional computer science programs emphasize the theories and processes behind technology. While curricula vary by school, topics covered in these programs often include algorithms, artificial intelligence, natural language processing and advanced math.  

Graduates of both types of programs are prepared to use research-driven approaches to face complex challenges in the area of computer science. 

After learning what applied computer science is, many individuals want to know if an applied computer science degree is worth it. The data suggests that it is for many people.  

According to the BLS, computer and information technology professionals — those who create or support computer applications, systems and networks in professions that range from computer and information research scientist to web developer and digital designer — are expected to see much faster than average job growth from 2024 to 2034. About 317,700 job openings are projected to be available for these professionals each year on average. 

What Can You Do with an Applied Computer Science Degree? 

An applied computer science degree program prepares individuals with the technical and business skills that are critical to solving challenges related to AI, cybersecurity and more. Examples of roles that applied computer science degree graduates pursue include the following: 

Application/Full-Stack Developer 

Application or full-stack developers build software applications used in both the front end of the apps — user-facing features, such as a login portal or an online store’s checkout page — and the back end — systems working in the background, such as secure payment systems that allow transactions.  

As of August 2025, Payscale reports that these developers had a median annual salary of about $89,000. 

Database Administrator 

Database administrators manage systems that store and organize data. This might mean building and monitoring the systems that ensure quick and secure access to information that enables employees to do their work. Tasks for database administrators can vary, with potential tasks ranging from maintaining servers and optimizing systems to monitoring security issues and configuring access via cloud platforms.  

According to Payscale, database administrators had a median annual salary of approximately $82,000 as of August 2025. 

IT Business Analyst 

Information technology business analysts use their knowledge of technology and business processes to help organizations maximize their operations, recommending changes in systems and policies to improve workflows.  

For example, if an organization had an inefficient process that slows down operations, an IT business analyst would investigate the cause of the slowdown, then evaluate solutions, typically in consultation with management. Their work often involves both hardware, such as servers and laptops, and software to improve operational performance, streamline workflows and reduce costs.  

IT business analysts had a median annual salary of around $79,000 as of August 2025, according to Payscale. 

Network/Systems Administrator 

Network and systems administrators ensure their organization’s computer networks and systems run smoothly. They focus on supporting secure and reliable connections, even during high-demand periods. Optimizing secure networks might mean working with IT security professionals to protect systems from security threats.  

Typical responsibilities for these professionals include installing and maintaining networks, servers and operating systems; performing systems and network upgrades; and troubleshooting.  

Network and systems administrators had a median annual salary of $96,800 as of May 2024, according to the BLS. 

Software Architect 

Software architects design the overall framework of software systems with a focus on balancing usability, cost and technical performance. This framework provides the structure for how software systems work within their organizations. For example, when creating a new platform or mobile app, an architect decides how the interface, database and code will work together, and developers then build and maintain the applications accordingly.  

As of August 2025, Payscale reports that software architects had a median annual salary of approximately $146,500. 

Take the Next Step in Your Computer Science Career 

Choosing the right computer science specialization comes down to aligning your interests with your career goals. Deciding between computer science and AI or opting for cybersecurity doesn’t mean limiting your focus, however. What the trends reveal is that computer science professionals need a range of skills to drive AI adoption while addressing the security challenges that come with rapid innovation. 

SEMO Online’s Master of Science in Applied Computer Science program combines a core computer science foundation with coursework in AI, cybersecurity and other crucial areas to prepare individuals to excel in a rapidly evolving tech workforce. Through research, hands-on projects and experience with modern tools and systems, students gain the advanced skills needed to succeed in today’s global technology landscape. 

Take control of your career with SEMO Online’s master’s in applied computer science. 

Recommended Readings 
Applied Technology Degree Job Options 
What Is Applied Technology? 
Data Analysis Skills and Tools 
 
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CFO.com, “85% of Cybersecurity Leaders Say Recent Attacks Powered by AI: Weekly Stat” 
Data and Information Management, “The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Organisational Cyber Security: An Outcome of a Systematic Literature Review” 
Dice, “Job Options for 2024 Computer Science Grads” 
FBI, “FBI Releases Internet Crime Report” 
Forbes, “Tech Grads Without Jobs: Expert Advice on Resumes, LinkedIn, and Interviews” 
IBM, “AI in Software Development” 
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Payscale, Average Database Administrator (DBA) Salary 
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Payscale, Average Software Architect Salary 
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