For many, their dream job would be working for the likes of Apple, Google or Microsoft. Silicon Valley, or the likes, have become the dream destination for thousands of hopeful candidates – year in, year out. Sadly, the number of applications per post can reach incredibly high levels, and so choosing the right degree, whether that’s a Bachelors or Master’s, is crucial in the frankly congested tech-job market.
Here we’ll take a look at three academic fields that will provide your CV with that much-needed boost, and ultimately, make you more competitive come graduation.
Software Engineering
Software is big money nowadays – it’s what made Bill Gates his billions after all. With a BSc or MSc in Software Engineering, you’ll learn how to build systems that integrate various programs and algorithms; as opposed to just developing individual programs as you would with a computer science degree. There have been comparisons made between building a house (BA in Computer Science) and a skyscraper – which you’d learn to do with a Software Engineering degree. Skyscrapers require many elements which come together to form a grand build, while houses are relatively simple and require few elements. With a wide variety of universities now offering this course, it’s well worth searching around.
Data Science – Big Data
Think about how much data the largest tech companies collect nowadays – Facebook, Google, Twitter and even Amazon – they all hold valuable information about their customers, their intentions and what they buy. Sure, you may argue that two of corporations listed are social media websites and one an online store, but they all invest millions into tech each year.
Big data has become big business, and so organizations are desperate to find right individuals to pick apart all this information to create something tangible. With an online data science degree from the likes of Merrimack College, you’ll learn how to break down vast chunks of information using advanced tools to provide something clear cut to your employer, allowing them to direct their business aims appropriately. With a maximum salary of around £70k a year, once established, you’ll be leading a very comfortable life.
Computer Engineering
While software changes, and the way we look at data does so also, one thing that will never change is the key fundamentals of how a computer works. They need storage (hard drives), they need memory (RAM), and they must have a brain (CPU). Computer engineering courses are concerned with one thing only – hardware. With demanding curriculums and tough selection processes, employers are always on the lookout for people who hold computer engineering degrees.
With a degree in computer engineering, you’ll develop skills in both programming and circuit design – which is pretty much two degrees in one. You’ll learn how to work with microcontrollers, device drivers, actuators and sensors. Nearly everything that has a battery or a plug uses a microprocessor nowadays – and if it weren’t for computer engineers, nothing would work. Essentially, land yourself on a computer engineering course, and you could be looking at a starting salary of around £40 – 50k a year, with six digit salaries coming in for the very best in their field.
