COMPUTER SCIENTISTS AND SYSTEMS ANALYSTS

Nature of the Work

The rapid spread of computers and computer-based technologies over the past two decades has generated a need for skilled, highly trained workers to design and develop the hardware and software systems and to determine how to incorporate these advances into new or existing systems.  Although many narrow specializations have developed and no uniform job titles exist, this professional specialty group is widely referred to as computer scientists and systems analysts.  

Computer scientists, including computer engineers conduct research, design computers, and discover and use principles of applying computers.  Computer scientists and engineers may perform many of the same duties as other computer professionals throughout a normal workday, but their jobs are distinguished by the higher level of theoretical expertise they apply to complex problems and innovative ideas for the application or creation of new technology.

Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement

There is no universally accepted way to prepare for a job as a computer professional because employers' preferences depend on the work being done.  Prior work experience is very important.  Many persons develop an area of expertise in their jobs which tends to make them more marketable to employers.  For example, people move into systems analyst jobs after working as computer programmers.

College graduates almost always are sought for computer professional positions, and, for some of the more complex jobs, persons with graduate degrees are preferred.  Generally, a computer scientist working in a research lab or academic institution will hold a Ph.D. or master's degree in computer science or engineering.  Some computer scientists are able to gain sufficient experience for this type of position with only a bachelor's degree, but this is more difficult.  Computer engineers generally have a bachelor's degree in computer engineering, electrical engineering, or math.

Job Outlook

Computer scientists and systems analysts will be among the fastest growing occupations through the year 2005.  In addition, tens of thousands of job openings will result annually from the need to replace workers who move into managerial positions or other occupations or leave the labor force.

Earnings

Median annual earnings of systems analysts who worked full time in 1992 were about $42,100.  The middle 50 percent earned between $32,000 and $52,200.  The lowest 10 percent earned less than $25,200 and the highest tenth, more than $65,500.  Computer scientists with advanced degrees generally earn more than systems analysts.

In the Federal Government, the entrance salary for recent college graduates with a bachelor's degree was about $18,300 a year in 1993; for those with a superior academic record, $22,700.
 
Sources of Additional Information

Further information about computer careers is available from:

Association for Computing Machinery, 1515 Broadway, New York, NY 10036.

Information about certification as a computer professional is available from:

Institute for the Certification of Computer Professionals, 2200 East Devon Ave., Suite 268, Des Plaines, IL 60018.

Information about certification as a Certified Quality Analyst is available from:

Quality Assurance Institute, 7575 Dr.  Phillips Blvd., Suite 350, Orlando, FL 32819.


