How To Get Into a Computer Science Degree Program 2025

If you're interested in enrolling in a computer science program in 2024, there are numerous ways you can do so. The computer science field can open many career paths. Students can work towards securing a position in this field, but first, they'll need a degree.

You can get into the computer science field in various ways depending on the role; however, it will generally require an education. To find a job in this field, you'll need to get accepted into a computer science degree program.

You can take several steps to get into a computer science degree program to start a career in this field. We've outlined these steps below.

Steps for Getting Into a Computer Science Degree Program

Getting accepted into a computer science program requires a few steps. First, you must graduate high school or obtain your GED before applying for college. Then, you'll need to conduct research to determine where you want to attend school and understand the required coursework for the program.

Find an Accredited Institution

You can find an accredited university that offers a computer science program as you conduct your research. Students can verify the accreditation of an education program to ensure their program meets the required industry standards.

Once you find an institution, you'll need to look over specific requirements for your program. This may include a minimum high school GPA, or specific test scores, to be accepted in the program.

While you might want to get started with the program of your choosing at a university, you can also consider starting at a community college or online school if you don't meet all the requirements.

Review the Curriculum

Before enrolling in college, learn about the curriculum. Computer science courses are vast, covering a wide array of topics including information technology, computer systems, and data science.

In addition to these specific courses, consider the electives you can take. This will allow you to become a more well-rounded candidate when you begin your job search. Selecting electives that coincide with your degree program can benefit your computer science career.

Speak To an Academic Advisor

Computer science majors should speak with their academic advisors. They can fill you in on the courses required to complete your degree.

In addition to this, your academic advisor can provide you with information on how to network with other professionals, find jobs in your degree field, and assist you with any other questions.

Enroll in a Computer Science Degree Program

Once you're confident with your decision, you can enroll in a computer science degree program. You can gain the skills for a career in computer science with multiple degree programs, though the computer science bachelor's degree is the common route.

Refer to your school for specific requirements, such as an admissions application, transcripts, and test scores. You may also want to consider the costs of the program and your financial aid options as you enroll.

Complete Required Coursework

The curriculum of a bachelor's degree in computer science will require specific coursework to complete. These in-depth classes will cover computer networks and information systems, information security, and computer graphics.

As part of your coursework, you may be required to gain experience in numerous areas, allowing you to have multiple choices when it comes to obtaining a job in computer science.

Gain Programming Experience

You should also gain programming experience in combination with your degree program. This can add to your resume as programming is an essential and valuable skill for computer scientists.

To understand programming, you must know how to use programming languages such as Python or Java. You can gain hands-on programming experience through an internship, as this will be necessary for a career in computer science.

Consider an Advanced Degree

Once you've completed a bachelor's degree program, consider an advanced degree in the form of a master's in computer science. After taking many classes, your computer science skill set should allow you to further your education.

Problem-solving and critical thinking are important skills for computer science professionals. With an advanced degree, you can hone these skills and assets to maintain and continue your desired career.

Computer Science Career Paths

You can consider a range of computer science career paths in the computer science field. Some common areas include electrical engineering, artificial intelligence, and video game design.

Whether you want to start your own tech company or begin an entry-level position, narrowing down your career path is crucial. Specializations such as cybersecurity or computer engineering may appeal to you as well.

Computer Programmer

A computer programmer helps to ensure the written code and JavaScript are working correctly. To determine if the system is functioning properly, a programmer will analyze algorithms and data structures, test software, and retrieve data.

These professionals must understand programming languages, which help them update and test code.

Computer Scientist

A computer scientist is highly knowledgeable and aware of the many ins and outs of the field. Students who want to become computer scientists must have analytical and technical skills, which are necessary skills to develop software and conduct extensive research.

They uncover the up-to-date scientific information beneficial for the operating systems, which carry out functions important to the job. Additionally, a computer scientist may write code and collaborate with software developers.

Software Engineer

As a software engineer, you will help with testing, designing, and developing software applications. A software engineer performs routine maintenance and computer engineering to ensure the safety and security of networks.

Web Developer

A web developer is a type of programmer who develops applications. These applications consist of JavaScript, HTML, and CSS.

Those who become web developers will create websites that utilize these applications.

Machine Learning Engineer

Machine learning engineers design robotics, build learning systems, and research artificial intelligence. Students who want to become machine learning engineers must learn these skills. In addition to these duties, machine learning engineers also work to improve existing artificial intelligence models.