5 underappreciated careers for computer science majors
When people think of computer science careers, software developers and data scientists usually come to mind. But the tech industry is full of hidden gems—roles that are just as rewarding but don’t get nearly enough attention. These jobs might not make headlines, but they play a massive part in keeping our digital world running smoothly. If you’re a tech-savvy individual wondering what you can do with a computer science degree, you might be surprised by how many options exist beyond the obvious. This article helps you discover five lesser-known but impactful career paths worth exploring.
1. Technical writer
A technical writer bridges the gap between complex software and its users. They create manuals, help documents, user guides, and online FAQs that make technology more accessible to everyday users.
Companies rely on technical writers to simplify how users interact with their products, which boosts customer satisfaction and reduces support costs. With the rise of software-as-a-service (SaaS) platforms, the demand for tech writers continues to grow quietly but steadily.
2. QA automation engineer
Quality assurance (QA) professionals ensure that software products are reliable and bug-free before they reach customers. QA automation engineers go further by writing scripts and building tools to automate repetitive testing tasks.
It’s a perfect fit for those who enjoy coding but prefer breaking things instead of building them. By designing innovative testing systems, these professionals save companies time and money during software development. Many computer science graduates overlook QA roles, but this career offers a solid salary, technical challenges, and opportunities to work across multiple platforms and teams.
3. UX researcher
User experience (UX) researchers help companies design digital products that are user-friendly and intuitive. They conduct usability testing, analyze user behavior, and provide insights to designers and developers to improve the overall experience.
This role blends psychology, research, and computer science, making it ideal for analytical thinkers with a creative side. With businesses focusing more on customer satisfaction, UX research has become a critical—yet still underappreciated—part of product development.
4. Cybersecurity analyst
Cybersecurity is a hot topic, but surprisingly, many computer science students don’t consider it a first career choice. Cybersecurity analysts protect networks and systems from attacks, monitor for vulnerabilities, and respond to threats.
They’re digital defenders, working behind the scenes to keep businesses and individuals safe from data breaches and cybercrime. The job requires sharp attention to detail, strong programming skills, and an understanding of hackers’ thoughts. It’s an exciting and essential field that offers job stability, career growth, and the chance to make a real-world impact.
5. Database administrator (DBA)
A database administrator is responsible for managing and organizing a company’s data so it’s secure, accessible, and optimized for performance. While not as flashy as front-end development, this role is essential in data-driven industries like finance, healthcare, and e-commerce.
DBAs handle everything from backups and troubleshooting to designing efficient systems for storing massive amounts of information. They work closely with developers, analysts, and IT teams to ensure data flows smoothly across all platforms. If you enjoy working with structure systems and solving performance issues, this is a career worth considering.
There’s more to tech than coding or designing apps—a world of underrated roles deserves attention. Understanding what you can do with a computer science degree opens doors to unique careers that match different personalities and strengths. Whether you’re drawn to writing, design, testing, security, or data, there’s a path that fits. Explore these options, and don’t be afraid to pursue a route less traveled. Explore your path with confidence—opportunities like these are part of the broader vision supported by institutions like the University of Phoenix.