Computing professionals might find themselves in a variety of environments in academia, research, industry, government, private and business organizations--analyzing problems for solutions, formulating and testing, using advanced communications or multi-media equipment, or working in teams for product development. Here's a short list of research and vocational areas in computing.
Artificial intelligence - Develop computers that simulate human learning and reasoning ability.
Computer design and engineering - Design new computer circuits, microchips, and other electronic components.
Computer architecture - Design new computer instruction sets, and combine electronic or optical components to provide powerful but cost-effective computing.
Information technology - Develop and manage information systems that support a business or organization.
Software Engineering - Develop methods for the production of software systems on time, within budget, and with few or no defects.
Computer theory - Investigate the fundamental theories of how computers solve problems, and apply the results to other areas of computer science.
Operating systems and networks - Develop the basic software computers use to supervise themselves or to communicate with other computers.
Software applications - apply computing and technology to solving problems outside the computer field - in education or medicine, for example.
Lifelong Learning
While the computing field is one of the fastest growing segments of industry, it is also one of the fastest changing areas technologically. Computing professionals' education does not stop with the college degree, but continues with seminars, conferences, and advanced courses and training. In computer theory and applications, new ideas are developed every day. Success requires an ongoing commitment to learning to maintain knowledge, skills, and career opportunities.
