What Is a Computer Professional?
A computer professional is a person who works in the field of information technology. There are a wide array of jobs for computer specialists in this field, and each job usually centers around a specific set of knowledge or skills.
Getting a degree in computer science can open up many job opportunities for those interested in becoming a computer professional. However, a degree is not always necessary, especially if the job applicant has extensive knowledge or experience in a specific sector of the computer industry. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in computer programming, networking, research, administration, security and engineering generally require a bachelor’s degree or higher. In these fields, computer professionals have an average median salary above $70,000 per year.
A computer professional can work in virtually any industry. Government agencies, hospitals and other medical institutions, educational facilities and a host of private industries hire computer professionals with basic and advanced computer knowledge. This knowledge often centers around computer hardware or computer software. Computer hardware professionals work with the physical components that make up a computer system, such as the motherboard, central processing unit and hard drive. Computer software professionals work with the programs that enable computers to perform specific tasks, such as a word processor or operating system.
