If you’re interested in computers and computer technology, why not consider one of the many computer science jobs in the military? The United States military is a driver of research and development in computer technology and an early adopter of computer science technology. Computer science technicians and experts contribute in many ways to the effectiveness, security, and reach of the military.
Computer Science Skills That the U.S. Military Needs
Computers have become an integral part of every aspect of daily life. As a result, the military faces an increasing need for trained and capable individuals who can apply their computer science experience in many ways. Experience in any of these fields can qualify candidates for computer science jobs in the military in many contexts in different locations around the world.
Artificial Intelligence Development
The military uses self-driving vehicles, drones, and other autonomous systems to keep its service personnel out of harm’s way and remove human error from many essential operational tasks.
Communications
A military cannot function without secure, reliable, rapid communications. As communication becomes more sophisticated, it depends on military software and hardware. Computer experts design, develop, and implement new communication technology and maintain existing communication networks.
Cryptology
Cybersecurity and communication security in the military depends on cryptology and codebreaking. Modern cryptologists use sophisticated information processing techniques to transmit messages securely and protect data.
Cybersecurity
Information security and cybersecurity are growing industries as malware, hacking, ransomware, and other computer threats become more common and sophisticated. Cybersecurity professionals in the U.S. military have the opportunity to work with cutting-edge software and military hardware, defending the U.S. military and infrastructure against emerging threats.
Data Analysis
The military depends on a vast array of information for decision-making, logistics, and administration. Experts in data analysis can contribute to military readiness by streamlining the ability to synthesize and interpret information effectively.
Information Technology
The computer infrastructure of the branches of the U.S. military is vast and complex. Information technology specialists keep the systems running, connected, and operating efficiently at many scales.
Intelligence Analysis
The U.S. military relies on information such as satellite photos, coded messages, reports, and other sources of information to understand the intent and capability of foreign adversaries.
Hardware Engineering
The machinery of the United States military, including weapons of war, contains sophisticated and expensive hardware that gives U.S. forces an edge on and off the battlefield. Yet, without maintenance, diagnostics, repair, and development experts, the United States military arsenal would stagnate and degrade.
Instructional Design
Military training is a crucial responsibility of every branch of the armed forces. Instructional designers with computer expertise develop multimedia resources, adaptive educational materials, and programs of instruction that prepare officers and enlisted service people for vital roles in the military.
Logistics
Generals have known throughout history that they cannot win battles without bringing troops and supplies to the battlefield at the right time in a condition to fight. Logistics experts enable U.S. forces to deploy rapidly and flexibly in various environments to outmaneuver and outgun their foes.
Programming
The U.S. military needs computer programmers to develop the software that controls its computerized assets and technology. Programmers also play a key role in identifying and exploiting weaknesses in the computer technology of their opponents.
Web Development
Like any institution in the 21st century, the military depends on an online presence for outreach, recruitment, communication, and internal operations. The military recruits web developers of the highest caliber to create, edit, protect, and optimize military websites.
Computer Science Positions in the Military
Depending on the type and level of computer science experience, you can pursue many different career paths in the military, in roles such as:
- Administrator
- Analyst
- Consultant
- Designer
- Developer
- Researcher
- Support Specialist
- Technician
Computer science experts use programming languages and techniques in many contexts, from smart technology and self-driving vehicles to e-commerce and web design. The skills you acquire through military service apply to many civilian positions. Many employers prefer applicants with military experience in the computer field.
Computer science experience could be the starting point for a career in any branch of the U.S. military. The Army, Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Marines, and the newly-formed Space Force all provide computer science jobs in the military.
What You Need for a Computer Science Job in the Military
A bachelor of science degree in computer science is a common starting point for many computer science jobs in the military. A master’s degree in computer science will also be an asset, particularly in specialized disciplines such as informatics, data analysis, instructional technology, and artificial intelligence.
In addition to four-year degrees, many colleges, universities, and educational companies provide additional opportunities to obtain credentials in computer science. It is easier than ever to learn programming languages, programming techniques, and the foundations of computer programming online. Some short-term online courses can give you college credits toward a degree program in computer science, particularly if you apply for a degree at the same institution that offers the online course.
Perks of Computer Science Positions in the Military
The continuous demand for computer science professionals is one reason why the branches of the military offer generous benefits to people interested in filling computer science positions. Many computer science jobs in the military often have paid time off, health insurance, retirement benefits, training, and funding for professional development.
Military service people could also qualify for federal support for low-interest mortgages and other federal programs. If you attend a university with many military students, ask your academic advisor on campus or contact the Veteran’s Administration for more information about benefits and support programs for military service people.
Prepare Yourself for a Lucrative and Meaningful Career with Computer Science in the Military
The MilitarySupportiveColleges.com website connects promising applicants with accredited colleges and universities that understand and support students as they prepare for a career in the military. Search our state-by-state map to find military-friendly academic institutions.
Visit MilitarySupportiveColleges.com to browse universities, learn about requirements for computer science jobs in the military, or talk to a consultant about how to achieve your potential in the computer science field.
