There are many exciting and rewarding careers in computing, from building apps to training AI systems. This page explores what those careers look like, the education paths that can take you there, and how NMSU's Computer Science Department can support your journey.
Explore Careers in CS & AI
Sample Careers in Computing & AI
Here are just a few examples of where a background in Computer Science or Artificial Intelligence can lead you:
Software Developer
What they do: Build websites, apps, or backend systems.
Skills: JavaScript, Python, Git
Education: Bachelor's or bootcamp
AI/ML Engineer
What they do: Create systems that learn from data.
Skills: Python, TensorFlow, Data Science
Education: Bachelor's or Master's
Data Scientist
What they do: Analyze data to find patterns and insights.
Skills: Python, SQL, Statistics
Education: Bachelor's or Master's
Cybersecurity Analyst
What they do: Protect systems from threats and hackers.
Skills: Networking, Linux, Security+
Education: Certifications or Bachelor's
UX/UI Designer
What they do: Design how software looks and feels.
Skills: Figma, HTML/CSS, Accessibility
Education: Design degree or CS background
Robotics Engineer
What they do: Build and program intelligent robots.
Skills: C++, ROS, Control Systems
Education: Bachelor's or higher in Engineering/CS
Education Pathways into CS & AI
Middle & High School
- Camps (like YWiC), basic coding with Scratch, Python, robotics clubs
Community College or Certificate
- 2-year CS or IT programs
- Transfer opportunities to universities
Bachelor's Degree
- Study Computer Science or Data Science
- Focus on AI electives or research
Graduate School (optional)
- Master's or PhD in AI, Cybersecurity, Robotics, etc.
Study Computer Science at NMSU
NMSU offers a wide range of degree options in Computer Science and related fields, from undergraduate to doctoral levels. Whether you're interested in software development, cybersecurity, AI, or education, there's a pathway for you here.
Bachelor Degree(s) & Dual Degree(s)
- Computer Science (Algorithm Theory) – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Science (Artificial Intelligence) – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Science (Big Data and Data Science) – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Science (Computer Networking) – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Science (Cybersecurity) – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Science (Human Computer Interaction) – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Science (Secondary Education) – Bachelor of Arts
- Computer Science (Software Development) – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Science – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Science – Bachelor of Arts
- Cybersecurity – Bachelor of Science
Master Degree(s)
AI-Related Courses:
- CSCI 4425 - Introduction to Deep Learning
- CSCI 4405 - Artificial Intelligence I
- CSCI 4420 - Applied Machine Learning I
- CSCI 4415 - Introduction to Data Mining
Student Opportunities in AI & CS
- Participate in undergraduate research projects with NMSU faculty
- Get involved with the Young Women in Computing (YWiC) program as a mentor or instructor
- Attend coding workshops, AI seminars, and student-led hackathons
- Intern at labs like Los Alamos National Lab, Sandia, or U.S. Army DEVCOM
- Join NMSU student orgs like NM State Robotics, Google Student Developer Club, or Cybersecurity clubs
