Ready to learn Data Science? Browse Data Science Training and Certification courses developed by industry thought leaders and Experfy in Harvard Innovation Lab.
If you’re interested in a career in tech, you have a lot of options. The great news is that most tech jobs are expected to grow 13% from 2016-2026, and the average median salary for these careers was $84,580 in 2017, more than double the average for other occupations at $37,690.
Following your interests is a great place to start when choosing a career path, but it also makes sense to look for jobs that have strong growth potential. Some of these jobs might require that you gain additional skills, or even go back to school for a new degree, but the effort can really pay off. Here are 5 of the tech careers that are expected to boom in 2019—could one of them be the perfect fit for you?
1. Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts play a key role in modern business operations. With data breaches on the rise, companies need skilled analysts who can investigate and prevent security breaches through monitoring, analysis, and proactive investigation. They also help companies come up with response plans should a breach occur, because cybercriminals are becoming more sophisticated all the time.
To become an information security analyst, you’ll need at least a bachelor’s in computer science. Some roles require an MBA or another master’s degree. You’ll also need experience in security or systems administration.
Median salary: $92,600
2. Computer & Information Research Scientist
If exploring the limits of what computers can do sounds exciting, then becoming a computer & information research scientist might be for you. These researchers test the limits of existing technology and come up with new ways to use computing power. This career is applicable in a wide range of industries, including criminal justice—a good example is CompStat, which helps agencies collect and analyze crime trends. In 2011, 79% of medium to large police departments were using it. This is just one example of computer & information research in action, however. There are so many ways this field is helping other industries run more effectively.
Although some research scientists can get by with a bachelor’s degree, most openings for computer & information scientists require a master’s degree in computer science. It’s a field that’s exciting and fulfilling, but requires patience, creativity, and curiosity.
3. Forensic Nurse
Forensic nursing is a growing field that straddles many different industries, including tech, law, and medicine. Forensic nurses need to be able to use digital photography to collect evidence, understand legal issues, and be able to provide both medical and psychiatric care to victims. Their role is to analyze, collaborate, and serve the needs of victims. For people with an interest in forensics and a desire to help victims of violent crimes, forensic nursing can be a great choice.
Forensic nurses must have an associate’s degree or a bachelor’s degree in nursing, and usually specialize in at least one other field, such as sexual assault, death investigation, forensic psychiatric nursing, or medical legal counseling.
Median salary: $81,800
4. Data Scientist
Data scientists use programming and analysis skills to leverage data and answer questions that can help companies become more efficient or serve their customers better. With the massive amount of data now available to us, the demand for data scientists will remain strong. It is estimated that by 2019, there will be a shortage of 250,000 workers to fill open jobs.
Most data scientists have a master’s degree, and although there are now programs in data science, a background in programming and databases plus certifications like Microsoft Certified Database Administrator or Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional can also be sufficient for getting hired as a data scientist.
5. Cloud Architect/Computer Network Architect
Everything that is connected to the Internet needs to run on a network, and computer network architects build those networks. Now that everything is beginning to move to the cloud, cloud architects in particular will be in high demand in 2019. Everything from large corporations to smart cities need functional networks, and it’s a great time to join the field.
Generally, you need a bachelor’s degree in computer science to become a network architect.
Choosing the Field That’s Right For You
These jobs are all demanding, interesting, and well-paid. If you don’t see something that suits your interests, however, don’t worry. There are plenty of other hot tech jobs besides these five. You just might have to do a little exploring to find out what’s right for you!
