Top 10 Computer Science Skills to Highlight on Your Resumé

Whether you’re currently earning your master’s degree in computer science, looking to advance your current role, or want to pursue a computer science career, there are a few critical steps you can take to help yourself stand out from the competition. One of the most important things you should do is enhance your resume and make sure you have the essential computer science skills wanted by employers.

Because computer science is such an in-demand career choice, you want to take every opportunity available to showcase your talent.  To get you started, check out this list of the top computer skills to highlight on your resume. 

Hard computer science skills

Hard skills are the technical skills that you must learn and comprehend — these will most likely be used on a daily basis at work. Here is a guide of the most in-demand technical skills to help advance your computer science career:

1) Programming languages

It probably goes without saying that programming languages are an absolute necessity when it comes to a career in computer science. There are a myriad of different programming languages and you should make it a priority to be familiar with as many as you can. The more you grow in your career, the more knowledge you must have about programming. 

Programming languages can also change depending on the industry you’re working in. While some are widely used across all industries, others are industry specific. Some of the most common languages you should have experience with include:

• C++

• C#

• C

• GO

• Java

• JavaScript

• PHP

• Python

• R

• Swift

Remember that on average, employers only spend six to seven second per resume. You should have your resume designed in a way that will allow the hiring manager to easily and quickly spot these skills. Consider listing these under a “coding languages” heading, or under the general “skills” section. 

2) Data analysis

Just being able to collect or program data might not cut it anymore. Employers want to know if you’re able to interpret data so you can understand what strategic decisions have to be made and why. When you highlight your data analysis skills on your resume, you’re demonstrating to employers that you’re willing to dive deep into the decision making process and truly understand the work being done. 

 With each project comes a learning opportunity. Data analysis helps you analyze what worked and what needs to be adjusted so you can revise it in the future. These decisions impact business in the moment but also down the road — interpreting data that affects these changes is key to success. 

3) Technical writing

Having the proper skills and knowledge to complete a task is important, but so is being able to explain the process and provide direction to others within IT situations. Now, technical writing isn’t like the writing you did for essays and papers in college. Technical writing involves being able to write articles and reports in a coherent manner that properly explain in detail the project using correct terminology. This lets your employer know you’ll be an asset when it comes to giving presentations and helping to train others. 

4) Software development

Software development is a highly valuable skill to put down on your computer science resume. Because software development is rarely created by a single person, having this skill demonstrates your ability to write code and programs in collaboration with others. You’ll also be key in the testing of programs and troubleshooting areas that need improvement. Employers want computer scientists with diverse skills to ensure all software programs are fully functional.

5) Cloud skills

In recent years, many businesses and organizations have moved their processing, securing, storage, and other technological needs off-site and into the cloud. This transition has made cloud computing one of the most in-demand skills within IT and can also increase your computer science salary. If you want to take on the challenge of learning cloud skills, here are some to focus on:

• Security

• Evaluation of various services

• Data migration and deployment

• Application Programming Interfaces (APIs)

• Management of integrated environments

• Database and network maintenance 

• Machine learning AI

• Experience with various cloud platforms 

Soft computer science skills

Unlike hard skills, soft computer science skills are intangible qualities that impact your productivity, efficiency, and interaction with co-workers. Employers want to see that you have a strong work ethic and unique traits that bring a positive vibe to the work environment. Here are some of the most essential business skills business are looking for:

1) Time management

More often than not, IT jobs have deadlines for almost every assignment and every project. As a computer scientist you must be able to juggle multiple tasks at once. Time management is crucial for success so you can prioritize, quickly transition from one project to the next, and stay on time and on budget. Showing employers you have effective time management skills lets them know you can stay on top of assignments, meet deadlines, and work in an efficient and productive manner. 

2) Attention to detail

Due to the nature of what computer scientists do, there is very little room for error. One small mistake in a long line of codes can cause the entire software program to malfunction. Having strong attention to detail means you have an eye for small details. You may be able to look at complex coding for long hours at a time and be able to notice any errors that are causing problems. These small details can make the difference between a project’s success or failure.  

3) Teamwork

Regardless of the role you choose in the IT industry, teamwork is a non-negotiable skill. It takes a group of minds to brainstorm ideas, problem solve, and properly execute a project from start to finish. 

There are always going to be bumps in the road and you should know how to work with your team in order to stop, analyze the problem, and come up with a solution. Hiring managers want to hire someone who they can trust will be a team player, help where needed, and can divide and conquer tasks. 

4) Creativity 

Computer science doesn’t just require you to be logical all the time, there is also room for you to bust out your creative skills. In fact, thinking creatively isn’t just helpful, it’s encouraged. Computer science focuses on programs and websites which have to look good for their users. 

Along with wanting the actual program and site to look pleasant, creativity also comes in hand when problem solving. Listing this skill on your resume tells the employer that you’ll think outside of the box to come up with innovative solutions. 

5) Communication

You’ve probably heard the expression “communication is key” before. Well, it’s absolutely true. In the role of computer scientist, you’ll be talking to co-workers, managers, supervisors, and clients. If you’re lacking in communication skills, it can be hard to properly explain projects to others as well as give the right information. 

Excellent communication also means you are able to identify the needs of others and let them know how you can help. When hiring managers see this skill on your resume, they’ll know you take it seriously and find it important to build relationships through effective communication.    

Develop the skills employers want with NJIT 

Gaining all the necessary skills needed to advance your IT career can be difficult without taking the proper training. When you decide to earn your master’s degree in computer science, you’re giving yourself the best chance at impressing employers with your solid skills. At NJIT, you can even pursue graduate studies online so you have time to learn without putting your current job on hold. 

Earn your master’s degree in computer science from NJIT and gain valuable experience, knowledge, and resources that will help make your resume stand out. Apply now to start developing your computer science career.