Should I Study Computer Science This Summer?

Rhys Mackenzie
5 min read
August 25, 2026
Should I Study Computer Science This Summer
TABLE OF CONTENT

Are you thinking of entering the computing or technology sectors after university? If so, you’re in luck. According to a recent study conducted by Comparably, data scientists have the highest annual entry-level salary in the United States, making an average of $110,850 (about £84,000). This means that for those with 1-3 years of work experience in the data science field, the salaries are highest compared to all other fields in the US.

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In fact, all six of the top paying entry level jobs in the US involved a tech and computers focus. Rounding out the top six were product managers, developers, mobile developers, sales engineers, and DevOps engineers, all of which averaged above $80,000 as a starting salary (about £68,000). The salaries tended to be higher in areas with a large focus in tech jobs (Silicon Valley, New York, and Seattle), where the average pay in these areas was approximately $145,000 (about £110,000).This study is further proof that the technology sector is moving at an incredibly fast pace, and that jobs in the technology and computing sector are in high demand. Even if you are not directly involved in computer programming on a daily basis, for example, in a product management role where you work with engineering experts, the skills associated with the tech sector are in high demand in most fields. Knowledge of Python, SQL, HTML, CSS and Heroku are all invaluable when searching for a job, and will become even more valuable as these skills become commonplace.

If you're interested in computers but aren't yet sure about your future career, Atlas Summer Courses offers technology and computer science programmes for students aged 9–24. For younger learners (9–12), the Technology Explorers programme introduces coding, digital creativity, electronics, engineering, and problem-solving through interactive, hands-on activities. Students aged 13–15 can study Computer Science, exploring programming, software development, and computational thinking in small seminar-style classes. As Atlas Summer Courses does not follow a fixed curriculum, topics are adapted to the interests of each group.

Through practical workshops and interactive sessions, you’ll dive deeper into the tools used to build websites and create apps. In the computer science courses for 16-17 and 18-24 year olds, you will gain a deeper understanding of the programmes used in technology and computer science, which will set you apart as an applicant to university and or employers. The programme offers an introduction to Python (syntax uses, applications), frameworks, HTML, CSS and SQL. You will have the chance to complete a project where you will build a sample blog application and deploy Heroku.

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About the author

Rhys Mackenzie
Website Marketing Manager

Rhys Mackenzie is responsible for creating and maintaining educational content at Atlas Summer Courses, helping students and families access clear, accurate information about studying in Oxford. With several years of experience in digital content and student-focused resources, Rhys specialises in presenting academic programmes in a way that reflects the quality and integrity of Atlas Summer Courses' academic offering. Learn more about Rhys here.

Summary

High-paying entry-level tech jobs in the US: data scientists earn $110,850, followed by product managers, developers, and more. Tech skills are in high demand.

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