The Future of Computer Science: 4 Emerging Technologies and Trends (2024)

The Future of Computer Science: 4 Emerging Technologies and Trends

With technology advancing at an unprecedented rate, the future of computer science holds exciting new developments that are impacting the career field. This blog will explore 4 top technologies that are trending in the computer science industry.

The Future of Computer Science: 4 Emerging Technologies and Trends

As a student interested in Computer Science, it is important to stay up to date with the exciting developments and innovations that are shaping the field as it can help you choose a specialization, gain competitive advantage, and adapt to changes. Staying ahead of the curve in the tech world is essential for students and professionals alike as it grants industry-relevant skills and keeps individuals competitive in the field. From well-known and widespread technologies like AI to the rapidly-emerging field of extended reality, students are presented with a diverse array of opportunities to engage and excel in the ever-evolving landscape of computer science.

1. Artificial Intelligence

It is not surprising that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is a leading trend in the computer science field. There are numerous AI applications in computer science growing at a rapid rate, including image recognition, robotics, and even self-modifying code. AI can be a helpful tool in optimizing various processes and tasks across a wide spectrum of industries, such as healthcare, finance, marketing, cybersecurity, and many more. AI-powered systems can analyze vast datasets, identify patterns, and make predictions, enabling businesses to make informed decisions and streamline their workflows.

In the engineering field, AI is helpful in developing designs, structures, and programs as it can create simulation and learn from past data in order to predict outcomes and identify potential problems. Another wonderful example of how AI is taking the future by storm is within healthcare, where AI is making strides in revolutionizing diagnostics through image recognition, aiding in the early detection of diseases.

As AI continues to impact various industries, there is an increasing demand for skilled professionals who can design, develop, implement, and maintain AI systems. AI as a required skill for many jobs is expected to increase 65 percent by 2030. Job roles such as Machine Learning Engineer, Data Scientist, and AI Researcher, are growing within different industries. NJIT’s MS in Computer Science will complement any Bachelor’s degree, as AI isn’t just a growing trend within the technology field, but in a variety of career fields. NJIT also offers an Online Certificate in Artificial Intelligence, which is a great way to boost your skills and resume.

2. Cyber security and data privacy

With the rapid increase in the use of technology, it is unsurprising that cyber security, the protection of computer systems and networks from malicious attacks, would be on the list of trends in the computer science industry. Computer Engineers, or Information Security Engineers, are tasked with developing and designing secure software and hardware systems. These engineers must identify vulnerabilities in such systems and find and test solutions to ensure its security against cyberthreats. Cybersecurity is a critical component of computer science, especially in this day in age of rapidly advancing technology, as it is essential to safeguarding systems and data from cyberattacks.

Information Security occupations are expected to grow 32 percent from 2022 to 2032, with a median wage of about $110k, making it one of the fastest-growing and well-compensated fields in the job market. An educational background in computer science, information systems, and computer engineering can help you break into this lucrative career field. NJIT offers certificates, undergraduate, and graduate degrees in each of these areas of study. If you’re looking to branch into the world of cybersecurity, NJIT’s online or may be for you.

3. Extended Reality

One of the most exciting fields, growing by a whopping 23.5% in 2023, is Extended Reality, or XR. XR is an umbrella term that includes Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), and Mixed Reality (MR), each offering a unique blend of digital and physical experiences. Job roles in XR, such as XR Developer, AR/VR Maintenance and Support Technician, and XR Gameplay Engineer, are in high demand as industries increasingly recognize the transformative potential of Extended Reality.

Virtual Reality (VR) is a simulated 3D environment that allows users to interact in a completely virtual setting. VR has gained widespread recognition in the entertainment industry, standing out as a pivotal technology in video gaming and beyond. But VR also has useful applications across multiple industries, including healthcare, education, and even marketing.

One of technology's most fascinating feats, Augmented Reality (AR), is revolutionizing processes across industries. The AR market is expected to grow nearly 40 percent from 2023 to 2030. AR is a technological innovation that overlays digital information, such as images, videos, and 3D models, onto the real world, creating an immersive experience for users. AR has many useful applications, including in interior design and modeling, where users can visualize the final design, or in medical training where students can learn human anatomy via AR headsets.

Mixed Reality (MR) combines aspects of both VR and AR, creating an environment where physical and digital objects coexist and interact. This merging opens up new possibilities, particularly in industries like manufacturing and design. For example, engineers can create and test virtual prototypes and train employees in a safe and controlled environment.

4. Robotic Process Automation

The future is here with the transformative power of Robotic Process Automation (RPA). RPA, also known as software robotics, streamlines repetitive business tasks and routines using intelligent automation technologies. RPA involves the use of software robots, bots, to automate repetitive processes, allowing organizations to achieve operational efficiency, reduce costs, and enhance overall productivity. You may be familiar with some of these processes, such as automatic payroll processing or call center automation. But RPA is being increasingly adopted in various businesses and its market is growing exponentially.

RPA has many useful applications in businesses, such as data entry, invoice processing, customer service, supply chain management, and financial transactions. As RPA continues to evolve, its integration with other emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, is expanding its capabilities, making it an exciting field for students and professionals looking to contribute to the ongoing transformation of business processes.

Embracing the future of computer science

The technology field is evolving at a rapid pace that opens a plethora of opportunities, challenges, and careers. As a Computer Science student at NJIT, you will gain the necessary technical skills to succeed in any new emerging technological advancements. NJIT’s graduate and certificate programs in the Ying Wu College of Computing will provide you with a solid foundation of computer science principles and equip you with the agility to adapt to the dynamic changes in the tech landscape. Embrace the future of technology and become a part of innovation at NJIT. Apply today!