Have you been searching for a computer science degree program in Virginia? Many potential career paths result from earning a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science. One important role is that of a Quality Assurance (QA) tester. Fairfax University of America, with a Virginia campus in the Washington, D.C., area, explains how computer science skills are used by QA testers in today’s innovative technology sector.
If you enjoy making technology work better, QA testing might be the job for you! These detail-oriented, curious members of the computer and software development team provide the necessary service of finding errors. But it doesn’t stop there – QA testers also help solve problems, using the advanced tools and strong computer science skills they have acquired. They are key to maintaining high standards for the industry, and this role has definite economic value to the companies and institutions who are engaged in bringing new programs and products to market.
As important members of the development process, QA testers work on software, video games, web platforms, communication networks, and other digital products. These computer science professionals are figuring out why the system crashes, where a virus may be hidden, or what causes that game function to fail. They must know computer languages and have the ability to write code and generate reports. QA testers often are responsible for calculating risks, which involves statistical tools and understanding.
It’s also imperative that QA testers have good communication skills. This is a focus of the School of Computer and Information Systems at Fairfax University of America. When students in our computer science program can communicate effectively with a variety of colleagues and team members, the development process can move forward more efficiently and profitably.
A frequent aspect of the QA tester job description is designing and implementing tests on software programs or various types of computer networks and systems. They adopt the perspective of the customers for the technology, and so are as crucial during the initial stage of creating new products and determining the needs of the customer base, as they are at the end stage when QA testers identify bugs and other problems that must be solved before new products come onto the market. And as products receive further development after their launch, or the software is upgraded, QA testers continue to help maintain quality standards and usability for the customers.
In general terms, a QA tester performs the following functions:
The median pay for quality assurance analysts and testers was $110,140 in May 2020, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Top industries hiring these professionals include software publishers, the manufacturing sector, management companies, computer systems designers, and insurance companies. Opportunities are projected to grow between 2020 and 2030. QA testers who are well organized, enjoy logical reasoning, and are diplomatic in their communications style likely will have opportunities to advance in responsibilities and earnings. An important element in career advancement is staying up-to-date with technology and testing systems and strategies.
Some economic areas and technologies fueling the need for QA testers with a computer science background are:
With a bachelor’s degree in computer science, our graduates are on their way to fascinating and well-paid careers as QA testers. The program provides a focus on the leadership and communication skills that help our graduates flourish and prosper. Computer science curriculum course descriptions include the study of algorithms, programming, mathematics, database concepts, and computer security. In addition to a well-rounded general studies curriculum, students learn how to effectively lead teams and whole organizations, with a thorough immersion in organizational structures and psychology.
If you or your child is interested in learning more about computer science and QA testing in Virginia, request information about our small class sizes, family values, and community orientation. We also welcome students who want to gain greater proficiency in the English language with our English Language for Academic Communication (ESL) program. Request information or submit an application online to Fairfax University of America today.