Career Opportunities

Data science is an interdisciplinary field focused on extracting insights from (often very large) datasets. Wherever data are generated or collected, there is work for data scientists; by gathering, cleaning and analysing data, they uncover insights that lead to better decision-making and problem-solving. Key application areas include healthcare, finance, marketing, and the generally analysis of business data.

When data scientists also have a solid understanding of economics, and specifically business administration, they can more easily provide accurate interpretations of business data. This increases the value that data scientists from the University of St.Gallen can bring to companies.

Back to the Overview

Development itself is a core competency of computer scientists. A common application of this competency in the professional environment is software development. However, computer scientists can also develop more abstract things, such as innovative product ideas, new approaches or even entire companies. Typical roles include application developer, software engineer, project manager, product developer, or product researcher.

Especially when it comes to larger software projects or product development, a basic understanding of business concepts and contexts is helpful. Equally useful is the integrative and holistic way of thinking that is typical of the University of St. Gallen. Our graduates intuitively integrate different perspectives and contextual frameworks into their decision-making.

Back to the Overview

Having computer scientists in the core team when founding a company has become the norm. Why? There are various reasons for this, which also illustrate how computer science education at a business university is particularly valuable:

• Technology has become the foundation of products;
• The scalability and the automation of technological solutions are considered key competitive advantages;
• Data-driven, rapid decision-making leads to more precise business development; and
• Computer scientists are efficient and effective problem solvers, and this set of skills is applicable in all fields, providing a decisive advantage especially during the critical startup phase of a company.

Back to the Overview

Consulting firms sell advisory services to other organisations to help solve their problems. These issues can affect all areas of an organisation. Typical use cases include optimising companies and their processes, improving products, driving the digital transformation of businesses, and conducting forward-looking market analyses. In this context, computer scientists are especially valuable as they bring structured thinking, deep technical understanding and strong problem-solving skills to the issues at stake.

Computer scientists with business acumen also have easier access to understanding business models, corporate structures, legal frameworks, and strategic business decisions.

Back to the Overview

Subject matter experts possess not only a solid foundational knowledge in computer science but also a specialisation in which they hold particular expertise. Such expertise is typically gained through advanced education, such as a master's or even a doctoral degree. Subject matter experts can apply their knowledge to a wide range of activities:

• Consulting and recommendations (e.g. for governments, company leadership, or employees);
• Research and analysis (e.g. identifying the cause of cyberattacks);
• Education (e.g. as course instructors);
• Problem-solving (especially for issues of critical importance or when others have been unable to find solutions); and
• Evaluation of new technologies and tools.

Back to the Overview