The broad applicability of computer science offers numerous opportunities for professional fulfillment. On this page, we highlight key areas of activity available for computer science graduates. We also discuss how the business skills acquired through our programme benefit our graduates.
As a computer science graduate you will unlock a wide range of career opportunities spanning fields like technology consulting, product management, business analysis, data science, software engineering and entrepreneurship.
Data Science (e.g., big data analytics, machine learning, artificial intelligence)
Development (e.g., software developer, software engineer, product development
Entrepreneurship (e.g., founder of a tech startup, business developer)
Consulting (e.g., with a focus on IT strategy, data security, general problem-solving)
Technical Expert (e.g., in artificial intelligence, data protection, cybersecurity)
Development is a fundamental skill for computer scientists. While software development is a common application of this expertise in professional settings, computer scientists are also adept at developing more abstract concepts, such as innovative product ideas, novel methodologies, or even entire companies. Common roles in this field 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 particularyl valuable. Equally important is the integrative and holistic way of thinking fostered at the University of St. Gallen. Our graduates intuitively integrate different perspectives and contextual frameworks into their decision-making processes.
Data Science is an interdisciplinary field dedicated to extracting valuable insights from (often very large) datasets. Wherever data is generated or collected, there is a demand for skilled data scientists. By gathering, cleaning, and analysing data, they uncover patterns and gain insights that drived informed decision-making and effective problem-solving. Key application areas include healthcare, finance, marketing, and generally analysing business data.
Data scientists with a strong foundation in economics and business administration are particularly well-equiped to deliver accurate interpretations of business data. This enhances the value that University of St.Gallen data scientists can bring to organisations.
Having computer scientists as part of the core team when founding a company has become standard practice. Why? There are various reasons for this, which also illustrate how computer science education at a business university is particularly valuable. Here are some examples include:
Consulting firms sell advisory services to other organizations to help solve their problems. These issues can affect all areas of an organization. Typical use cases include optimizing companies and their processes, improving products, driving the digital transformation of businesses, or 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.
Computer scientists with business acumen also have easier access to understanding business models, corporate structures, legal frameworks, and strategic business decisions.
Subject matter experts possess not only a solid foundational knowledge in computer science but are also specialised in one area in which they hold particular expertise. Such expertise is typically gained through advanced education, such as a master's or even a doctoral degree. Specialised experts can apply their knowledge across a wide range of activities, including:
The University of St.Gallen is committed to supporting its students, particularly in shaping their career paths. Many students feel uncertain about the options available to them and which paths might suit them best. To address this the Career Services Centre (CSC-HSG) offers personalised career planning and advisory services. Students can also participate workshops on essential topics such as crafting resumes and preparing for job interviews. Our Career Services Centre has an excellent reputation among our students and plays a crucial role in helping them with self-discovery and planning their next steps.
HSG Talents is a student-led initiative and is the official recruitment event of the University of St.Gallen, bringing together over 100 companies and more than 2,000 students annually. The event is organised by a dedicated student team with support from the Career & Corporate Services (CSC).
In collaboration with <it>rockt! and the Master in Business Innovation programme, we warmly invite our students to explore companies and career opportunities in an informal setting. Each May, company representatives and students come together in a bar in St.Gallen. The event beginns with brief introduction of the participating companies, followed by a relaxed mingling session where students and employeeds connect and network. In this casual format, students can gain valuable insights into real-world job activities while establishing connections that could lead to internships or full-time positions.
Each September, in partnership with <it>rockt! and the Master in Business Innovation programme, we invite our students to connect with company representatives at the Career & Cocktails event on the University of St.Gallen campus. The event starts with a short presentation of the paricipating companies, after which students and professionals have the opportunity to mingle and network in a relaxed setting, enjoying snacks and drinks. In this informal setting, students can gain a better understanding of day-to-day job responsibilities while also making connections that could lead to internships or job opportunities.
The University of St.Gallen hosts industry-specific career days for students each October. These events cater to various sectors, including consumer goods, law, industry, luxury goods, tech, and banking. These events feature workshops, meet-and-greets, informal gatherings, interviews, and more.