Computing Careers & Disciplines: A Quick Guide for Prospective Students and Career Advisors

Author(s) Randy Connolly, Janet Miller and Faith-Michael Uzoka
Publisher CERIC
ISBN 978-1-988066-91-2

Synopsis

The field of computing has evolved rapidly in recent years, and students need better information about the field and its many related careers. Data science, AI and cybersecurity have emerged as significant forces in the computing industry, with new career pathways emerging.   

The third edition of this guide (2025), produced by Mount Royal University and funded by CERIC, answers these three questions. 

  • Why should you consider computing when choosing a career?
  • What kind of computing jobs are out there? 
  • What kind of education pathways will guide you to the computing career you desire? 

The guide outlines the seven main computing disciplines identified by the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM), as well as several other popular computing specializations. It explores how the disciplines relate to specific job titles and tasks, and lists sample degrees, core courses and other educational pathways.

The seven computing disciplines are: 

  • Computer engineering 
  • Computer science 
  • Cyber security 
  • Data science 
  • Information systems 
  • Information technology
  • Software engineering 

The guide also touches on four other specializations: bioinformatics, network technology, game development, and artificial intelligence and machine learning. 

Additionally, the updated Computing Disciplines features more content on BIPOC professionals in tech and includes additional information on educational pathways in the North. 

The guide is designed to support prospective students, career practitioners, academic advisors, school/career counsellors and parents. It will help students understand the many educational pathways into computing careers, as well as which disciplines best suit their interests, talents, skills and abilities. The guide is also relevant to a broad demographic of Canadians exploring a career in the computing disciplines.  

Computing Careers & Disciplines: A Quick Guide for Prospective Students and Career Advisors, 3rd edition
22 MB 1 file(s)
Disciplines et carrières en informatique : guide rapide à l’intention des étudiants et des conseillers en orientation – 3e Édition
26.21 MB 1 file(s)

Get Your Copy

  • Download the free epdf
  • Purchase bulk copies (10 or more) at $11 through CERIC by contacting sales@ceric.ca.

Reviews

Paula Pothier, Student Services Advisor, Nova Scotia Community College, NS

“SO impressive – I didn’t think you could possibly improve on the last edition, but you certainly have. Kudos!”

Trevor Lehmann, Career Counsellor, University of Manitoba, MB

“A fantastic guide to introduce students to computing disciplines using engaging infographics. A very helpful overview of the computing professions that can serve as a springboard into career conversations around computer-related occupations.”

T. Mackenzie, Co-operative Education, Memorial University of Newfoundland, NL

“Check out CERIC’s updated and very helpful guide to computing careers – it’s great for students and those of us who advise them, but also for employers who’d like to better understand the differences between various computing disciplines.”

Jana McDonald, Career Advisor, University of Guelph, ON

“Fabulous resource I use with my students. Anyone interested in learning more about computing, it’s a nice easy read!”

Michelle Francis-Doyle, RSW Employment Counselor, PETL- Post Secondary Education Training & Labour, NB

“Thank you both for creating and providing the career world with the Computing Disciplines – ‘A Quick Guide for Prospective Students & Career Advisors.’ This was a much needed resource and is absolutely a pleasure to read, easy to work with and effective for supporting exploration. I am very excited to put this to good use with my team and my clients!”

Charmaine Rodrick, Career Resource Advisor, Trent University Career Centre, ON

“Thank you for the wonderful resource you funded on Computing Disciplines.  It is clearly presented and will be very helpful for advisors and students.  I will pass it along to many who many find it useful.”

Kristina Rourke, Program Manager, Campus SAT Youth, QC

“A huge thank you for this guide, it is super relevant and I intend to share it with our camp counsellors.”

Webinar Recording – Third edition

FROM THE AUTHORS