What Computer Science Skills You Need to Succeed

Computer science involves much more than writing code. It blends technical knowledge —like programming, algorithms and data systems — with soft skills, such as communication and problem-solving.

Succeeding in this field requires both. You’ll need to know how to write and test software, work with data and communicate your ideas clearly. These skills are important not just in the classroom, but throughout your career.

Whether you're just starting out or looking to grow in the field, understanding the most important computer science skills can help guide your next steps.

What Are The Top 5 Computer Science Skills?

Computer science professionals rely on a wide range of skills to solve problems, develop technology and support innovation across industries. While technical knowledge is essential, it's not the only thing that matters.

Developing the right skills can help you grow in your computer science career. Here are 5 key areas to focus on.

Software Development and Programming

A strong foundation in programming is essential in computer science. Even if you're not coding often, understanding how software is built, tested and maintained allows you to contribute effectively to technical projects.

Dr. Francis Manning, an adjunct professor at Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) with over three decades of experience in the information technology (IT) field, noted the lasting value of programming basics. “Even if you don't use code daily, understanding the basics of programming helps you better understand how the software you use works,” he said.

Sindhu Chellappa, an SNHU instructor in IT and analytics and member of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE), added that learning multiple programming languages — such as Python, Java and C++ — along with tools like Git for version control, can help you build stronger development skills. “These tools help manage changes and support teamwork,” she said.

Read more: What is Computer Programming?

Data and System Management

Understanding how computer systems operate is a core part of working in the field. This includes how software and hardware behave, as well as how to organize and manage data through databases.

Chellappa said that having some knowledge of system architecture supports everything from troubleshooting to designing more efficient programs. “A basic understanding of how computer systems work helps you know how software and hardware interact,” she said. She also noted that working with databases is central to many roles in computer science, making it a practical and widely used skill.

Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking

Solving problems is at the heart of computer science. Whether you're debugging code, designing an algorithm or analyzing system performance, the ability to break down complex challenges and think logically is critical.

Dr. Swapnil Chhabra, a computer science professor at SNHU and an IEEE member, emphasized that strong problem-solving skills are essential in both classroom learning and professional practice. These skills are supported by a deeper understanding of topics like algorithms and data structures, which help professionals build more efficient solutions.

“These skills are vital for building software and solving technical problems,” said Chellappa.

Read more: What are Soft Skills? 

Technical Communication

Knowing how to communicate technical ideas clearly is just as important as developing them. This skill helps you collaborate with team members, explain your work to stakeholders and contribute to shared goals.

Manning highlighted the importance of this often-overlooked area. “Clearly explaining your ideas is equally important to the technical knowledge itself,” he said.

Good communication can make the difference between a great idea being understood — or overlooked.

Business and Real-World Context

The most effective computer science professionals understand how their work connects to larger goals. Whether it's helping a business meet objectives or improving a user experience, knowing the "why" behind your work can influence how you design, prioritize and deliver solutions.

Chhabra acknowledged the value of this mindset, noting that connecting technical decisions to broader goals is what brings meaning and impact to your work. “Understanding the ‘why’ behind your work is critical,” he said.

Which Skill is Most in Demand for Computer Science?

Among the many important skills in computer science, soft skills — especially communication — are often in highest demand. "Communication is the number one soft skill," said Manning. He noted that strong communication skills, combined with technical skills, can position you well for a wide range of opportunities in the field.

Chhabra agreed, noting that expressing ideas and effective presentation skills are important. "I still remember a project presentation during my undergraduate studies," he said. "I had spent months doing in-depth research and collecting relevant papers, but I hadn't taken the time to organize my thoughts or practice giving the talk."

While he said he was just 18 at the time, the experience is still one he uses as a lesson today. "Great ideas matter, but how you communicate them is just as important," he said.

How Can You Build Your Computer Science Skills?

You can build computer science skills through activities like coding clubs, hackathons, internships and research, according to Chellappa. "Open-source contributions, certifications and personal projects also help build a strong portfolio," she said.

Some computer science programs include opportunities to build a portfolio as part of the coursework. Dr. Albanie Bolton, an adjunct instructor at SNHU with more than 15 years of industry experience — including work with NASA — said that many of the courses she teaches have students set up a GitHub account to save the projects they complete throughout the program.

She noted that having a portfolio is important because it gives you something concrete to show employers. It can highlight your coding skills, the types of projects you've worked on and how you approach problem-solving.

"Working on those projects helps to ultimately build that arsenal of information," she said. "It ultimately helps to demonstrate that passion, initiative and drive that you have to showcase your portfolio of information to whatever employer or whoever you're deciding to work with in the future."

Nicholas Patterson ’22 is a writer and alumnus of Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU), where he earned his bachelor’s degree in English and creative writing. He is currently honing his craft further as he pursues an MFA in Creative Writing from SNHU. Connect with him on LinkedIn.