Computer science tutors assist people in learning a wide range of topics in this field, including those related to programming and various programming languages, database management, and operating systems. In many cases, a person with this title also helps individuals with complex math concepts involved in computing. To become a computer science tutor, you will have to gain expert knowledge of computer-related topics. You can gain this knowledge in a degree program or even, in some cases, by teaching yourself with the help of independent learning materials. Many employers will require a bachelor's or even a graduate degree in computer science, but you might qualify for some jobs while you are still in college, or you may be able to substitute skill and experience for formal education.
In order to become a computer science tutor, you will need expertise in this educational area. Earning a bachelor's degree can help you develop expertise in this subject and land a tutoring job, but you can also take advantage of some opportunities before you graduate from college. For example, if you are currently enrolled in a computer science degree program and performing well in it, you might find some people willing to hire you for this type of job. Often, however, tutoring jobs are offered to individuals who have completed most of their degree programs. If you are a junior or a senior, you may have a better chance of securing the job you want.
The amount of education you will need to become a computer science tutor will likely depend on the company or individual who hires you. Some computer companies, for example, prefer to hire tutors who have graduate degrees while others accept undergraduate-level education. An educational organization, however, may require you to have a bachelor's degree or to provide proof of current enrollment in college.
Individuals are often more flexible when hiring tutors. You may find some that prefer to hire candidates with bachelor's degrees as well as others who will happily employ college students as tutors. In fact, some people will hire tutors who have experience with computer science but little formal education.
You may need expert knowledge of a range of topics when you want to become a computer science tutor. For starters, you will likely need to be knowledgeable in advanced math topics, including calculus, college algebra, and statistics. You will need knowledge of computer organization, computer languages, operating systems, and computing theory as well. For some tutoring jobs, you will also need expertise with database management systems, discrete mathematics, security for information systems, and technical communications. These topics are among those in which most computer science experts are knowledgeable and skilled.
