What is the salary difference between computer scientist and applied IT graduate in Denmark?

Computer scientists start with a higher salary - typically 3,000-8,000 kr./md. more at the start. A newly graduated computer scientist can expect 47,500-49,500 kr./md., while a newly graduated applied IT graduate typically starts at 38,500-46,000 kr./md. The difference narrows over time depending on career path.

What is IDA's recommended minimum salary for newly graduated computer scientists?

IDA's recommended minimum salary for newly graduated cand.scient. (including computer scientists) is approximately 47,800 kr./md. in the private sector in 2026.

Can an applied IT graduate (datamatiker) earn as much as a computer scientist in the long run?

Yes - through specialisation and active career development. Datamatikere who move toward Tech Lead, IT Architect or the consultancy path can reach 68,000-80,000 kr./md. with 15+ years of experience.

When does the applied IT path pay better than computer science?

Applied IT graduates reach the job market 2.5 years faster - and the accumulated salary difference over 10 years is 1-1.5 million kr. in total income. Many SMEs and startups value practical skills over academic background, and the student loan period is shorter.

Guide

Computer Scientist vs Applied IT Graduate Salary in Denmark 2026

Last updated: 01-04-2026

Computer science (datalog) and applied IT (datamatiker) are two of the most popular routes into the Danish IT sector. But what is the actual difference in salary, career path, and what each degree opens up for you?

What Is the Difference Between the Degrees?

Computer Scientist (cand.scient.)

A 5-year university degree from ITU, DTU, DIKU (KU), AAU, or SDU. Deep focus on algorithm theory, system design, AI, distributed systems, and mathematics. Strong foundation in abstract problem-solving.

Applied IT Graduate (datamatiker)

A 2.5-year practice-oriented degree from a university college (KEA, UCN, VIA, UCL, and others). Focus on hands-on software development. Graduates enter the job market faster and build practical experience from day one.

Starting Salary: Computer Scientist vs Applied IT Graduate

Degree	Starting Salary (East)	Starting Salary (West)
Computer Scientist (master's)	49,500 kr./md.	47,500 kr./md.
Applied IT Graduate (prof. bachelor)	43,000-46,000 kr./md.	38,500-43,000 kr./md.

Computer scientists start with a higher salary - typically 3,000-8,000 kr./md. more. IDA's recommended minimum salary for newly graduated cand.scient. is approximately 47,800 kr./md. in the private sector (2026).

Salary Progression Over Your Career

Role	Median Salary	Responses
Software Developer	54,008 kr./md.	940
Data Scientist	55,860 kr./md.	111
Tech Lead	72,360 kr./md.	97
IT Architect	68,040 kr./md.	132

Know Your Market Value

Regardless of which degree you hold, the most important thing is knowing your current market value based on your specific job title, experience, and region.

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