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Training within the information technology industry can be
extensive, and many information technology schools and programs
can lead to a diverse set of career options. Information
technology degree holders can obtain certification for specific
skills, as well as take part in a specialized field for research
or data communications. An information technology degree allows
professionals to work in the field as a computer scientist,
database administrator, communications analyst, web developer,
and other computer or Internet-related position.
Types of Majors and
Specializations Offered at Information Technology School
Information Technology Schools
An information technology
career, or information technology degree program that concentrates in this
industry, offers many opportunities and specializations. Education requirements
for an information technology career can range from an associate’s degree to a
doctoral degree program. Some degree programs are offered through vocational
schools or technical institutions that feature an information technology school.
Longer information technology education programs are offered at universities and
colleges. Students may pursue Associate degree programs, Bachelor’s degrees, a
Doctoral program, or individual certification. The main branches of information
technology education and specializations can offer options as a:
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Computer Scientist
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Database Administrator
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Network Systems Analyst
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Data Communication Analysts
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Computer Specialist
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Computer and Information
Systems Manager
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Software Publisher
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Computer Software Engineer
Job Description and Responsibilities of Information Technology Degree Holders
Depending on the specialization
and skills, common responsibilities of information technology school graduates
may include:
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Exhibiting strong
communication skills
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Developing specialized skills
with additional training and certification
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Working and collaborating
with teams, and also working independently
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Assuming management roles and
lead a team of other information technology professionals
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Designing and implementing
software, hardware, and Internet-based projects
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Planning and developing new
computer systems
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Creating efficient systems
and processes
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Solving technical problems
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Conducting research
Computer systems analysts are
responsible for solving computer problems, and helping meet the technology needs
for the organization they work for. Training and experience from an information
technology education can help with a variety of career options. They may be
involved with troubleshooting, design and development of new systems, and making
recommendations for specific hardware and software applications. System analysts
may also work in the fields of system development or as a systems architect.
Programmer analysts are generally responsible for programming and system
analysis.
Computer scientists focus more
on the research and development fields, and often work in private industry.
Computer scientists can also obtain a formal information technology
education to grow in their career. They specialize in language
development, designing programming tools, knowledge-based systems, and even
computer game design. Database administrators may be involved with managing
software and organizing stored data, while network systems and data
communications analysts are responsible for designing, testing, and developing
efficient networks such as the Internet or other data communications systems.
Career Options With An Information Technology Degree
Students of an information technology school can choose to work
in:
Telecommuting is also an attractive option for an information technology career,
since the nature of the work allows the professional to use a standard home
office to correspond and communicate with their team.
Information Technology Degree Programs
Options for Vocational
Information Technology Education Students
Associate’s degree programs in
Information Technology are available. These an be classified as an Associate in
Arts or Associate of Science degree program, and common programs include:
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Information Systems
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Computer Networking and
Security Technology
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Internetworking Technology
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Software Engineering
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Computer Network Engineering
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Visual Communication
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Networking
These degree programs can train
students to develop skills in telecommunications, Internet protocol and
procedures, networking, help-desk operations, purchasing, decision making,
Internet programming, and Internet network administration.
Options for Information
Technology Education at Colleges and Universities
Information technology
education students enrolled in a 4-year college program at an area
college, online degree program, or other university, can take part in a variety
of specialized courses and programs. Most degree programs offer a
laboratory-based curriculum that allows for hands-on training and application of
current technologies. Students can learn the various integrated practices of
their specialization, and also learn about administrative procedures for
long-term management skills.
Students can gain a firm
understanding of computer programming language, operating systems, systems
security, computer networks, relational database systems, and other technical
areas. Each course can also prepare students for certification.
Bachelor degree programs in Information Technology generally fall under the
Bachelor of Science category, and may focus on technological information
systems, computing systems, instruction in computer hardware and software
principles, database management, telecommunications, algorithm design, user
tactics, and human interface design. Online bachelor degrees are also available,
offering the flexibility of obtaining a comprehensive course of study from a
distance.
Common
programs that provide necessary training for an information technology career
include:
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Information Systems
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Visual Communication
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Health Administration/Health Information Systems
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Information Systems Security
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Graphics & Multimedia
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Information Assurance and Security
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Project Management
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Web
Application Development
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Network Administration
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Computer Networking
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Database Technology
Information Technology Certification
During
or after their course of pursuing an information technology degree program,
students can also work towards certification. Information Technology
professionals may choose to pursue certification as a:
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Microsoft
Certified Database Administrator
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Microsoft
Certified Systems Administrator
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HP Certified
IT Professional
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IBM
Certified Enterprise Developer
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Oracle
Certified Professional Java Developer
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Sun
Certified Java Programmer
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Symantec
Certified Security Engineer
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Nortel
Networks Certified Network Architect
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Apple
Certified System Administrator
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Cisco
Certified Network Professional
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Certified
Information Systems Auditor
Each vendor of
the computer software or hardware program offers a range of certifications, and
many degree programs offer the skills and training needed to pass the exams.
Information Technology School Accreditation
Information
Technology
School
accreditation varies by state, region, and type of study. Students who pursue an
online degree program will find accreditation through regional accrediting
commissions. The Higher Learning Commission of the region is responsible for
accreditation of most information technology schools throughout the country.
Information Technology School Graduates Earning
Potential and Employment Prospects
The information technology market is growing and expanding at a
record pace. The rise in technology and business systems, along with a strong
Internet economy, make an information technology career a highly attractive
choice in the long-term. The demand for computer specialists, database
administrators, and programmers is growing at a high rate as technology becomes
more sophisticated. Information technology is projected to be one of the fasted
growing sectors in the world, and job openings with an information techonolgy
degree continue to rise.
Information technology school graduates made an average of $59,480
in 2004. Starting offers for computer specialists with a doctoral degree in
computer science averaged $93,050 in 2005, $50,280 for bachelor’s degrees in
computer science, and $44,417 for an information technology degree in management
information systems. Earnings vary depending on skill level, certification, and
specialization.
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