IT & Technology: Study Resource & Degree Program Information

General Information About Information Technology Degree Programs

IT specialists bring information and applications to any business and personal setting by creating products that set up and maintain computer systems. The goal of IT professionals is to improve the efficiency and capabilities of information systems so that computer networks function properly without interruption. Some of this includes upgrading computer software, handling office computer networks, working with internal applications, customizing software, building websites and maintaining databases.

Information technology is an especially broad field, so the title of the job depends on the area of concentration. Many programs for IT focus on the three most sought after specialties: computer systems, programming and network administration. Website production, systems analysis and quality assurance are just some of the exciting fields someone with an information technology degree can enter. Since IT is so broad and has job potential at literally any company, it gives students the freedom to choose another topic of interest for a minor, which is a great way to get an IT job in a specialized field.

Bachelor Degree In Information Technology

The Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) degree focuses on computers and technology. These programs typically deal with web design, databases, programming skills and networking, using each in a range of different fields. The main difference between a major in information technology and computer science is that students are expected to study management and information theory. Computer science focuses on the science of computers, while information technology concentrates on the business and communication aspects.

Earning An Information Technology Degree Online

Online degrees in information technology teach students databases, software, systems analysis and networks, along with management techniques. Whether it is a bachelor’s or master’s degree, a postsecondary education online allows students the freedom to work and go to school at the same time, since online courses can happen from any location. Information technology is an especially good choice for distance learning. Make sure that the school is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). Another option is to look into a two-year associate’s degree that can be used to transfer to another college of university.

Masters Of Science In Information Technology

The Master of Science in Information Technology gives a general technical overview of current technologies and progressing ones in the industry. This degree takes only about a year to complete and features an emphasis on technology into the business world, with specializations in different areas of business and technology. Managing software development projects, leading teams of IT professionals and learning design and analysis are just some of the skills and practices taught. However, this degree focuses more on theory and less on business. Students should already have advance mathematics skills in calculus and statistics, although anyone with computer-related bachelor’s degrees can apply for programs.

Doctorate In Information Technology

A Ph.D. in IT takes around four years to complete and involves research and developing new systems along with coursework in electronic commerce, multimedia information systems, linear programming, simulation, graph theory and more. Students will also be required to teach classes as part of the doctorate program.

Masters In Business Administration In Information Technology

A Master’s in Business Administration, or MBA, with a concentration in information technology, deals with the business side of IT. The degree prepares students in developing design and information system, including computing system, as solutions for businesses in terms of communications and support. It also teaches about hardware, software, algorithms, user strategies and telecommunications for the world’s largest companies.

Certification For Information Technology Specialists

Support and system administration specialists, especially in information security, will most likely need to obtain certification. Check Point Certified Security Expert (CCSE), Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) and Symantec Certified Security Engineer (SCSE) are programs that anyone in this field will probably have to go through for work.

Coursework In Information Technology

Students will usually have some kind of required readings and lectures, as well as plenty of interactive exercises to practice and understand the subject matter. Assignments involve incorporating learning material into real-world situations.

Coursework is related to managing database systems technology, data warehousing, Internet business, information assurance, informatics, software development and engineering with web applications and understanding telecommunications requirements such as programming, electronic commerce and systems development.

Career Opportunities In Information Technology

Information technology is a constantly expanding field as more businesses move towards computer-based enterprises. There are generally two kinds of IT jobs. Back-end work is the supporting and maintaining of networks and databases, while front-end work focuses on improving usability and interface, like website design.

Software engineers program code to run software products, including computer programs such as word processing and financial management. Network engineers build and sustain back-end technology by implementing a local area network (LAN) for intra-communication and a wide area network (WAN) to connect to the Internet. Making sure all workstations, routers, servers and hubs work is part of the daily job duties. Programmers write custom software intended for specific company use. Computer systems specialists are in charge of installing, maintaining and upgrading hardware.

Network administrators and system supports improve the efficiency of a company by upgrading and building computers, downloading new software, setting up email accounts and backing up information. These people are also responsible for emergency services, such as a security breach from a hacker or virus threats, as well as general troubleshooting. Database administrators maintain databases with back-end support from a company’s email and direct marketing campaigns. Customer preferences, demographics and purchase histories are stored, while the database is updated, tested, archived and repaired.

Web producers and developers translate what a company wants on its website into graphic design using HTML code. Producers update, quality check and post content on the site, as well as determine how the site will represent the company in the future. Developers, on the other hand, use Internet software and languages such as HTML and JavaScript to update information and create new pages that have images, text and links.

Quality assurance analysts work as a team to ensure that websites are carefully combed over so there are no mistakes before the site goes public. At hardware companies, QA teams supervise the production process, while at Internet companies, QA engineers check for the functionality of features, interface and navigation on the site.

Earning Potential For Information Technology Careers

Skilled information technology specialists are in high demand as companies adopt computers and web-based business strategies. The U.S. Bureau of Labor reported that IT salaries start at $45,000 and earn up to $112,000 with a higher degree. Software engineers can start anywhere from $48,000 to $59,000, whereas senior network administrators can expect up to $81,000. Database administrator’s salaries range from $69,000 to $92,000. Web producers can make up to $82,000, while front-end web developers can make up to $76,000. Entry-level quality assurance analysts can start at $48,000.