An Associates Degree In Information Technology Can Lead To A Great Future
By earning an associate’s degree in information technology, this can pave the way for a challenging career as a computer support specialist, systems administrator, network administrator, database administrator, or any of a number of other jobs in information technology. This is a career that is fast paced and constantly changing, and the hours are typically variable.
While you are working on this associate’s degree, you will be developing the technology skills that are necessary to be successful in today’s professional technology environment. You will also be getting the necessary hands on experience in working with computer networks, hardware, software, installation, design, support, and more. Once you complete this degree program, in order to better put yourself in a competitive position when you start applying for professional positions, you should also consider taking some of the industry standard certification exams. Some of these exams include those that are offered by CompTIA, Cisco, Citrix, and Microsoft. Many companies will also require that you pass one or more exams in order to be eligible for employment in this field.
Some of the careers that are pursued by someone earning an associate’s degree in information technology, along with their median salaries(according to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics), include the following: Computer Support Specialist ($40,430), Systems Administrator ($58,190), and Network Administrator ($58,190). Keep in mind that these are median salaries, and your starting wages may be lower than this.
According to estimates by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, people in the information technology field are expected to have a good job outlook for many years to come. The demand for trained professionals in this field is expected to grow at a faster than average pace through 2014.The biggest growth area is expected to be in the employment of systems administrators and network administrators.
Some of the expected courses that you will take while pursuing this degree include the following: Introduction to Information Technology, Data Structures, Database Management, Web Page Design, Microsoft Administration, and other classes. After earning this degree, you will be qualified to install and support various computer operating systems, software applications, and networking hardware.
You will also want to gain some business skills while working on this degree. Since technology now intertwines with all aspects of business, you will need to have basic skills and be comfortable dressing for and working in a professional environment. The days of the geeks in the back room are long gone.
