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Information Technology Degrees

What is IT?
Information Technology or IT as it is also known, is a broad field that deals with the design, development, implementation and management of information systems. IT deals with numerous technologies that are used to store and transmit information. The IT industry is one of the largest and fastest growing industries and is estimated to grow by 18-26% over the next five years owing to the increasing commonality of the internet, which is the front runner in this sector. IT has rapidly become the essential for almost everything from the space shuttle down to your car. Career choices are endless in the world of information technology, and there is an upcoming shortage of qualified professionals fuelled by an overall decrease in the number of students enrolling in IT based degrees.


What kind of degrees can I get?
A number of Information Technology Degrees are being offered are being offered by both traditional and online colleges, such as Associate, Bachelor and Master’s degrees. Associate’s degrees in Information Technology (ADIT) are 2 year long courses that educate students about the basics and foundation of IT and Information systems. The longer 4 year bachelor’s degree focuses on a variety of subjects, including telecommunications and computing, e-commerce, IT security, graphic designing, animation, management information systems and web based application development. Master’s degrees allow students to specialize in one of the many rapidly emerging IT fields, such as internet marketing, internet security, system administration and web architecture. Students explore new technologies and develop analytical and critical problem solving skills that are vital in order to succeed in this highly demanding field.

As the media industry continues to grow, so does the use of computers in our entertainment – and numerous IT degrees are being offered in areas such as internet marketing, game design, 3d design and animation. Students who pursue a degree in internet marketing learn to develop advertisements and advertisements techniques aimed at the online audience. Internet marketing also includes search engine marketing and optimization (SEO). Game design degrees include extensive instruction in animation and 3d modeling. Game designing offers a number of careers, such as conceptual artists, programmers, story writers, texture artists and model developers. A major in 3d design also opens up the doors for a career in industrial planning and development and the architecture field, as well as urban development whereas students with majors in animation comfortably fit in to the world of animated movies and tv shows which are becoming increasingly popular.

Why get an IT degree?
The IT sector offers a multitude of opportunities from programming to network development to software design in virtually every walk of life. From the way we do business to how we travel and how we entertain ourselves, IT is in use everywhere. The 21st century isn’t called the information age by accident, IT has in fact become the very basis of economies around the world and a guarantor of national growth and development. As the world of IT opens up new possibilities and brings together the world in a gigantic global village, the need for producing, storing and sharing information is growing more than ever. If you have an inquisitive nature, analytical and problem solving skills and can complete projects in a given timeframe, then there is no better industry than IT for you.

Information Technology Management is a discipline in which most of the technology assets of a firm are managed in concurrence with the company's requirements and priorities. These resources comprise tangible assets such as computer hardware, data, software, networks and also data centre facilities as well as the staff that is hired to maintain these assets. Managing this task inside a company entails many of the critical management functions, for instance budgeting, staffing, organizing and controlling. Plus it also includes aspects that are exclusive to technology, like change management, software design, network planning and tech support. Also keep in mind that Information Technology Management is a different subject from Management Information Systems. The primary focus of Information Technology Management is the value creation made probable by technology. This requires the arrangement and precise application of technology and business strategies.

How Long Does It Take to Complete an Information Technology Degree?

Many schools in the US, such as Southern New Hampshire University, Strayer University, Thomas Edison State University, and Purdue University, are offering Information Technology Degrees. Students can enroll in an Associate Degree in Information Technology, which takes around 2 years to complete. They can also enroll in a 4-year long Bachelor of Science (B.S) / Bachelor of Arts (B.A) in Information Technology or a 1 to 2 year long Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Information Technology.

What Are the Requirements to Complete an Information Technology Degree?

Those enrolled in the Associate Degree in Information Technology have to complete around 60 credits, those enrolled in the Bachelor of Science (B.S) in Information Technology have to complete 120 credits, and those enrolled in the Master of Science (M.Sc.) in Information Technology have to complete around 36 credits. They have to study courses like Introduction to Computer Networks, Fundamentals of Information Technology, and Cyber Security Management. These degrees train students to troubleshoot software and hardware problems, maintain and install networks, and create and manage databases.

How Much Can I Make after Completing an Information Technology Degree?

After completing an Information Technology degree, individuals can work as Technical Support Specialists, IT Specialists, or System Administrators. Salary data shows that in 2018, the yearly median pay of Computer Support Specialists was $53,470. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics has predicted a faster than average growth of 10% in this field in the next 10 years (2018-2028)– hence a career in this field is highly rewarding.

Other Useful Degrees and Certifications


Certificate in Computer Science
Certificate in Web Design
Best Networking Certifications
Best Programming Certifications
Telecom Certification Courses

States with the highest employment level in this occupation:

State

Employment

Employment per thousand jobs

Location quotient

Hourly mean wage

Annual mean wage

California 1660 0.11 1.26 18.13 37720
Florida 1130 0.14 1.68 17.97 37370
Illinois 960 0.16 1.92 17.9 37240
Texas 760 0.07 0.78 16.62 34570
New York 650 0.07 0.85 20.12 41840

Source: bls.gov

Frequently Asked Question(s)

Q:While going through the Information Technology Education plans, there was mention of the course on College Mathematics. What are the contents of this course?

A:It is common to get to read about the course on College Mathematics while going through the Information Technology Education plans. This course usually is worth 2 credits in total. It is structured to provide students with substantial understanding of the reviews of the skills of mathematics that are taught at college level. Students are also provided hands on experience.

Q:How long are the Bachelors in Information Technology degrees?

A:The Bachelors of Information Technology degrees are for 4 years.

Q:What areas are offered for specialization in online Information Technology Degrees?

A:Online Information Technology Degrees are offered by many online schools. The areas offered for specialization vary from school to school, however the common areas offered for concentration are: computer science, games technology, security, software engineering, telecommunications, web development, and information systems. Students can pick an area to specialize in according to their interest and future career plans.

Q:How many credit hours are required to complete a Technology Management Program at graduate level?

A:A masters degree in technology management is an advanced graduate degree rogram. The course requirements vary from university to university. Normally the credit hours that are to be earned in order to complete the degree program vary within the range of 33-38, depending on the university. These credit hours are earned by completing certain courses and projects that make up the curriculum of the program.

Q:Are there any advantages to an online degree in information technology?

A:Yes, students who have enrolled in an online information technology program have many advantages as compared to traditional students. Online students do not have to worry about attending classes on a strict schedule as they can study when they want from their homes. In addition to this online programs are less expensive.

Q:Are degrees in information technology available online the same as classroom-based programs?

A:An online program has been designed to ensure that the standard is the same as much as possible as a classroom-based program. The program is modified to allow it to be taught online so students may access the materials from home. Most students would not be able to tell the difference between such programs.

Q:What are some of the key areas I can study in information technology classes online?

A:There are plenty of specializations that you can choose from for your information technology classes. some of the available classes are: PC Repair & Support, Network Administration, Security, Web Design and Development, Database Administration, Programming and Project Management. You should pick a major based on your personal choice and aptitude.

Q:What are some of the information technology degree options?

A:Students can choose from a wide range of degree options depending on their current level of education. High school students can either opt for a four year bachelor's degree or a two year associate degree. College graduates can enroll in a master's program or even a doctoral program. Apart from this, students can also look for certifications.

Q:Which Information technology degree programs should I opt for?

A:The answer to this question will depend on your current level of education and your personal preferences. A bachelor's degree will earn you a entry level position in the information technology sector. However if you want to move on to more senior positions you should look for advanced degree options such as masters or doctorate programs.

Q:I am considering returning to school to undertake further study as I graduated without a High School diploma. I have been working in the IT industry for 25 years. Regarding information technology degree requirements, will college look at my experiences or are there requirements set in stone?

A:For most formal degrees a High School Diploma is considered as a compulsory pre-requisite. However, there is some latitude/flexibility on less formal programs such as certification programs and associate degrees. It would be advisable for you to contact individual colleges to confirm their admission policy. The lack of a High School diploma should not put you off though.

Q:Is it possible to take a information technology major as well as another subject as a minor?

A:Some of the programs that appear above are extremely flexible and allow students to undertake both a major and a minor subject. Therefore it should not be a problem. However, it is recommended that you contact your preferred college and inquire directly, as the criteria and requirements differ from college to college and program to program.

Q:I am having difficulty in choosing from the information technology online courses. Can you please give some information about this?

A:When choosing a program, students often have individual requirements that help them decide. For some, it is the content of the course- does it cover topics which are of interest to them. For others it is the financial side- can they afford the course? Is financial aid available? For some it is the location- they need somewhere local as they require support/ resources that only a college may provide.

Q:Is an information technology online degree more difficult that a traditional degree?

A:An online degree, no matter what subject, is as difficult/easy as a traditional, classroom-based program, as program content in both is relatively similar. The additional issues with online programs are that they require the student to be self-motivated and the ability to manage their time sufficiently to ensure that they keep on target with their studies, which some students find difficult.

Q:When considering online degree programs in information technology, how important is course content?

A:For some students course content is very important. This may be because they really wish to study that particular subject; or it could be that a particular subject could be very useful to them in their ideal/preferred job. For some it could be that an employer, who is funding the course, has requested them to take a specific course/subject

Q:At what levels of education are online information technology degree options available?

A:Online information technology degree is one of most popularly pursued academic options. Many students enroll in this program each year. You can opt for online information technology degree programs at the following level: associate level, bachelor level, master level, and doctorate level. Apart from these, you can also consider the option of certificate programs and short diploma courses in this field.

Q:Are there online information technology degree programs offered at doctorate level?

A:Yes, you can pursue information technology degree programs at doctorate levels. A PhD is the highest level of qualification you can attain in any academic field. This is a highly advanced program and usually takes around 5-7 years to complete. With a doctorate degree in this field, you can look forward to senior positions information technology jobs in the technology industry.

Q:What can I expect to learn in an Information Technology Degree Online?

A:Due to the popularity and demand of Information Technology professionals, this degree is now being offered on-campus as well as online. Various levels of degrees are available, from Associate, Bachelor and Master's degrees to certificate and diploma courses. Some of the basic courses you will come up against in these programs include an in-depth knowledge of the basics and foundation of IT and Information systems, telecommunications and computing, e-commerce, IT security, graphic designing, animation, management information systems and web based application development.

Q:Can you give me some tips to perform well in IT Programs Online?

A:If you want to excel in IT Programs Online, you will need to stay focused and consistent throughout the program. Online programs require a lot of responsibility and self management on your part. Besides, it is recommended that you regularly attend your lectures, participate in lecture discussions, revise frequently, and turn in your assignments and projects on time.

Q:Are Online IT Programs low-cost as compared to the ones I can enroll in at a campus?

A:Yes, online IT programs will prove to be less expensive as compared to campus-based degrees. All you need is a computer and a reliable internet connection to study. There are no extra costs of textbooks or travelling included. Online learning is gaining popularity fast and is gradually transforming the traditional education industry.

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