What Can You Do with an Information Technology Degree?
In today’s world, we can wake up in a house that anticipates our needs, work in an environment where virtual and physical realities blend seamlessly, and communicate across continents with the touch of a button. This is possible thanks to information technology. Information technology (IT) uses computers, software, and networks to store, process, and share information. It involves managing and using technology to handle data, communicate, and perform tasks more efficiently. Pursuing an information technology degree can equip you with the skills, knowledge, and vision to shape your career and the world around you.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Information Technology Degree?
If you’re interested in pursuing an IT degree, a bachelor’s will gain you access to most entry-level positions. A bachelor’s usually requires around 120 credits and takes about four years to complete as a full-time student. Part-time students, naturally, will likely take longer to finish, though you may be able to knock some of that time off if you can apply credits toward your degree from previous college-level coursework or relevant training.
An associate degree in IT may qualify you for some entry-level positions. It usually takes two years to complete an associate degree if you pursue it full time.
Is an IT Degree Worth It?
There are multiple reasons why an IT degree is worth it. For starters, nearly every industry has shown a growing demand for experienced and knowledgeable IT professionals. These professionals can also expect to get paid competitive salaries. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that, as of May 2023, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $104,420.
IT also offers a range of job opportunities. You can choose which business you’d like to work for and even which specialty, such as system administration or cybersecurity. The IT field is always advancing and expanding, which allows you to help create and design new and exciting ways to help the cyberworld.
What Will You Learn in an Information Technology Program?
The most common type of IT degree is a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, and it usually includes courses like programming, data communications, database management, networking, web design, and project management. You can expect to learn how to use programming languages, like Python, and how to manage networks. Some programs may also offer students the ability to specialize by choosing a concentration like Cybersecurity or Network Operations.
Cybersecurity Technology
A Cybersecurity Technology concentration covers the technical, operational, and legal dimensions of cybersecurity. It provides a holistic view of implementing effective cybersecurity programs appropriate to the environment. Typical courses include computer forensics, cyberattacks and defenses, and network and application security.
Network Operations
In a network operations concentration, you’ll gain critical knowledge and skills in telecommunications and networking, learning to plan, design, and manage security network and telecommunication systems. You may take courses in advanced networking, network operating systems, and wireless technology.
Other Concentrations
In a field as broad and varied as IT, you may have many concentrations to choose from. Some other concentration choices include Network Administration, Business Technology, Software Development, Game Development, Artificial Intelligence, and Cloud Computing.
What Jobs Can You Get with a BS in Information Technology?
So, what can you do with an information technology degree? An IT degree prepares you for a variety of jobs in a multitude of industries.
Network Administrator
A professional who manages an organization’s computer networks to ensure that they are operating smoothly and as designed is a network administrator. They are responsible for installing and configuring hardware and software, designing and building networks, monitoring and troubleshooting problems, developing budgets, and many more tasks.
IT Support Technician
Professionals in this role are responsible for helping customers and consumers understand how to use and fix their computers and other technology. IT support technicians must be extremely knowledgeable about an organization’s equipment to assist the customers as well as possible.
Database Administrator
Database administrators are responsible for various information management tasks, such as managing, maintaining, and ensuring the efficient operation of a database management systems. They ensure that databases that can include customer records and financial information are secure, available, and performing optimally.
IT Security Coordinator
An IT coordinator, an information security analyst, protects an organization’s computer systems and networks from unauthorized access, theft, and misuse. They develop and implement security measures to safeguard client or company data from threats, including illegal hacking, viruses, spyware, Trojans, worms, and corruption.
Network Architect
If you’re interested in designing and managing computer networks, a career as a network architect could be for you. They work with local area networks, wide area networks, intranets, and extranets. There are also several types of network architects, including wireless network architects, data center network architects, cloud network architects, network security architects, and enterprise network architects.
Network Technician
Technicians responsible for the day-to-day maintenance and troubleshooting of computer and network systems for a business or organization are known as network technicians or network support technicians. They install, configure, and design networks and troubleshoot if any problems arise.
System Analysts
Systems analysis combines business and information technology. Systems analysts use this process to analyze, design, and implement information systems to help businesses and organizations meet their goals. Their primary role is to bridge the gap between business requirements and technology solutions. These professionals are knowledgeable in computer science, information technology, and/or related fields.
Career Outlook for Information Technology
According to the BLS, employment in computer and information technology occupations is expected to grow much faster than the average of all other occupations from 2022–2032. During that time frame, about 377,500 job openings will become available yearly. What’s more, salaries in this field have increased by 9%, giving you a greater incentive to join this growing workforce.
How Can You Prepare for a Career in Information Technology?
Are you ready to start on a path toward a career in IT? It takes preparation. First, you’ll want to lay a solid foundation with the proper education. Consider getting a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, database administration, or a related field. Some entry-level positions may only require an associate degree. It would help if you also tried to gain as much industry experience as possible. Grow your network by connecting with people in the IT field through conferences and LinkedIn. Finally, consider improving your knowledge and skills through certifications such as CompTIA A+.
Get Your Information Technology Degree at Excelsior University
If you’re ready to plunge into IT, Excelsior University will help get you there. Contact our dedicated admissions counselors to discuss our fully online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program. Pursuing an IT degree can lead you to a rewarding career in the ever-evolving landscape of technology. A career in information technology promises not only industry growth and individual opportunity but also the chance to be in the vanguard of cutting-edge technological change and have a hand in shaping its real-world impacts on business and society.
