Online Information Technology Degrees. In May 2018, the BLS reported a median salary for network and computer systems administrators of $82,050 per year. Courses also teach project management skills that help build students’ leadership abilities and establish effective tactics for on teams. Study.com College Advisor that can help you compare costs and options. These offerings are designed for people with no IT experience as well as those currently working in the technical field to quickly get educational credentials from recognized school and help accelerate your career. Regardless of the sector they work in, IT specialists usually provide similar services related to software, hardware, databases, Web resources, networks and enterprise systems. They may also manage groups of people during a project, where it is essential to be professional, confident in their own abilities, and able to listen and collaborate effectively with others. IT specialists may also provide technical support to a business or an organization's employees and train non-technical workers on the business's information systems. The listings below may include sponsored content but are popular choices among our users. At the bachelor’s level, students will typically specialize in a particular area of information technology, such as programming software applications, security, or network management. Overview : Ultimately, graduate programs teach students to understand business management functions, analyze and design integrated systems, confidently recommend IT strategies, demonstrate leadership and communication skills in project management positions, and conduct original research that contributes to knowledge in the information technology field. Type of Schools : Community colleges, technical schools, Career Opportunities : Systems Administrator, Network Specialist, Security Engineer, Applications Engineer, Technology Support Specialist. The minimum academic requirement needed to work as an information technology specialist is a bachelor’s degree. Information technology professionals create unique solutions with the technology at their disposal and effectively communicate these solutions to a range of people. Colleges may ask students to purchase particular hardware and software to complete the technology coursework. IT workers can be certified as a technician in charge of maintaining computers, printers, and mobile devices; or a project management professional capable of directing a team. Advanced information technology specialists may design systems and assess the effectiveness of technology resources already in use or new systems that are being implemented. While an associate degree in information technology is a great way to get started in the world of computer science, some people choose to transfer their credits to a bachelor's program. Students learn the processes behind organizing multimedia content, physical storage and retrieval of multimedia data, content-based search and retrieval, and creating and delivering networked and multimedia presentations. Students who complete projects or complete internships will have an advantage when applying for jobs that are looking for practical knowledge and proven skills in an area of information technology. Students evaluate and recommend specific, current information technology processes in various areas, including network configuration, backup management, and system security. Is an Associate’s Degree in Information Technology Worth It? Information Technology Bachelor degree. Technology innovation is poised to explode in the next decade. The Computer Information Systems – Networking Specialist degree program provides students with an understanding of the concepts, principles, and techniques required in computer information processing. Similarly, network and systems administrators could expect an average increase of 5% during the same time period. IT specialists can demonstrate proficiency in particular areas by completing professional certification programs. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. The Bachelor of Information Technology lets you explore critical areas in IT - while gaining key skills and industry experience. According to the U.S. Census Bureau other requirements might include training and experience in communication systems and networks, Internet and intranet development, data encryption and security (www.census.gov). Graduate programs offer opportunities for customized degree concentrations and independent research, but there are basic course requirements that most graduate students will need to fulfill. In our modern technological climate, it is nearly impossible for companies to … Typical Education :Associate degree and/or industry certifications. Majors that prepare a person for work as an IT specialist include: Information technology specialists may earn certification on particular systems or technologies used regularly. Students seeking a PhD must defend an original dissertation and complete extensive independent research assignments, and some doctorate programs require students to teach an undergraduate seminar class or gain practical experience through internships. My goal is to earn a degree that prepares me for an entry-level job as an IT specialist or systems administrator. Explores methods that will increase a company’s business value and capabilities. Bachelor of Information Technology (BIT) degrees teach students to use technology to recognize and solve problems and manage... Few schools in the Tampa, FL, area have top ranking information technology programs. To get your IT degree, you'll need to take care of the pre-college fundamentals, get into your degree program, and satisfy academic requirements in order to graduate … My undergraduate background in IT has helped me find full-time employment in information technology, but I want to start my own technology services business. The same is true for more technical roles. The services that information technology specialists provide can include handling hardware and software issues, or monitoring networks and databases. Certifications are voluntary but attest to knowledge and documented abilities for prospective employers. Computer systems analysts connect the separate worlds of business and information technology in ways that are tailored to individual company needs. Three levels for the Certified IT Specialist credential are offered through The Open Group and are independent of any software vendor or hardware manufacturer. With a degree in information technology, students will be put in the position to achieve a career as an IT support specialist and utilize their technological understanding in problem-solving scenarios. The post-master’s individualized specialist degree is available to students who have completed a Master of Information (MSI), Master’s of Science in Information Technology (MSIT), or another graduate degree program, who are interested in becoming more knowledgeable of emerging areas within the information fields. That’s the importance of an online information technology degree. Computer and information systems managers have strong leadership skills and project management abilities in addition to their knowledge of helpful technical systems. Information Security Analysts research and improve digital security, sometimes in collaboration with Computer Systems Analysts. Networking Specialist Degree. Not limited to employment with technology companies, information technology (IT) specialists may work with any businesses, agencies or organizations that use technology or manage large amounts of information. Study.com, 11 Sep 2019 published. Information Technology - IT Support Specialist Apprenticeship - Degree [A25590AP] (Courses for this A.A.S. Students learn and apply programming language constructs, including a project that translates real-life problems into forms that allow computer programs to solve those problems. In BTC’s Network Specialist associate degree program you’ll be trained in network design, installation, troubleshooting, administration, security, and management, you’ll learn everything you need to know to be prepared for a career in networks support and integrated technology. IT specialists are expected to have a firm grasp of several programming languages, as well as experience dealing with a range of software and hardware types. Overview : Previous job experience or certifications in information technology may apply towards an associate degree, but students do not need any initial IT education to apply for associate degree programs. Students use structured query language to store, retrieve, and manipulate data. Earning a master’s degree may make candidates more competitive and lead to higher earning potential. Do professors hire research and teaching assistants? This may include installing and supporting network systems, maintaining web sites, modeling data communications hardware and software, and supervising support specialists. Doctorate programs assume students have basic knowledge of calculus, statistics, computer science, probability, and linear algebra; a prior degree in computer science, information technology, or industrial engineering is advisable. The information technology specialist certificate program focuses on foundation-level support skills required to effectively use and troubleshoot computer and information technology systems. Check out the top ranking schools for information technology below. Many working professionals choose to take higher education classes to advance their careers, and students may explore the IT job market with internships or contract work to see what areas interest them the most. They must be able to express ideas clearly over the phone, in person, and in writing. Some of the optional certifications that can help increase job prospects involve training in Oracle, Cisco, and Microsoft. Will classes help students prepare for certification tests or give access to internships? Specialists typically focus on a specific computer network, database, or systems administration function. If a person does not maintain a healthy curiosity and a drive to solve these increasingly complex problems, IT is not a friendly place for them. Read on to find out more about what these... San Jose has few schools with programs in information technology. A college’s information technology program needs to be accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) to ensure that a program meets the standards of the IT profession. They set the technology goals for a company and put together the systems needed to meet those goals. Computer support specialists advise people and organizations on the use of computer hardware or software. Earn Transferable Credit & Get your Degree. Readings and classroom discussion are not a substitute for working directly on IT projects and learning from your own mistakes. Curriculum, relevancy of sample programs, and outcomes will vary by school. You can pursue a degree in information technology, computer science, computer engineering or information technology management. (2019, Sep 11 of publication). Learning these skills should be integrated into an IT degree program. Information technology specialists work in positions using computer-based information systems. "Information Technology Specialist: Job Description and Requirements." Associate degrees build a mathematical foundation, bachelor’s degrees examine those foundations more deeply, and graduate degrees in specialized areas prepare students for their chosen careers. People applying for master’s programs must have a bachelor’s degree and experience with calculus, statistics, and high level computer skills. When they assist laypeople and non-IT users who are having computer problems, they are called computer user support specialists. Fail too much and you are out of a job. Many schools in the Miramar, FL, area have top ranking information technology programs. Depending on the employer and job scope, a teaching certificate may also be a requirement. Most importantly, IT is an ever-expanding industry with a variety of available jobs, leading to a bright outlook for graduates of programs. Because technology is now smart enough to mostly support itself, the focus in the foreseeable future will center on getting, understanding, and acting on massive amounts of relevant data. Students acquire a foundational knowledge of current data communication and networking technologies, from the hardware to the components and connections of a network. What IT Careers Are Available an Information Technology Degree? All other trademarks and copyrights are the property of their respective owners. Many information technology jobs deal with specialized technical procedures or complex technology, and employers look for job applicants certified in these areas. Learning Outcomes : Students take classes designed to develop critical thinking skills as well as technical skills in coding, computer hardware and software, web design, cybersecurity, and data and network management. Computer knowledge is obviously very important, but this does not always mean a college education is required. Connect with He/she applies technical expertise to the implementation, monitoring, or maintenance of IT systems. Students learn to program in at least one high-level programming language; evaluate operating systems and networks; and create, organize, and maintain modern databases. Specialists typically focus on a specific computer network, database, or … An information technology (IT) specialist is a computer support and security administrator who assists companies and organizations with managing hardware, software, networking and solving problems. Students determine how they can improve the competitive advantage of an enterprise, evaluate management and market trends, and enhance customer service. Information Security Analyst. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site. Educational technology is changing the way we learn everywhere—from traditional kindergarten to graduate classrooms, major corporations, small businesses, and hospitals. Below are examples of classes that students typically register for and the skills that you would be expected to learn over the course of an associate degree education. Furthermore, an IT generalist is generally considered to possess general business knowledge and soft skills allowing them to be adaptable in a wide array of work environments. PBV compares the cost of a program to the cost of other programs with the same (or similar) qualitative score and cost. © copyright 2003-2020 Study.com. Entry-level positions require demonstrated computer knowledge and skills. While the responsibilities of a traditional information technology (IT) specialist have evolved over the years, the importance of the role remains as important as ever. For those interested in digital security, becoming an Information Security Analyst can be a rewarding career. The U.S. Department of Labor notes that more than 90 percent of information technology professionals are employed outside of the information technology industry, with specialized training in business sectors like healthcare, manufacturing, or financial services. Cisco, Oracle and Microsoft offer certification for their IT products. Many start by completing some computer-related courses, perhaps holding an associate’s degree.If someone were to find work for a software company, however, it is likely that they will need to have a bachelor’s degree as a minimum. The professional demonstrates the skills required to develop, establish, set up, maintain, and repair any issue that may arise while users are conducting work-related concepts, … They help troubleshoot tasks such as printing, e-mail, program installation, and word processing. Associate degrees focus on more technical aspects, while bachelor’s degrees build on a general foundation with specialties in mathematics, computers, programming, or basic engineering. Qualifying for a job as an instructional technology specialist requires at the minimum a bachelor’s degree, preferably in educational technology or a related subject. An information technology (IT) degree is a degree offered at the associate, bachelor, master and PhD level. The following list presents information technology classes that students usually encounter when pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today. ABET maintains a list of accredited associate, bachelor’s and master’s degree programs on their website. The more opportunities students have to use classroom knowledge in the real world, the more quickly they can discover a career path that excites them. The lowest level of educational training for information technology is getting either a certification in IT or an associate’s degree in IT. Students explore a diverse range of specialties in an engineering degree program, from software to electrical engineering. He worked in the tech industry for 16 years as a network engineer, technical marketing engineer, and product marketing engineer. While information technology professionals help connect people and businesses with useful, relevant technology, there are degree programs that can prepare students for other branches of the technology industry. A certificate or an associate's degree are usually required to work as an information technology specialist, although a bachelor's degree is often preferred by employers. An information technology specialist applies technical expertise to the implementation, monitoring, or maintenance of IT systems. They examine a company’s existing technological systems and procedures in order to improve them, working within a budget or particular project guidelines. Information Technology Degree and Certification Programs | UAF … As the world becomes more automated, companies and individuals will need your skills to stay competitive. Some of … Troubleshooting is an essential part of IT work. IT is already becoming more than a support/cost center, and it will evolve into a strategic arm of organizations. With so many new ways for people and companies to use technology, there is a need for technical guidance and insight from information technology professionals. They are the lifeblood of any organization. A 2011 report by the Georgetown University Center forecasts that 51 percent of jobs in the science, technology, engineering, and math industry will be computer occupations by 2018. X-Ray Technician Video: Educational Requirements for a Career in Xray Technology. Information technology professionals can weigh different technology options and choose the best fit, usually based on their experience with or knowledge of a particular technology. Information technologists generally design, operate or maintain technology products. Qualified Jobs for Bachelors Degree in Information Technology. It can be hard to stay on the cutting edge with advances in today’s software, hardware and networks. Web. All rights reserved. ), Study.com / Information Technology Specialist: Job Description and Requirements. Type of Schools : Four-year universities, community colleges, technical colleges, Career Opportunities : Systems Analyst, Software Developer, Network Security Engineer. Specialty areas include network analysis, system administration, security and information assurance, IT audit, database administration, web … Learning from the best, choose from a comprehensive range of majors and minors that leads to careers such as cloud architect, cybersecurity specialist and games developer. How to Become an Information Technology Specialist (with … At the associate's degree level, typical courses include project-based information systems, Website database implementation, introduction to … Information Technology Specialist: Job Description and Requirements. To be considered for this ranking, schools were required to meet the following criteria: Schools were then scored on factors such as: These factors were assembled for each school and rated using a peer-based-value (PBV) calculation. By studying human interaction skills (e.g. Covers network protocols and the basic functions of network administration and operation. Each new wave of technology results in unintended problems that cannot be solved with the technology that created them. Many schools also look for certification in instructional technology or industry-related IT certifications. Students can also choose elective courses that explore more specialized knowledge areas. Best Online Bachelor's in Information Technology Programs of … Students who meet the qualifications for information technology will have strong … When computer support specialists assist information technology employees within a specific organization, they are called computer network support specialists. New software updates, innovative apps, and smarter cellphones underscore just how quickly and constantly technology evolves. In our modern technological climate, it is nearly impossible for companies to function effectively without information technology (IT) support for their computing needs. Enter zip: Duties of an information technology specialist can include network management, software development and database administration. Employers appreciate candidates who have certifications and specific, specialized knowledge that proves their dedication to information technology. An associate or bachelor’s degree can help students narrow down the type of information technology career they are interested in pursuing. IT specialists will also work with external partners, including consultants, agencies and vendors, to arrive at the most appropriate system or integration of multiple systems. All IT degree programs expect applicants to have basic computer skills before applying. An introductory course on designing, coding, running, and understanding computer programs, with an emphasis on troubleshooting business and engineering applications. Covers structured query language, which is a standard tool for getting information from a database. A bachelor's degree requires more work, but it also gives you a stronger understanding of information technology, and that can help you achieve higher paying work in the computer science field. There are many places you can work in as an IT expert and earn a salary as high as $200,000. The Information Technology Specialist Degree program prepares the student to understand networking components, personal computer repair, troubleshooting, and management of workstations and server systems. A certificate or an associate's degree are usually required to work as an information technology specialist, although a bachelor's degree is often preferred by employers. Graduate programs focus even more intently on one area of engineering, and can lead students to careers that range from agricultural to nuclear energy. With information technology constantly changing, specialists must stay up-to-date on emerging technologies and the potential effectiveness of these advancements in their current system. Many people may choose these vocational programs because they can be completed in two years, and they teach students the fundamentals of IT. An Information technology generalist is a technology professional proficient in many facets of information technology without any specific specialty. A Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, (abbreviated BSIT or B.Sc IT), is a Bachelor's degree awarded for an undergraduate course or program in the Information technology field. As businesses continue to expand to digital platforms, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that employment in the computer and information systems management field will grow 15 percent between 2014 and 2024. a Study.com College Advisor at the end of the process. Explores how to problem-solve via programming logic methods. With an Education Specialist (EdS) degree in Educational Technology, you can initiate change in your classroom, at … The field of computer science focuses on developing computer applications or data systems, or computer and information research. These educational experiences can be applied to later graduate programs or to acquire IT certifications in specialized areas, such as the Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Project Management Professional (PMP) certification, or Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE). For the last 13 years, he has worked as the program director for Oregon Institute of Technology’s information systems program. Computer science, information science, engineering, and operation research are all majors that may lead to a career as an information technology specialist. We’ve looked into what each school offers in terms of student services, tuition, and student success rate, and we’ve compiled a list of the best programs available throughout the country. A survey of Internet concepts, network protocols, and client-server communications. While many people are able to work in IT without formal education, there are many benefits an IT degree … Whether you are considering a career in information technology (IT), or you have already started down this career path, you should take a moment to consider getting a degree in information technology. Type of Schools : Four-year universities, technical colleges, Time to Complete : Two to four years (not including previous time in bachelor’s degree programs), Career Opportunities : Professor, Senior Consultant, Director or Vice President of Information Technology, Chief Information Officer. Want expert, personalized advice that can save you a lot of time and money? Information technology professionals work with people at all levels of the business hierarchy. PBV denotes the overall value or "bang for your buck" of a college or degree program. Also known as information technology managers, computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities within a business. When looking into a degree program, consider how the courses explore various sides of the information technology industry. © 2020 AccreditedSchoolsOnline.org, a Red Ventures Company, Innovative Solutions for Today’s Technology, Information Technology Bachelor’s Degrees, Structured Query Language for Data Management, Master’s & Doctorate Degrees in Information Technology, Business Intelligence Systems and Methods, Choosing an IT Degree Program: Must-Have List, Lessons in communication & management skills, Key Skills & Experience for IT Professionals, Hands-on experience and applied knowledge, Resources for IT Students & Professionals, LPN/LVN (Practical Nursing) Programs Near Me, Minnesota State Community and Technical College, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, Great Falls College Montana State University, Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Association of Information Technology Professionals, Cisco Systems – Training & Certifications, National Initiative for Cybersecurity Careers & Studies, Project Management Institute – Certifications, Minimum of 1 bachelor’s or master’s degree in subject area for 4-year schools, Minimum of 1 associate degree or certificate program in subject area for 2-year schools. The national average salary estimate for Information Specialist was $56,877. Find Schools. This page explores how IT degree programs can help students enter a job market as diverse and fast-growing as modern technology itself. accreditedschoolsonline.org is an advertising-supported site.