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Inside Information Technology

The document discusses the field of information technology, including career options, required education and skills, and certification opportunities. IT careers involve working with computer hardware, software, networks and databases. Common roles include software developers, network engineers/administrators, and computer scientists. Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in a technology field like computer science or information systems. Industry certifications are beneficial but not required. The IT field is expected to grow faster than average and offers salaries ranging from $72,000 to over $100,000 depending on the specific role.

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145 views3 pages

Inside Information Technology

The document discusses the field of information technology, including career options, required education and skills, and certification opportunities. IT careers involve working with computer hardware, software, networks and databases. Common roles include software developers, network engineers/administrators, and computer scientists. Most positions require at least a bachelor's degree in a technology field like computer science or information systems. Industry certifications are beneficial but not required. The IT field is expected to grow faster than average and offers salaries ranging from $72,000 to over $100,000 depending on the specific role.

Uploaded by

Sunil
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Information Technology

Information technology is a growing field that offers relatively secure positions for those with solid
technical skills and at least a bachelor's degree in an IT-related field. From support to engineering,
there are several specializations that deal with the various facets of information technology.

Inside Information Technology


The field of information technology (IT) covers the design, administration and support of computer
and telecommunications systems. Some of the positions in this field include database and network
administrators, computer support specialists, computer scientists, software programmers and system
analysts. The majority of career tracks in IT entail design and operational tasks related to computer
hardware components, networks and software applications.
Professionals in the IT field work with businesses and organizations to set up and support viable
computer networks that will keep systems efficient and reliable. IT encompasses all hardware and
software used in the storing, creation and accessing of information. Examples of technologies that
professionals work with are firewalls, databases, media storage devices, networks and the Internet.

Education Information
Aspiring IT professionals typically need a bachelor's degree in a technology field, such as computer
science, information systems management, programming or networking. Even without a degree,
experience in an entry-level help desk position could help IT professionals advance with professional
certification or vocational training. The fundamentals of a degree program generally include
computer hardware, programming, networking, and technical theory. Depending on the major,
students could also learn IT management, website development, computer circuitry, systems
analysis and database management. Some programs also include internship opportunities. To work
as a computer research scientist, a Ph.D. degree is often necessary.
Information technology degree programs are widely offered at many community colleges, vocational
schools and universities. Certification preparation programs are also offered at many of these
schools, though testing for credentials typically takes place at an approved testing facility. Look into
these articles from Study.com to learn more.

 Bachelor's Degree in Computer Science


 Information Technology Major
 Bachelor's Degree in Software Design
 Computer Science Ph.D. Program Information

Additionally, many schools offer IT programs online, including stand-alone courses, certificate
programs, undergraduate degree programs and graduate degree programs. Check out these articles
to learn about what you can expect from an online degree program in information technology.

 Online Associate Degree in Information Technology


 Online Bachelor of Information Technology
 Online Master's Degree in Information Technology
 Online Ph.D. in Information Systems Management

Certification
Almost all hardware and software manufacturers offer certification options that allow IT professionals
to demonstrate their proficiency with particular technologies. There are also many industry-standard
IT certifications that cover fundamental and advanced understanding of general hardware, software
and communications technologies. Certification isn't required to work in the field, but is often
preferred by employers. Here is a sampling of some professional IT certifications:

 Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert Information


 Overview of Cisco Certifications
 CompTIA's A+ Certifications
 Sun Certified Java Programmer
 Oracle Certified Associate

Required Skills
Individuals who aspire to enter the IT field should develop solid logical and critical-thinking skills.
Those who enter support positions should also possess the ability to listen, communicate and
maintain a professional, calm demeanor when faced with end users and frustrating problems.
Computer, component and network designers, such as engineers and scientists, need to be able to
envision the current needs and growth potential of users or businesses.

Career Options
Software Developers
Software developers create and write programming code for computer applications and hardware.
This may include operating systems, business productivity software, Web functionality tools, video
games and device drivers. Developers could take a concept from planning and design through to its
final testing and implementation.

Network Engineers and Administrators


Network engineers are primarily responsible for the design and implementation of computer and
telecommunications networks. Administrators typically support and maintain existing local area and
wide area networks (LANs and WANs). This includes both intranet and Internet communications and
server maintenance. Some degree of ongoing troubleshooting and system design adjustment is
inherent in a network administrator position. Administrators also monitor an organization's network
security and develop preventive strategies against hackers.

Computer Scientists
Computer scientists innovate, develop and design new computer hardware and devices. These
professionals may specialize in one component of hardware, such as processors, modems, routers
or motherboards. While computer scientists often work with a team of internal test users and
engineers, they typically have little to no contact with the end users of the products they develop.

Other Information Technology Careers


The following links will provide more information about professions in the IT industry.

 Information Technology Specialist


 Network Engineer
 Computer Systems Analyst
 Database Administrator
 Internet Web Developer

Employment Information
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), occupations in the field of information
technology are expected to grow faster than average from 2012-2022 overall. Computer scientists
could see a 15% growth in employment in that time. They earned a median salary of $102,190 in
2012, based on BLS data. Network and system administrators were projected to see a 12% increase
in jobs, and earned a median salary of approximately $72,560 in 2012. Systems and applications
software developer jobs were expected to grow 22% from 2012-2022. Applications developers
earned a median salary of $90,060, and the median for those who programmed systems software
was $99,000.

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