The field of information technology has grown significantly over the past few decades, and that growth isn’t slowing down. If you want to get into the field, one of the best ways is to get an Information Technology Degree.
Overview of Information Technology
As someone who works in the field of Information Technology, you’ll work closely with people, hardware, and software. IT personnel typically work with existing software, like a Windows application, or with hardware, like a computer. Typically, they seek to help businesses solve technical issues or individuals troubleshoot computer problems. It’s a very hands-on job that often involves communicating with people outside of the IT Department.
The Importance of an Information Technology Degree
An information technology degree will provide you with a broad foundation for work in the IT field. It’s often considered the first step in pursuing a degree in IT. While some people choose to get certifications instead, this can sometimes limit the number of jobs they are qualified for. Pursuing certifications after getting a degree in IT will provide you with both a broad foundation and a specific training for the jobs you apply for. It’s also important to note that many employers require 4-year degrees in their workplace.
Skills Needed
If you’re considering going into the field of Information Technology, you’ll need to know if you’d thrive in the field. People in IT jobs have to communicate with a wide range of people, many of whom do not understand technology. You’ll need strong communication skills and patience for working with people. IT personnel also need to be organized individuals. They must be analytical thinkers with strong problem-solving skills. If you have a knack for technology, love organizing, and have a heart for helping people, this is the field for you.
Job Availability & Job Types
IT personnel have extremely well-paying jobs in a field that continues to see above-average growth. Within the field of Information Technology, you’ll find a wide variety of jobs offered. For example, Technical Support is the job most people think of when they think of IT; these are the people who help others troubleshoot computer issues. Information Security Specialists ensure computer networks are safe. Database Administrators are in charge of organizing and storing data. You’ve also got programmers, web developers, and computer systems analysts. IT is a much broader field than most people realize, so getting an information technology degree will open many doors for you.
Benefits of Going Online
For many people, the best option for pursuing a degree is to go online. We live in a world where more and more jobs are requiring a degree, but many of us can’t stop working so we can attend a 9 A.M. class. By getting an online degree, you have the freedom to choose when and where you learn. If you need to travel, work weird hours, or take kids to soccer practice, online programs will conform to your schedule. They are also usually cheaper than physically being on campus, which means you’ll have smaller student loans if you have to take any out at all. Online schools also have the benefit of having degree acceleration programs. This lets you get your degree — and a job — faster.
Importance of Accredited Online Schools
If you choose to go to school online, make sure you attend an accredited school. An accredited school means that the organization you are getting your degree from meets specific levels of criteria. A non-accredited school might give you the proper education, but you can’t be sure. Attending an accredited school is important both while you’re in school and after you graduate. If you ever need to transfer schools, accredited courses are often the only transferable classes you’ll find. Once you have your degree, your future employers will want to know that you’re qualified for the job you’re applying for.
