As the tech industry continues to grow, so do the needs of the people who work in it. Information technology specialists are needed in every sector from banking to retail to health care and everything in between, and this demand has led to massive growth in the information technology degree programs available at colleges and universities across the country. If you’re interested in pursuing an information technology degree, you may have noticed that there are many different careers available to you after graduation, including jobs in software development, network administration, database administration, cybersecurity and more.
1) Web Applications Developer
Web Applications Developers create web applications to manage databases and do general business tasks. They often have creative artistic abilities to design websites that are pleasing to the eye and user-friendly. One important responsibility for this job is maintaining security of the software, servers, and databases. Web Applications Developers usually have a Degree in Information Technology along with previous work experience or internship experience. Typical Duties: -Maintain integrity of software, servers, and databases -Create graphics for application screens -Design functional webpages
2) Cyber Security Analyst
With the growing importance of cyber security, this is one of the most exciting and lucrative career paths available. As the number of threats multiplies, there’s never been a better time to get involved. All you need is an undergraduate degree in information technology – it doesn’t matter what your major was – then you can head off to work as an analyst and help protect people from harm. Even if you already have a job that’s unrelated to information technology, every business today needs someone who knows how best to protect their computers and network from infiltration by hackers. Companies often turn for help to outside analysts like yourself or send their employees for advanced education on security at schools such as Purdue University and George Washington University.
3) Computer Systems Administrator
Computer Systems Administrators (CSAs) install, configure, upgrade, and troubleshoot computer systems. CSAs can work anywhere from manufacturing plants to small businesses or be self-employed. Those who want to work for the government need to get a security clearance which typically requires two years of experience working for the same company and getting high scores on multiple background checks, polygraph tests and medical exams. Although there is no minimum requirement for education level to become a CSA, many companies prefer candidates with at least an associate’s degree in information technology. A CSA needs good communication skills because they will communicate directly with people outside of the IT department when they solve computer problems. They need patience since they may encounter difficult computer users while they troubleshoot their problems.
4) IT Consultant
IT Consultants offer a fresh set of eyes and give managers the ability to focus on running their businesses. They provide IT support services and are typically responsible for updating infrastructure, maintaining software applications, diagnosing IT problems, finding solutions, and providing solutions.
An average day at work for an IT Consultant might involve conducting remote repairs on PCs or laptops. As problems arise, they use the company’s system to update software, diagnose the problem, and find solutions. The consultant then returns to the business location or remote site where they will provide recommendations to move forward based on what they found out through their research.
A degree in information technology can open various opportunities as companies are constantly looking for people who know how to code or have hands-on knowledge of IT systems.
5) Database Administrator
Database administrators are responsible for managing databases, most commonly as database architects. Database architects need a bachelor’s degree in information technology, but they also need experience and strong skills in database design and SQL language. There is quite a bit of overlap between this occupation and computer systems analysts.
Bachelor’s Degree: Computer Science or Related Field – 2-4 years
Associate Degree – 1-2 years
Certificate Program – 12 months to 2 years
Degree In Information Technology – 4-6 years
Conclusion
We hope this list has helped you get an idea of the various paths you can take after obtaining your Degree in Information Technology. There are numerous jobs that are both fulfilling and worthwhile. Take the time to research which ones might suit your personality best, and most importantly, whichever one’s appeal to you on a personal level as well as for their professional opportunities. And don’t forget it’s never too late to go back to school if you change your mind about what you want to do with your degree.
