Doors Open Automatically with an IT Degree

What is IT?

Even if you don't know it, you probably have some expertise in IT already! But what is IT?


Anyone who has made use of voicemail, text-messaging, online banking, interactive television or the Internet has used an information management system. An IT system usually involves some form of data entry and subsequent manipulation of this data on a computer system. For more complex information management systems, as used in businesses for example, some degree of training is probably required. To design an IT system so that other people could use it would almost certainly require a degree in information technology.

The IT Industry

The computer and data processing services industry is the fasted growing industry in the United States economy. According to estimations published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics employment in this sector will increase by 86% in the period from 2000 to 2010. Another growth industry requiring computing and technical skills is telecommunications. Within this sector, professional computer engineers can expect an increase in employment of nearly 50% by 2010. To enter into this industry and progress as managers you need a minimum of an Associate degree in a relevant computing or technology related discipline

IT in other Industries

The traditional industry sectors are not the only sectors recruiting individuals with information technology skills. Even jobs requiring no formal qualifications such as shop assistants, receptions and clerks usually need some computing skills, these days. In fact, technical computer skills are rapidly becoming a basic requirement of the workforce. According to the U.S. Census bureau, home computer use in 2000 was 51%, up from 42% in 1998. There is no data available for 2003, but it could be estimated that 65% or more homes in the United States now have a computer in the home. The workplace is even more technically oriented.

Why Qualify in IT?

With such 'unskilled' talent all around, a degree in a technical subject is almost a prerequisite for today's ambitious managers. Computer use is rapidly becoming a norm expected by employers in every field of industry. You probably need technical and computing skills to work in any of the following job sectors:

• shop management
• restaurant management
• film editing
• forestry management
• financial consulting
• designing web sites

If you want to revolutionize your career prospects, switch job fields, or earn more, then a degree in a suitable technical subject is a wise choice. Further data from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (see chart) shows that, countrywide, jobs requiring a higher education will increase significantly by 2010. For example, jobs requiring an Associate degree as minimum are expected to increase by 32%. If you have never thought about furthering your education, you should do so seriously if you want to retain better than average earning potential for the rest of your life.

Who can qualify in IT?

A technical career is not reserved only for the privileged few. People who have never thought of themselves as college material are taking the step to a higher education. Many schools and universities offer a range of computing and technical degrees that can transform career potential. The great thing about a technical degree is that, whatever the subject, many of the skills are generic and transferable to other jobs, industries and even countries in the future. There are many different IT programs available from a B.S. in Computer Information Systems, associate's or bachelor's in Information Systems Security or Certification in Call Center Management are just some of the courses on offer. Whatever your desired specialization, you can be sure there is an IT degree to be found.

Finding the Time for an IT Degree

For many, a campus degree is the first and only choice. However, for many, a campus degree is a luxury they cannot afford. An online degree could be the best option for anyone who wishes to continue working while advancing their education. Online degrees are designed to have the convenience and flexibility to meet the needs of working people. Anyone who has access to a computer with Internet access can consider enrolling on one of the huge variety of online courses offered. Finance options are also available for many courses and employers frequently look favorably upon someone who has the determination to continue to work and further their education.

Your future in IT

In the future doors will open automatically for individuals who have had the foresight to further their education with a course in information technology or related technology subject. To stay ahead of the pack, the time for you to enroll is now. Any later and the door to a career with better prospects and higher earning potential could stay firmly shut.


References

• U.S. Census Bureau
• U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

About the Author

A freelance writer, Katrina Boydon is also Editor-in-Chief of QuinStreet Publishing, a division of QuinStreet, Inc. Previously, she has worked as a research virologist at the Royal London Hospital Medical College, as assistant editor-in-chief for a journal published by Blackwell Scientific Publications, served as managing director of a postal and courier company, and set up her own business distributing newspapers and magazines in Moscow, Russia. Katrina has a degree in microbiology and studied part-time at the London Business School.