Information Technology: In-Depth Career Guide

Information networks form the backbone of any organization in today's digital economy. The increasing dependence on information technology networks is driving demand for trained IT professionals. Information technology degree programs prepare you to tend these critical systems, ensuring reliable access and secure transmission of data.

Which Types of Jobs Are Available For Those Interested in Information Technology?

Information technology covers every level of information management, from data to systems to networking. IT workers may optimize systems or networks, maintain and support devices, manage databases, or devise security strategies for the IT network. Major information technology careers include:

• Database administrator
• Network systems and data communications analyst
• Systems analyst
• Network manager
• Database or network architect
• IT auditor
• Cybersecurity specialist
• Information systems manager
• Computer support specialist
• Web developer

These information technology jobs bring together computer science and applied business expertise, with varying degrees of emphasis in each role. On one end of the spectrum, cybersecurity experts and computer support specialists deal mainly with technical troubleshooting and computer applications. At the other extreme are IT management careers, which emphasize business management expertise in the context of a basic understanding of IT systems. Administrators and analysts straddle both worlds, applying technical skill with an appreciation of organizational requirements and priorities.

Depending on your IT career path, you may meet with stakeholders within the organization to determine system needs or resolve technical problems; research emerging technology; assess organizational needs; manage IT projects, budgets, and staff; run pilots and system overhauls; and train users on new technology. Information technology careers offer intellectual challenge and all the perks of a high-demand job, including generous pay and advancement opportunities. Challenges include a high learning curve and a need for continuing education to keep pace with rapidly evolving technology.

Formal Training Required to Work in Information Technology

The formal training requirements for IT careers are ramping up, in response to increasing sophistication of information technology as well as competition for top IT jobs. Available information technology certification programs and degrees range from certificates in information technology and certification in specific software programs to a bachelor's or master's degree in information security or project management. You can also earn an MBA in management information systems (MIS).

Entry-level support and administrator roles typically require a certificate, two-year associate's, or four-year bachelor's degree. To advance your career into analyst or project management roles, you'll need a bachelor's or master's degree. The graduate degree takes an additional one to two years to complete. Senior IT management roles typically require a MBA in MIS.

The Typical Career Path of Someone Interested in Information Technology

The typical career path of an IT professional begins with formal training. Information technology degree programs can catapult you directly into an administrator or analyst position. You can also get your start at the help desk with a certificate and on-the-job training. From these launching pads, IT workers typically develop specialized expertise in an area such as security, project management, networking, or database management. With experience and business education, you can advance into supervisory roles as an IT manager or executive.

Continuing education is an essential requirement of IT careers. To keep up with advancing technology, information technology workers must continually learn on the job and in the classroom. Information technology certification programs allow IT workers to keep their edge; many opt for online IT degree programs or certificates, which may be completed alongside job obligations.

Job Outlook and Salary Information for Those Interested in Information Technology

Information technology careers are perpetually in high demand, even in an economic downturn. Five of the Bureau of Labor Statistic's top thirty fastest-growing occupations are in information technology. Network systems and data communications analysts rank at the top of the list, with 53.4 percent growth anticipated in the 2008-2018 decade. Database and computer systems administrators should both see 20 percent growth and more in the same period. Information systems managers can expect 17 percent growth, with strong job prospects for trained professionals.

Salaries range from a solid paycheck to six figures, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' 2009 IT salary report:

• Computer support specialists: $44,300
• Database administrators: $71,550
• Network administrators: $67,7100
• Network and data communications analysts: $73,250
• IT managers: $113,720

With high demand across IT careers, advancing in the field is simply a matter of gaining the expertise and training necessary for the job.

IT professionals are at the forefront of information management, developing new ways to use technology to access, store, and share information. Information technology degree programs or certificates can set you up for a career in the dynamic and evolving world of information systems and data management.