In recent years, the information technology (IT) professional’s job has become increasingly more crucial. Nearly every organization relies on information technology to perform important business functions, while nearly every employee relies on some form of mobile, handheld, and/or wearable technologies. It’s created an around-the-clock engagement with technology. The good news is, as society intensifies its obsession with technology, great jobs become available for those who want to be part of this fast-growing industry.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment is projected to grow 12% from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations. The growth is in part due to a greater emphasis on cloud computing, the collection and storage of big data, more everyday items becoming connected to the Internet, and the continued demand for mobile computing.*
If you’re a chief information officer (CIO) or just beginning your career, there are some common characteristics among IT professionals, including a love of technology, the ability to interpret data, a passion for learning and problem-solving, the capacity to translate tech-specific information to a general audience, and an understanding of how technology and business interact. Some of these are inherent but others are learned from experience and education. A bachelor’s, master’s, or doctorate degree in information technology could help digital natives and those switching careers to secure a lucrative position.
When deciding on which program to pursue, choose an information technology degree that provides a solid foundation and can help you develop essential programming, networking, and database management and development skills. Look for one that’s accredited by ABET—the internationally recognized accreditor for college and university programs in applied science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology, such as the online BS in Information Technology from Walden University. Walden has also been designated by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense Education.
*Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2014–2015 Edition, Computer and Information Technology Occupations, on the Internet at www.bls.gov/ooh/home.htm.
†U.S. News & World Report, Computer Systems Analyst, on the Internet at http://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/computer-systems-analyst.
‡U.S. News & World Report, Software Developer, on the Internet at http://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/software-developer.
§U.S. News & World Report, Computer Systems Administrator, on the Internet at http://money.usnews.com/careers/best-jobs/network-and-computer-systems-administrator.
Walden’s BS in Information Technology is accredited by ABET, the internationally recognized accreditor for college and university programs in applied science, computing, engineering, and engineering technology. This accreditation reaffirms the quality of Walden’s information technology program and support services, as well as its commitment to continuous assessment and improvement.