With so much of today’s workforce, commerce, and economy operating online, it is more important than ever that there are people properly trained in information technology.
Information technology is an industry and a profession that deals with safeguarding, retrieving, storing, and sending information digitally.
IT professionals are skilled at data analysis to improve the functioning of computer networks.
They can be employed by a vast array of businesses or private organizations for this purpose.
With a BA In Information Technology, a graduate can expect to find employment in a diverse array of workplaces and industries including software development, finance, healthcare, or even manufacturing.
There is an intense demand for skilled IT professionals today.
There are estimates that this demand will grow by 11% between now and 2029.
Should I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
Many students use a bachelor’s degree in IT to lead into high-demand careers with good earning potential.
This is a great career option for those who have a natural inclination to all things digital, understand how digital infrastructure works, and are willing to continue to learn and grow along with technology as it evolves.
There is a huge amount of flexibility when it comes to how you can obtain your bachelor’s degree in this area.
This type of program lends itself well to online learning options as well as accelerated programs.
This makes it a perfect choice for those who want to earn their degree on their own terms in their own time frame.
This degree will lead to employment in the IT field which provides great job security right now.
There are also higher learning options including master’s degree programs.
What Will I Learn In An IT Bachelor’s Program?
While enrolled in this program, you will cover general core classes as you would with any bachelor’s program.
These courses will provide you with a well-rounded education and view of the world which will come in helpful as you interact with clients.
IT courses specifically geared toward your career might include:
- Information technology infrastructure
- Database management
- Cyber security
- Information systems design
- Web design
- Programming
- Organizational behavior
- Project management
- And more
Schools use a curriculum to impart to students the skills in technical communication and mathematics they will need to succeed in this profession.
You will also have the opportunity to explore concentrations as well.
Concentrations are specialized learning areas where you will learn skills to help you achieve success in a specific field of IT work.
Concentrations can include:
- Data Analytics
- Information security
- IT Management
- Smart technology
- Web design and application
What Can I Do With A Bachelor’s In IT?
Once you have graduated from a bachelor’s program, you will be qualified to pursue employment in the following occupations:
- Cloud computing
- Information security
- Data Science
- Computer system analysts
- Cybersecurity consultants
- Software development specialists
- Network architect
- Database management
Industries that need qualified IT professionals are:
- Education
- Healthcare
- Manufacturing
- Business
- Finance
- Real estate
- And more
There is even a need for IT professionals in government positions and projects that include preventing domestic and foreign cyberterrorism.
This is a growing field of interest for the federal government.
Career Paths In Depth
Let’s look more in-depth at some of the more popular career paths you can explore with an IT degree:
- Computer network architect – These professionals design and execute the building of computer networks both internally and externally for organizations. These professionals also analyze the traffic to sites in order to identify problems or future needs.
- Database administrator – Many different types of industries are in need of database administrators. Now that most all information and data are kept in digital formats, it is of the utmost importance that this data is organized and kept safe. A database administrator also helps with user access and works to decrease the chance of data corruption. They also work to prevent data theft as well.
- Computer system analyst – A computer systems analyst will work to examine the organization’s system to determine how to improve the systems.
How Much Does a Bachelor’s Degree in IT Cost?
The cost of this program will differ widely depending on where you get your education and what types of specializations or concentrations you pursue.
It is estimated that in the state this type of program might cost about $9,210 while an out-of-state school might cost $31,880.
The good news is that this type of profession also enjoys good earning potential and job security.
These types of programs are often eligible for financial aid and grants.
Many people consider a bachelor’s degree in Information technology to be a good investment.
You should definitely consider whether or not a degree will be worth the investment.
This is especially true if you are planning to take out student loans in order to pay for your degree.
You need to have a career path in mind that will provide a salary that will cover these student loan costs upon graduation.
What About Certifications?
You should be aware that within the information technology field, there are several different types of certifications that are often required.
These certifications are highly specialized for certain types of systems.
Employers will be looking for these certifications to qualify you for certain positions.
The best way to learn about certifications will be to talk to other IT professionals frequently.
Other professionals who are already working in the industry, will be able to guide you as to which certifications you should consider.
Certifications usually require that you have refresher courses or reinstate the certification every few years.
In the world of information technology, because tech is evolving so quickly, staying on top of your certifications is essential to stay marketable.
Certifications are often out-of-pocket expenses that you will pay.
You should view this as an investment you make into your career and future.
Some IT certifications are highly specialized while others are more universally accepted by most networks.
Be sure to do your research so that you pick the right certifications for your career goals.
How To Prepare in High School For An IT Degree Program
The best time to start preparing for your future is in high school.
Here you will have the time and opportunity to take classes that can set you up for success in college and beyond.
Let’s look at some of the steps you should take in high school to prepare for a career in IT:
- Strengthen math – Computer science and math go hand in hand. Computer science is highly dependent upon a good understanding of the theory of computation, and analysis of algorithms and numerals. Focusing on your mathematics studies will definitely help you get a leg up on your degree journey in IT. Many computer science programs will have math prerequisites such as statistics and calculus 1 and 2.
- Nip procrastination – If you are struggling in high school with procrastination, now is the time to nip this habit. Once you start a bachelor’s degree program in IT, you will realize that procrastination has no part in this field. The field of IT demands complete attention to detail, strict deadlines, and the ability to work on tight timelines. Now is the time to start training yourself for these skills. Even if you understand IT sciences very well, if you are unable to execute your knowledge on a strict timeline and make things happen by the deadline, you will not succeed in the degree program or in the workforce later on.
- Learn computer programming now – While you are still in high school you can start learning the basics of computer programming. When you first start your bachelor’s degree in IT you will probably be assigned courses in computer programming. Having a basic understanding of programming before starting these courses will really set you up for success. These types of courses often cover things like designs, variables, loops, and functions. You can gain access to these types of courses online often for free while you are still in high school. There are also books on programming that you can read to at least have a familiarity with this science before you are thrown into the degree-level courses. Even beginners’ coding lessons are a good way to get some experience with these concepts before college. Those who have some grasp of these concepts have a much better chance of succeeding in the program.
