A Career in Information Technology - Choosing an Information Technology Degree

information technology IT technician
Information technology deals with computer science and technology, including design, development, installation and implementation of information systems and applications.

A Career in Information Technology

Because IT plays a critical role in all industries, information technology specialists have the flexibility to work in a variety of fields. The Information Technology Association of America (ITAA) reports that 92 percent of all Information Technology jobs are in non-IT companies, and 80 percent are with small companies.
 
In the United States, there is a shortage of qualified information technology specialists with flexible and portable skills who can adapt and respond to the changing IT workplace demands. Employment in computers and information technology is expected to grow faster than the average of all other occupations through 2016.

Types of IT Jobs

While there are limitless possibilities in the IT field, here is a list of some of the most common information technology careers:
  • Chief Information Officer
  • Chief Security Officer
  • Chief Technology Officer
  • Computer Scientist
  • Entry-Level Tech
  • Health Information Technology
  • Information Technology Manager
  • Technical Services Manager
  • Web Designer
  • Web Developer.
 

Educational Path

Community and Technical Colleges play a major role in training information technology candidates. Continuing technical and professional certifications after college is becoming increasingly popular and extremely important to all those in the information technology field. IT workers must continue to update their knowledge and acquire new skills to remain qualified and relevant.

Necessary Skills for an Information Technology Specialist

Individuals interested in this field should be curious, think logically and have strong problem-solving skills. Information technology professionals need the ability to solve technical challenges, as well as communicate their ideas in reports, in-person and electronically.
 
They must deal with customers, information technology management and computer specialists. Web designers and developers must also possess creative and artistic talents. Knowledge of math and good communication skills are extremely helpful. The ability to troubleshoot, teamwork and being able to help others are also vital aspects to successful IT professionals.

Employment Possibilities

Computer and information systems managers held around 264,000 jobs in 2006. Employers include:
  • financial firms
  • insurance firms
  • Internet companies
  • government agencies
  • manufacturers.
 

Salaries for Information Technology Management

Earnings in the information technology fields vary by specialty and the associated level of responsibility. The median annual salary of an information technology manager in May 2006 was $101,580. For mid-range IT employees, the average annual salary ranged between $79,240 and $129,250.
 
The median annual earnings in the industries employing the largest numbers of information technology managers in May 2006 were:
  • college, universities and professional schools: $83,000
  • computer systems design: $109,000
  • data processing, hosting and other related services: $105,000
  • insurance carriers: $102,000
  • management of companies: $106,000.
 
In addition to the salary, professionals in the IT fields could also earn employment-related benefits like stock options, expense accounts and bonuses.
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