What Can You Do with an IT Degree?

Across all sectors, businesses are becoming increasingly reliant on technology. Computer systems and software are ever-evolving, which makes the industry a fast-paced and exciting one. The same is also said for those with a career in information technology. IT professionals have never been more in demand, and this leads to competitive salaries and stimulating job roles.

Speaking of job roles, IT has a wide assortment of career paths available. To have access to these paths, however, it is important you acquire an IT degree. Yet before you decide to sign up for an information technology program, there are numerous aspects to consider. This guide will provide more information about earning a degree in IT, the type of jobs available with one, and how to enroll at the right college.

Is an IT major the right choice?

It’s true: it is possible to gain a career in IT without the assistance of a degree – which is different to many other specialized professions. However, you’re going to have a much easier time landing an IT job when armed with a relevant degree. For potential employers, it speaks volumes about your knowledge and ability. Plus, if you want to rise through the ranks in your career, this can be difficult without combining experience with a college education.

Furthermore, you don’t just gain expert knowledge about the subject of IT. A degree in IT supplies a wide range of transferrable skills that can help in any profession. These include:

• Logical thinking
• Analysis and problem-solving
• Research skills
• Project planning
• Communication
• Teamwork
• Creativity
• Organizational abilities

Aside from the knowledge and skills gained from this type of education, don’t overlook the opportunity to network with peers and potential future employers. Also, make sure to look at what type of opportunities are presented by any prospective colleges. They often offer job fairs, internships, and other employment opportunities that enhance your CV and experience.

Another reason to opt for an IT degree is the amount of work opportunities available. With the growing reliance on IT systems in all manner of businesses, big and small, there’s an abundance of IT careers that are thriving. For example, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics anticipates that, between 2019 and 2029, the job outlook for information security analysts will grow by a whopping 31%.

What can I do with an IT degree?

Once you have earned an IT degree, there’s an assortment of career paths you can take. Many programs offered by colleges present the opportunity to specialize in a particular subsection of information technology, which can better prepare you for a specific area of IT work.

While there are too many examples to list, below is a small selection of IT-related careers that present themselves to those with a bachelor’s.

Information security analyst

An information security analyst’s work is primarily focused on preventing data from being compromised due to outside tampering. They have to continually watch over network security, while planning and implementing new security measures is also required due to the ever-changing nature of external threats.

As referenced above, this particular career path is an enticing one due to the anticipated growth in opportunities across the US. In terms of an IT salary, it is also one of the more rewarding roles – the average salary is currently just shy of $100,000 annually.

Computer systems analyst

A computer systems analyst looks at the current network infrastructure of a company and tries to find ways to improve its performance. Both business-side and network-side software are evaluated, with systems analysts devising procedures that enhance the efficiency of both.

Although not quite as financially rewarding as its information security counterpart, the average wage for a computer systems analyst sits at a healthy $90,920. The Bureau of Labor Statistics also expects a 7% job outlook growth between 2019 and 2029.

Computer network architect

A computer network architect plays an important role for organization. They design and create networks, the type that manages a company’s data and processes. This includes setting up intranets, LANs, and WANs, as well as utilizing cloud servers and other new networking technology. In essence, architects need to make sure networks fall in line with customer demands.

It is suggested that the annual pay for a computer network architect is currently at $109.020. The job outlook for 2019-2029 is said to increase by 5%.

Database administrator

A database administrator utilizes software to store, organize, and retrieve data. This data can include everything from customer information to shipping manifests. To keep a business running seamlessly, the administrator ensures the right data is accessible to the right people within the organization.

Database administrators are growing in prevalence at a rate of 10%. The pay for a data administrator is also an attractive proposal, with the annual average being $93,750.

Software developer

A software developer, as the name implies, is responsible for crafting software-based programs. These programs can range from business software to video games, with certain tasks requiring a large dose of innovation and creativity.

The monetary rewards for that creation and innovation are worth it, however. The annual median pay for software developers sits at $107,510, and the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 22% job outlook increase from 2019 to 2029.

Making the right college choice

You’ve seen what jobs with an IT degree are available, and this has convinced you to explore this path in further education. However, there’s a difficult choice ahead: picking the right college.

Of course, you want to find a college that provides the right IT program with your chosen concentration. Yet it’s also essential you pick a college that delivers a campus experience that supports a positive, prosperous study environment.

With CampusReel, you can gain an in-depth insight into campus life at your prospective colleges. Forget about those overly slick, fluff promotional videos produced by colleges. You can watch student-made videos which give you the real details you want to see.

With over 15,000 videos available, you can watch an endless stream of quality content. Best of all, these videos are free to view – simply sign up for a CampusReel account today.