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CAREER GUIDE Bachelor of Science, Information Technology
Start on your path today.
Career guide: information technology.
Jump to: Career Opportunities Work Environment Salary Stats Go to: B.S. Information Technology
Practically every aspect of the world we live in relies on information technology in some capacity, and the field is constantly evolving to meet the needs of society and industry. This creates a tremendous ongoing demand for IT professionals with the knowledge, up-to-date skills, and certifications necessary to expand the scope of what technology can do. Careers in information technology are booming, so much so that U.S. News & World Report stated that the "best technology jobs of 2015 boast an alluring yin-yang of high salaries and low unemployment rates."
Careers in information technology are as diverse and specialized as the people who pursue them. Pick a topic, any topic. If you have an interest in the field of healthcare, there's an IT career path for you to pursue. Are you an accomplished online gamer? Turn your passion into your profession. Concerned about identity theft, hackers, or threats against society? The IT security industry is constantly pushing the boundaries of technology to address and solve problems. Computers and information technology touch just about every aspect of modern life, and if you have the interest and desire to establish yourself in a satisfying career, the world of IT is ripe with opportunity right now.
Job listing growth 2016–2026.
Career opportunities.
There are many areas of IT where job opportunities are expected to remain plentiful, including cybersecurity, cloud computing, mobile computing, and web-based games and apps. If your knowledge and skills are up-to-date and in-line with the needs and expectations of today's employers, your career as an IT professional can be long and successful. Here are just a few areas of possible employment for you to consider as you begin the next phase of your professional future.
Positions in the field.
- Software developer
- Computer systems analyst
- Information security analyst
- Web developer
- Mechanical engineer
- IT manager
- Civil engineer
- Computer systems administrator
- Database administrator
- Computer programmer
- Computer support specialist
"Information technology has two paths: You can go down the degree path, or you can go down the certification path. The way that WGU interweaves those together made the choice to enroll an absolute no-brainer." Bill Burns,
B.S. Information Technology
Job market forecast.
Information technology job opportunities have continued to grow since 1990, when businesses began investing heavily in their computer systems. A global economy fueled rapid growth as businesses around the world adopted complex computer systems and networks. Today, cloud computing and mobile applications are driving the industry and creating strong demand for information technology specialists. In fact, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects job growth of 13% for all computer occupations from 2016 to 2026, which is significantly faster than the 7% growth projected for all occupations.
Job growth 2016–2026.
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Work environment.
The industry in which you pursue a career can have a direct impact on the type of office environment in which you'll work. Generally speaking, as an IT professional, you'll work in an office with other curious, creative problem solvers who have strong analytical skills and up-to-date technical abilities.
Professional organizations.
To keep your IT career on the fast track, it's helpful to see where you started and where you hope to end up. Many organizations can help you chart your professional growth from beginner to advanced professional.
Job search resources.
In the market for a job in IT? Resume and credentials polished and ready to go? These links can help you discover exciting professional opportunities in almost every area of information technology.
Salary stats.
With the right education, certifications, and experience, the sky's the limit for your career in information technology. The Bureau of Labor Statistics states that the median annual wage for all computer occupations was $84,580 in May of 2017, and network and computer systems administrators earned a median annual wage of $81,100. Factor in a few years of experience and a strong set of industry certifications, and you could earn even more.
Average salary of jobs with related titles.
Summary.
Current, applicable knowledge and skills are your keys to a successful future in IT. Whether you set your sights on an IT management career, a role in business and financial operations, a computer- and software-driven industry, or an IT-related office and administrative support job, getting the right education today can pay dividends well into the future. Look for an accredited program from a school that incorporates the latest industry recognized certifications (including CIW, CCNA, MCSA, OCP, and CompTIA), and you'll be assured of an education that will provide you with the credentials you need to open the right doors and establish your career.
Your career’s next step: Earn a degree.
Ready to jump-start your career in the technology field? The next step could be earning your B.S. Information Technology. Accredited, competency-based WGU offers this degree online for at a surprisingly affordable flat-rate tuition. Flexible enough for a working adult’s schedule with the option to accelerate, your degree may be closer than you think!