Large businesses consider information technologists a vital part of their company. These specialists are responsible for maintaining both the computer systems of the company and possibly the company´s entire communications. Their job is to maintain data availability while keeping integrity and security in the forefront. Both the government and private industry use information techs and there are a number of private firms that offer these services on a contract basis. Computer Science careers, like Information Technologist or learning how to become a software developer, are among the fastest growing careers today and with an average of 25% annual growth seems to have a very secure job future. Information technologists are also responsible for maintaining the security of the organizations data systems and the increase in the number of cyber threats promises to increase the need for specialists in this area.
An Information Technologist should have a Bachelor´s Degree in Computer Science with an emphasis on Network engineering and a solid understanding of objected oriented languages, security algorithms, and have their N+ Certification and MSCE certification in TCP/ip and being A+ Certified with give you even more flexibility. The above requirements can be completed in 4 years or less if you are using online resources to study for your certifications and take the exams. Doing this can also give you “test out” credit for some classes that deal with those areas. A good example is operating systems. A core requirement for any degree in information technology requires at least one class in the basics of operating systems. If you already have your A+ Certification, which requires extensive knowledge of operating systems, you will be allowed to take the final exam and if you pass you will not be required to attend lectures.
Graduating with a Bachelor’s Degree will enable you to start at about $60,000 a year. If you work in an in-house situation you can expect better benefits but if you work for an IT company that contracts services you will earn more money. The great thing about having a degree in Information Technology is that it allows you the choice of either working for one of the largest companies in the world and challenging the frontiers of data transfer, but you can branch out on your own as a consultant.
