First, let’s define what an IT job is. IT stands for Information Technology. As we continue to advance in the technological industry, this becomes a very broad field of study. So quite naturally there will be different degree programs that focus on certain parts of the IT industry. But before we go in to what type of degree programs are offered, let’s discuss a little further what an IT job is.
What is an IT Job?
The short answer is working with computers—the name itself is self-explanatory, but since computers are a complicated type of technology, a slightly more detailed description is necessary.
IT requires maintaining computer systems and providing technical support to instruct or consult those who don’t have an in-depth understanding of such technology. As new technological innovations present themselves on a frequent basis, IT technicians are becoming more in demand.
Projected Number of Future IT Jobs
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics’ Occupational Outlook Handbook, “Employment of computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 12 percent from 2014 to 2024, faster than the average for all occupations.” What this means for students studying to pursue an IT job is that there will be approximately 488,500 of new jobs available between the years 2014 – 2024.
Why IT Jobs are on the Rise?
Most of these jobs are due to the increasing interest and demand of cloud computing—a solution that helps collect and store data in amounts that a regular business server might not be able to do. With more emphasis on storing large amounts of data and having it easily accessible through the Internet comes the need for someone to process, organize, and manage it. Cloud computing itself comes with several moving parts to manage. You can read more about Cloud Computing here.
Relevancy of IT Jobs
IT personnel provide expertise to individual users and businesses to help them when they’re upgrading their computer systems, networks, and/or other types of software. IT is relevant in almost every thriving business industry. The type of services under the IT field can be broken down into the following categories:
- Computer Programming
- Computer Systems Design
- Computer Facilities Management
Computer programming and computer system design account for approximately 90% of IT employment. Many custom computer programming services are needed to meet a specific need in a particular industry. Computer programming involves establishing software. This means that skillfully trained programmers are creating software using C+, Visual Basic, and other coding algorithms to design a user-friendly interface that streamlines work processes.
The job duties for computer facilities managers involve maintaining what the programmers have designed. These types of jobs are usually in establishments that operate computer systems and data processing facilities. While they take up the smaller percentage, they still require a certain level of training and expertise.
If you’re interested in pursing an IT education in the Miami area and are wondering what kind of academic courses are available to you in this field, consider these three associate programs at Florida National University (FNU):
- Computer Developer
If you have a passion for design, then the Associate of Science Computer Developer degree might be an option for you. This program offers students an integrated background in the field of web design and programming. With this degree, you will be equipped to apply for entry-level jobs in web development and Internet service provider in almost any computer programming company. You’ll also have the training to work as a user support and application system specialist.
The foundation of your computer development will include courses in Web Programming, Visual Basic and C+ Programming.
To see all of the classes offered under the Computer Developer associate’s program, visit FNU’s online page here.
- Computer Information Technology
The Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology offers a general knowledge of the IT field. With less electives than the Computer Developer associates, this degree program teaches the basic foundation of software applications. Here, students will get a better understanding of the front end of a software application, being better equipped to consult and instruct users on how to operate the system. In this IT program, you’ll learn more about spreadsheets, desktop publishing, and database management systems.
Learn more about FNU’s Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology here.
- Networking Systems Administrator
While the computer developer creates and the IT consultant consults, there needs to be someone who knows how to install and configure the software into a supporting network. While it can be reasoned that the developer can do this, often times, there’s some troubleshooting involved and some software applications that need to connect to different systems depending on the company’s existing software.
This is where a networking administrator is needed. Here, a person in this position will need to have the knowledge of computer connectivity. Equipping yourself with the basic networking essentials and having an understanding of JAVA programming, routing protocols and concepts, LAN, WAN, and wireless connectivity is key. Depending on the elective you choose in this program, you may be required to become certified as a Cisco Entry Networking Technician and/or a Microsoft Office Professional (MOS).
Learn more about the Networking Systems Administrator associate’s program here.
As it was aforementioned that IT jobs are steadily on the rise, it’s only fair to include a list of job titles that you can apply for with a diploma or associate’s degree in the IT field.
Types of IT Jobs You Can Apply For
- Web Developers
- Software Developers
- Computer Programmers
- Computer Support Specialist
- Computer Analyst
- Network Security Consultant
- Database Programmer
- Systems Administrator
- Microsoft Administrator
- LAN Engineer
- WAN Engineer
Start your career in the IT field by enrolling in one of the best educational programs in Miami. Contact FNU to start the admissions process for your associate’s degree in the IT field today!
