Everything You Want to Know (But Were Afraid to Ask)
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Information Technology, or IT, is the study, design, creation, utilization,
support, and management of computer-based information systems, especially
software applications and computer hardware.
IT is not limited solely to computers though. With technologies quickly
developing in the fields of cell phones, PDAs and other handheld devices, the
field of IT is quickly moving from compartmentalized computer-focused areas to
other forms of mobile technology.
Who works in the field of Information Technology?
In today's advanced technological environment, the field of IT is very large;
those who work in the field are computer hardware and software designers,
computer engineers, and specialists who maintain large computer networks and
database systems.
IT professionals maintain databases for organizations and make sure that they
are up to date and run smoothly. They resolve problems with the computers on
their network by installing and maintaining the programs that run on them,
monitoring overall system health and resolving problems such as computer viruses
so that they do not spread quickly and cause network-wide system crashes.
What kind of Education does one need to work in the field of Information
Technology?
To work in the IT field, individuals must have a combination of formal education
and experience. Because the field is developing so rapidly, there is a wide
range of educational opportunities available, and updating one's skills with
experience pertaining to the newest technologies out there is extremely
important.
Formal educational opportunities such as two and four year degrees in the field
of information technology are abundant. Usually titled associate of science or
Bachelor of Science degrees, these courses focus mainly on the majored area of
IT. With classes like the principles of computer language, application server
programming, enterprise software architecture, and information systems security,
students receive a great deal of information regarding the “nuts and bolts” of
the IT industry.
In addition to such core classes, these degrees also require courses in
mathematics, communications, science, social and behavioral science, as well as
some humanities. The length of the program determines how many classes in each
area are necessary for graduation
For those looking to further their information technology degree, many colleges
and universities now offer Master of Science and Ph.D. programs in the field.
For instance, Carnegie Mellon Heinz College School of Information Systems &
Management developed its Mastes's program for individuals already in the field
looking to hone their skills without having to drop out of the workforce or move
to get their education. Carnegie Mellon's program focuses on core requirements
such as telecommunications management, IT project management, and database
management, as well as complimentary electives like financial accounting,
e-commerce technologies, healthcare information systems, and geographic
information systems.
The University of Nebraska at Omaha offers a Ph.D. in information technology.
Such a program combines information systems requirements with computer science
principles to create a unique opportunity for those looking to get to the top of
the IT field. UNO's program prepares students for the specialized fields of
applied computing, information systems, internet technologies, as well as the
developments in telecommunications and management of IT. Students can specialize
in areas such as artificial intelligence, bioinformatics, data mining, and B2B
e-commerce and risk management. Course requirements depend on each doctoral
candidate's field of study and dissertation matter.
Getting a job in the field of Information Technology
IT jobs are very specialized and require a combination of education and
experience. There are many resources for those seeking employment in the IT
field, as there are employment services that specialize in locating and
obtaining IT talent specifically.
Sites such as ITjobs.com only post openings
for the info tech field. Job seekers can search the site by category and post a
resume; employers can post a job and search through posted resumes for
employees, and both can do it free.
Another resource for those looking for a job in IT is
Dice.com. This site is a job board for IT
professionals that allows users to post their resume, search for open jobs by
location, job title, or skill; it also provides job hunting tips and tricks for
IT pros like career news articles, blogs, videos from top employers, advice, and
discussion boards. For employers, they can post openings and peruse resumes, and
again these services are free.
What is the Future of Information Technology?
The IT field is evolving and developing every day. New technologies in computers
and mobile devices are shaping the way the world communicates with one another,
gets work done, and spends free time. There is a growing need for individuals
with a love of the field, a curiosity for the future, and a desire to be a force
in it. Jobs in the field are on the rise, and employers are on the lookout for
fresh talent; those who want to play a part in IT's future have no limits on
their potential or on the potential of their specific field.
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