Technology has been redefining daily life for decades, and that trend is not expected to slow down anytime soon. The digital revolution is in full force, allowing anyone who is an information technology major to explore a wide range of career opportunities. Knowing what to expect from the information technologies field and what career options may be available to you can help you decide if this is the right focus for your degree or diploma program.
Defining an Information Technology Program
Defined by the National Institute of Standards and Technology as the use of computers or technology to acquire, store, or transmit information, information technology is considered to be one of the most critical fields of the modern era. In an age when cybersecurity is a primary concern of both individuals and businesses alike, there is heightened demand for experienced information technology professionals. To add, these experienced professionals who understand how to connect our physical world with digital devices that are safe and secure are the most sought-after.
An information technology degree program or diploma program is one that covers a variety of technology-related topics, such as:
- Computer and Network Systems
- Cybersecurity
- Programming
- Cyber Laws and Compliance
- Network Security
- Digital Forensics
- Web Application Development
- Ethical Hacking
What Is Information Technology in the Modern World?
So, what is information technology exactly? In today’s digital age, every field, from agriculture and manufacturing to marketing and business administration, relies heavily on technology to conduct their day-to-day business. As a result, information technology is one of the most relevant and important fields of study today.
According to Indeed, information technology benefits every field and industry by:
- Improving communication and facilitating the sharing of vital information in a way that is fast, accurate, and secure.
- Allowing businesses of all sizes and scopes to store, manage, and utilize data effectively.
- Increasing efficiency at organizations of all sizes by allowing professionals to be more focused and productive throughout their workday.
- Providing critical protection and security that makes it possible to use technology for a wide variety of purposes in the business setting.
Core Objectives of IT Programs
Information technology degree and diploma programs are designed to provide students with foundational knowledge about the field while also giving them a chance to develop the critical competencies required to launch a career in this dynamic and growing field. The core objectives of most IT programs are to:
- Provide students with a foundational understanding of the information technology industry.
- Develop the advanced technological skills needed to begin a career in information technology.
- Offer a future-forward glance at one of the most dynamic fields of study.
Pillars of Information Technology Education
When it comes to answering the question of “What is information technology?” remember that the scope of an information technology education is two-fold. Any information technology curriculum is going to cover the fundamentals of the industry, providing students with an in-depth look at network security, computer systems, cybersecurity principles, and network administration strategies. In addition, the curriculum also will look into the more creative side of the field, allowing students to learn more about developing new software and web applications. With a focus on both innovation and strategic development, information technology degree programs can help students acquire the knowledge and skills needed to begin a lasting career in this field.
Hardware Fundamentals and Innovations
Before you can begin developing advanced computer network systems or learning the best practices for network administration, you will need to have an advanced understanding of the hardware fundamentals that are included in any piece of technology.
Hardware refers to the physical components of technology. The most basic hardware that will be covered as part of any information technology program includes:
- Central Processing Unit
- Motherboard
- Random Access Memory
- Power Supply
- Hard Drive
- Monitor
While these are the basic hardware components that continue to be included in most computers, it’s important to note that innovations are changing the shape and scope of technology on a regular basis. In addition to providing an overview of the hardware fundamentals that have long been used as part of computer development, an information technology program also will discuss the innovations that are on the horizon.
Software Development and Programming
While it’s necessary to have an advanced understanding of computer hardware, an information technology degree or diploma program will also take a look at software development and programming. Software development and web application development are the processes of creating programs that are used by computers to conduct tasks, such as collecting data or sharing information.
Software development and programming often fuel the most advanced innovations in the information technology field. In many cases, the latest software programs or web applications can breathe new life into existing technology, giving the user the power to leverage that technology in fresh and exciting ways.
Exploring The Curriculum of IT Programs
If you have an interest in computers and advancing technology, then you may be considering enrolling as an information technology major. Knowing what the curriculum of IT programs consists of can help you determine if this area of study will provide you with the knowledge and skills needed to begin the career you are most interested in.
Generally, the curriculum of an IT program is designed to cover advanced topics in information technology while simultaneously building the core competencies required to succeed in this field. Choosing an information technology degree program that offers specializations or areas of emphasis will allow you to personalize your career path and pursue niche opportunities in the information technology field.
Core Courses in Information Technology Programs
Some of the most common core courses in information technology programs include:
- Computer Programming Design — This course will help you learn more about programming languages and how programming can be used to enhance the design and development of a computer system.
- Networking Fundamentals — This course provides an overview of networking design and principles, allowing you to develop an advanced understanding of this critical information technology concept.
- Security Fundamentals — This course discusses the important role that security measures play in the field of information technology and provides you with information about the most effective security processes in today’s modern world.
- Cloud Computing and Cloud Management — This course highlights the role that cloud computing plays in today’s digital world and provides you with an opportunity to develop the skills needed to effectively manage cloud-based computer systems and networks.
- Computer Hardware — This course takes an in-depth look at the fundamentals of computer hardware and innovations that are being made in this area.
- Software Development — This course provides an overview of the process of software development and the potential of this ever-growing, ever-changing niche area of information technology.
Elective and Specialization Opportunities in IT
Depending on the information technologies degree program that you choose, you may find that there are elective courses that you can take or opportunities to specialize. For example, at Florida Technical College, our Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology with emphasis in Cybersecurity, allowing our students to develop an advanced understanding of the best cybersecurity principles and skills.
Elective courses that are included as part of our emphasis on cybersecurity include:
- Security Fundamentals
- Information Assurance
- Cyber Laws and Compliance
- Web Applications and Social Network Security
- Cryptography and Network Security
- Intrusion Detection and Incident Response
- Digital Forensics
- Ethical Hacking
The Role of Practical Experience in IT Education
As an aspiring information technology professional, it is important to select a degree program that provides you with an overview of the IT field as a whole. While completing coursework can help you expand your understanding of information technologies and the role it plays in today’s modern world, it’s also important to recognize the role that practical experience can play in your educational experience. Often, practical experience in the IT field is the only way to truly develop and perfect those critical competencies that are required in any IT position, regardless of your area of interest or specialization.
Career Pathways After Completing an IT Program
Within the field of information technology, there are a variety of subfields, allowing you to specialize in a niche area and choose a career path that supports your personal and professional goals. The career pathways after earning an information technology degree or diploma will vary significantly, based on the courses that you completed as part of your program and the practical experience that you gained during that time.
The most common career pathways after completing an IT program include:
- Information Security
- Software Development
- Web Application Development
- Network Administration
- Information Architecture
- Computer-Generated Imagery
- Cloud Computing
- Robotics
Emerging Job Roles in the IT Sector
Since technology is constantly changing, and the latest digital devices continue to redefine our daily lives, it’s not surprising that there are always new and emerging roles in the IT sector. When considering what is information technology, some of the top emerging jobs in IT include:
- Programming — Programmers continue to play a pivotal role in shaping the scope and impact of new technology. CIO.com notes that Python and R are two of the most critical programming languages of our time.
- Cybersecurity Professionals — The increased prevalence of cybersecurity attacks, and the impact that these data breaches can have on daily life in the digital age, highlights the importance of having well-rounded cybersecurity professionals on hand.
- Data Scientists — Data is the driving force behind every industry today, which has increased the demand for qualified data scientists and engineers. These professionals can do more than securely harvest, collect, and store data. They also can analyze and interpret the data that is available to provide actionable information to the organization that needs it.
- Artificial Intelligence Engineers — Machine learning and AI technology are poised to be the technology that defines the future, making artificial intelligence engineers some of the most sought-after IT professionals today.
Essential Skills for a Successful IT Career
To enjoy a long-lasting, lucrative career in IT, you will want to focus on developing these critical skills:
- Programming — IT professionals should be familiar with coding languages, including Python, Java, and R, and they should know how to use them effectively in the professional setting.
- Network Administration — Knowing how to develop and manage a computer network is a foundational skill that every IT professional should have.
- Communication — IT professionals often must work with other professionals not well-versed in the field of information technology, making good communication skills essential. It’s important for IT professionals to be able to communicate information in a relatable and understandable way, particularly to those not familiar with the best IT practices.
- Problem-Solving — Knowing how to troubleshoot both common and advanced IT problems will allow you to succeed in this field. It is important to be able to come up with creative and innovative solutions, as not every problem has a clear-cut solution available.
The Evolution of Information Technology Programs
Naturally, the field of information technology has evolved along with technology and the role that it has played in our modern era. The information technology programs that exist today are vastly different from those that were available just a decade or so ago, largely because the curriculum for these programs must be constantly evaluated to stay relevant. With each passing year, new coursework is added to accommodate new and influential technology, such as machine learning, artificial intelligence, database management, and cloud computing.
Historical Milestones in IT Education
Historical milestones in IT education often coincide with monumental developments in technology. Some of the most important milestones in information technology occurred at these moments in time:
- 1946 — The Electronic Numerical Integrator and Computer was developed. Commonly known as ENIAC, this piece of technology is considered to be the first computer.
- 1981 — The first personal computer was developed by IBM, bringing technology into the homes of the average consumer.
- 1984 — Apple created its first Macintosh computer.
- 1985 — Microsoft launched the Windows operating system.
- 1989 — The World Wide Web was born, launching the world fully into the digital age.
- 2007 — Apple launched the first iPhone, bringing the world fully into the mobile technology era.
How IT Programs Are Adapting to Technological Advances
While other areas of study enjoy slow and gradual changes over time, the information technology field is prone to rapid advancements that can quickly outpace the development of the curriculum. To stay relevant in a fast-paced field, information technology programs are constantly adapting their coursework and offering new opportunities for those who choose to enroll as an information technology major. In most cases, the curriculum focuses on the core principles of the information technology field, while offering new and inviting courses about the latest and hottest topics in the industry.
Why Choose an Information Technology Program?
By choosing an information technology major and completing an information technology program, you are opening a world of possibilities within one of the most exciting and in-demand career fields. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information technology occupations are expected to grow at a faster pace than average when compared to all other occupations. Between 2022 and 2032, the BLS notes that more than 377,500 new job opportunities will be available each year, proving that now is an excellent time to begin an information technology program.
How IT Programs Prepare You for the Future
By their very nature, IT programs take a future-forward look at the industry and actively focus on skill development for the next generation of IT jobs. These degree and diploma programs are uniquely designed to prepare you for the future by:
- Offering relevant coursework about the latest topics in IT, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, and cybersecurity.
- Providing you with opportunities to gain real-world experience in internship programs.
- Preparing you for certification programs, allowing you to gain the qualifications needed to pursue the best IT jobs that are available today.
Choosing to enroll in an IT program at a school that has long been focused on skills-based learning will ensure that you are prepared for the top information technology jobs of the future.
Develop Advanced Information Technologies Skills at Florida Technical College
At Florida Technical College, our skills-based, online degree programs allow students to develop the advanced competencies required for their chosen field. Our Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with emphasis on Cybersecurity program as well as our Computer Support Technician Diploma program allow students to develop a foundational understanding of information technology and hone the skills needed to launch a career in this growing field.
Request more information about what it’s like to be an information technology major today.
These examples are intended to serve only as a general guide of possible employment opportunities. There are many factors that determine the job an individual may obtain and Florida Technical College cannot guarantee its graduates any particular job. Some positions may require license or other certifications. We encourage you to research the requirements for the particular position you desire.
Sources
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