Information Technology Computer Degree Choices

Those considering earning a degree or certification in information technology (IT) will find many choices from which to choose. As adults considering an IT degree search the list of available options, they soon discover there are more than the traditional computer science degrees available today. The range of degree options has become varied and specialized.

This change was brought about employers who want their new IT employees to have more than the traditional education available in colleges and universities. Employers prefer graduates with the ability to apply their IT learning to complex, real world challenges, as well as projects that integrate problem solving, writing, and analytical reasoning skills [The Association of American Colleges and Universities, Survey of Employers 2008].

Traditional Information Technology Degrees

Traditional IT degrees are still available in colleges and universities and are typically located within specific departments of these schools, such as: business, engineering, art, and liberal arts. The following briefly describes these degrees:

• Computer Science – a rigorous theoretical study of data structures, operating systems, and programming.

• Information Systems – called management information systems which teach databases, programming, and computer applications.

• Electrical and Computer Engineering – a study of software design, communication systems, digital circuits, and technical products.

Degrees in any one of these areas are perfect for those who want to design electronic products and programs or for those who want to design new and better integrated circuit chips and digital applications.

Practical Information Technology Degrees

Employers want employees who know the practical applications of IT, along with the ability to adapt to evolving computer technology uses, equipment, and programs. These are some of the new degrees with brief descriptions:

• Game Development – programs focus on designing and creating new games for computers and gaming systems.

• Interactive Media – programs focus on the creation of websites and digital media to allow more interactivity in cell phones, kiosks, MP3 players, Internet, and gaming systems.

• Network Engineer – programs focus on the application of IT in databases, programming, and networks.

• Human Computer Interaction – programs focus on the practical application how humans interact with technology and the development of new computer interfaces.

• Software Engineering – programs focus on the engineering applications and practical approaches to software development.

• Multimedia Specialist – programs focus on the practical applications of computer programs and software in various industries for presentation and professional development.

• Education Technology – programs focus the practical applications of IT in educational settings.

These programs may appear under different names in colleges, universities, vocational, and technical schools; however the emphasis is the same. Some schools may require enrollment in a bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree, or certificate program to enroll in specific courses. Many schools offer these programs through distance education.

Information Technology Degrees

Because of the ever-evolving information technology available for businesses and education, employers are searching for employees who understand the practical applications of IT. Also, they are searching for employees who can use their practical knowledge to solve problems which arise in IT applications.

The advantage of earning a degree in one of the new computer degrees or certificates is their specialization. These degree programs focus on completing complex real world challenge and integrating problem solving skills with analytical reasoning skills, which employers seek in new employees.

The face of information technology is evolving and anyone can be a part of this world by continuing his education to focus on these new degree choices. Visit Changing Careers to be a Web Designer and How to Select a Trade School for additional information regarding information technology degree programs.