Computer school - your key to success in industry's fastest-growing areas

by Fran Walker
fran.walker@hqpublications.com
Degrees to Succeed Columnist

There have been gloomy predictions recently about a slow-down in the I.T. industry, but the number of online computer schools is still increasing. The growing need for networking and information security professionals means that computer schools have a vital role in educating tomorrow's I.T. professionals. Existing professionals also use computer schools to retain their edge in a changing world.

Why study at a computer school?
While the technology boom has slowed down, the BLS reports that eight out of the top ten fastest growing jobs through 2012 are still in technology. This makes a powerful argument for attending computer school. In 2005 alone, IT hiring of computer school graduates is expected to increase by 9%.

The reality is that many I.T. managers are being more selective in their hires. They want candidates with a degree from computer school, work experience and ongoing training from computer school. They want candidates that can hit the ground running in I.T, and for that you need computer school.

Computer school feeds the fastest-growing occupations
The following three occupations top the BLS list of fastest growing occupations through 2012. A bachelor's degree from computer school is a prerequisite for all of them:

• Network systems and data communications analysts;
• Computer software engineers;
• Database administrators.

Let's look at them one at a time.

Network systems and data communications at computer school
For graduates of computer school, networking is currently the fastest-growing I.T. occupation by far, followed by information security. The Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 means that I.T. departments need hires with degrees in networking and information security from computer school [http://www.sec.gov] to help implement the necessary changes. They will pay well too. If you have general I.T. degrees from computer school, you can specialize in these areas at online computer schools.

Software engineering at computer school
Various software engineering degrees can be studied full-time at computer school or at an online computer school. Software engineering students at computer school will learn about the design and development of software systems for the control and automation of manufacturing, business, and management processes. Starting salaries for graduates with a bachelor’s degree from computer schools [http://bls.gov/oco/ocos267.htm] in software engineering averaged $51,343 in 2003. Starting salaries for software engineers with a master's from computer school in software development ranged from $64,250 to $97,000.

Database administration at computer school
Businesses are actively seeking professionals with database administration qualifications from computer school, and most specifically with Microsoft Certifications from computer school. You can gain these qualifications at a wide range online computer schools while you work, and expect a salary of around $60,000 when you graduate from computer school.

Bachelors in information technology from computer school
Along with the specialties described, a general I.T. degree from computer school is a good start. If you opt for a general bachelor's degree in information technology from computer school, you should expect to cover systems analysis, design, function and development, coding and programming methodology, software, hardware, and digital communication systems.

Computer school - the ideal place to start your lifelong learning
This broad base of knowledge from computer school can start you on the right path to all of the hottest careers, but we all know that computer school is not a one-stop-shop. Anyone who wants to take their I.T. career seriously must be prepared for a lifetime of learning at online computer schools, where you can specialize and keep abreast of change.

Associate's degrees in computers from computer school
If you decide to pursue an associate's degree at computer school, health informatics and computer support specialists are some of the fastest growing professions for associate computer school graduates. You can then continue your education while you work using an online computer school.

Master's degrees from computer school
Computer school [http://bls.gov/oco/ocotjt1.htm] graduates with a master's degree can become computer and information systems managers, the fastest growing occupations at this level. In 2003, the middle 50 percent of information systems managers earned between $64,150 and $109,950, so post-graduate study at computer school is a smart move.

Others subjects at computer school
Desktop publishing, web design and communications remain popular areas of study at computer school. They will continue to be offered by computer schools for as long as we have the Internet and the media.

Computer school makes for a bright future
So there you have it. From where I'm sitting, with the sheer range of I.T. careers available, and the number of courses available from online computer schools, the predictions are not gloomy at all.

About the Author
Fran Walker is a freelance writer, editor and researcher specializing in educational, health, safety and domestic issues. Previously, she spent five years in marketing in the self-help, health and health and safety sectors before leaving to start a family. She now edits and writes content for the U.K. Health and Safety Executive. Fran graduated in 1993 with an honors degree in English Literature