Information Technology Program

Career Opportunities

Listed below are professional areas that an IT Minor can help to strengthen one's resume.

Before You Take the Plunge

  • Be aware that careers in computers and technology are constantly changing.
  • Be prepared to retain and learn new information on a regular basis. Certifications are often an important part of training for technical careers.
  • Obtain the certifications that are the most applicable to career goals and interests.
  • Gain as much diverse technical experience as possible.
  • Seek positions in computer labs, retail computer/ technology stores, or as technological support for any office or business.
  • Learn about techology in additional areas such as audio/ visual or telecommunications.
  • Become Familiar with the intergration and application of these areas to management information systems.
  • Develop physical stamina and strength. Many networking professionals are involved with hands-on, physical activity during network installation and maintainence.
  • Specialize in a specific area of business or industry such as medical office support or sound technology so as to become familiar with the applicable software and hardware.

System Development

Areas

  • Analysis
  • Design
  • Support
  • Database Administration
  • Executive Administration

Employers

  • Financial institutions
  • Insurance companies
  • Consulting firms
  • Manufacturers
  • Computer companies
  • Telecommunications companies
  • Retailers
  • Healthcare organizations
  • Hotels and restaurants
  • Entertainment companies
  • Educational institutions
  • City, state and federal governments

Strategies

  • Develop excellent interpersonal skills for effective communication with technical and non-technical colleagues.
  • Gain programming experience and knowledge for increased opportunities
  • Become an effective problem solver.
  • Plan to continually educate self on new computer languages and technology.
  • Obtain business experience through internships or part-time employment.
  • Supplement program with courses in accounting, human resources, and procurement.

Network Technology

Areas

  • Intranet Development
  • Intranet Administration
  • Hardware/ Software Design
  • Support

Employers

Most areas of business and government:

  • Financial institutions
  • Insurance companies
  • Consulting firms
  • Manufacturers
  • Computer companies
  • Telecommunications companies
  • Retailers
  • Healthcare organizations
  • Hotels and restaurants
  • Entertainment companies
  • Entertainment companies
  • City, state and federal governments

Strategies

  • Gain work experience in university computer labs.
  • Develop communication skills and interest in helping others
  • Gain knowledge in a variety of computer areas including minor programming, software and hardware.
  • Plan to stay abreast of latest technology and software.
  • Obtain applicable certifications such as Cisco and Microsoft.
  • Develop relationships with small business owners for part-time or freelance network consulting opportunities
  • Supplement program with courses in computer science.

Internet

Areas

  • Programming
  • Software Design
  • Systems Analysis
  • Hardware Production
  • Website Design
  • Website Development

Employers

  • Network access points
  • Internet service providers
  • Hardware and software vendors
  • Internet-related companies including:
    • Browsers
    • Search Engines
    • Website design services
  • Organizations with complex, self-manage web site

Strategies

  • Gain experience in web development or maintenance through part-time jobs or interships.
  • Learn web development languages.
  • Develop a flare for creativity.
  • Learn to work effectively in a team by participating in group projects or student organizations
  • Earn a graduate degree in technology or business for advanced opportunities in analysis, project management, and executive operations.

Non-Technical

Areas

  • Customer Service
  • Product Support
  • Training
  • Technical Writing
  • Sales
  • Marketing

Employers

  • Software developers
  • Technical service providers

Strategies

  • Develop excellent verbal and written communication skills.
  • Display interest and ability in customer problem solving.
  • Take technical writing courses to develop skills.
  • Obtain general sales or customers service experience.

Education

Areas

  • Various

Employers

  • Proprietary (for profit) schools
  • Community colleges
  • Universities
  • Corporations
  • Non-profit orgaizations

Strategies

  • Earn a graduate degree for post-secondary teaching opportunities.
  • Develop a research specialty.Gain experience working with students through tutoring or assisting in computer labs.
  • Obtain advanced certifications for training

Art/ Design

Areas

  • Architecture
  • Animation
  • Print Publications
  • Film
  • Website
  • Video Games
  • Graphic Design

Employment

  • Architecture Design Firms
  • Animation Studios
  • Film Studios
  • Website Designers
  • Video Game Studios
  • Newspaper Publishers
  • Magazine Publishers

Strategies

  • Develop visual design vocabulary to communicate to colleagues and clients.
  • Gain experience in digtial technology to expedite design and production.
  • Obtain business experience through internships and work study programs.

Consulting

Area

  • Various

Employers

  • Consulting firms
  • Self-employed

Strategies

  • Develop exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills for community with clients.
  • Obtain a strong technical knowledge of computers, a background in business management, and experience in systems analysis.
  • Become familiar with various programming languages and operating systems.
  • Earn applicable certifications.
  • Demonstrate ability to self-motivate and work independently.
// Tabs