Careers

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

Before You Take the Plunge

  1. Be aware that careers in computers and technology are constantly changing.
  2. Be prepared to retain and learn new information on a regular basis. Certifications are often an important part of training for technical careers.
  3. Obtain the certifications that are the most applicable to career goals and interests.
  4. Gain as much diverse technical experience as possible.
  5. Seek positions in computer labs, retail computer/ technology stores, or as technological support for any office or business.
  6. Learn about technology in additional areas such as audio/ visual or telecommunications.
  7. Become familiar with the integration and application of these areas to management information systems.
  8. Develop physical stamina and strength. Many networking professionals are involved with hands-on, physical activity during network installation and maintenance.
  9. 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.
Areas
  • Architecture
  • Animation
  • Print Publications
  • Film
  • Website
  • Video Games
  • Graphic Design
Employers
  • 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.
Areas

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.
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
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.
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
  • 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.
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.
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.