IT Training for Hot Careers in Technology

Computer programmers are essential to the success of any computer-related business. Computer programming schools offer some of the most diverse IT training options, opening doors in many areas: programmers can work with companies to write new code for new computer programs, troubleshoot code written by other programmers, or work in areas such as video game development. And that's just the beginning—even if you don't work as a programmer, having a programming background gives you the credibility and understanding to pursue many IT-related careers.

Entry-level programming positions typically require you to have at least an associate's degree, but a bachelor's degree in programming is preferred. Some of the IT training classes you can expect to take as you earn your programming IT degree include:

• Data Structures and Algorithms
• Computer Architecture and Troubleshooting
• Programming Logic
• Business System Analysis

After completing your IT training in programming, you can begin looking for new career opportunities as a computer programmer, computer engineer or computer software engineer. Programmer salaries vary depending on location, specialties and previous work experience:

Computer Engineer: $37,235 – $134,081
Computer Programmer: $42,071 – $123,406
Computer Software Engineer: $45,254 – $104,857

Network administrators play an important role in keeping businesses functioning efficiently. Responsible for the design, installation and maintenance of the businesses' computer systems, professionals with an IT degree in network administration can work almost anywhere. From small computer systems to large complex networks, professionals in network administration manage system efficiency and security, and are in charge of troubleshooting any problems that occur.

For some network administrator positions, an associate's IT degree is sufficient. However, for the majority of positions, applicants need to have at least a bachelor's IT degree. Here are some of the classes that network administrators can expect to take:

• Network Analysis and Troubleshooting
• Application of Performance Analysis
• Internet Protocol Fundamentals
• IP Analysis and Troubleshooting

With your associate's degree in network administration, you can start looking for jobs as a webmaster or telecommunications specialist. Advanced IT positions, such as network architects or database administrators, require applicants to have a bachelor's degree or higher. With an IT training degree in network administration you can expect to earn a good salary, with a lot of potential for growth:

Systems Administrator: $53,985 – $110,399
Telecommunication Specialist: $42,715 – $119,313
Webmaster: $45,807 – $96,576

An IT degree in computer information systems makes you a valuable asset to companies that, in order to stay competitive, rely heavily on the use of newer technologies to give them an advantage. IT training provides you with the knowledge necessary to help companies incorporate and plan the use of new technologies to improve their business.

In addition, an IT classes in computer information systems train you to handle most IT responsibilities, such as programming, security and networking, making you eligible for positions in technology management that require you to understand both the technical and organizational sides of companies' computer systems.

While an associate's degree provides a necessary foundation, most companies only consider applicants with at least a bachelor's degree when looking for computer information system professionals. A master's degree is ideal, since many of computer information system positions require the management of other IT staff, and companies are looking for professionals with an education in both technology and business administration. Classes you can expect to take in your IT training program include:

• Advanced Programming and Algorithms
• System Analysis and Design
• Control Structures
• Management Information Systems

With an IT degree in computer information systems, you can start looking for entry-level positions as a systems analyst, systems architect or computer software engineer. Many students who choose IT training in computer information systems become managers of information systems. Here are salary ranges for popular computer information systems careers:

Computer System Analyst: $42,127 – $97,768
Information Technology Architect: $36,023 – $136,356
Management of Information Systems: $77,084 – $141,172

Earning your degree in information technology gives you with the skills to succeed in a technology career. Browse through our comprehensive list of accredited schools and choose the program that works best for your goals.

_{Sources: Salary.com, 2010}