Technology Degree Program and Career Information

In very basic terms, technology is nothing more than applied science; the creation of tools to assist us in managing our environment. But the simplicity of the definition is little indication of the complexity which technology can attain. This clear-cut definition encompasses a spectrum of tools which range from simple machines like pulleys, levers and fulcrums to supercomputers and the Space Shuttle. Virtually every activity, product and aspect of modern life is touched and shaped in some way by technology.

The most recent, far-reaching and influential development in technology is the integration of computers and microprocessors into everyday life. Electronics have revolutionized the way we learn, work and interact, not to mention the ways we communicate, create and even commute. The high tide of pervasive hi-tech shows no sign of diminishing or of slowing. Quite the opposite: technology continues to move forward at an ever-increasing pace. And as hi-tech becomes more and more widespread (not to mention more and more complicated), there will be an ever-increasing need for trained personnel to create, build, maintain and upgrade the devices, software and systems that form the core of our hi-tech society and world.

As a reflection of this pervasive influence of hi-tech, more and more schools are offering an increasing number and range of courses and degrees in hi-tech disciplines, including general studies such as computer science and information technology, and such specialties as telecommunications, multimedia, and technology management. According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the hi-tech field contains one of the fastest-growing job markets for qualified, degreed personnel.

Technology Degrees

Many hi-tech occupations can be entered into with as little training as a certificate, and the field overall requires trained professionals at all levels of education and training, up to the doctoral degree level. As with any occupational field, the more advanced the degree, the wider the range of possibilities that are open. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, a college degree has the potential to nearly double one's annual income, for instance.

An increasing number of professionals in the field of hi-tech are earning their degrees online, as the freedom from geographical restrictions and the flexibility of online courses allows this study to be accomplished on a schedule convenient to employed individuals wishing to forward or switch their careers.

Degree Programs and Careers in Technology

The pervasive nature of hi-tech means that there are a wide range of available jobs, occupations and careers at every level of professional development, to suit virtually any interest, from art to assembly, and from theory and invention to hands-on hardware and hands-on-keyboard software development.

Technology professionals have occupational opportunities in a wide variety of working environments, including private industry, government and academia, in virtually every corner of the world.

Overall demand for hi-tech professionals is expected to grow at least as fast as the rest of the economy, and certain key labor categories and skill sets will be in great demand.

Computer Engineering
Computer engineering is a wide-ranging discipline that applies math and electrical engineering to the design and operation of computers, microprocessors computer systems and embedded systems. It requires knowledge of and background in electrical engineering, math, electronics hardware, software and network interactions.

Computer Networking
Network administrators and engineers oversee the interconnection of hi-tech equipment, enabling numerous disparate software applications and technological devices to communicate with one another in a seamless fashion. Knowledge and experience of a wide range of software packages, operating systems and electronic devices is required to operate successfully in these positions. Network security specialists provide security for networks through the use of encryption, firewalls and other techniques.

Computer Programming
Computer programmers write the code that directs computers to perform a specific activity. Other functions include debugging and testing applications. Computer programmers often act on requirements set forth by a system analyst. A large percentage of programming jobs are devoted to writing software for personal, home or office use. This field, along with system design, is expected to provide the most job prospects for programmers over the next decade.

Computer Science
Computer science is an umbrella term that can cover a variety of functions of theory or practice and hardware or software. The computer scientist might design software, for example, create more efficient algorithms, or invent new ways of using or upgrading computer technology.

Database
People in this position, mainly database administrators, are tasked with managing a body of information stored electronically. This can include such wide-ranging functions as designing, installing and maintaining databases; backing up and recovering data; instituting security procedures for access; and managing the physical storage devices.

Graphics & Multimedia
Positions such as this bridge the gulf between technology and art. Computers can be applied to the realm of media, aiding in the design or creation of numerous forms of imagery whether photographic, video or graphic design.

Information Systems (IS)
The concentration of this discipline is on information rather than technology. IS managers and professionals define requirements for and manage the information systems of an institution, whether school, business or other large organization. They support the operations of an organization by providing technical solutions to business goals. They bridge the gap between management and technology, and require an understanding of both disciplines. (See also Information Security Systems Manager).

Information Technology (IT)
The focus of this discipline is more on technology than on information. IT professionals are hands-on support staff who install, connect, maintain, service and upgrade computer software, systems, equipment and infrastructure. They are troubleshooters who solve software and hardware problems encountered by non-technical computer users, to ensure smooth-running operations with a minimum of user or equipment downtime.

Software Engineering
Software engineers use principles of math, engineering and computer science to develop software systems. As an occupation, the position can encompass a wide range of responsibilities, from programmer to software project manager. (See also Computer Software Engineer).

Technology Management
Technology management can cover a wide range of occupations, from IT management, which is essentially hardware oriented, to IS management, which is essentially information oriented, to more business oriented management positions which require a deep knowledge of technology.

Telecommunications
Telecommunications is a blanket term for any transmission of data, including voice (telephony), video, audio or information, using any means, including conventional wire lines, wireless (wi-fi), fiber optics or laser. Occupations in telecommunications can emphasize hardware, software or both, and can range from developing, managing and upgrading information networks to installing, testing and repairing equipment.

Web Design
Web designers combine art, images, design, business sense, and computer science in order to create visually appealing, user-friendly Web sites.

Web Development
Professionals in the field of Web development create, test, and maintain Web site applications, such as online shopping carts, search tools, and secure online password systems. (See also Web Developer).

Financial Outlook for Careers in Technology

Despite the occasional slumps in the electronics and e-commerce industries, overall, the rapid growth and expansion of hi-tech into virtually every aspect of modern life shows no sign of slowing. According to a study by the National Science Foundation, for example, the world market for hi-tech products is growing faster than for any other manufactured goods.

This continued and accelerating growth points to a job market with excellent opportunities for the skilled, trained and degreed professional, in terms of both job opportunities and higher compensation. Data compiled by the National Science Foundation's 2003 National Survey of Recent College Graduates indicates that those holding engineering and computer science degrees are more likely to be employed full time after graduation than graduates in other fields, as well as earning higher wages in their positions.