Online associate degree programs in information technology

If you're looking for a lucrative, stable career in an otherwise rocky economy, information technology should make your short list. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a number of the the fastest growing occupations through 2018 will be in the field of information technology (IT). When you earn an online associate degree in information technology, you benefit from this trend and take advantage of all the perks of online education.

What do information technology students study?

Information technology deals with all aspects of computer technology, including hardware and software. Programs leading to information technology degrees train you in different aspects of computer technology, such as assembly, troubleshooting, programming and networking. The specific information technology courses you can expect to take depend on your specific IT major. A few of the most popular information technology majors include:

• Networking
• Web Design
• Programming
• Security
• IT Support

As with most degree programs, online associate degree programs in information technology typically require students to take general education courses, including math, science, English, arts and humanities.

Careers for information technology graduates

Information technology is a lucrative industry offering a variety of career paths. The following list includes a few of these career specialities, along with education, salary and job outlook information.

Computer and information systems managers plan and implement computer systems within organizations. According to the BLS, most of these professionals hold bachelor degrees in an IT-related field. Their employment is expected to grow by 17 percent through 2018. May 2009, median salary for computer and information systems managers: $120,640.

Computer network, systems, and database administrators help organizations store and share information via their computer networks, intranets and the Internet. The BLS notes that these professionals have varied educational backgrounds, making this an ideal career for those with associate degrees in information technology. Employment of these professionals is expected to grow by a whopping 23 percent in the decade preceding 2018. May 2009, median salary of computer network, systems, and database administrators: $74,290.

Computer software engineers and programmers create and test software and other computer applications. The BLS notes that an associate degree in information technology is typically adequate education for these professionals. May 2009, average annual salary for computer programmers: $74,690.

Computer support specialists help organizations and workers use and repair computers and related software. An associate degree in information technology is adequate education for most computer support specialist positions, which the BLS projects will grow by 14 percent between 2008 and 2018. May 2009, average annual salary for computer support specialists: $47,360.

Visit our Guide to College Majors to learn more about information technology programs, including the following majors: Networking, Web Design, Computer Programming, Network Security, and Information Technology.

Or, browse online associate degree programs in information technology to learn more about the specific IT programs offered by WorldWideLearn's education partners. When you find one that interests you, fill out the form requesting more information, and an admissions representative will contact you.

Get the right training, and transform your knack for computers into a promising career.

• Degrees by Level