Online bachelor degree programs in information technology

Information technology careers are experiencing a surge in demand, driven by the reliance on data assets and communication in today's economy. Information technology graduates apply their expert knowledge of current technology to help organizations process, share and store data efficiently. Information technology professionals can specialize in computer support, network or database administration, network analysis, systems analysis or computer programming.

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Bachelor's degrees in software engineering

Online bachelor's degree programs in information technology offer the necessary technical background and problem-solving skills for a career in computer information systems. The curriculum includes core undergraduate coursework in liberal arts and sciences, as well as applied training in computer technology. The degree's technical components offer a comprehensive foundation in how computers process and manage information through such courses as:

Computer software and hardware components
Algorithms
Databases
Telecommunications
Application testing
Systems analysis
User interface design

Other IT degree options include online bachelor's degree programs in network administration, computer systems security and software engineering. These programs allow you to develop more extensive knowledge in a particular area of information technology, tracking you into either the administrative or development side of IT. Learn more at the Guide to College Majors in Information Technology.

Careers in Information Technology

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) job prospects for IT administrators and managers should be "excellent" through 2018 with an estimated 30 percent increase. Such growth is among the highest for any sector. Computer and information systems managers can expect 17 percent job growth in the same period.

Online bachelor's degree programs in information technology, bachelor's degrees in software engineering and similar specialties qualify graduates to work in countless computer industry positions, worldwide. Common information technology positions and BLS mean annual salaries for May 2009 were as follows:

Computer support specialists install, troubleshoot, and maintain computer systems, helping users resolve specific technical issues. Salary: $47,360
Network administrators support local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN) and Internet systems, ensuring the security and reliable operation of all communications infrastructure. Salary: $70,930
Database administrators install, maintain, and update database management systems, ensuring secure and reliable access to data. Salary: $74,290

Network systems and data communications analysts are among the fastest-growing occupations in the U.S. Network analysts test and evaluate the communications system, making improvements as necessary. Salary: $76,560

Income levels in this field reflect strong demand for qualified professionals. Although no degree program can guarantee future earnings, graduates of online bachelor's degree programs in information technology can expect to earn an mean starting salary of $49,100, according to the American Economic Association.

With experience and education, you can advance rapidly to positions of greater responsibility. The mean salary for information systems managers in 2009 was $120,640.

Online bachelor's degree programs in network administration or information technology prepare you to tap into IT career opportunities. Learn more about information technology degreesand locate schools that offer the bachelor's degree online at WorldWideLearn.