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The computer and information technology jobs landscape

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects employment for computer and information technology jobs to . About 356,700 openings are projected each year, on average. Growth in this sector is driven by companies’ greater emphasis in cloud computing, STEM, data security and big data storage.

For those interested in computer and information technology jobs, there is a wide variety of career choices and specialties available for IT majors in the digital age. This variety of options covers a wide spectrum of specialty areas in IT, such as data science, cybersecurity and software development. And while the education requirements can range from some college experience to a master’s degree, it ultimately depends on the role, company, location and responsibilities.

Here is a list of information technology jobs, with an overview, requirements and salaries.

Six information technology jobs worth considering

1. Computer systems analyst

��������������:��One of the many information technology jobs to consider is working as a computer systems analyst. A computer systems analyst is responsible for helping organizations operate more efficiently by designing improvements to computer systems and processes. Sometimes referred to as systems architects, these professionals may also conduct tests on a system’s efficiency and analyze findings to improve the operating system. BLS projects employment for this role to . About 37,300 openings for computer systems analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Job requirements: According to BLS, employment as a computer systems analyst in computer science or a related information systems or information technology field. Some employers may require candidates to have a master’s degree if the job is more technically complex.

Salary: As of May 2024, computer systems analysts earned between , according to BLS.

The salary ranges are not specific to students or graduates of ������ý. Actual outcomes vary based on multiple factors, including prior work experience, geographic location and other factors specific to the individual. ������ý does not guarantee employment, salary level or career advancement. BLS data is geographically based. Information for a specific state/city can be researched on the BLS website.

BLS Occupational Employment Projections, 2022-2032 is published by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. This data reflects BLS’ projections of national (not local) conditions. These data points are not specific to ������ý students or graduates.

2. Computer and information systems manager

��������������:��A computer and information systems manager oversees all decisions based on the organization, strategy, plan, and processes of a business computer and information systems. They will communicate with both internal and external systems users, create optimized plans to answer pain points, and oversee the daily performance of these systems. This job is from 2023 to 2033. About 54,700 openings for computer and information systems managers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Job requirements: To become a computer and information systems manager, applicants will likely need in either IT or computer science, or a related field. Those looking to be an employee with larger companies, or more complex systems, may find it beneficial to pursue a master’s in information systems. This will help hone IT skills, as well as increase earning power.  

Salary: As of May 2024, computer and information systems managers earned between , according to BLS.

3. Computer and information research scientist

��������������:��A computer and information research scientist develops and designs new ways to use and apply existing technological systems. They work with a variety of existing software and hardware to create new solutions for businesses and consumers alike. This job requires an intimate understanding of how technology functions and is developed, as well as the creativity to come up with new ideas for these functions. Employment of computer and information research scientists is projected to . About 3,400 openings for computer and information research scientists are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Job requirements: To become a computer and information research scientist, candidates will need like data science. A master’s degree will expose students to the concepts needed to understand and develop new technologies. 

Salary: As of May 2024, computer and information research scientists earned , according to BLS.

4. Database architect

��������������:��A database architect is responsible for ensuring that a database runs efficiently. Sometimes referred to as a DBA, these professionals create and organize systems and databases to store and secure company data. They may also be responsible for making sure that data is available and accessible to authorized employees. BLS projects this occupation will  About 9,500 openings for database administrators and architects are projected, on average, over the decade.

Job requirements: Database architects typically need at least a like IT or data science. However, BLS reports that some employers may prefer candidates who have a master’s degree, such as in information systems, computer science or information technology.

Salary: As of May 2024, database architects earned between , according to BLS.

5. Information security analyst

��������������:��Another of the information technology jobs to consider is an information security analyst. An information security analyst helms a company's cybersecurity protocols and systems. This specialist watches for security breaches, investigates suspicious activity, and designs and enact security processes across the company's IT network. The responsibilities and scope of this job will vary based on company size and the sensitivity of the data. BLS projects employment for this profession to . About 17,300 openings for information security analysts are projected each year, on average, over the decade, according to BLS.

Job requirements: To become an information security analyst, candidates need at least . For those who want to work in high-profile industries, such as government entities, might consider getting a master’s in cybersecurity.  

������������:��As of May 2024, information security analysts , according to BLS..

6. Software developer

��������������:��Alternatively, software developers work with the intangible pieces of computers and tech. They help test and develop new software and may often work side by side with hardware developers. Software developers need to understand different types of coding languages, as well as know how to troubleshoot problems from the front and back end. Software developer roles are from 2023 to 2033, according to BLS. About 140,100 openings for software developers, quality assurance analysts, and testers are projected each year, on average, over the decade.

Job requirements: �մ���become a software developer, candidates need in a related field, such as computer science. Prospective employers may also want to see work samples or proof of experience from a potential employee, which can be obtained through internships, or personally scripted databases or code. 

������������:�� As of May 2024, these professionals earned between , according to BLS.

How to find a career in IT

Several practices can help IT professionals and recent graduates with IT degrees find openings and distinguish themselves on the job market. Because of the high demand for tech professionals, this is a great time to start a career in IT. Some resources for those starting, or looking for a change in their IT career include: 

• ����ٷɴǰ��쾱�Բ�:��Networking is a powerful tool for any professional. Creating healthy, reciprocal professional relationships is a great way to get a foot in the door at a company and increase a job search when looking for new positions. Job seekers can network at industry events, online, or even at universities with professors and other students. 
• Earning additional certifications: Earning additional industry certifications and continuing professional development can be a great way to increase networking opportunities as well as hone skills. Having industry certifications on a resume can also help make a graduate a more competitive candidate in such a competitive industry. 
• Completing relevant internships: Internships can be a great way to earn real-life experience for tech jobs that may require it. Some internships are even paid, meaning interns can earn some money as well as experience. Finally, the contacts created at an internship can be invaluable to career growth. 
• Joining professional associations:  can provide access to educational material, networking opportunities, and even open positions. They can also help keep up on current events in the industry, which can give a competitive edge to a candidate. Some of these associations have dues, while others are free to join. 

Becoming an IT professional can be career choice. While the vastness of the industry can be intimidating, with the right education and resources, it can be much easier to find a job within the IT field. 

Prepare for computer and information technology jobs

Are you ready to prepare for your choice of computer and information technology jobs? ������ý offers online IT programs, including a bachelor’s degree in information technology, an online degree in computer science, a bachelor’s degree in data science, an associate degree in IT, a master’s degree in data science, and a bachelor’s in cybersecurity.   

Contact ������ý for more information.