How Fast Can I Become an IT Manager?

If you're thinking about getting started in information technology or advancing your current IT career, you may be interested in becoming an information technology manager. You might wonder how long it will take to follow that career path. Do you need to get a degree to be an IT manager? Is there anything you can do to speed up the process?

Many IT managers hold a bachelor's degree, though some have an associate degree or master's degree instead. It typically takes about four years to complete a bachelor's degree if you study full-time; that said, depending on various factors, it's possible to get your degree and start working as an IT manager in as little as a year or two.

Read on to find out more about the education needed to become an IT manager and the time frame to achieve this.

Tips for Quickly Becoming an IT Manager

There are a variety of ways you can get started in the IT field and many paths you can take to secure an IT manager role. But if you're looking for the fastest way to pursue this career, consider the tips outlined below.

1. Find an Accelerated Online Degree Program

Many entry-level IT jobs can eventually lead to management positions, but if you're looking to get your foot in the door quickly, the most direct route is to complete a bachelor's degree in information technology, or a related field like cybersecurity or computer information systems. Earning an accelerated degree can speed up the process. Let's look at some accelerated degree programs to consider.

Regis University � Accelerated BS in Computer Science

Regis University is a private school that provides various online degrees, including a Bachelor of Science in computer science. Students in this program study many topics relevant to IT, including cloud computing, software engineering, and information security. Courses are available in accelerated eight-week sessions for those hoping to graduate quickly.

Bellevue University � Online BS in Information Technology

Bellevue University offers a Bachelor of Science in information technology that can be completed online. The program covers many IT-specific topics, such as analyzing, configuring, updating, and upgrading various frameworks and systems. Courses are highly flexible, and the school is transfer friendly so you can graduate quickly if desired.

California Baptist University � Online BS in Information Technology

California Baptist University is a private school offering a Bachelor of Science in information technology. The program covers many topics such as computer programming, IT project management skills, and network security. The transfer-friendly school offers eight-week courses year-round, making it easy to save time on graduating.

2. Utilize Transfer Credits

Transfer credits can help you graduate quickly. If you have previous college or military experience, you may be able to receive college credits toward your degree, limiting the number of courses you will have to take.

Each school has its own transfer policy, but the majority of them accept most credits from regionally accredited schools. Some colleges and universities allow you to transfer as many as three-fourths of your total credit requirements.

3. Test Out of Courses with CLEP Exams

CLEP exams are a time-efficient way to earn college credits. Passing these exams demonstrates that you are proficient in certain college course subjects; as such, you receive credit for those courses without actually taking them.

Check with your school to find out about their specific transfer credit requirements, including how many CLEP credits they allow you to transfer.

4. Take Online Courses to Learn Programming Languages

Pursuing training courses and certifications can help you qualify for IT manager jobs if you have a bachelor's degree in an unrelated field. Online courses allow you to study on your own time and usually take just a few months to complete. Some top IT courses to consider include the following.

HarvardX Intro to Programming with Python

Harvard University offers this course specifically designed to teach students about computer programming techniques when using the Python programming language. The free course lasts for 10 weeks.

Coursera JavaScript for Beginners

The University of California Davis provides this course series through Coursera. Students learn and perfect their computer programming skills using JavaScript. The self-paced course can be completed in about two months with regular study.

Codecademy's Learn SQL

Codecademy offers a course called Learn SQL for aspiring IT professionals. The course teaches students how to analyze data and manage data sets using SQL. The short course can be taken anytime and requires about five hours to complete.

5. Create a Disciplined Study Routine

Working in an IT manager position requires you to have certain technical skills necessary for the job, along with soft skills that can help you do the job better. Having a dedicated study routine can help with both.

When you study every day, especially if you do it at the same time each day, you develop good study habits that can make it easier to learn the material, even if you struggle with some of the coursework. Disciplining yourself to study consistently also helps you develop time management and problem-solving skills that will benefit you throughout your career.

6. Network with IT Professionals

Knowing others in the IT industry can help you in many ways. As you pursue your career, network with other IT professionals with several years of experience, such as systems analysts, IT project managers, systems administrators, network administrators, and other IT team members.

These professionals can help you improve your technical knowledge and learn a lot about team management. They may also be able to help you find job opportunities in IT management, helping you get your foot in the door faster.

7. Seek Internship Opportunities

Internships allow you to gain experience and put what you learn into practice. They give you a real-world environment to practice decision-making, communication, and leadership skills.

Check with the IT department at local businesses and organizations to find out if they offer internship opportunities.

FAQs About Quickly Becoming an IT Manager

If you still have questions about quickly becoming an IT manager, keep reading. Below, we'll answer some common questions you may be asking.

What Does an IT Manager Do?

An IT manager manages and oversees an IT team. This professional performs a wide range of duties related to various computer systems and components. They are responsible for protecting and optimizing hardware, software, networks, and other IT systems. They must also lead teams of IT support personnel, communicate with stakeholders, act as project managers, and adhere to budgets.

Do I Need an IT Degree to Be an IT Manager?

It's possible to become an IT manager without a degree, but you will need to spend several years gaining relevant work experience. The quickest and most direct path to becoming an IT manager is to get a bachelor's or master's degree in a related field or to complete online training courses if you already have an unrelated degree.

What Are Key IT Manager Skills?

IT managers must be proficient in various technical and non-technical skills to succeed in their role. Common skills IT managers should have include:

• software development skills
• understanding of Microsoft tools and programs
• ability to stay up-to-date on new technologies
• leadership skills
• communication skills