Is 30 Too Old To Get an Information Technology Degree?
It's not too late to get an information technology degree at 30. Older students in IT programs can benefit from life experience and clear goals, and can gain increased earning potential.
Information technology is everywhere. In modern society, there are practically no aspects of our lives that aren't impacted by information technology. It is a continuously growing field, and there are enormous job opportunities. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs like computer and information systems management positions are projected to grow much faster than other fields over the next decade.
Now is a better time than ever to enter the information technology field, regardless of age. Some may ask themselves, 'Is 30 too old to get an information technology degree?' 30 is definitely not too old to get an information technology degree. In fact, there are many reasons to pursue a degree at 30.
Reasons To Earn Your Information Technology Degree at 30
These are some of the benefits of earning your information technology degree at 30 to keep in mind.
Discover Accredited Online Programs
Find the program that works best for you and apply today.
Southern New Hampshire University
You have goals. Southern New Hampshire University can help you reach them. Whether you need a bachelor's degree to get into a career or want a master's degree to move up in your current career, SNHU has an online program for you.
University of Maryland Global Campus
University of Maryland Global Campus provides affordable, achievable, and flexible pathways to a college degree for adult learners. With over 90 degrees and certificates, UMGC is built to fit your schedule and goals.
University of North Carolina
The University of North Carolina offers a wide range of online programs designed for working adults. Earn your degree from a nationally recognized institution with flexible scheduling and strong academic support.
Arizona State University
Arizona State University offers more than 300 online degree programs, certificates and courses. ASU Online delivers the same rigorous academic programs as on campus, with the flexibility you need to succeed.
Increased Earning Potential
Whether it's through new qualifications at your job or by launching a new career, earning a bachelor's degree can increase your earning potential. This means the amount of income you are able to earn in a given time frame will go up. A potential increase in income makes the time and monetary investment needed to complete a degree worthwhile, and entering your 30s is a great time to make such a change.
Clear Goals
Entering college immediately after high school can often be characterized by uncertainty. Most people are not sure what they would like to pursue at that young age and only discover what they're interested in as they get older. By the time you reach 30, you have had more life experience and are more certain about what you want out of a career.
This can be a huge benefit of earning a degree in your 30s: You have a clear goal for your college experience and what you would like to accomplish with your degree.
More Focused
Alongside the goals and experience that older students have, they also will be more focused on achieving those goals. When young students enter college immediately after high school, not only can their goals be unclear, but there are many distractions as well. At 30, you will purely be focused on the educational experience of college and completing a degree. This is a huge benefit of completing a degree at 30.
What Will I Learn in an Information Technology Degree Program?
Information technology degree programs involve coursework covering various areas of computer science, as well as business and communication. Areas of study include data management, programming, computer systems, and the business of information technology.
Many degrees also give information technology students specialization options. This allows them to concentrate on areas that interest them and would be helpful for a future career. Additionally, some programs offer the ability to complete certification programs at the same time, making graduates even more qualified.
Some examples of courses you could expect to complete in an information technology degree program include:
- Introduction to IT
- IT Foundations
- Web Development Foundations
- Network and Security - Foundations
- Data Management - Foundations
What Can I Do With My Information Technology Degree?
The overall career outlet for graduates of information technology is extremely good. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects well above average growth for IT careers and has statistics which show consistent salaries above the national average.
A degree in information technology can lead to many careers. Here are just a few.
Computer Support Specialist
Computer support specialists are the workers that most likely come to mind when you think of information technology. These are the specialists who assist users with various aspects of using technology. They help to diagnose computer problems and guide users through troubleshooting. They also train users in new technology and help to set up systems, as well as completing other tasks.
Software Developer
Software developers are employees who work to create and maintain computer systems. They have a varied skill set and plan out programs as well as write the code for them. They also monitor, test, and maintain these programs after they are implemented.
Computer Programmer
Computer programmers also write and test code for computer programs. They are distinct in that programmers are more focused on the coding of the programs and will usually use the work done by developers to write the programs.
FAQs About Starting an Information Technology Degree at 30
Here are the answers to some frequently asked questions regarding starting an information technology degree at 30.
Are There Benefits to Starting My Degree at 30?
Yes, there are many benefits to starting your degree at 30. Some of these benefits are expanded on above, but in summary, they include things like:
- clear goals
- more experience
- greater focus
- increased earning potential
Can I Complete My Information Technology Degree Online?
Yes, you can complete an information technology degree online including an online bachelor's degree in IT and an online master's degree in IT. Many universities offer 100% online degree programs in information technology. These programs are excellent for older students who have other responsibilities that need their attention. By enrolling in an online program, students can complete their degrees at their own pace in a convenient, flexible online environment.
Can I Work and Go to College?
Yes, you can work and go to college. This is exactly what online degrees are perfect for. While studying online, you can complete coursework at your own pace and when you are able. There will be no on-campus classes held at a regular time that you will have to schedule for. You can complete your degree when and where you are able.
