Is 35 Too Old to Get an Information Technology Degree?
Being 35 is not too old to begin your academic journey toward earning an information technology degree. Returning to school in your 30s leads to rewarding careers with high-paying salaries.
Deciding to embark on a career in information technology can be extremely rewarding, but is it worth pursuing in your 30s?
Many students successfully enroll in college later in life, and 35 is not too old to earn an information technology degree.
Check out excellent reasons to get your information technology degree and some of the most asked questions when contemplating going back to school as a 35-year-old student.
Reasons To Earn Your Information Technology Degree at 35
Although some positions in the information technology field may not require a degree, having one can be very advantageous for getting ahead. Below are a few reasons why starting your information technology degree at the age of 35 is advantageous.
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Southern New Hampshire University
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University of Maryland Global Campus
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University of North Carolina
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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.
Job Opportunities
Graduates with an information technology degree will find additional job opportunities and open themselves up to more career options than non-degree holders. Technology plays a role in almost any organization, and skilled professionals are always needed to fill these sought-after positions.
Higher Salaries
It is well-known that obtaining a college education can lead to higher earning potential, including in the field of information technology. However, the salary range varies depending on the specific role. Pursuing a degree at age 35 can set you up for increased earnings and even the possibility of making a six-figure salary.
More Experience
The experience and expertise you bring to the table when returning to school at 35 are invaluable. As a mature student, you can draw from your skills and knowledge to better focus on your academic goals, increasing your chances of success in completing an information technology degree program and embarking on a fulfilling career path.
What Will I Learn In an Information Technology Degree Program?
An information technology degree program provides knowledge of the fundamental concepts and tools for designing and managing information systems. Students leverage innovative technologies and gain career-relevant skills in operating systems and programming to prepare for rewarding job roles.
For example, Purdue Global has an online Bachelor of Science (BS) in information technology that teaches systems analysis and website development and offers several specialization areas.
The bachelor's degree in information technology available at Purdue Global has the following concentrations:
- Information Technology Management
- Game Development
- Information Security and Assurance
- Network Administration
- Supply Chain Management and Logistics
- Software Development Using C#
- Software Development Using Web Languages
- Software Development Using Java
- Software Development Using Python
Many programs also provide the foundation to pursue industry certifications. For example, the University of Phoenix's online bachelor's degree in information technology prepares students for the CompTIA IT Fundamentals exam.
What Can I Do With My Information Technology Degree?
The outlook for overall employment in information technology is excellent. The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that the sector will see much faster job growth than average until 2032, and getting a degree increases your chances of obtaining a rewarding position.
Almost every industry needs information technology professionals. The following describes examples of jobs students pursue after graduating from a degree program.
Software Developer
A software developer designs computer applications and systems. They must be skilled in programming languages such as Python and Java and are responsible for testing software and fixing any problems that arise. The national average salary in software development can typically reach six figures.
Information Security Analyst
The main duty of an information security analyst is to oversee an organization's network to prevent security breaches and investigate them if they occur. This role involves conducting risk assessments and tests to determine the appropriate security measures for safeguarding sensitive information.
Network Administrator
A network administrator maintains a company's network connectivity. They ensure stable operations and consistency of their computer networks. The role requires strong problem-solving and analytical skills to resolve network issues effectively and knowledge of network hardware and communication links.
FAQs About Starting an Information Technology Degree at 35
Learn more about earning your information technology degree in your 30s with the following most commonly asked questions.
Are There Benefits To Starting My Information Technology Degree at 35?
Starting your information technology degree at the age of 35 can be highly beneficial. It leads to numerous career options, which can come with higher salaries. The life and work experience you have gained until your 30s can be advantageous towards earning a degree, as you can leverage and build on your current skills and knowledge to embark on a successful academic journey.
Can I Complete My Information Technology Degree Online?
Yes, you can complete your information technology degree online. Several accredited colleges across the nation offer flexible programs and the convenience of completing a degree around busy work schedules.
Examples of institutions that offer online information technology degrees include:
- Liberty University
- Purdue Global
- University of Phoenix
- Arizona State University
- Western Governors University
Should I Go Back to School for Information Technology?
Yes, you should go back to school for information technology, as it can be a smart choice for your career. The industry is expected to show significant job growth in the upcoming years, and having a degree gives you an advantage in securing lucrative positions.
