Is an IT Degree Right for Me?
IT degrees can be the right choice for students who want to work in the technology and business fields, but there are several factors students should consider.
Technology is becoming more ingrained in various industries, resulting in an increased demand for people in IT careers.
If you like using technology and working with people to help solve problems, an IT degree might be right for your career goals; however, there are several factors that you should review before deciding to enroll in an IT degree program.
What Is an Information Technology Degree?
The field of information technology consists of many branches, but all of them involve using data and computer systems to assist organizations like businesses and schools. The daily duties of an IT professional will vary depending on the chosen specialization.
Although there are some master's degree programs, most IT programs are bachelor's degrees. Though most IT majors may not choose the level of degree they'll pursue when they first enroll, they will have to choose the type of degree that they are going to earn and declare a major.
Most schools offer information technology degrees in two options: a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science. Both degree paths will include the same fundamental classes, but there are key differences that might make one better suited for you and your goals.
A Bachelor of Arts degree in IT focuses on connecting technology and people. This role is particularly useful for people who are planning to enter the IT field in a help desk or similar technical support role. This degree path is best for IT professionals who bridge the gap between technology and those who use it.
The other degree option, a Bachelor of Science, is focused more on the actual networks and systems associated with computing. This degree will emphasize programming languages, application development, and computer hardware.
Both degrees will cover the basics associated with different aspects of IT, but one will be better than the other for specific career paths.
Although many schools offer associate degrees, achieving a bachelor's degree is generally preferred for IT positions outside of some entry-level career options.
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Arizona State University
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What To Expect From an Information Technology Degree
IT careers involve a variety of skills, including both hard and soft skills.
Hard skills are the practical and technical skills associated with IT work, such as programming and working with hardware. Coursework for both BA and BS degree programs will include basics in these hard skills, but the Bachelor of Science will include more devoted work in skills like:
- programming languages like Python and Java
- computer network maintenance
- web development
- software development
- cybersecurity strategies
A Bachelor of Arts will include many of these courses but also place more emphasis on the soft skills that an IT professional can use to explain their work to people outside of the IT industry.
Some of the soft skills that will be covered in an information technology BA include:
- problem-solving skills
- written and verbal communication skills
- data analysis skills
Common Information Technology Degree Programs
Many schools offer IT degree programs, but a few of the most common programs are available at the following schools:
- University of Arizona
- Indiana University
- Southern New Hampshire University
- Florida State University
- Brigham Young University
How To Decide if an Information Technology Degree Is Right for You
Information Technology is often a career that seems attractive to people who are already technologically inclined; however, simply having an interest in technology and a good understanding of computer programs shouldn't be the only criteria to decide if an IT degree is right for you.
Determine Your Career and Life Goals
Start by evaluating your career goals. Information technology is a broad career with many diverse roles.
Some of the common IT job titles include:
- IT help desk
- database administrator
- information security analyst
- network administrator
- information systems administrator
- IT project manager
- software engineer
Examine Your Skill Set
If you're still struggling to narrow down where to look in the job market, determine the skills you already possess. If you have strong data analytics skills, you might be more inclined to take on a data science role than a technical support role.
One of the best ways to maximize your education is to find a degree path that capitalizes on your existing skills.
Consider Your Financial Situation
IT degree programs, like all higher learning, come with various expenses associated with learning. Before you pick an IT degree program, look at your financial situation. Fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine your eligibility for scholarships and grants. You can also look into online degree programs, which are often more affordable than on-campus courses.
Another option to consider would be certifications that can replace college credit. Some IT degree programs have opportunities to substitute credit with accredited certifications. These certification programs are often less expensive than college courses, which makes them better for students in difficult financial situations. Make sure to consult with a counselor to determine which certifications are transferrable. Though some certifications can be used for credit, employers may not view them in the same manner as a degree.
Speak With an IT Professional
There's no better way to learn about an IT professional's day-to-day work and responsibilities than speaking with one. Contacting people in the IT field on sites like LinkedIn can help you gain insight from those who know the job best. If you're undecided on specializations, talk to professionals in multiple roles for varied insights.
FAQs About Information Technology Degrees
Even if you research IT careers and speak with IT professionals, you might still have questions about information technology degrees. Keep reading to find answers to questions you may have about the field.
How Long Does It Take To Complete an Information Technology Degree?
Most information technology degrees are designed to take four years to complete. Bachelor's degree programs, like the BA and BS paths, are undergraduate degrees with an average of 120 credit hours. Although some students may take longer, these degrees are planned for four years.
Bachelor's degrees aren't the only option for students, though. Associate degrees in IT can be completed in two years. For a graduate degree, such as a master's degree, your schooling will take closer to five or six years.
Is Information Technology a Difficult Major?
It's hard to rate the difficulty of a degree because a variety of personal factors will impact how hard coursework is from student to student. For most students, an IT major can be difficult because of the highly technical nature of coursework. Learning skills like programming and software development are often considered more difficult than other programs.
What Are the Career Prospects for Someone With an IT Degree?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the career prospects for IT professionals are extremely positive. Job growth will vary from profession to profession within the IT field, but overall, the growth projection for all IT careers is expected to grow much faster than the average for all careers.
What Is the Difference Between a Computer Science Degree and an Information Technology Degree?
The main difference between IT and computer science degrees is how they prepare graduates for roles. Information technology is often related to how technology works for business. Even more technical-focused IT professionals will perform their work in a business setting. Computer scientists, on the other hand, often work in more technical development roles, removed from non-technology-based business units or clients.
