What Careers Will a Master's Degree in Information Technology Prepare Me For?
A master's degree in information technology (IT) prepares graduates for high-level careers in business technology. Graduates of such programs might go on to lead projects, departments, or entire organizations. This article explores some of the careers that may be available to graduates of IT-related master's degree programs.
Master's Degree in Information Technology Career Options
<p>A master's degree in information technology can take individuals from entry-level careers in programming, software engineering, and other related fields into IT management.
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<h3 id="section---ImportantFactsAboutCareersInInformationTechnology">Important Facts About Careers in Information Technology</h3>
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<table border="1"><tr><td> Median Salary (2021) </td><td> $159,010 (<i>for all computer & information systems managers</i>)</td></tr>
<tr><td> Job Outlook (2021-2031)</td><td> 16% growth (<i>for all computer & information systems managers</i>)</td></tr>
<tr><td>Key Skills</td><td>Organizational, analytical, decision-making, communication and leadership skills</td></tr>
<tr><td>Work Environment</td><td> Organizations of all sizes; most work full-time, and telecommuting is becoming more common</td></tr>
</table><p><i>Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics</i>
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<h3 id="section---AdvancedCareersInInformationTechnology">Advanced Careers in Information Technology</h3>
<p>Individuals who have measurable information technology management experience as well as graduate degrees may advance to one of the following executive-level roles:
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<h3 id="section---ProjectManager">Project Manager</h3>
<p>Project managers plan, budget and oversee information technology projects. They coordinate employees while communicating with clients and consultants. Such professionals might also utilize their strategic management skills to ensure project success and optimize outcomes.
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<h3 id="section---InformationTechnologyManager">Information Technology Manager</h3>
<p>An information technology manager or director oversees the computing assets of businesses. This includes managing personnel, such as programmers and developers. These professionals must also have the knowledge required to oversee the maintenance of technological equipment and components. Sometimes, information technology directors and managers are referred to as technical services managers.
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<h3 id="section---ChiefTechnologyOfficer">Chief Technology Officer</h3>
<p>The chief technology officer (CTO) is responsible for technical planning within an organization. It is his or her responsibility to identify and evaluate the best computing solutions for their companies' needs. These individuals must develop strategies for implementing new technologies and work with management in an effort to bring plans to fruition.
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<h3 id="section---ChiefInformationOfficer">Chief Information Officer</h3>
<p>Chief information officers (CIO) are top-level executives involved in their company's overall strategic planning. In addition to representing technology departments, CIOs must be familiar with administrative processes, such as hiring, budgeting, and management. The CIO serves as the technical visionary of a business. He or she is responsible for keeping entire companies competitive through the effective applications of technology.</p>