The modern business world simply cannot function without the professionals that keep its vast information networks up and running. Read on to learn about education programs, career options, salary info and employment outlook for this field.
The information systems science industry is a broad field that employs people in a number of occupations. The industry as a whole provides services such as the development of custom computer applications and hardware, help desk analysis and support, data integration and network infrastructure management. Some examples of positions in the industry include computer support specialist, programmer, hardware and software engineer. You could also become a database administrator, data analyst or network administrator.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimated that many careers in the computer information systems industry will show strong employment growth in the near future (www.bls.gov). For example, information systems managers should see job opportunities increase by 15% between 2012 and 2022. Computer systems administrators are expected to experience growth of 12% during that same period of time. As reported by the BLS in 2012, the median yearly salary of computer systems administrators was $72,560. Information systems managers earned $120,950.
Computer programmers, web designers or information systems managers are graduates of a wide variety of degree programs in the field of information systems sciences. Post-degree opportunities depend upon the field of study and general interests, but graduates typically find themselves in a profitable and rapidly advancing industry.
You can pursue a variety of associate's, bachelor's or master's degree programs in this field. Some colleges and universities also offer certification programs, such as a certificate in information systems security, that offer classes in mathematics, computing and information systems. Bachelor's degree programs in information systems offer courses such as systems management, programming, software engineering and more. The changing nature of the information technology landscape calls for program curricula that can vary dramatically from year to year.
If you would like to pursue a career in information systems science, you should possess an aptitude for mathematics, analysis and details. Customer service skills are important in the industry, since you may need to translate customer requirements into an end product.