What is Computer Information Technology?
Degrees in computer information technology can lead to various career opportunities in Missouri. While anyone can pursue this major, it’s likely to be particularly appealing to individuals interested in and proficient with computers. It’s important to realize this subject area is similar to computer science, though they can result in very different occupations. Computer science curriculums focus on the theories and technologies used to design and develop computers and computer programs. Information technology programs, on the other hand, teach the knowledge and skills needed to maintain and troubleshoot computers, networks, systems, and databases. However, you can find degrees that cover both fields.
In most cases, these professionals perform tasks associated with the study, design, development, implementation, support, and/or management of computer-based information systems. This can entail analyzing technical problems, identifying computer requirements, and/or solving technological issues as they arise. They may respond directly to user needs associated with various computer-based systems. As it is common for jobs to encompass multiple roles, workers in this field tend to have wide ranging knowledge and skills relevant to information technology.
Work settings can vary, as well. Depending on the position and type of work performed, information technology professionals may perform their duties in small offices or large research facilities. It’s also common for these experts to move between multiple locations. In some cases, they may even be capable of completing tasks from home.
Online Information Technology (IT) Education in Missouri
Notably, companies and organizations across numerous industries rely on information technology professionals, making jobs readily available to graduates. Work is most prevalent, however, in software development, finance, healthcare, and manufacturing. The continued collection and storage of data, in conjunction with an increasing need for information security, will also keep the field relevant for the foreseeable future.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and information technology occupations is expected to increase by 15% from 2021 to 2031. This is much faster than the average of all occupations and will account for approximately 682,800 new jobs in the field throughout the nation. An additional 418,500 openings are expected each year due to the need to replace workers leaving their occupations permanently.
Information is the ninth largest industry in Missouri, accounting for $12.9 billion in revenue each year. Professionals in this field are also likely to find employment in many of the state’s other top sectors such as business services, manufacturing, education, finance, retails, and entertainment.
Based on data provided by the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, 87,450 computer and mathematical professionals were employed in Missouri as of May 2022. The annual mean wage for these occupations was $88,390, which is significantly higher than the state’s annual mean wage of $54,520 for all occupations.
Missouri is home to several colleges and universities that offer degree programs in information technology and other related subjects. Remote enrollment also makes it possible for students to study from nearly anywhere with internet access. Those with intentions of working in the state, however, may want to give preference to local institutions. These schools will provide the most geographically relevant education, ensuring those enrolled obtain the knowledge and skills coveted most by employers in the area.
Those who want to complete a program in information technology in Missouri and enter the local job market will have many options when it comes to universities and colleges in Missouri that they can attend. These options include Park University, the University of Missouri - Columbia, Lindenwood University, etc.
There are numerous computer information technology professions available in Missouri, with companies and organizations of every kind hiring this type of worker. In fact, opportunities exist in most industries. While this makes employment relatively prevalent in the state and beyond, standards and expectations can vary drastically between positions.
The majority of computer information technology employers in Missouri and the rest of the United States expect workers to possess some amount of higher education. While a high school diploma or GED may be enough to obtain entry-level employment in the field, opportunities like this are extremely limited. Self-taught knowledge and skills are also generally insufficient, especially when applying for jobs offered by large companies and organizations.
In most cases, those who enroll in post-secondary academic programs tend to have the best professional prospects. Applicable higher education programs in information technology are offered by most colleges and universities, with options available at the associate, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral levels. While advanced degrees typically lead to the best job opportunities, the amount of education necessary is usually dictated directly by the type of employment sought.
Associate Degree (AS)
Associate degree programs in information technology generally consist of 60 credit hours of coursework that takes full-time students approximately two years to complete. The majority of undergraduate programs like these are comprised of both general liberal arts and major-specific classes. This means that students typically study basic communication, mathematics, and science subjects in conjunction with major-specific content. As a result, those enrolled often develop strong academic foundations for future learning, as well as a basic introduction to the field. While curriculums vary by institution, information technology programs at this level often cover topics in web development, database management, web programming, and network infrastructure management.
Graduates with associate degrees of this kind can generally pursue employment as computer support specialists, industrial engineer technicians, web developers, digital designers, network systems administrators, and computer programmers. This is a particularly good option for those seeking to save money while pursuing higher education. These programs are typically offered by community colleges, which charge lower tuition and fee rates than traditional four-year institutions.
As previously mentioned, most employers seek candidates with bachelor’s degrees. As a result, many who possess associate degrees ultimately choose to pursue further education. Enrolling in traditional four-year program is often easier than graduates anticipate, however, especially because undergraduate course credits are transferrable. Most colleges and universities accept up to 60 credit hours from properly accredited schools, which roughly equates to two years of classes. In most cases, those with associate degrees generally only require two additional years of education before they can graduate with more advanced degrees.
Bachelors Degree (BS)
An information technology bachelor degree program generally consist of 120 credit hours of coursework that takes full-time students approximately four years to complete. As undergraduate programs, most are still comprised of both general liberal arts and major-specific classes. In addition to basic communication, mathematics, and science subjects, organizational leadership programs of this kind often cover topics in information technology infrastructure, database management, cyber security, and information systems design. Those enrolled should also expect classes to emphasize technical communication and mathematics skills, as well as web design and programming.
Information technology majors pursuing bachelor’s degrees may also be given opportunities to select concentrations. Choosing a sub-field specialty area like this can help direct instruction and prepare students for work in certain jobs.
According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the majority of computer and information technology occupations require candidates to possess bachelor’s degrees. Graduates often qualify for employment opportunities as computer systems analysts, cyber security consultants, and software development specialists. Additionally, it’s common for individuals with knowledge and skills in this field to find work in other industries such as education, healthcare, manufacturing, and business.
Employment is not the only option for graduates, however. In fact, many who obtain bachelor’s degrees in computer information technology opt to further their education by enrolling in master’s programs. Graduate school is not necessary for most jobs in the field, but it can lead to more professional opportunities and higher pay. Those planning to apply to master’s degree programs should be prepared to provide official undergraduate transcripts to gaining institutions. Applicants will also need to meet minimum grade point average (GPA) and Graduate Record Examinations (GRE) test score requirements.
Masters Degree (MS)
A master’s information technology program generally consist of 30 to 60 credit hours of coursework that takes full-time students approximately two years to complete. Notably, graduate programs no longer incorporate general liberal arts classes. Incoming students may be required to possess certain undergraduate prerequisite courses, however, as well as real world experience. This ensures those enrolled have the basic knowledge needed for advanced study of specific topics.
While curriculums vary, most graduate programs strive to prepare those enrolled for advanced employment in the field. To ensure they possess the necessary knowledge and skills, institutions typically focus instruction on software design, data management, financial management, project management, and program and application development. Students are also likely to complete capstone projects and/or participate in internships.
As with bachelor’s degree programs, students are often provided opportunities to select a concentration.
Some of the most common specializations offered include:
- Data Analytics
- Information Security
- Information Technology Management
- Smart Technology
- Web Design
Graduates are often qualified to apply for advanced positions in the field. They often find work as data managers, network administrators, software engineers, and cyber security analysts.
Online Doctorate (PhD)
Doctoral degree programs in information technology vary significantly, but generally consist of between 60 and 120 credit hours. The various requirements commonly take up to six years to complete. Accelerated online programs do exist, however, which may take less time to finish.
These are terminal degrees and, as such, are quite academically intensive. Extensive independent study and research are also generally necessary. Curriculums vary, but often include various advanced topics in computer science, information systems, networking, and database administration. Students should also anticipate learning about strategic analysis research, research design, quantitative research, and qualitative research. These subjects become particularly relevant as those enrolled begin working on dissertations, which are commonly required for graduation.
It's important to note that computer information technology PhD programs may vary slightly. In addition to the subjects mentioned above, students seeking this type of degree are also likely to study programming languages, software systems design, and modeling communication networks.
Relatively few professions in the field require candidates to possess doctoral degrees. This level of education can, however, lead to some very prominent occupations. Graduates typically have the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue employment as information technology architects, information technology project managers, postsecondary educators, and senior data scientists.