Technology IT Degree Programs - Online Science Degree Programs

Online Technology & IT Degree Programs 

Online technology and IT degree programs can be an eye-opening experience for individuals interested in employment in this fast-paced and ever-changing field.

Overview of Technology & IT Degrees

Information technology can encompass a wide variety of occupations. Everything from website design to keeping the contents of online databases secure are aspects of information technology. As the field diversifies and becomes more complex, formal education such as an associate's, bachelor's, or master's degree may make applicants more competitive for employment in the area of IT that interests them.

A bachelor's degree in a related technology field may be suitable for those seeking positions as computer programmers or computer system analysts. Those fields include:

• Computer science
• Information systems
• Engineering

Individuals interested in the business side of IT may seek careers as information security analysts. In those instances, a Master's in Business Administration (MBA) may be preferred by employers. However, there are careers in IT, such as web developer and computer support specialist, where an associate's degree and relevant work experience may make an applicant a good fit for employment.

Career Outlook in IT

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), certain careers in IT are projected to grow about as fast as the average of all occupations.

Here are some examples of IT-related fields where the BLS projects growth from 2012 to 2022:

• Computer programmers: 8 percent growth
• Computer systems administrators: 12 percent
• Information security analysis: 37 percent

The faster-than-average growth in information security analysis is in part because more and more sensitive and personal data is being stored online, increasing the likelihood of cyberattack by hackers. A graduate degree such as an MBA may be preferred by employers in this field.

Education in the information technology field can lead to a wide variety of careers. Even individuals who are interested in seemingly non-information technology related careers, such as freelance writers or small business owners, may potentially benefit from knowledge of IT topics.

Online Degrees in Programming and Software De

 

Technology & IT Courses and Curricula

The exact sort of courses offered by specific IT degree programs depends on their focus as well as the career goals of their students. Computer programming and web development degree programs, for example, may offer courses in specific programming languages like C++, BASIC, or JavaScript. Programs with a focus on database administration focus may offer coursework in database administration languages such as Structured Query Language (SQL).

There are other types of industry-specific courses that may be offered by technology and IT degrees, including:

• Graphic design
• Business
• Finance
• Health care
• Systems design

People who are interested in careers in IT should review the curriculum of their chosen degree program carefully prior to applying. This may help ensure that the program will provide the background necessary to support the individual's career goals.

 

Online Science Degree Programs

Online graduate and undergraduate degree programs in environmental science, agriculture, geographic information systems, aviation, biotechnology, veterinary science, fire science, and more.

Online Education in the Sciences

Albert Einstein once said, "The most beautiful thing we can experience is the mysterious. It is the source of all true art and all science." Curiosity, a sense of wonder, and the need to know are all traits of science lovers. Online degrees in science are available for you if you are contemplating a career in one of the many scientific branches available.

You will find online graduate and undergraduate degree programs in earth sciences such as environmental, agricultural, and geographic information systems. If you wish to concentrate on more traditional studies in science, you may want to consider a major in biology, chemistry, or physics. Within these three fields are specialty programs in biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and astronomy, respectively. These programs are only a small sampling of what directions you can advance in with your coursework.

Online Education in the Sciences

An online bachelor's degree, online master's degree, or online certificate in a specific scientific field can open up a variety of job options for you. Students who decide to go into biology can train for positions as researchers, microbiologists, or cellular biologists. With a science certificate, you may qualify to work as a medical lab assistant or technician.

Generally speaking, employers who hire scientists or science-related staff will look for a bachelor's degree or higher. For research and teaching, a master's degree or PhD is often required. Coursework for a science degree varies according to the discipline you select, but most studies call for a solid foundation in chemistry, mathematics, computer science, and engineering. Students who major in science will have a strenuous course load. Careful planning and time management skills are essential for successfully completing your degree.

The Job Market for Science

Since there are so many fields in science, the annual wage for workers varies by specialty. Laboratory technicians averaged an annual salary of $45,000 in 2007, while chemists earned average salaries of $60,000 per year.

The job outlook for research positions and academic careers in science will be tight because of the very intense competition for jobs. Laboratory technicians, by contrast, will see a 12 percent increase in jobs from 2006 to 2016. This is due to the continuing growth in biotechnology, agriculture, and pharmaceuticals.