by Erin Hasinger
ComputerSchools.com Staff Writer
September 14, 2006
Twenty-five miles of green splendor spans the banks of the Boise River as it flows through the center of the Idaho state capital. Nicknamed the City of Trees, Boise received its name from the French and means “wooded area.” In the last few years, Boise has seen its population surge – 11% between 2000 and 2005 – and is establishing itself as one of the nation's high-tech centers. In the 2005 Forbes.com List of Best Places, Boise was named the best city in the country for business and careers, in part because employment prospects are numerous, especially for information technology students.
Employment
According to Idaho Commerce and Labor, job openings for computer graduates are skyrocketing. Through 2012, computer specialties in general are forecasted for an increase of 38% in positions. Computer researchers are slated for 67% growth, while positions for computer software engineers of system software are predicted to increase 47%. Every position listed by the department under computer specialties is expected to see at least a 20% increase in available jobs.
The city's largest employer is Micron Technology, a producer of semiconductors. Another large employer of information technology specialists is the city's second-largest employer, Mountain Home Air Force Base. Hewlett-Packard (HP), the city's fourth-largest employer, develops printing solutions at its Boise location. HP and Micron also have exciting internship programs for college students.
Education
Students in Boise have several choices for a computer education. At the University of Phoenix, for example, one can pursue an MBA in technology management.
Stevens-Henager College offers associate of occupational studies degrees in computer networking and technology, computer programming, and e-business management.
ITT Technical Institute features a range of computer-related majors, including programs in information systems security, software engineering technology, computer and electronics engineering technology, and computer drafting and design.
Boise State University is another option for a bachelor or master of science degree in computer science, bachelor of science in computer information systems, bachelor of science in networking and telecommunications, and a master of science in management information systems.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The Board of Education for the state of Idaho offers many scholarship options for residents, including the Governor's Challenge Scholarship, Promise Category A Scholarship, which is aimed at students enrolled in technical programs, and the Robert C. Byrd Scholarship.
Also, a $5,000 grant is offered by the state to students attending a public college or university (in Boise, Boise State University is an eligible institution). The Leveraging Educational Assistance State Partnership Program (LEAP) is offered to students with qualifying financial need who are enrolled for at least six credits.
Summary
Hailed for its small-town charm and big city job prospects, Boise is an ideal choice for any prospective computer student. Major corporate presence, outstanding recreational opportunities, and interesting cultural offerings make Boise a great place for one to prepare for, and begin, an exciting career in the information technology industry.
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