by Erin Hasinger
ComputerSchools.com Staff Writer
September 14, 2006
Charlotte is a city of contrasts and diversity. The area has developed in recent years into a technology and banking capital all the while maintaining its traditional Southern history. Its varied neighborhoods offer a wealth of art, culture, entertainment, and sports opportunities to thousands of visitors and a rapidly growing population that today hovers somewhere around 1.5 million for the entire metro area. A major factor in the Revolutionary War, Charlotte has developed from an agriculturally-dependent town to a major high-tech corridor, offering a host of options for every computer student.
Employment
According to the Employment Security Commission of North Carolina, Internet service providers and data programmers are projected to see annual growth of 3.39% through 2012, eventually expected to number 11,134 of the area's workforce. The overall technical services field is also greatly increasing at a yearly rate of 2.9%, predicted to number 39,522 jobs by 2012.
As a high-tech center, Charlotte offers a variety of employment and internship opportunities. Wachovia Corporation is Charlotte's largest employer and a significant employer of information technology specialists. Bank of America, Charlotte's fourth-largest employer, is another big employer of computer graduates. IBM also maintains a large presence in Charlotte. Time Warner Cable is headquartered here and in addition to job opportunities, the corporation provides internships to college students.
Education
Educational options are numerous in Charlotte for computer students. The University of Phoenix offers a bachelor of science in information technology, a bachelor of science in e-business, an MBA in technology management, and a master of science in computer information systems. The Art Institute of Charlotte features associate and bachelor degrees in interactive media design, while King's College has programs in computer programming and computer specialist. At the University of North Carolina – Charlotte, undergraduate and graduate students can pursue degrees in computer science, or students can study computer information systems at DeVry University.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The College Foundation of North Carolina offers a wide variety of merit-based and need-based scholarships and grants to students. One such program is the Golden Leaf Scholarship which is a need-based scholarship that gives $3,000 per academic year to 500 students. Another program, the North Carolina Student Incentive Grant, awards $700 annually to state residents who have financial need. North Carolina's EXTRA Education Loans also are available to supplement any gaps left after scholarships, grants, and federal aid is awarded.
Summary
No longer just a mecca for NASCAR fans, Charlotte is home to amenities that satisfy the interests of all. Close to both the ocean and the mountains, outdoor recreation is plentiful as well. Job opportunities abound in this growing town, and its reputation for high-tech industries attracts the best and brightest from around the word. With its numerous educational options, Charlotte is a smart choice for computer students.
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