by Erin Hasinger
ComputerSchools.com Staff Writer
September 14, 2006
Once plagued by suburban sprawl and inner-city population declines, the city of Detroit is emerging from its reputation of a desolate manufacturing town and experiencing quite a renaissance that began in the 1990s and continues today. New downtown development has attracted new businesses and residents that in turn has spawned a rededication to the arts, culture, and entertainment. Perhaps best known for its contributions both to automobiles and music, Detroit offers prospective computer students fantastic educational options, job growth, and a number of corporate headquarters from which to seek employment.
Employment
Detroit is known as a hot spot for high tech jobs. According to the Michigan Department of Career Development, Office of Labor Market Information, computer occupations are growing exponentially. Through 2012, all computer-related occupations are forecasted to increase by 24.2%. Some of the fastest-growing positions include network systems analysts, at 50% growth, computer software engineers, at 43%, and database administrators with a 35% increase.
Students have lots of opportunities for both internships and careers at some of Detroit's big-name corporations. The Big Three car makers are all headquartered in Detroit. General Motors, Ford Motors, and Daimler Chrysler are also the city's largest employers and require significant numbers of computer specialists to keep things running smoothly.
SBC is another one of the city's largest employers and maintains a large technical staff. Visteon Corporation is also a major employer of information technology graduates. Compuware, a software development firm, offers both information technology positions and internship opportunities.
Education
Students have a variety of options when it comes to a computer education in Detroit. At the University of Phoenix, students can study e-business, information technology, technology management, and computer information systems. Lewis College of Business offers computer information technology, while the University of Detroit Mercy offers a bachelor and master of science degree in computer science. Another option is Wayne County Community College for an associate's degree in computer information systems.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The state of Michigan offers a a variety of financial aid resources to residents which can be found at Michigan.gov - Paying for College. Some of these include the Michigan Educational Opportunity Grant, which awards up to $1,000 annually to students with financial need and the Michigan Tuition Grant offers up to $2,000 for residents with financial need who attend a private college or university.
The Michigan Engineering Incentive is a zero-interest loan program offered specifically to technology and engineering students. To qualify, students must have demonstrated financial need, receive the federal Stafford loan, and be committed to working in Michigan after graduation.
Summary
No longer just a mecca for NASCAR fans, Detroit 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, Detroit is a smart choice for computer students.
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