by Erin Hasinger
ComputerSchools.com Staff Writer
September 14, 2006
Florida's largest city – Jacksonville – is home to more than 780,000 and is growing. Its coastal location and major sea port have driven population growth and inspired new business development, making the area ideal for new graduates. Florida's First Coast Region offers students and grads miles of unspoiled beaches, exciting riverfront activities, all the excitement of the Jacksonville Jaguars NFL franchise, and ecotourism opportunities such as marshes and wildlife not seen in many of the bustling cities of Florida.
Employment
In Duvall County, according to Florida's Labor Market Projections, the computer industry is forecasted for growth of 24% through 2013. Specific jobs with high growth predictions include network systems/data communication analysts at 39%, database administrators at 34%, and computer information scientists at 33%, all through 2013. Job and internship opportunities through the next several years will most definitely be plentiful for computer graduates.
The largest employer is Jacksonville is the United States Navy with three installations in the city. Career opportunities for civilians interested in information technology should be plentiful. CSX Technology provides a number of technology-related applications to keep transportation and other operations operating smoothly. They are a division of CSX Corporation, one of the city's largest employers. Winn-Dixie, is another major employer in Jacksonville, and requires information technology graduates to keep things running efficiently.
Education
Students in Jacksonville have numerous options for studying computers, including the University of Phoenix for programs in e-business and information technology. Florida Technical College offers programs in business and management technology, network administration, computer technology, computer drafting, and web design.
Other options include ITT Technical Institute for programs in computer and electronics engineering technology, computer drafting and design, computer network systems, web development, and information systems security; Jacksonville University for computer sciences; and the University of North Florida for undergraduate and graduate programs in computer science, information systems, software engineering, and information technology.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The Florida Department of Education Office of Student Financial Assistance offers students information about a number of grants, scholarships, and loan programs aimed at Florida residents. One example is the Florida Bright Futures Scholarship Program, which offers three separate lottery-funded scholarships that fund anywhere from $700 to full tuition for selected students. The Florida Student Assistance Grant is another program that offers three grants to students throughout the state of Florida that range from $200 to $1,722 in award amounts.
Summary
Jacksonville is a great city in which to live, work, and play. Pristine beaches and a robust economy are just two major draws of the Jacksonville area, and as the city's business development grows more dependent on advanced technology, students should find opportunities in nearly every niche.
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