by Erin Hasinger
ComputerSchools.com Staff Writer
September 18, 2006
The city of Louisville is famous for Louisville Sluggers and the Churchill Downs, home of the annual Kentucky Derby. A long-time manufacturing city, Louisville's economy has become more diverse and now thrives on industries such as technology and healthcare. After suffering significant population losses throughout the 1970s and 1980s, more and more are choosing to make Louisville their home, making the city one of the nation's fastest-growing.
Residents and visitors alike are attracted to the city's southern charm, exciting Fourth Street Live entertainment district, and cultural museums, such as the Mohammad Ali Center. Gaming fans can venture just across the river to Indiana for Caesar's Indiana, where four floors of casinos and tables are available 24 hours a day. Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the city's location on the Ohio River as well as the lush forests and rolling hills that comprise the city's landscape.
Employment
A number of large corporations are headquartered in Louisville, providing ample employment opportunities. Jobs for the computer-minded should be plentiful, as the
Kentuckiana Occupational Outlook forecasts major gains through 2012, including 51% for network systems and data communications analysts; 35% for database administrators; 34% for computer software engineers of systems software; and 32% for computer software engineers of applications.
Some potential employers include information technology solutions provider Sypris Solutions, fast-food giant Yum Brands Inc., and healthcare provider Humana Inc.
Education
Computer students in Louisville have a lot of options for their education. Those looking for certification and associate degrees need not look any farther than Brown Mackie College, which offers programs in computer programming, computer technology, software engineering, and networking.
The University of Phoenix is an option for a bachelor's degree in information technology, while the University of Louisville offers a variety of information technology certifications such as Cisco, CompTIA, Oracle, and Sun. Louisville Technical Institute offers programs in computer aided design, computer network administration, information systems security, and computer engineering technology.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The Kentucky Higher Education Assistance Authority administers a number of aid programs for students, including scholarships, grants, and work study to residents attending school within the state. Two grants of note include the College Access Grant (CAP) and Kentucky Tuition Grant.
The CAP Grant provides up to $1,900 per school year to financially-needy students to attend certain public and private colleges in Kentucky. The Kentucky Tuition Grant provides annual grants of up to $2,900 for state residents to pursue associate and bachelor degrees.
Summary
A wide variety of degree levels and programs make Louisville an appealing choice for any prospective computer student. The city's small town charm and big city amenities offer lots in terms of career potential, leisure activities, and outdoor recreation. Louisville has a lot to offer all and is a good option for any student.
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