by Erin Hasinger
ComputerSchools.com Staff Writer
September 18, 2006
Oklahoma City, the state's fast-growing capital, is not the dusty wheat-growing city one might imagine. Instead, the city is riding the tails of new development and an exciting downtown renaissance. Home to over half a million, Oklahoma City is also forging into high tech industries, and its diverse economy offers new students and residents a plethora of opportunities.
Employment
According to the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, jobs for computer professionals will be plentiful through 2012. Positions forecast for the most growth include network systems and data communication analysts at 42%, database administrators at 32%, network communication systems administrators at 28%, and communication systems analysts at 26%.
The State of Oklahoma is the city's largest employer, with more than 38,000 employees that include a large information technology staff.
Other prospective employers include IBM,
Mike Monroney Aeronautical Center, and Tinker Air Force Base.
Education
Students have a variety of options for computer study in Oklahoma City, including the University of Phoenix, which offers a bachelor's degree in information technology.
Tech Skills offers certificates in security, Linux, Microsoft, Cisco, Oracle, web design, and more. Wright Business School is another option for certificates in computer and information technology.
DeVry University offers an associate degree in network systems administration, and bachelor of science degrees in computer engineering technology, computer information systems, information technology, technology management, and network and communications management.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education oversees a number of grant and scholarship programs designed to make education more affordable to state residents.
The Oklahoma Tuition Aid Grant Program awards up to $1,300 in grant money to financially needy students. The Oklahoma Tuition Equalization Grant Program provides up to $2,000 for students attending private, non-profit educational institutions.
Scholarships include the Academic Scholars Program, which is awarded to students with high academic achievement. The Oklahoma Higher Learning Access Program - Oklahoma's Promise awards scholarships to students with academic achievement and financial need.
Summary
Oklahoma is a smart choice for any aspiring computer student. With a variety of educational programs to choose from, students can work their way into any field. The city's excellent economy and growing job market mean jobs will be plentiful in the industry for years to come, as well.
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