by Erin Hasinger
ComputerSchools.com Staff Writer
September 24, 2006
The San Diego Convention and Visitors Bureau http://www.sandiego.org touts the city as one “full of fun, relaxation and beauty.” The city is home to more than 1.2 million who probably wouldn't disagree with this. San Diego boasts a pleasant, Mediterranean climate and more than 70 miles of white sandy beaches where the cityscape meets the Pacific Ocean. Popular attractions in the area include Sea World and the renowned San Diego Zoo, while outdoorsy types flock to enjoy the spectacular Laguna Mountains and Anza-Borrego Desert.
Employment
San Diego is a high tech hub and one of the most important components of its economy is software development. Computer occupations are growing by leaps and bounds in the San Diego area. As much as 46% growth is forecast for network systems and data communications analysts through 2012. Great increases are also projected for computer specialists (32%) and computer systems software engineers (43%).
Some of the city's major employers that rely heavily on information technology professionals include Sempra Energy, Cubic Corporation, Oracle, and Sun Technologies. Internship opportunities are also plentiful with these and other notable organizations.
Education
Students in San Diego have fantastic options for computer education, including the University of Phoenix, which offers a bachelor of science degree in information technology. The Art Institute offers degrees in animation, graphic design, multimedia, and web design.
Students interested in computer aided drafting might consider ITT Technical Institute. Another option is California College of San Diego, which has associate and bachelor degrees in areas including programming, computer science, e-commerce, networking, and computer technology.
Other options include computer science at the University of California at San Diego and National University, which offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in computer science, information systems, information technology, software engineering, and technology management.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
Financial aid in California is administered by the California Student Aid Commission. One program available to students is the CalGrant program, which awards funds to students that do not need to be repaid. Several types of the CalGrant are awarded based on factors such as academic achievement and financial need.
Another program is the Robert C. Byrd Honors Scholarship Program, which awards as much as $1,500 yearly to students with high academic achievement.
The ComputerSchools.com Scholarship Directory is another handy resource that lists dozens of computer-related scholarships for students.
Summary
San Diego offers computer students a plethora of schools to choose from with programs sure to meet the goals of all aspiring information technology professionals. A bright job outlook and a variety of grant programs from the state add to the attraction of San Diego. Students looking for a fun city with excellent prospects would be wise to keep San Diego in mind.
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