by Erin Hasinger
ComputerSchools.com Staff Writer
September 24, 2006
Springfield, Missouri, is a quiet Midwestern town based in the heart of the Ozark Mountain region. Home to approximately 151,000, Springfield is located along historic Route 66 and was part of the Trail of Tears. A rolling, lush landscape is dotted with lakes and rivers; in fact, Springfield offers more than 7,500 miles of shoreline, providing residents and visitors with myriad outdoor recreation opportunities such as hiking, biking, and fishing. Spelunkers might also be interested in the many caverns located in southern Missouri.
Employment
According to the Missouri Economic and Regional Development Center, job growth for computer professionals through 2012 in the Springfield area will be outstanding. Increases in positions will be greatest for network systems and data communications analysts at 72%, and database administrators at 71%. Other significant growth is projected for computer systems analysts, computer software engineers, network and computer systems administrators, and computer support specialists, all with increases of over 25%.
Computer graduates might find exciting employment opportunities with some of Springfield's largest employers, including Cox Health, St. John's Health System, Springfield Public Schools, and Missouri State University, which has a separate career site just for technology jobs.
Education
Options for a computer education in Springfield include the University of Phoenix for a bachelor of science in information technology and Drury University for bachelor of science degrees in computer information science and computer science.
Evangel University offers bachelor degrees in computer science, while Missouri State University offers both master and bachelor degrees in computer information systems.
Everett College is another option with its bachelor degree program in computer information science.
Financial Aid & Scholarships
The Missouri Department of Higher Education offers two scholarships and three grant programs to Missouri residents.
Scholarship programs include the Bright Flight program, which honors students for academic achievement, and the Marguerite Ross Barnett Memorial Scholarship, given to students who demonstrate financial need.
State grant programs include the Missouri College Guarantee Program, Missouri College Guarantee PLUS Program, and the Charles Gallagher Student Financial Assistance Program. Students must demonstrate financial need to qualify for grant programs.
Summary
Springfield's plethora of great computer programs and bright job outlook makes the city an ideal choice for aspiring information technology professionals. Small town charm and amazing outdoor recreational opportunities just add to what already makes this town great.
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