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By Doug Schmitt
ComputerSchools.com Contributing Writer
December 15, 2005
Computers have infused the world, from science and technology to business and entertainment, playing a key role in almost every industry. People usually associate computers with the Internet and word processing programs. However, there's more to computers than that. Some examples of computer/information technology careers are listed below:
- Computer and Information Systems Management
- Computer Hardware Engineering
- Computer Software Programming
- Computer Systems Analysis
- Network Systems Administration
- Electronics Installation and Repair
- Desktop Publishing
Today, students have an alternative to traditional education through an online computer/information technology education. Determined by the school one attends, students have few options including certifications, Associate's Degrees, Bachelor's Degrees, and Master's Degrees in concentrations such as:
- Computer Information Systems
- Networking
- Web Development
- Programming
- Java
- Information Technology
Accreditation differs from school to school. Not all online computer schools are accredited. Still, more accredited online computer schools and programs are in existence today, opening doors for those who seek an education but are unable to commit to a traditional education. Students are encouraged to research and determine if their school of choice is accredited before enrolling.
How an Online Program in Computer/Information Technology Works
There are numerous reasons why a traditional education might not be feasible for some. An online computer education is not like traditional education. Improved schedule flexibility as well as lower tuition are advantages to pursuing a computer degree online. Some others are listed below:
- Classes can be “attended” from the comfort of the students home, at a pace of their own.
- Some schools will customize programs, to help a student meet their educational goals.
- Because of “accelerated” programs, many degrees can be completed in half the time that a traditional education would take.
- Interaction with students from around the world is possible, thanks to the online class environment.
- All chat discussions, class documents, training materials, and transcripts are recorded and archived for future use by students.
- Less admissions restrictions for online programs make it easier to be accepted into an education institution.
Schools offering Online Computer/Information Technology Programs
Several schools now offer online programs to students. Below are a few samples of schools that offer online education:
Funding for Online Computer/Information Technology Education
An important issue for most students is being able to afford an education. While a computer education online can cost less than a traditional education, it may still be costly.
Just like a traditional education, financial aid is available for an online computer education. The government offers grants and loans, while the schools offer tuition assistance to many students as well.
Along side those options are scholarships. Several computer/information technology scholarships are available to students. A few examples are listed below:
The DOE High-Performance Computer Science Fellowship
Microsoft Tuition Scholarships
IEEE Computer Society Scholarships
Employment
In today's modern global economy, computers are the organizational backbone for businesses. From trades like construction to the stock market, computers play an integral role in daily operations. This saturation of computers into everyday life leaves a large demand for all types of employees in the field.
Two increasingly popular careers in computers are that of the computer software engineer and computer support specialist/systems administrator, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.
Computer software engineers design and manage the creation of computer programs. Computer support specialists/systems administrators give technical support to customers, clientele, and co-workers. For both professions, earnings are an attractive incentive. The average yearly earnings for computer software engineers are around $80,000 while that of computer support specialists is around $40,000.
Dan Brockman, Network Administrator for the Kane County Illinois Recorders Office, enjoys his job. Computer jobs can pay nicely and according to Brockman, it's something that he enjoys, so the salary is more of a bonus than a key factor. In addition, he cautions that in computers, technology changes on an almost daily basis. Therefore, it is important for individuals to make sure that their knowledge evolves along side of the technology.
See our page: Interview with Dan Brockman on ComputerSchools.com for more career information and advice.
Summary
The growth of the computer industry has sparked great demand for all types of technicians. This, combined with online education opportunities, shows why an online computer education can be right for you.
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