Information Technology Discipline

You should study an Information Technology (IT) degree for diverse and in-demand career paths, high earning potential, strong job security, and opportunities for innovation and continuous learning. An IT degree provides a flexible foundation to work across nearly any industry, from finance and healthcare to manufacturing, as technology becomes critical for operations, data protection, and efficiency in all sectors. The field offers numerous specialties, such as cybersecurity or data analysis, allowing for personalized career paths and the chance to help organizations solve problems and improve processes.

Specific Information Technology Majors

• Computer Science -> Computer science majors learn about computer systems and the way humans and computers interact from a scientific perspective. Instruction includes programming and the theory and design of software.

• Computer Software Engineering -> Software engineering majors study the scientific and mathematical basis of computer software, learn a variety of programming languages, and learn how to design, analyze and maintain software.

• Information Science -> Information science majors learn how to create systems for finding and storing data. Students look at the big picture of information exchange and learn how people interact with, use, and sell information.

• Database Management -> Database management majors learn how to construct databases and study the organization, storage, and retrieval of large amounts of information.

• Web Development -> Web development majors learn how to use both technical skills and design concepts to create websites.

• Information Systems ->Information systems majors learn how to apply technology to solve business problems, including systems analysis, database management, and project management.

• Cybersecurity -> Cybersecurity majors learn how to protect computer systems and networks from cyber threats.

Undergraduate Sample Schedule for a Information Technology Major

Year	Fall Semester	Spring Semester
First Year	ENG 110: Writing I GEP 101: First-Year Foundation MTH 134: Algebraic Reasoning and Modeling PSY 121 Introductory Psychology Life Sciences (lab)	ITC 200: Critical and Creative Thinking Using Information Technology COM 115: Fundamentals of Public Speaking ECO 155: Principles of Macroeconomics PLS 101: American Democracy and Citizenship ITC 235: Computer Hardware and Operating Systems
Second Year	ACC 201: Introduction to Financial Accounting ITC 201: Computer Applications for Business ECO 165: Principles of Microeconomics MGT 286: Business Communication and Professional Development ITC 260: Programing Logic and Design for Business	ACC 211: Introduction to Managerial Accounting ITC 295: Database Management Systems Concepts and Design LAW 231: Legal Environment of Business QBA 237: Basic Business Statistics ANT 100: World Cultures
Third Year	ITC 388: Information Systems Analysis and Design FIN 380: Financial Management HST 121: Survey of the History of the United States to 1877 MGT 340: Principles of Management MKT 350: Principles of Marketing	IT infrastructure option course IT Infrastructure option course ENG 210: Writing 2: Writing Across the Disciplines Life Sciences Humanities
Fourth Year	The Arts - General Education MKT 364: Operations Management General Electives to bring total to 120 IT infrastructure option course IT specialization course	IT infrastructure option course IT specialization course General Elective to bring total to 120 hours ITC 429: Information Systems with Business Intelligence MGT 487: Strategic Management and Policy

Best Colleges for an Information Technology Major

1. Carnegie Mellon University

2. Georgia Institute of Technology

3. Arizona State University

4. Syracuse University

5. University at Albany–SUNY

Classes to take in high school to prepare for an information technology major

To prepare for an Information Technology major in college, high school students should focus on math, science, and computer science courses. Taking AP courses in these areas, like AP Calculus, AP Computer Science, and AP Physics, is highly recommended as they are rigorous and can earn college credit. Additionally, exploring computer programming and digital design can provide a strong foundation for a further in information technology.

Popular Career Paths

• Software Development -> Software developers are in high demand, designing, building, and testing software applications for various platforms. This field involves programming languages, software design principles, and problem-solving.

• Cybersecurity -> Cybersecurity professionals are crucial for protecting technological systems and data from cyber threats. This field involves identifying vulnerabilities, implementing security measures, and responding to security breaches.

• Data Scientists -> Data scientists extract valuable insights from large datasets using statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization techniques.

• Cloud Computing -> Cloud computing professionals manage and maintain cloud infrastructure and services, enabling organizations to store and access data and applications remotely.

• IT Support -> IT support specialists provide technical assistance to end-users, troubleshooting hardware and software issues.

• Network Administration -> Network administrators design, implement, and maintain computer networks, ensuring efficient and secure communication between devices. They work with network hardware, software, and protocols.

• IT Project Management -> IT project managers oversee IT projects, ensuring they are completed on time, within budget, and to the required specifications. This role requires strong communication, organizational, and leadership skills.

• Web Development -> Web developers design, develop, and maintain websites and web applications. This field involves programming languages, web design principles, and user experience considerations.

Schooling you need to complete to be successful in the information technology field

While a bachelor's degree is often a common starting point for many IT careers, particularly in specialized or management roles, it's not always the sole requirement for success in the field. Entry-level positions may be attainable with an associate's degree, certifications, or even just strong practical skills and relevant experience. However, a bachelor's degree in computer science or a related field is generally recommended for long-term career advancement and higher-paying roles.