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Information Technology

What is 'Information Technology? (INFO)'

When computer and communications technologies are combined, the result is information technology. Information technology encompasses many aspects of computing and technology and covers many fields. IT professionals perform a variety of duties that range from installing applications to designing complex computer networks and information databases. A few of the duties that IT professionals perform includes storing, protecting, processing, transmitting, and retrieving information.

Today's IT plays a critical role in the work of all major industries as well as being a distinct industry on its own. The Information Technology Association of America (ITAA) reports that 92% of all IT workers are in non-IT companies, 80% of which are small companies. Even if the career you choose does not focus solely on IT, the job will likely involve the use of computers and technology to accomplish tasks and process information.

Students interested in becoming IT computer repair technicians or computer support specialists generally can get started with specialized training, an appropriate industry-skill certification, and/or an Associate degree in a computer-related field, plus hands-on experience with computers.

The mission of the Information Technology programs is to educate students in the principles and practices of information technology and to prepare students for the workforce, higher education, and a lifetime of learning.

Is it for you?

Individuals interested in an IT career should be curious, have the ability to think logically, and have strong problem-solving skills. A working knowledge of mathematics and good communication skills are also important since troubleshooting, teamwork, and helping others are important aspect of most IT jobs. In addition, Web developers also need creative skills. Whether dealing with customers, managers, or other computer specialists, IT professionals need the abilities to solve technical challenges as well as to communicate effectively on paper, in-person, and electronically.

If you are the type of individual who would like to help others succeed, use the computer for variety of tasks, multitask, and work well with others, a degree or certificate in the area of office support/administration may be for you!

Make an impact - 24/7.

With its global reach and 24-hour availability, doing business via the Web is exciting and challenging. Metropolitan Community College’s Information Technology associate degree program in e-Commerce allows you to have an active role in leveraging e-business opportunities by integrating web technologies into existing business processes. E-Commerce involves many different technical skills, as well as business, project management, communication and creative web design skills.

Data Center Management

Data centers are a critical part of today’s data processing world. This program familiarizes the student with the physical components, design, management, support, and operations in a data center. The student studies about the data center infrastructure, creating a server environment to specific needs, and daily operations of data center activities.

MCC Ranks Nationally in Conferring Computer Degrees

Community College Week lists Metropolitan Community College 23rd nationally among two- and four-year colleges that confer associate degrees in computer and information sciences and support services in its June 21, 2004, edition. (Full story)

Jobs and Salary expectations

Technical and professional certifications are also increasing in popularity and importance. IT workers are expected to continually update their knowledge and acquire new skills to remain qualified.

Employment Prospects

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (www.bls.gov); opportunities for IT graduates continue to rise. The below table shows the national projections:

Job Category 2006 Number 2016 Number
Computer Software Engineer, Applications 507,000 732,510
Computer Software Engineer, Systems Software 350,000 449,000
Computer Systems Analyst 504,000 650,000
Computer Support Specialist 552,000 624,000
Network and Computer Systems Administrator 309,000 393,000
Computer and Information Systems Manager 264,000 307,000
Computer and Information Scientist, Research 25,000 31,000
Database Administrator 119,000 154,000
Network Systems and Data Communications Analyst 262,000 402,000
Computer Specialist, all other 136,000 157,000

Office assistants generally work with other people and should be cooperative and able to work as part of a team. They must be willing to change to meet the unexpected requirements of the job and be willing to learn and utilize updated software packages and new office equipment. Employers require knowledge of word processing, microcomputer applications, and other general computer skills. In addition, office assistants must be proficient in keyboarding and competent in spelling, punctuation, grammar, and oral communication. The average wage in Nebraska for a position of this nature is $30,000.

To find out the approximate salary for IT jobs, Salary.com is a website that shows a particular job title and the salary range associated with that type of position. These salaries are not just for the Midwest. http://swz.salary.com/salarywizard/layouthtmls/swzl_narrowjob_IT03.html

To see more of job offerings for the Omaha Metropolitan area, click on the following link: http://omaha.jobs.com/jobsearch.asp?re=4&pg=8&sq=omaha&aj=omaha

What's new FOR THE 11-12 ACADEMIC SCHOOL YEAR

  • Embedded Systems Technology (ESTAS)

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