Information Technology at Upper Iowa University
What’s your favorite gadget? A new gaming system? A new way to access music, movies or television? Computers and information technology are at the heart of every cutting-edge tool being created today and offer exciting opportunities for graduates with an Information Technology major.
Information Technology is the newest and most rapidly growing computing discipline. IT encompasses all aspects of computing technology, and as an academic discipline, focuses on the needs of users within an organizational and societal context through the selection, creation, application, integration, and administration of computing technologies.
At Upper Iowa University, the bachelor’s of science degree in Information Technology is designed to prepare students with the skills and knowledge to accept professional managerial and administrative positions in the field. The IT program features small class sizes, work-study programs, an accelerated term system, and a deep concern for student success.
Why major in IT?
Information Technology is an exciting, interesting, fast moving, well-paid, and rewarding career choice. To be successful in today’s Information Age, you must understand computers. You know it’s true…computers are basically a “second major” for any college student!
Computing has the power to change the world and make it a better place. Computing has enabled scientific innovations such as robotics, communications, genetics, scientific modeling, medicine, and weather simulations. The internet has revolutionized how we communicate, experience education, and share information.
IT professionals have meaningful and flexible careers. As an IT professional, you will work on creative teams to develop cutting-edge products and solutions that save lives, help people, solve health issues, improve the environment, and strengthen interpersonal communication. Telecommuting gives you more options for combining a personal and professional life.
The world needs IT professionals. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer-related design and services jobs will grow 38% from 2006-16. An estimated 1.6 million IT professionals will be needed by 2016. With societal changes in IT hiring practices, fewer college-prepared professionals, and the retirement of Baby Boomers IT will continue to grow, and the field is especially open for well-prepared women and minority professionals.
IT professionals recoup their college investment. Computer science graduates earn 13% more than the average college graduate, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. According to a January 2006 article on CNN.com, salaries for computing professionals are rising quickly; and computer-related jobs are among the “top 10” with the fastest growing salaries, according to the Association of Computing Machinery.
IT careers offer unlimited job opportunities. Nearly every business, industry, and organization relies on computers and information technology to conduct their work each day. As a result, an IT professional can pick where he or she wants to work. Job opportunities include:
- Database Administration
- Infrastructure Management
- Network Administration
- Project Management
- Security Administration
- Security Forensics Specialist
- Server Administration
- Software Developer
- Web Systems Developer