Information technology (IT) is the use of computer systems or devices to access, store, manage, and protect information. It is a field of expertise that includes a wide range of subfields and specializations, from network administration and software development to data analysis, cybersecurity, and physical devices.
Information technology drives much of what we do in our personal and professional lives. IT skills are used by everyone, from individuals to small businesses and large corporations to government agencies. Information technology is the foundation of communications, technological advancements, innovation, sustainability, and many forms of recreation. On a personal level, we use IT knowledge to connect and communicate with others, play games, share media, shop, and socialize.
Information technology degrees cover a wide range of study, and IT professionals are employed in nearly every industry. A degree in Information technology prepares you to work on the teams that support computer networks and systems. IT specialists oversee computer networks and ensure the system can handle networking tasks and meet security requirements. Their duties include tracking network traffic and activity, installing and configuring software updates, and performing database backups to restore and protect user information.
What Do Information Technology Specialists Do?
An information technology specialist is responsible for the day-to-day operation of an organization's computer network. They install, configure, manage, maintain, and secure network hardware and software and troubleshoot issues. They also research computing tools, develop policies and procedures for using and maintaining the network, and may be required to provide technical support to internal or external users.
IT specialists may also meet with clients to discuss their computing needs and help them identify new tools that can improve their systems. They may mentor IT support staff, plan updates, and delegate incoming tasks to members of their team. IT specialists may also perform research to find ways to improve system efficiency by identifying factors that impact network performance.
Specific daily job duties for an IT specialist depend on the size and scope of an organization's computer systems. At smaller businesses, the system administrator may handle all IT duties, including maintaining and updating all computers and ensuring data security and backup. Larger corporations may divide system administrators' responsibilities into more specific roles, resulting in specialized positions like database administrators or security administrators.
What are the Careers in Information Technology?
A career as an information technology specialist can take many paths. IT specialists can work in nearly every industry. Some IT specialists are responsible for multiple aspects of computer systems, while others oversee a particular area.
Professionals with the required skills and certifications have plenty of career options. Information technology specialists might work in a corporate setting, a small business, a government agency, or an educational institution. They may pursue self-employment as a consultant or advance their careers by moving into other IT sectors, such as systems engineering or software development. Because information technology is the foundation for many business operations, the options are boundless. Typical wages for IT specialists ensure a good standard of living.
Job titles for information technology professionals include:
- Computer and Information Systems Manager
- Computer Network Architect
- Computer Network Support Specialist
- Computer Systems Administrator
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Cybersecurity Specialist
- Database Administrator
- Information Analyst
- Information Technology Specialist
- Network Administrator
- Network Technician or Engineer
- Network Engineer
- Local Area Network (LAN) Specialist
- Project Manager, Information Technology
- Systems Engineer
- Systems Administrator
What Skills Do Information Technology Specialists Need?
A career in information technology demands a diverse range of skills that can expand with technological advancements. Because computer technology is constantly changing, IT specialists need to keep up with the latest developments by taking courses, attending conferences, and seeking certifications.
Many companies require that their IT specialists are certified in the products they use. IT certifications prove to employers that workers have the skills needed for technology jobs. Certification programs are often offered by equipment and software vendors and they teach the knowledge and best practices required of information technology workers. Microsoft and Cisco are two common certifications.
In general, professional IT specialists need to have a working knowledge of:
- Cloud Computing
- Computer Networking
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analysis and Visualization
- Database Management
- Ethical and Legal Considerations
- IT Infrastructure Management
- Network Protocols
- Operating Systems
- Programming Languages
Other necessary skills for an information technology specialist may include:
- Continuous Learning
- Critical and Analytical Thinking
- Interpersonal Skills
- Problem Solving
- Project Management
- Time Management
- Verbal and Written Communication
What Tasks Do Information Technology Specialists Do?
Some tasks that information technology specialists do include:
- Installing hardware and software for the computer network
- Performing necessary upgrades and repairs, and troubleshooting issues
- Evaluating and optimizing network or system performance
- Identifying user needs and selecting appropriate IT systems
- Training users in the proper use of hardware and software
- Analyzing complex computing problems and implementing solutions
- Maintaining network and computer system security
| Career | Mean Entry-Level Salary (Payscale) | Mean Annual Wage (BLS) | Top 10 Percent (BLS) |
|
Computer and Information Systems Manager |
$65,570 | $180,720 | $239,200 |
| Computer Network Architect | $70,000 | $133,930 | $195,000 |
| Computer Network Support Specialist | $78,640 | $121,920 | |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $60,865 | $110,800 | $165,700 |
| Database Administrator | $60,788 | $104,810 | $157,710 |
| Database Architect | $85,612 | $137,030 | $194,960 |
| Information Security Analyst | $63,458 | $124,740 | $182,370 |
|
Network and Computer Systems Administrator |
$56,451 | $100,580 | $148,710 |
|
Figures from payscale.com, accessed May 2024. Figures from U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), dated May 2023. |
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See additional computing salary information.
The Future of Information Technology
Information technology specialists are a central part of the teams that support an organization's computer systems. The demand for information technology professionals continues to grow as businesses and organizations increasingly rely on technology to drive efficiency, innovation, and competitiveness. Employed by virtually all organizations, information technology specialists are well-paid and in high demand. In the next decade, overall employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations, and about 356,700 openings are projected each year on average, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Pursuing an Information Technology Degree
There are several paths you can take to start your career in an information technology. Many employers require information technology specialists to have a bachelor's degree in a computing-related field, but others may require only a postsecondary certificate or an associate's degree. The following tips can help prepare you to pursue a degree in an information technology-related computing field:
Tips for High School Students
If you're currently in high school and are considering a career in information technology field, here are some things to consider:
- The first step to pursuing an information technology degree is determining if it's the best choice for you. What do you see yourself doing after you earn your degree in information technology? Where would you like to work?
- Think about your skills and interests to help point you to a specific area within IT in which you'll thrive. Do you want to specialize in a particular area of IT? Do you have a specific job title in mind?
- Research several different information technology degrees to get a sense for the ones you may want to pursue. Find and follow someone who has the job you think you want. Seeing the day-to-day activities of a professional in a real-world work environment can help you decide your true interests.
- Talk with your teachers, school advisor, parents, friends, and classmates about your choices to get some new perspectives.
Choosing a College/University for Information Technology
Selecting a school to study an information technology field can be a difficult decision. Follow these tips to help you:
- Do research on colleges and universities that offer information technology degree programs. It's not necessary to major in a program called "information technology" to start a successful career in this job sector. Look for degrees that fall under the IT umbrella.
- Make sure the schools you're considering offer accredited degrees. Many employers will only consider graduates from accredited institutions.
- Visit the schools you're interested in and ask questions about their degree programs, scholarships, financial aid opportunities, and application requirements and deadlines.
- Consider the school's reputation, location, and size, as well as the total cost of attendance and student housing options.
- Find out about campus life, academic support, career services, class sizes, and internship opportunities.
- Apply to the schools you think are the right fit beginning in your junior year of high school. Mark your calendar so you don't miss the application window and other deadlines!
Tips for College Students
If you're currently in college, these tips can help ensure your success in your chosen field of computing, including IT:
- Work with your academic advisor to choose the appropriate program and courses that will give you the knowledge and skills you'll need for a career in an information technology field.
- Gain experience through activities like student organizations, co-ops and internships, professional conferences, and research projects.
- Form relationships with faculty members in your program. These connections will help you to find relevant experiences and jobs, both during college and after you graduate.
- Network with professionals. Whether you're at a conference or an on-campus career fair, seize every opportunity to form connections with professionals in the field—you never know when these contacts could come in handy!
- Keep your resume up to date and brush up on your interviewing skills. Your institution may have a dedicated career center that can help you.