As the world becomes increasingly dependent upon the internet and computers, the value of those with degrees in information technology will continue to grow. Those interested in entering the field should familiarize themselves with some of the diverse career paths available. Here are a handful of jobs that IT graduates can pursue.

Network and computer systems administrator

Given the importance of computers and technology in the workplace, it is easy to see why a network and computer systems administrator plays a critical role in the success of nearly every business. These professionals keep the networks running smoothly every day. They need to have a strong background in information technology, like the education they’d get from a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Administration from ACU Online.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), those employed as network administrators see a median pay of $82,050 per year. The BLS also expects to see a 6 percent job growth rate, which will result in 24,000 new jobs by 2026.

Computer network architect

A computer network architect creates communications networks. They will work with local area networks and wide area networks as well as Intranets. Depending upon the organization the architect works for, they might create networks that involve a few connections, or they could work on building large cloud infrastructures. These networks help businesses maintain secure internal communications.

Interested professionals should pursue degrees in fields such as information technology and build experience in related fields. The pay rate for the average computer network architect reflects this need. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for those in this field is $109,020. The field also expects to see a 6 percent growth rate over the next decade.

Computer support specialist

A computer support specialist often works with network support, ensuring that the networks for an organization continue to work as designed. Other support specialists may work directly with computer users to help them understand how to use the devices and troubleshoot problems that arise.

These specialists may need to keep nontraditional work hours, and they are often on call should computer networks go down. The BLS reports that computer support specialists who work with computer networks have a median annual wage of $62,770. Meanwhile, they report that those who provide support directly to users have a median annual wage of $50,980. The increasing dependence of businesses upon technology means that this field will see a projected faster-than-average growth rate of 11 percent by 2026.

Computer systems analyst

These analysts focus on improving the efficiency of the computer systems and networks for a company. A systems analyst will look for ways to improve the procedures and the systems in place to save the business time and resources.

To become a computer systems analyst, interested professionals should finish their degree in information technology and look for ways to build their skills related to programming.

The BLS has found that this field will grow by 9 percent between 2016 and 2026. This equals about 54,400 positions. There will be about 9 percent more jobs by 2026, which equals about 54,400 positions. This makes it a good field for many interested computer professionals.

The agency reports that the median wage for this field is $88,740 per year.

Computer and information systems manager

Computer and information systems managers help to coordinate activities related to the computers and networks within an organization. They will assist within their group and help set goals for the business. Once the goals have been set, they also help to implement computer systems to then meet those goals.

To become an information systems manager, candidates will need at least a bachelor’s degree in the field as well as related work experience. The professionals who reach the highest levels of the profession will have a graduate degree.

Professionals who work hard in this field are rewarded with strong salary potential. According to the BLS, the median annual wage for this sector is $142,530. The agency also expects to see a 12 percent increase in the number of jobs available from 2016 to 2026, which is faster than the average projected job growth rate across all positions.

Database administrator

These administrators understand how to use software that stores and organizes data. This data might come in a number of different forms, such as customer shipping records or financial information. The database administrator will have the responsibility of securing this critical data and ensuring that no one can access it without the proper permissions. Since the amount of data available on the web is projected to increase from a mere 130 exabytes in 2005 to 40,000 in 2020, the importance of well-trained database administrators can’t be overstated.

To enter this field, interested professionals will need a degree in information technology. This will prepare them to understand how information technology and databases work. Given the significance of databases in modern commerce, the BLS expects this field to see a fast growth rate of 11 percent. The agency also reports that the median wage for those in the field is $90,070.

Do these IT occupations sound interesting to you? Take the first step toward pursuing your career in IT by earning a Bachelor’s degree from ACU Online. This undergraduate program is entirely online, giving you a greater level of flexibility while getting the training you need. Contact us today at 855-219-7300 or acu.edu/online to learn more.