Do you have a knack for technology? Do you enjoy troubleshooting devices and systems? If you can answer yes to either of these questions, you could be a great fit for ACU Online’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Administration. This program offers extensive instruction in software application development and technology infrastructure maintenance.
Upon graduation, you will be fully prepared to take on IT challenges in different settings and industries. Read on to learn more about this degree program and how it can prepare you for your dream career.
Who Is Best Suited to the IT Administration Degree?
Tech lovers who enjoy toying with computer systems thrive in ACU’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Administration program. Ideal candidates are analytical and detail-oriented. A natural aptitude for technology is desirable but not required, so long as you’re willing to learn. If you commit yourself to mastering the course material offered through ACU Online, you’re bound to succeed in this program and in your eventual IT administration career.
What You’ll Learn
As a student seeking ACU Online’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Administration, you will take a variety of classes designed to prepare you for installing, maintaining, securing, and troubleshooting a variety of network systems. Examples of key courses include:
- Fundamentals of Networking and Data Communications
- Systems Integration and Administration
- Database Administration
- Web Technologies
The Role of Faith
Faith may not seem like a central tenet in IT administration, but it should be. IT administrators who nurture their faith are more capable of demonstrating digital ethics—an essential trait that is sorely lacking in today’s risk-filled digital world. Those who keep faith at the forefront can effectively integrate ethical decision-making into daily tasks on the job. Some even work for churches or ministry organizations, which, as with any organization, require assistance in developing and maintaining secure networks.
As a Christian IT administrator, you can do your part to ensure that modern technology is used for worthy causes—and that those who make use of today’s tech solutions remain safe and secure.
Career Opportunities for IT Administration Graduates
Once you’ve graduated with your Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Administration, you will be well-equipped for a number of intriguing and rewarding positions. Top options are highlighted below:
Network Administrator
Responsible for the day-to-day functioning of critical networks, network administrators spend their time organizing, installing, and maintaining a variety of systems, including:
- Local area networks (LANs)
- Wide area networks (WANs)
- Intranets
- Network segments
In an age of increased digital risk, network administrators play a key role in maintaining internet security. They may be responsible for approving or adding network users. Many spend considerable time updating security permissions for networks.
This role can be both fulfilling and lucrative; the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) highlights median annual earnings of $82,050 for network and computer systems administrators. Moderate growth is expected in the next several years, with BLS predictions indicating that the United States economy will see 24,000 new jobs between 2016 and 2026.
Mobile Application Administrators
Although typically associated with computer servers, today’s networks also increasingly cover mobile devices. Skilled and adaptable IT administrators are in great demand as companies seek more effective means of managing mobile equipment. Mobile application administrators install and maintain both internal and third-party applications. They are also responsible for diagnosing and resolving any issues that might arise with these applications. Mobile application administrators allow organizations to maintain secure mobile networks, which, without vigilance, could be susceptible to today’s most damaging breaches and other security concerns.
According to Glassdoor the national average salary for an Applications Administrator is $65,000. Based on more than 270 salaries submitted anonymously to Glassdoor, salaries ranged from $48,000 to $87,000 per year.
Computer Network Architects
The transferable skills gained in an IT administration program allow professionals to go beyond administration and maintenance to assist or even direct the creation of vital networks. Architects skilled in IT administration can draw upon their extensive understanding of what tends to go wrong in systems to ensure a more proactive approach. With their help, networks can be designed to be more efficient and secure—and to better fit the unique needs of the organizations they serve.
According to the BLS, computer network architects earned a median annual wage of $109,020 in 2018. Pay tended to be even higher in management roles and for architects working in telecommunications. The profession holds a moderate job outlook, with the BLS anticipating the addition of 10,500 new jobs between 2016 and 2026. With the right degree, however, you’ll enjoy a significant edge on any competition in the workforce.
If you have a passion for technology and problem solving, a career in IT administration may be the perfect fit for you. This is your opportunity to make the most of your technological skills and passion as you live out your faith in the workforce. It all begins with ACU Online’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Administration.
For more information on how ACU Online can help you pursue your academic and career goals, contact us at 855-219-7300 or acu.edu/online.
Other articles to read:
What You Need to Excel in the Information Technology Field
Information Technology Administration 101: Your Guide to Becoming an IT Administrator
Career Outcomes with a Bachelor’s Degree in IT Administration