Northwest Arkansas Democrat-Gazette
Promising careers
Top technology degrees deliver success for job seekers
High school graduation may be months away, but it’s not too early for soon-to-be graduates to start thinking about what degree to pursue when they begin college in the fall.
One field of study that is both popular and practical is technology. The White House last year announced the TechHire initiative to encourage American cities to offer training to prepare the workforce for careers in growing tech fields.
The United States has about 5 million open jobs today, which is more than at any point since 2001. More than half a million of those job openings are in information technology, or IT — fields such as software development, network administration and cybersecurity. Many of these career fields did not even exist just a decade ago, making them especially promising for the younger generation.
“Our information technology students today are enthusiastic about the future job,” said Rajin Koonjbearry, professor and cybersecurity expert at DeVry University. “Not only are traditional IT careers standing out, but the increasing private information online calls for cybersecurity experts to help companies protect against threats.”
Here are some of the most valuable tech specializations and degree programs available:
CYBERSECURITY
Demand for cybersecurity professionals continues to rise, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting a 37 percent increase in information security analyst jobs through 2022.
DeVry University now offers cybersecurity programming specialization within its Bachelor of Science in computer information systems program, available on campus or online in select states. The program includes systems security certified practitioner (SSCP) preparation and exam facilitation, a key credential that employers may require in hiring cybersecurity professionals that has been accredited by the American National Standards Institute.
HEALTH INFORMATION SYSTEMS
Another fast-growing tech specialization is in health information systems. The North American health care technology market is predicted to grow significantly to more than $31 billion by 2017, up from approximately $22 billion in 2012, according to Research and Markets’ North American Healthcare IT Market Report.
Students who earn a bachelor’s degree in computer information systems can pursue professional certification as a Certified Associate in Health Care Information and Management to show their knowledge and skills to employers.
SYSTEMS ANALYSIS/INTEGRATION
Computer systems analysts play a vital role in researching, planning and recommending software and systems that best meet an organization’s business requirements. These analysts combine their knowledge of information technology and business to manage the organization’s overall computer system, from designing and developing new systems to helping networks run more efficiently and effectively.
According to a new market report, the global market for system integration is expected to grow at a compound annual growth rate of nearly 11 percent between 2014 and 2020. Students who want to stand out from the competition can pursue a post-baccalaureate certificate in information systems and management.
WEB DEV./ADMINISTRATION
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects about 20 percent employment growth for Web developers by 2022. During that period, about 28,500 new jobs will need to be filled in an industry that already has roughly 141,400 positions.
The expansion of e-commerce is expected to fuel this high job growth in the coming decade. Companies need Web developers who can design Webpage layout and solve code problems, help expand their online retail presence and safeguard the site and end users’ privacy.
A specialized degree, especially when paired with a professional certification valued by employers, can open doors to a rewarding career. —