A Career in Computer Technology
Are you looking to start a career in the exciting field of computer technology, but not sure what route to take? Choosing a career path after high school is one of the most important decisions you will ever make.
The computer industry has consistently been one of the fastest growing for over 20 years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job market for computer-related skills is booming, with computer and data processing services adding over 1.3 million jobs from 1996-2006, representing a 108 percent increase. The lack of qualified candidates for high-tech positions has tended to drive the average salary levels higher very quickly. Here are some things to consider when looking at your options:
Course of Study
There are several areas of study in computer technology, from Networking
to Graphic Design, Architecture to Computer Game Programming. People
interested in computers tend to do well in mathematics and science;
however, if you don't have those aptitudes, options are still open
to you.
If you are creative and have a passion for drawing, then Graphic Design or Multimedia may be a good choice. If you want to be an Administrative or Executive Assistant, then courses covering specific office software may get you that first job.
Computer schools typically don't have any entry requirements beyond a basic high school education. If you intend to pursue a degree in computer technology, however, you will need to complete the necessary prerequisites specified by the college or university to which you apply. These often include taking the SAT or ACT.
College or Technical School, Degree or Certificate
College is not for everyone; the choice depends on your individual
situation. That said, many employers prefer potential employees
who have a college degree, particularly for higher-level jobs such
as management positions. However, with the gap between the number
of high tech jobs available and the candidates to fill them, the
computer industry offers perhaps one of the best opportunities for
those without a college education to find decent employment.
A college degree program lasts from two to four years. A technical or computer training school program is often shorter, yet more concentrated on the field of study. A certification in networking, for example, can be completed in nine months or less. For many people who have decided a four-year degree is not for them, such programs offer an attractive alternative.
Typical Jobs and Salaries to Consider
Computer Technician. A college degree is often not necessary
for a job as a computer technician. A basic certification in computer
hardware and software will get your foot in the door. Many people
go on to earn more advanced certifications in network administration
or engineering. An average starting salary for a certified computer
technician is $25,000 to $35,000, while those with advanced certifications
earn $50,000 to $60,000+.
Graphic Designer. Graphic Designers can work in a marketing or web department or for ad agencies and multimedia firms. They design marketing and sales material, advertising, websites, product packaging, signage, and many other things. Graphic Designers may go to college, art school, or computer training school. Starting salaries range from $28,000 to $35,000.
Computer Programmer. To become a computer programmer, a person attends either a college or university (in order to get a computer science degree) or a technical school, to be awarded certification in particular computer languages. Programming jobs include building commercial software and custom business applications, web development, database development, and computer game programming. Starting salaries average $45,000 to $60,000.
Webmaster. Needing skills in Graphic Design, Programming, and Network Administration, a Webmaster may be responsible for any of the job roles above. Depending on the size of the company and the focus on e-commerce, a Webmaster may design the look of a website, program the HTML or other scripting language, administer the website, or a combination of all of these. With such a broad set of skills needed, a combination of college and certification courses is often necessary. Starting salaries range from $48,000 to $58,000.
Provided by Lisette Price, Marketing Manager and part-time instructor at New Horizons Computer Learning Centers of Atlanta.
