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Information Technology Administration

Today's business environment requires people who know how to operate high-tech devices. The information technology administration field offers above-average job growth and solid earning potential. Keep reading to see if a career information technology administration might be right for you.

Is Information Technology Administration Right for Me?

Information technology (IT) administrators determine which computer systems, networks, peripherals and mobile devices are the best options for the organization they work for. This field may allow you to work in government agencies, businesses and education institutions. You would make sure that all software applications, networks and mobile devices operate the properly. After the technology has been implemented, you would analyze the usage and performance of the system and make necessary changes.

Management information systems professionals make sure that everyone in the organization has secure technology available. IT project managers perform administration tasks for IT initiatives, such as determining a budget or creating a schedule. Computer support specialists analyze end user problems and find solutions to those problems. Database administrators design databases, manage raw data and ensure the security and integrity of business information.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reported that computer and information systems managers earned a median salary of $115,780 in 2010, database administrators earned $73,490, and computer support specialists earned $46,260. (www.bls.gov). According to the BLS, computer and information systems managers were projected to experience a 17% increase in job opportunities between 2008 and 2018. Database administrators were expected to see a 20% growth in employment from 2008-2018.

How Can I Work in Information Technology Administration?

Each career has different education requirements, but you generally need postsecondary education or a certification for many positions. A bachelor's degree is often required for management-level positions in database systems, information systems and network administration.

Entry-level computer support specialist jobs may only require a computer-related associate's degree program, although a bachelor's degree in computer science or information systems management could be useful. Associate's degree programs for computer support specialists may offer courses in mathematical modeling, networking fundamentals and reasoning. Bachelor's degree programs in computer science typically include courses in programming, computational theory, graphics, cryptography and networking. A degree program in information technology may allow you to take a combination of business and computer courses, such as network planning, financial accounting, quantitative technology problems and Linux security.

As an IT professional, you could find it beneficial to obtain a professional certification. The CompTia A+ Certification is designed for entry-level professionals, and it can be useful for a number of IT careers. If you use Microsoft technologies, you might be interested in the Microsoft Certified IT Professional certification. Since there are so many certifications available, it could be beneficial to explore all of your options before you prepare for a certification exam.

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