Webmasters and other web management professionals oversee organizations' websites. Their duties may range from ensuring that all information is accurate to protecting the site against hackers and other cyber-criminals. If you're interested in a career that requires a passion for computers, technical competency and strong analytical skills, Web management may be a field to consider.
Like all fields in computer technology, Web management is very hands-on. As a webmaster or website manager, you may test websites for user-friendliness and visual appeal, monitor security issues and choose the most effective software and servers for different website projects. You may also work with website developers, programmers and graphic artists to plan and build entire websites.
If you're interested in a career as a webmaster or website manager, now is a good time to seek opportunities in the field. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), fast employment growth is expected for webmasters and website administrators over the 2008-2018 decade (www.bls.gov). This will be due in part to the growing number of companies doing business over the Internet. The BLS also reports the mean annual wage for data administrators was $75,730 in May 2010, though that amount may vary depending upon where you work, your level of education and years of experience.
If you decide to become a Web master or Web management professional, a webmaster associate's degree, or an associate's degree in a field like information systems management, can prepare you for many positions. As a student in these types of programs, you may take courses such as computer concepts, network fundamentals, operating systems, database design and multimedia technologies. Many schools also offer bachelor's degrees in computer science or computer information systems that will allow you to specialize in areas like Web management and database administration.
Once you have completed an educational program, you may choose to pursue continuing education in order to stay up-to-date with the latest website technology developments. In fact, many companies offer advanced certification programs for employees who work in technology-related positions. You may also choose to take your education even further by pursuing a master's degree in a field like multimedia management or Web design.