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Considering a Degree in Computer Science and Information Technology

Posted on May 07, 2019

There are a number of different programs students can pursue at the graduate level including, a degree in information systems, graphic design, information technology and software engineering. Emerging subjects such as e-commerce, telecommunications management and informatics also attract many students to graduate computer and information schools.

The need for people with advanced skills in technology and information systems has increased exponentially in the past few years. There are a number of students each year who decide to pursue master’s degrees in these fields, for example, 35,342 students earned a computer science degree in 2016, growing 24.5%!

Graduate programs in these subjects will not only teach you how to harness the technologies of today to improve current systems, they will also provide you with the skills necessary to develop new technologies.

In the International Context

Obtaining a degree in the field of computer science and information technology could open the door to a number of possibilities to work internationally. A degree in this field would give you the skills necessary to enhance technology systems in different countries, assist local organizations in designing programs that utilize technology and information systems more efficiently, and help implement technology improvement plans in a variety of contexts. If you are particularly interested in international development, there are a number of organizations involved in a relatively new movement known as Information Technology for Development (ICT4D) that works to improve access to technology all over the world. One of these organizations is the Omidyar Network.

Computer and Electrical Engineering

Graduate programs in computer and electrical engineering provide you expertise in the area of technological innovations that influence how systems work, from the development of newer, faster computers to the design and implementation of the technology of tomorrow. Pursuing a degree in this field could help you become an entrepreneur, an electrical designer, or a director of operating systems. Stay in-the-know on news related to these fields on sites like Science Direct.

Geospacial Intelligence

A degree in Geospatial Intelligence will prepare you to provide insight on crisis management, impact, security and defense using geographical pinpoints. This article breaks down the coming about of this term and what it entails today. Specializing in this area can open doors to positions as a government agent, an intelligence specialist, an analysts and more.

To learn more about this field visit the National Geospacial Intelligence Agency website.

Information Systems

Graduate programs in information systems involve the use of hardware, software, services and supporting infrastructure to manage and deliver information using voice, data and video. A degree in information systems could open the door for you to pursue opportunities as an information systems manager, an information systems analyst, a technology and information systems operations manager and more. This article compares Information Systems to similar majors, provides insights on if its the major for you, what to expect in regards to course content and salary.

National Security and Defense

National Security/Defense Studies graduate programs can involve a number of topic areas, including history, culture, religion and language. A degree in national security/defense studies can help you get your foot in the door to work for the government or a private contracting agency as an analyst or security systems specialist.

Check out the Center for National Security Studies website for more information.

Telecommunications Management

Telecommunications management programs address technology advances in system design and the implications it has on modern life. A few career opportunities for specialization in telecommunications include telecom management, telecommunication analyst, voice or data communication systems administrator or a policy maker.

Job Opportunities In the Field

The career opportunities that follow a graduate program in computer science or technology are vast and diverse. It can span from an onsite network technician to an analyst for the Department of Defense. As the global workforce shifts, obtaining a degree in these fields can set you up professionally to contribute to technological efforts toward social advancement.

For more information about careers in computer and information technology, visit TechCareers.

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