Information Technology Careers: A Guide to Opportunities in IT

Information technology (IT) refers to the use of computer hardware, software, and networks to create, store, process, exchange, and secure electronic data. IT is a foundational part of the modern world, driving global communication and business operations.

An Information Technology certificate prepares you to work in multiple IT careers, from providing technical support to working as a computer systems analyst or systems administrator. (1)

What Is Information Technology?

Information technology powers all aspects of modern digital communication, business operations, and information networks, from emails and spreadsheets to cybersecurity risk assessment and mitigation. Information technicians create and work with systems as complex as data management systems, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence.

Careers in information technology help maintain, support, secure, and improve technology systems. Over the course of an average day, you might check your online bank account, text friends, work with an office accounting system, and relax with a streaming video. All these activities and applications rely on skilled IT workers.

What Are Some Careers in Information Technology?

Information technology careers span a wide range of specializations, experience levels, and industries. Some common IT careers include: (1)

• Computer user support specialists
• Network and computer systems administrators
• Computer network support specialists
• Computer network architects
• Computer programmers
• System analysts
• Software developers
• Information security analysts

Find out more about careers in information technology at SJVC’s Information Technology program page.

Entry-Level Information Technology Careers

Many entry-level information technology careers are available to those with Certificates of Completion from an IT program. Possible entry points into the industry include:

• Computer User Support Specialists provide technical assistance to computer users, resolving computer problems in person, over the phone, or electronically. Computer user support specialists typically help users with computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems. (2)
• Computer Network Support Specialists test, troubleshoot, and evaluate network systems, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), cloud networks, and servers. They perform regular network maintenance to ensure networks operate correctly. (3)
• Information Security Analysts plan, implement, upgrade, and monitor the security of computer networks and information systems. They ensure security controls are in place to safeguard digital files and vital electronic infrastructure and may respond to security breaches and viruses. (4)
• Network and Computer Systems Administrators install, configure, and maintain computer networks. They monitor systems and verify the integrity of hardware, network, and server resources, as well as install and upgrade software and maintain software licenses. They review systems and application logs, analyze network and server resource consumption, and control user access. (5)

Mid-Level Information Technology Careers

Entry into mid-level information technology careers requires 2 to 5 years of experience in the field, often accompanied by an Associate’s Degree or a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. Mid-level IT jobs often focus on the management and maintenance of technology infrastructure, and may include: (1)

• Computer network architects design and implement data communication networks and intranets. Networks may be as small as a connection between two offices or as large as cloud networks that serve multiple locations and users. (6)
• Computer programmers write, modify, and test the code and scripts needed for software and applications. Programmers may also write Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) that is hosted online, and often rewrite programs to match the requirements of different operating systems. (7)
• Network and computer systems administrators install, configure, and maintain an organization’s networks and computer systems, including hardware and software applications. (8)
• Information security analysts protect computer networks and systems by installing, using, and maintaining firewalls, data encryption programs, and other cybersecurity applications. (9)

Specialized Information Technology Careers

Specialized careers in information technology focus on specific domains. An IT specialist may work exclusively with cybersecurity, cloud applications, data engineering, or artificial intelligence. Areas of specialty include:

• Cybersecurity and defense involve IT specialists planning and enacting security measures to protect data and systems from unauthorized access, data manipulation, and theft. (9)
• Cyber warfare technicians operate highly classified communications systems, track radar and sonar signals, and manage cybersecurity for the armed forces. (10)
• Database administrators organize and track data within a network or system. (11)
• Information research scientists design new uses for new and existing computing technology, including in the fields of programming and robotics. (12)

IT Skills That Employers Commonly Look For

Essential skills employers look for in IT staff may include: (13)

• AI skills
• Cybersecurity
• Data analytics
• General digital fluency
• Infrastructure and support skills.

In addition, excellent organizational, communication, and troubleshooting skills will stand you in good stead across a wide range of IT careers.

How to Get Started in Information Technology

Breaking into information technology (IT) requires a mastery of fundamental tech concepts, usually earned by completing an education program or earning industry-recognized certifications. Landing an entry-level role, such as a computer user support specialist, can help you build the experience you need to apply for higher-level positions.

Information Technology Education and Training

Earning a Certificate of Completion or an Associate’s Degree in Information Technology provides you with the fundamentals to enter the IT field. Look for an online program that offers practical applications of learned materials and a career-focused approach to learning.

How to Choose an Information Technology Program

The SJVC Information Technology program teaches foundational software and hardware skills that prepare you for entry-level employment. Students can earn a Certificate of Completion in Information Technology in as few as 8 months, or earn an Associate’s Degree in Information Technology in as few as 15 months.

What Will You Learn in the Information Technology Program at SJVC?

While enrolled in the SJVC Information Technology program, students will learn a wide range of foundational IT skills, including:

• Business communication
• Software and hardware fundamentals
• Networking
• Help desk fundamentals
• Security
• Computer literacy and applications
• Cloud computing

The program also offers optional, hands-on externships. For more information, consult the SJVC Catalog.