Technology
Technology has been integrated into all areas of everyday life. Whether you are transferring photos from your digital camera to your computer, emailing your spouse a few items to pick up from the grocery store, using your cell phone to check movie times while en route, or researching new career opportunities, technology is now an essential method of gathering information and communicating. Because of the rapid growth of technology in the last twenty-five years, this is a thriving industry on which to focus your education. Even if you do not consider yourself to be technically savvy, don’t dismiss the idea of a career in technology without first evaluating the areas of the industry and the advantages of this type of degree. Another important factor to remember is that technology degrees are the most flexible in terms of earning a degree outside the classroom. This type of degree might offer more flexibility than other areas of study.
Concentrations
Since the trend in technology is a constant state of change in terms of the latest and the greatest, it may be wise to first focus on a computer science or information technology degree and then turn your studies to a more specialized field. Learning about all aspects of technology will also help you determine what field of study interests you most. Talk with people you know who work with technology to learn more about their jobs and what path they took to get there. Some areas of concentration in technology are:
- Computer Forensics
- Computer Science
- Database Technology
- E-Business (E-commerce)
- Graphics and Multimedia
- Information Technology / Computer Systems
- Network Administration and Security
- Programming
- Project Management
- Software Engineering
- Technology Support
- Telecommunications
- Web Development and Design
Qualities and Skills
Technology courses will answer the basics, like:
- How did technology evolve?
- What is computer science?
- What is programming, and how is it used?
Aside from the specialized skills, though, technology majors will find that they must be able to communicate clearly when writing or speaking; collaborate with colleagues; use critical thinking and problem solving skills; solve problems with the end user in mind; and be persistent and patient when working on a problem.
Occupations
About 40 percent of the technology industry is comprised of professional occupations such as computer programmers, network administrators, software engineers, and support specialists. Another 31 percent is made up of office and administrative positions. Data entry keyers, bookkeepers, and computer operators rest in this category. Management, financial, and business occupations make up a smaller percentage and include positions like computer and information systems managers, human resource specialists, and top executives.
Earnings
The salary range is very diverse in technology. Your salary will depend on what area of expertise your degree is based and what additional certifications you have. Like all industries, management and executive levels will receive the top pay. The U.S. Department of Labor Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that the average rate of pay for computer and information systems managers was relatively higher, followed by network and computer systems administrators, and then by data entry keyers.
Online Colleges Offering Degrees in Technology
The Art Institute Of Pittsburgh Online
All of The Art Institute Online’s programs are available as accelerated, online courses that focus on different course material every 5 and ½ weeks. The Institute’s online program combines online strategies developed by Socrates Distance Learning Technologies Group, a leader in online education, to provide a quality distance learning experience. All instructors have completed 100 hours of training through Socrates, and only Socrates Qualified instructors may teach courses at the Institute.
Nova Southeastern University
Nova Southeastern University’s distance education program provides students with alternatives to a one-campus, traditional classroom-based education. Distance education is used to offer classes at sites outside the Fort Lauderdale area and can use telecommunication technologies exclusively or in combination with a classroom setting.
Northeastern University
Northeastern University’s College of Professional Studies offers an online division that offers flexibility and convenience through blended and online study without compromising the institution’s high academic standards. There are over 20 undergraduate degrees, two professional development programs, and 40 graduate programs.
Marist College
Marist College is an independent, coeducational, comprehensive liberal arts college with a main campus located along the Hudson River in Poughkeepsie, New York. Marist College recognizes the important trend of adult education through information and communication technology. Marist is committed to the ongoing creation and development of an online format of academic programs so that any individual, regardless of location, can take advantage of the exciting educational opportunities at Marist College.
Iowa Central College Online
Iowa Central College Online offers a quality education for diverse individuals with wide-ranging educational needs. Through innovation and excellence, Iowa Central College Online is focused on its students and an appreciation of diversity.
Franklin University
Franklin University Online provides numerous undergraduate options as well as an MBA program. Although online course students are independent learners, Franklin’s faculty work to make sure these students have all the support they need through chat room discussions, e-mail, bulletin board posts, teleconference calls, and interaction with teams.
Florida Tech
Florida Tech, or Florida Institute of Technology, is located in Melbourne, Florida, and has a diverse student body of over 5,000. The majority of these students pursue degrees in engineering or technology.
Eastern Kentucky University
Eastern Kentucky University offers over 160 degree programs and serves more than 15,000 students each year. The University’s 17:1 student to faculty ratio helps maintain the small-town college feel on which Eastern Kentucky prides itself, while its size does allow it to offer many resources such as online courses in sound academics, financial aid opportunities, and career placement support.
Cleveland Institute of Electronics
Cleveland Institute of Electronics offers courses that are based on lessons that teach basic theories applicable to many areas of electronics and computer technology. Intermediate and advanced electronics courses are available for those who have an electronics foundation and want to build on that knowledge.
Champlain College
As a division of Continuing Professional Studies, online learning at Champlain College provides a flexible option for those students interested in education but find themselves hindered by logistics, time constraints, or other factors. The Champlain difference is that these online programs are developed to be relevant to professional life.
