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A Glimpse into Computer Technology Degree Programs

Schools that teach computer technology include technical schools, colleges and universities. Degrees in computer technology are offered at three levels for beginning students; bachelor’s degree, associate’s degree and specialized computer certifications.

Typical programs offered by computer technology degree programs include information security systems, data communication systems management, computer science, software engineering, web development, networking and software applications. Other computer technology degree programs computer gaming design, interactive media develop, web development and systems administrator.

Computer technology degree programs offer courses focused on the architectures of operating systems, network systems, user interface construction, C + + language, data bases types and formats, programming standards, etc. These courses are designed for those who wish to earn degrees in computer software and computer information systems. Courses focused on web design and development includes Internet hierarchy, authoring tools, scripting designs and more.

Bachelor’s degree computer technology upper-division courses focus on data storage advanced warehousing techniques, management of technology projects, multiple computer programming languages, graphical interface design, software development methods and more. The advantage of a bachelor’s degree in computer technology is a wider selection of employment opportunities

Computer degrees lead to earning certifications in computer technology. Many courses in computer programs prepare students to pass tests for computer technology certifications. According to About.com, the top two certifications are Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert and Certified Information Systems Auditor. Their pass rates are low; however, average annual salaries are high.

Someone considering a computer technology education needs to first determine the type of degree they want to pursue. Computer technology bachelor’s degree can be completed in four years, associate’s degree programs can be completed in two years and certification programs range from few months to a year.

Career Opportunities in Nursing and Health Care

Despite the economy, career opportunities in health care and nursing are booming. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, as recently as 2006, the health care field was the largest in the U.S., offering approximately 14 million jobs as well as seven of the 20 fastest growing occupations.

The following details how to get a career in this in-demand field:

Certification and On-the-Job Training Options

One interesting fact about the health care field is that many positions require less than a four-year degree; in fact some of the fastest growing health care jobs require little or no specialized education. Careers including nursing and home health aides as well as medical and dental assistants get their training on the job or through a certificate program.

Undergraduate Career Options

Undergraduate degrees offer even more nursing and health care career options. Along with traditional careers such as registered nursing, social work and occupational therapy, there are new trends opening in the field of health care. For instance, RNs who might want to follow a different career could consider becoming a certified legal nurse consultant (CLNC). CLNCs assist attorneys with medical issues. Another new job trend is medical illustration. Medical illustrators use their knowledge of human science and medical concepts to create educational materials for publications and journals and can earn as much $75,000 annually.

Higher Education Career Options

Naturally, higher education offers opportunities for surgeons, psychiatrists, cardiologists and other doctors. However, if medical school isn't your thing, getting a higher education in the health care field offers a variety of other lucrative positions. Genetics, for instance, is a health care field that offers unique and in-demand jobs. Such jobs include behavioral geneticists, who solve health problems by identifying gene-related therapies, and genetics counseling, which involves informing and supporting families who have members with birth defects or genetic disorders.

How Do I Select a College Major?

While figuring out which career to pursue is difficult, sometimes choosing a college major seems harder! The following is a guide to help you determine which major is right for you.

First, determine the career field you want to pursue and do research. Web sites such as jobweb.com and campuslife411.com offer information on salaries, in demand jobs and who's hiring. There also have interactive quizzes that can help you determine which careers are right for you

After you have narrowed down a prospective career, research these important factors:

• Which major would match up with your career choice?
• How long it would take to complete a bachelor’s degree that major?
• Is a master’s or doctoral degree required for this career?
• Will this career be in demand where you plan to live?
• Will this career give you a salary that will give lifestyle you want?

Also consider pursuing a minor. For example, a student majoring in international relations might minor in Japanese. This is a good option for those who feel they could enhance their career opportunities by having both.