Information technology experts provide security administration and computer support for companies and other organizations. They manage hardware, software, networks and also solve problems.
It is easy to make money as an information technology expert because jobs are available in several industries. This position may also be given various titles such as network administrator, security analyst or systems manager.
- How to Succeed as an Information Technology Expert
- What Are 3 Careers in Information Technology?
- What Kind of Jobs Can You Get With a Degree in Information Technology?
- Is a PhD in Information Technology Worth it?
- What Are The Types of Information Technology?
- What Does General Dynamics Information Technology do?
- How Much Does a Health Information Technology Make a Year?
- What Can I do With a Master’s Degree in Information Technology?
- What Are Examples of Health Information Technology?
- Are Information Technology Jobs in Demand?
- How Much Can You Make With a Masters in Information Technology?
- What is Information Technology And Examples?
- What Degree is Best For Information Technology?
- Which Type of IT Degree Should I Get?
- What is The Best Online College For Information Technology?
- How Much Will a Bachelor’s in IT Cost?
- What Are The 4 Ages of Information Technology?
- How Long Does it Take to Get a Degree in Health Information Technology?
- What is The Main Purpose of Information Technology?
How to Succeed as an Information Technology Expert
Basic requirements
The career path to becoming a professional in this field is dependent on the specialization that you want. Apart from obtaining a college degree, you have to also acquire some practical experience. Most IT specialists start their career with a bachelor’s degree although some employers may ask for a master’s degree.
Read Also: Making Money With Technology-focused Media
Furthermore, you will have to obtain certain certifications. The ability to work with several computer platforms such as project management software, server operating systems and customer relationship software is important.
Gain some experience while earning your degree
Although a college degree in a computer-related field is the usual requirement for getting a job as an information technology specialist, a lot of employers give preference to applicants with more experience.
Your relevant majors will give you solid foundational knowledge in computer science, data management, numerical analysis and programming languages. However, you have to look for opportunities to gain practical experience.
Take advantage of the resources that are available in the computer laboratory in your campus. A lot of colleges that offer computer related courses provide well equipped labs for their students.
This equipment can give you the opportunity of getting practical experience. Constant practice with this equipment will give you a better understanding of the programs and software that you will use when you start working as an IT specialist.
You should also take advantage of internship programs allowed by your institution. Completing an internship at an IT company will give you practical experience and will enable you to make contact with professionals in the industry. This will make it easier to find work when you complete your studies.
Acquiring professional experience
A minimum of three years field experience is usually required for most IT specialist positions. Individuals applying for advanced positions will need to have at least five years of experience in the industry. It may be easier to get a job in a smaller organization if you do not have extensive experience.
A very good way to boost your ability to get jobs is to obtain a certification. Certifications are usually voluntary but they provide a very good way of demonstrating your experience and skill to prospective employers. Employers also expect IT experts to have a certification that shows proficiency in specific platforms. Oracle, Microsoft, Cisco and CompTIA have several categories of certifications that you can consider.
Another way to increase your chances of making money as an information technology expert is to obtain a master’s degree in a related discipline. A master’s degree is actually preferred by some employers. Studying at the master’s level gives you the opportunity of exploring the theory and practice of computer science more extensively.
What Are 3 Careers in Information Technology?
Certain occupations within the sector are expanding particularly fast. Here are some of the fastest-growing IT jobs:
1. Information Security Analyst
According to BLS, the information security analyst occupation is the fastest growing job in IT. This makes sense since cybercrime is becoming more prevalent, and damage resulting from it could reach $6 trillion by 2021. As more of our information becomes linked to technology, there’s more to protect.
Information security analysts plan and implement measures to protect an organization’s computers, networks and information. Their roles are expanding along with cyber threats, but they may install software to protect against breaches, monitor systems for threats and help users protect themselves from cybercrime. They may work for a technology company or another firm that uses technology and needs cybersecurity services.
To get hired for this position, you typically need at least a bachelor’s degree. You could also get a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in information systems. You usually need to have experience in an information technology department, perhaps as a network or computer systems administrator.
In May 2017, the median pay for an information security analyst was $95,510 per year or $45.92 per hour. There were 100,000 of these positions in 2016, and BLS projects that 28,500 will be added through 2026. This comes out to a growth rate of 28 percent, which is about four times faster than the average.
2. Software Developer
The next fastest growing technology job is that of software developers, the people who create the programs and systems that enable people to use computers, smartphones and other devices to complete tasks easily.
Developers may create applications such as word processors, games or databases. They might also build the overarching operating systems that enable a device to function as well as the interface that allows users to interact with it.
These programs and systems might be for computers, tablets or smartphones as well as other devices that use computer systems such as cars and smart appliances. The growing prevalence of smart devices and the increasing capabilities of these devices are part of what’s fueling the growth of this career.
To become a software developer, you typically need a bachelor’s degree in a field such as computer science. Although writing code won’t be your primary responsibility in this role, you should still have solid skills in this area.
In 2016, there were 1,256,200 software developer jobs, and that number is projected to expand by 302,500 by 2026, a growth rate of 24 percent. The 2017 median pay for software developers was $103,560 per year or $49.79 per hour.
3. Computer and Information Research Scientist
Computer and information research scientists are on the cutting edge of the latest developments in technology. They come up with new technologies as well as new uses for existing technologies. They may design new programming languages, write machine learning algorithms or create programs for use with robotics.
They may work for government organizations, research institutions or computer system and software companies. They may work in the science, medical or business fields as well as many other areas. They may spend some time presenting the findings of their research at conferences. About three in 10 computer research scientists worked more than 40 hours per week in 2016, according to BLS.
Typically, computer and information research scientists have a master’s degree in computer science or a similar field, although a bachelor’s degree may suffice for some positions.
Computer and information research scientist positions are expected to grow by 19 percent from 2016 to 2026, making it one of the fastest growing IT jobs of the future. In 2016, there were 27,900 positions for this occupation, and 5,400 are expected to be added by 2026. In 2017, the median pay for this job was $114,520 per year or $55.06 per hour.
What Kind of Jobs Can You Get With a Degree in Information Technology?
Informational technology is critical to businesses across industries, leading to high demand for IT professionals who can demonstrate expertise in the field. It’s little wonder, then, that IT degree programs have multiplied as more and more people have decided to pursue work in this field.
But what kind of work, specifically, does earning an IT degree prepare you to do? What job titles and career paths will you be eligible for after earning a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology?
Below, we explore some of the most common jobs for IT professionals and the careers that earning a degree will prepare you for.
Depending on an organization’s size and industry, IT departments can require a variety of IT roles. Below are some of the most common job titles for which BS in IT graduates will be prepared.
1. Technical Architect
Average Annual Salary: $114,682
Technical architects devise a company’s technical blueprint and system architecture. They are also responsible for monitoring performance, developing systems, and structuring IT systems. To succeed in this role, professionals must be highly technical and have a firm understanding of operating systems, development principles, and programming languages.
This function may also coordinate with other teams to help manage security, help desk issues, and assets to support the entire IT infrastructure.
2. IT Project Manager
Average Annual Salary: $88,982
IT project managers specialize in shepherding IT, hardware, or software projects from conception to completion. They spend much of their time managing budgets, schedules, and resources.
Depending on the organization and the individual project, these individuals may perform technical work or may solely perform a project management role. IT project managers often hold an undergraduate degree in information technology and a master’s degree in project management.
3. Database Administrator
Average Annual Salary: $73,696
Database administrators are responsible for ensuring the health and efficacy of an organization’s various databases. Their work can include data storage and processing, security and analysis, and more.
4. Network Security Specialist
Average Annual Salary: $72,156
A network security specialist is responsible for overseeing and securing a company’s networks from threats such as malware or unauthorized users. They resolve compromised machines or networks, evaluate cybersecurity risks, document security procedures, training, and resolutions, and manage firewalls and tools to detect security threats. They tend to work closely with network administrators and other members of the IT team.
5. Software Developer or Programmer
Average Annual Salary: $71,986
A software developer or programmer brings many IT projects to life. When these professionals create user-facing software, they’re known as frontend developers. When they create software that interacts with servers and networks, but not with individual users, these professionals are known as backend developers. People in these roles need thorough knowledge and experience with programming languages.
6. Business Systems Analyst
Average Annual Salary: $69,674
These individuals liaise between business and IT departments to solve business problems by leveraging technologies. The also help to ensure the successful Business systems analysts review data, set processes and procedures, and identify potential technological improvements.
7. Network Administrator
Average Annual Salary: $60,292
Network administrators are primarily responsible for ensuring the organization’s computer network is up to date and operating effectively. This work often involves administering an organization’s local area network (LAN) and wide area network (WAN), among other duties. This role is also sometimes known as a systems administrator.
Is a PhD in Information Technology Worth it?
Earning a PhD, or any other doctorate, can be a very intimidating prospect for most people. But, in the field of IT, getting a PhD is completely worth it.
Having such a high level of education opens up a whole new world of career opportunities within the field, most of them in management or leadership positions. Without your PhD, you will likely not be considered for these upper-level positions which guarantee a higher salary.
Furthermore, having any sort of doctorate is a great way to display your inherent ability to work hard. It shows employers you are dedicated, motivated, organized and able to efficiently manage your time. A graduate-level degree is already impressive, so just imagine the impact you would have by listing a PhD on your resume.
However, in the recent past, there have been many concerns about the essence of a doctorate, given that it does not bring much of a difference compared to masters degree holders. Proponents of getting doctorate degrees have always argued that it will increase one’s chances of getting hired and earn a higher salary, but this has not been the case.
According to an OECD study, it was established that an estimated 60%+ of Slovakian Ph.D. holders and 45%+ of Ph.D. holders in countries like Belgium and Spain were not permanently employed. Even worse, some Ph. D. graduates ended up working in fields that were entirely different from what they studied.
Imperatively, information technology is more about skill. Employers will be more interested in what you can do rather than your academic credentials.
What Are The Types of Information Technology?
Basically, any organization need to numbers of information systems supports to support it. in short, this technology refers to information and the complementary networks of hardware and software that people and organizations use to collect, filter, process, create and also distribute data.
1- Operations support system
transaction Processing System are operational-level systems, which provide the key data required to support the management of operations. This data is usually obtained through the automated or semi-automated tracking of low-level activities and basic transactions.
The purpose of the operation support system is to facilitate the business transaction, control production, support internal as well as external communication and update organization central database. The operation support system is further divided into a transaction-processing system, processing control system and enterprise collaboration system.
2- Management Information System (MIS)
this type of Information Technology is a management-level system that is used by middle managers to help ensure the smooth running of the organization in the short to medium term. The highly structured information provided by these systems allows managers to evaluate an organization’s performance by comparing current with previous outputs.
The MIS system analyzes the input with routine algorithms i.e. aggregate, compare and summarizes the results to produced reports that tactical managers use to monitor, control and predict future performance.
Examples of management information systems include:
- Sales management systems: they get input from the point of sale system
- Budgeting systems: they give an overview of how much money is spent within the organization for the short and long terms.
- Human resource management system: overall welfare of the employees, staff turnover, etc.
3- Process Control System
In this type of system, critical information is fed to the system on a real-time basis thereby enabling process control.
4- Decision Support System (DSS)
Decision support systems is a one of Information Technology that are used by senior management to make non-routine decisions. Decision support systems use input from internal systems (transaction processing systems and management information systems) and external systems.
A Decision Support System can be seen as a knowledge-based system, which facilitates the creation of knowledge and allows its integration into the organization. These systems are often used to analyze existing structured information and allow managers to project the potential effects of their decisions into the future.
Such systems are usually interactive and are used to solve ill-structured problems. They offer access to databases, analytical tools, allow “what if” simulations, and may support the exchange of information within the organization.
5- Executive Information Systems
are strategic-level information Technology systems that help executives and senior managers analyze the environment in which the organization operates, to identify long-term trends, and to plan appropriate courses of action.
The information in such systems is often weakly structured and comes from both internal and external sources. Executive Information System is designed to be operated directly by executives without the need for intermediaries and easily tailored to the preferences of the individual using them.
What Does General Dynamics Information Technology do?
GDIT brings critical thinkers and innovators together with cutting-edge technologies to solve our clients’ biggest challenges. They help civilian, defense, homeland security, and intelligence agencies take control of change and adapt to adversity in an uncertain world. For over 50 years, we have served the mission by ensuring today is secure and tomorrow is smarter.
They are the people supporting some of the most complex government, defense, and intelligence projects across the country. Bringing the expertise needed to understand and advance critical missions. They transform. Shifting the ways clients invest in, integrate, and innovate technology solutions.
They ensure today is safe and tomorrow is smarter. On the ground, beside our clients, in the lab, and everywhere in between. Offering the technology transformations, strategy, and mission services needed to get the job done.
How Much Does a Health Information Technology Make a Year?
The average annual pay for a Healthcare Information Technology in the United States is $75,775 a year. Just in case you need a simple salary calculator, that works out to be approximately $36.43 an hour. This is the equivalent of $1,457/week or $6,315/month.
While ZipRecruiter is seeing annual salaries as high as $165,500 and as low as $22,500, the majority of Healthcare Information Technology salaries currently range between $50,000 (25th percentile) to $96,500 (75th percentile) with top earners (90th percentile) making $122,000 annually across the United States.
The average pay range for a Healthcare Information Technology varies greatly (by as much as $46,500), which suggests there may be many opportunities for advancement and increased pay based on skill level, location and years of experience.
What Can I do With a Master’s Degree in Information Technology?
A career with a Master’s in Information Technology requires people with a clear understanding of technology and who know to apply technology to be most productive in the company. Here are some of the top careers for a graduate with a Master’s in Information Technology.
1. Video Game Designer
A Master of Science in Internet Systems can set you on a course toward a career in Video Game Design. An MSIS is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to use their skills in a creative way to create video games and debug systems. The median salary for a Video Game Designer is $80,000. Among the coursework covered in the degree program is:
- Animation for Gaming
- Game Play and Level Design
- Interactive Programming Design
- Preproduction
- Programming and Implementation
CNN ranks Video Game Design as one of the top careers for a graduate with a Master’s in Information Technology, and one of the best jobs in the country.
2. IS/IT Manager
Another of the top positions for a graduate with a Master’s in Information Technology IS/IT Manager. The job responsibilities include managing a company’s computer systems and technology; managing electronic data; and recruiting, training, and coaching IT staff. The IT Manager is also responsible for the security of networks and backup systems. The salary for IS/IT Managers is approximately $120,900.
3. Cloud Architect
A Cloud Architect is an important asset to any technology company, especially one that’s growing rapidly. Companies that store a lot of information need graduates with Master’s in Information Technology to organize all the systems their company uses and information of their clients.
It takes an efficient, organized, and reliable Cloud Architect to manage company databases and keep their networks secure. The Cloud Architect must be able to design and apply applications and monitor and manage systems. The median salary is $112,000.
4. IT Management Consultant
An IT Management Consultant analyzes a company’s current technology and makes recommendations on how to improve it. To effectively manage the technology of a company they must keep up with the latest in computer technology and determine the systems and programs to meet the company’s needs.
To make the determination, they may interview the staff, analyze the data, or observe the company’s operations on-site. The consultant must be involved with the operations of the company’s clients, meet frequently with company managers, and make recommendations on how to acquire and put into place the necessary technology for a smooth operation.
IT Management Consultants may work in the business, education, and healthcare industries and make a median salary of $74,526.
5. Computer Systems Analyst
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, a Computer Systems Analyst is one of the top IT jobs in the country with an expected growth rate of nine percent over the next several years. Computer Systems Analysts study an organization’s procedures and systems that programmers create and make recommendations on how to operate them more effectively. The median salary for a Computer systems Analyst is $119,070.
Technology is evolving faster than at any other time in history and companies are relying more on master’s graduates who specialize in Information Technology to manage their information and keep it secure.
What Are Examples of Health Information Technology?
The integration of health information technology (IT) into primary care includes a variety of electronic methods that are used to manage information about people’s health and health care, for both individual patients and groups of patients. The use of health IT can improve the quality of care, even as it makes health care more cost effective.
In primary care, examples of health IT include the following:
- Clinical decision support.
- Computerized disease registries.
- Computerized provider order entry.
- Consumer health IT applications.
- Electronic medical record systems (EMRs, EHRs, and PHRs).
- Electronic prescribing.
- Telehealth.
Health IT makes it possible for health care providers to better manage patient care through the secure use and sharing of health information. By developing secure and private electronic health records for most Americans and making health information available electronically when and where it is needed, health IT can improve the quality of care, even as it makes health care more cost effective.
With the help of health IT, health care providers will have:
- Accurate and complete information about a patient’s health. That way, providers can give the best possible care, whether during a routine visit or a medical emergency.
- The ability to better coordinate the care given. This is especially important if a patient has a serious medical condition.
- A way to securely share information with patients and their family caregivers over the Internet, for patients who opt for this convenience. This means patients and their families can more fully take part in decisions about their health care.
- Information to help diagnose health problems sooner, reduce medical errors, and provide safer care at lower costs.
Are Information Technology Jobs in Demand?
Employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 13 percent from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations. These occupations are projected to add about 667,600 new jobs. Demand for these workers will stem from greater emphasis on cloud computing, the collection and storage of big data, and information security.
The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $91,250 in May 2020, which was higher than the median annual wage for all occupations of $41,950.
How Much Can You Make With a Masters in Information Technology?
Starting salaries vary among employers and depend upon the applicant’s specialization and level of experience. According to PayScale, professionals with master’s in information technology degrees can expect to earn an average salary of $73,000 per year. Information technology managers and network engineers earn $82,000 and $81,000 per year, on average, respectively.
A master’s degree in information technology prepares learners for lucrative, in-demand roles. The National Association of Colleges and Employers reports that master’s degree-holders often earn $14,000-$27,000 more than their bachelor’s degree-holding colleagues.
What is Information Technology And Examples?
IT or information technology refers to the development, maintenance, and use of computer software, systems, and networks. It includes their use for the processing and distribution of data. Data means information, facts, statistics, etc., gathered together for reference, storage, or analysis.
The word technology on its own refers to the application of scientific know how for practical purposes.
According to Information Technology Trends in 2019:
“Information technology refers to anything related to computing technology. The Internet, for example, comes under the umbrella term IT. So does computer hardware, software, and networking.”
Software includes all the computer programs – codes and instructions – within a computer. Computers do not work without software. Hardware, in this context, refers to the physical components of a computer system. The screen (monitor), mouse, and motherboard, for example, are hardware items.
Nature.com has the following definition of the term:
“Information technology is the design and implementation of computer networks for data processing and communication.”
“This includes designing the hardware for processing information and connecting separate components, and developing software that can efficiently and faultlessly analyze and distribute this data.”
What Degree is Best For Information Technology?
With so many different computer degree options available, how do you know which is the right one for you to pursue? We’ll go over the following seven computer degrees in detail so you can find the answers for yourself.
1. Information Technology and Information Systems
This is definitely the top computer degree choice if your goal is to excel in dealing with end-user computing, systems administration, and/or systems engineering because it covers all those aspects.
Classes include:
- Introduction to UNIX
- Windows Server Networking
- Database Concepts
- Web Design I & II
- Fundamentals of Business Systems Development
2. Computer Science
Budding IT professionals commonly pursue this degree. That being said, a CS degree is not for everyone because it can be a difficult program, focusing on mathematics, programming, and computer theory.
Courses include:
- Programming Principles
- Algorithms
- Logic & Computation
- Data Structures
- Calculus
3. Information Science
If you have a degree in Information Science, you’d be able to know (in great depth) how to manage and store data. Skilled professionals are needed by the government and private companies to electronically care for large quantities of confidential and highly valued data.
Courses include:
- Intermediate Programming
- Relational Database Concepts and Applications
- Web Database Development
- Computer Systems and Architecture
4. Computer Animation
Students in this discipline learn how to use algorithms and data structures to animate everything from online games to medical- and technical-related graphics and movies.
Courses include:
- Linear Programming and Convex Operations
- Algorithmic Languages and Compilers
- Lighting and Shading for Three-Dimensional Graphics
- Video Game Production
- Advanced Film Production
5. Software Engineering
Majoring in software engineering is a good move if you want to design and develop computer programs that meet users’ needs and solve real-world problems.
Courses include:
- Real-Time Operating Systems
- Software Design
- Web Programming
- User Interface Software
- Database Modeling Concepts
- Testing, Analysis, and Verification
6. Computer Engineering
Computer engineers are primary contributors to advanced developments in communication and network technology. Their job is to design systems and devices that have a significant impact on the world, such as in the manufacturing, medical, transportation, and economic industries.
Courses include:
- Circuit Analysis and Laboratory
- Software Design
- Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
- Large-Scale Distributed System Design
- Electromagnetic Fields and Waves
- Calculus of Several Variables
7. Cybersecurity
A cybersecurity degree teaches you how to create, operate, analyze, and test the security of computer systems. It also includes areas of interest like ethical hacking and digital forensics investigation.
Courses include:
- Information Assurance
- Penetration Testing
- Cyber-Physical Systems
- Mathematical Cryptography
Which Type of IT Degree Should I Get?
There is a range of IT degree types you can aspire to get, each of which offers different benefits:
Once you know the area that interests you most, you still need to decide which type of degree you should get. Can you just get a certification? Is an associate degree enough to get you in the door? Do most employers require a bachelor’s degree? How much more advantageous is a master’s degree? Is there any reason to think about getting a doctoral degree?
Let’s break down each of these types so you can have a clearer idea of what you want.
IT Certification
IT Certifications can help anyone, anywhere in their career, progress in their skills, or learn entirely new ones. Certificate programs generally take weeks to complete and don’t have high associated costs. The downside is that certifications are typically not enough to stand on their own when trying to qualify for a specific job position.
Examples of certificates in computers and technology are:
- CompTIA A+
- Ethical Hacking
- Google Cloud Certified Professional Cloud Architect
- Program Management Professional
- And many more
IT Associate Degrees
An associate degree in IT allows graduates to qualify for entry-level tech jobs, such as in desktop publishing. Learning even the basics can help you get in the door at some companies, giving you valuable work experience in your chosen discipline.
Jobs often available to those with an associate degree are often in the gaming or graphic design sectors. There are many online associate degrees in the information technology realm, so it’s important to choose a college that is accredited and respected in the industry.
IT Bachelor’s Degrees
Earning an IT bachelor’s degree opens a lot of doors, as this is usually the preferred minimum education required to qualify for many jobs. Whether you have a general computer science degree or a more specialized degree, you’re sure to get a job you want at a competitive wage.
Your options are endless when it comes to majors in information tech and computing. Whatever area you want to focus on, there is a degree for it.
IT Master’s Degrees
There aren’t as many IT master’s degree programs as bachelor’s programs, but holding a master’s degree in tech shows current and potential employers that you are serious about taking on advanced projects and managerial positions. Of course, along with having more responsibility comes a higher paycheck.
IT master’s degree programs usually require two to three years to complete, but you can count on the investment paying off.
IT Doctoral Degree
If you have a doctoral degree in computers and technology, you are qualified for high-level research careers within education, government, and data-driven corporate organizations. Earning this degree is not quick, easy, or inexpensive, but if you want to be a professor or executive in the field, this is the path for you.
What is The Best Online College For Information Technology?
The best IT degrees offer a variety of core, specialty, and elective courses. Schools typically require foundational coursework like the samples below, and conclude the IT degree in a capstone project. Information technology degrees provide broad, introductory skills in topics including network security, computer programming, data management, IT management, and web development.
Some programs include optional coursework in common industry certifications such as Java programming or CompTIA.
Rank | School | Location |
---|---|---|
1 | Florida International University | Miami, FL |
2 | Colorado State University Global Campus | Aurora, CO |
3 | DePaul University | Chicago, IL |
4 | Liberty University | Lynchburg, VA |
5 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA |
6 | New Mexico State University | Las Cruces, NM |
7 | Regis University | Denver, CO |
8 | Misericordia University | Dallas, PA |
9 | California Baptist University | Riverside, CA |
10 | Loyola University Chicago | Chicago, IL |
How Much Will a Bachelor’s in IT Cost?
Many factors affect the cost of earning a bachelor’s in IT. Learners can expect costs to fluctuate according to whether a school is public or private and whether they charge different rates for in-state and out-of-state students. Online learners sometimes benefit from pursuing distance education, as schools may charge reduced or in-state tuition for online programs.
Most college students require financial aid to complete a bachelor’s in information technology. Schools offer financial aid through sources like scholarships, work-study, and employer reimbursement programs. Primary forms of aid include scholarships, grants, and loans.
Students typically complete the FAFSA to determine their eligibility for federal and other aid. Prospective learners should exhaust scholarship and grant opportunities first, since they do not need to be repaid, then pursue loans, which do require repayment.
What Are The 4 Ages of Information Technology?
For the longest time, technology has existed and has aided the evolution and development of humanity. There are four ages of technology, listed in order below:
1.The Premechanical Age: 3000 B.C.- 1450 A.D.
2.The Mechanical Age: 1450 – 1840.
3.The Electromechanical Age: 1840 – 1940.
4.The Electronic Age: 1940 – Present.
The Premechanical Age: 3000 B.C.- 1450 A.D
This age is the earliest age of information technology. In this age, human first started communicating using petroglyphs- drawings on the wall of caves, and through the oral form of the Sumerian language. Soon after, the Romans gave letters Latin names to create the present-day alphabet.
They used petroglyphs to either tell a story, keep accounts on how many animals they owned, to map their terrain, etc.
This age affected how we read, write, and speak today.
The Mechanical Age: 1450 – 1840
This age is the time that there was an increase in interest in information and computation. During this time a lot of new technologies where developed. For example, the slide ruler- an analog computer that was used for mathematical operations like division and multiplication.
The Victorians usmechanisation of the cotton industry, the invention of the steam engine.
The cotton industry mechanization and the invention of the steam engine by the Victorians are emblematic of nineteenth-century economic progress.
During this time, humans started making considerable advances in the technology field like the invention of the car, the typewriter, the spectroscope which was used for the chemical analysis of glowing objects, and so many more. This is also the period that Benjamin Franklin discovered electricity in 1759.
The Electromechanical Age: 1840 – 1940
This century was the beginnings of telecommunications. During this time, the telegraph was created by Samuel F.J. Morse, and Abraham Graham Bell made the telephone.
During this time, The Voltaic Battery was created which is made of a chemical known as Volta, and it is credited as the first electrochemical cell.
The Comptometer, which was a mechanical (or electromechanical) adding machine, was created.
The Vacuum tube was developed by Lee De Forest which provided electricity controlled by a switch, and many more notable inventions.
The Electronic Age: 1940 – Present
Last but not least, we have our present age. Since this is our current age, I will list some of the unique technologies of our generation. As the age’s name implies, this is a period where most inventions run on electricity so, some notable innovations of this age are, GSM/Mobile phone, the Internet, digital cameras, electric cars, space rockets, television, solar panels, etc.
Here is a list of notable technologies invented or discovered since every decade in this age till date. They are:
1800’s – Battery
1810’s – Miner’s Lamp
1820’s – Mackintosh (raincoat)
1830’s – Electric Dynamo
1840’s – Facsimile
1850’s – Gyroscope
1860’s – Typewriter
1870’s – Cylinder Phonograph
1880’s – Seismograph
1890’s – Carborundum
1900’s – Zeppelin
1910’s – Morgan Gas Mask
1920’s – Band-Aid
1930’s – Jet Engine
1940’s – Atom Bomb
1950’s – Fortran (Computer Language)
1960’s – Mouse (Computer)
1970’s – Intel 4004
1980’s – Apple MacIntosh
1990’s – World Wide Web
2000’s – Bluetooth
2010’s – Drones
How Long Does it Take to Get a Degree in Health Information Technology?
Getting a Registered Health Information Technician (RHIT) certification requires holding at least an associate’s degree in health information management or a related field. Earning this degree takes about 2 years. Thus, this is the quickest way to get this certification.
If you want to take your career further, you can also get a bachelor’s degree, however, it will take you 4 years to complete. Keep in mind that no matter what degree you choose to get, it has to be accredited. If you complete a non-accredited degree you won’t be able to get your RHIT certification.
After getting your degree, you will be able to apply to take the RHIT examination. You can take this exam online or at a certified testing center. If you successfully complete it, you will be granted your RHIT certification which you will have to renew every two years.
What is The Main Purpose of Information Technology?
Information technology is building communications networks for a company, safeguarding data and information, creating and administering databases, helping employees troubleshoot problems with their computers or mobile devices, or doing a range of other work to ensure the efficiency and security of business information systems.
Demand for professionals in this field is high and growing, and people entering the field have a range of career paths to choose from.
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Information technology has changed our lives drastically. You are only a single click away from everything. So here is a list of the benefits of information technology in our lives and also there is a need of the Information Technology in every field.
- With the advancement in IT, one can access the system of the company from any place. It is not necessary for the authority to be in the office only. They can submit their work from home as well. Easy access to the system has surely increased one’s productivity without any physical presence of the person in the office.
- There is a huge demand for IT professionals in various fields. The demand opens an immense opportunity for IT professionals to explore the field and show their talent. The IT field offers people to work for computer programming, system analysis, testing, software and hardware development, web application design etc.
- With the advancement of information technology, the education field has transformed its outlook and has adopted a modern way of teaching and learning. Teaching on the blackboard is now an old thing. Teachers and institutions are using modern gadgets to teach their students. A computer with an internet connection helps students to learn new things and understand the topics easily and deeply.
- Information technology helps patients as well. They can now connect with physicians and take advice online. Also, there are many virtual healthcare applications available to provide guidance. Electronic health records and tele-medicines are delivering efficient and quality health to patients.
- In the technology world, with information technology, the drawback of time and distance in business activities has been removed. Now, buying and selling are too easy. Customers can buy online from their locals and international vendors as well.
- With wireless communication mediums, news broadcasts have become so easier. Only a few seconds are needed to know the news from any corner of the world.
- Use of the internet on mobile phones, tablets, laptops, iPods, and other gadgets has been offering us unlimited access to entertainment mediums. People can watch movies or new songs on OTT platforms.
- With the Information technology, communication between people has become cheaper, easier and faster than ever before. Texting, video calling, sending e-mails are so easy nowadays. There are so many apps available online to provide these services.
- With the Information technology, we have seen and understood the meaning of globalization. Today, the world is on one platform and there are no physical barriers between nations. People are now ‘global’ citizens.
Summary
As you can see from the list above, earning your BS in Information Technology (or a related degree) will prepare you for many positions within the IT field. By completing your bachelor’s degree, you can demonstrate proficiency in the required tools, techniques, and frameworks to future employers.
Earning your degree will also establish a solid base upon which you can build the rest of your career. For example, to pursue more advanced roles, you may need to earn an advanced degree, such as a Master of Science in Informatics or a Master of Science in Cybersecurity.
Additionally, prospective employers might require a certification that aligns with a specific job title. In both of these cases, a relevant undergraduate degree is a prerequisite.