Information Systems
An information systems degree is designed with the computer-savvy individual in mind, preparing them for a vast array of careers pertaining to computers and information technology (IT). Studies in this field will center on various aspects of information systems, including analysis, design, testing, implementation, assessment and improvement of large-scale information systems. Courses include software development, database management, networking, network security management, and systems analysis and design. The job outlook for information systems managers is positive, with faster than average job growth expected over the 2008-2018 decade, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Common Career Paths:
Computer and Information Systems Managers
Computer and information systems managers direct and coordinate the work of the information technology (IT) professionals who work underneath them. They also research the computer needs of a company or organization and come up with solutions and implement technology to fit those needs. Computer and information system managers are often in charge of all aspects of the tech side of an organization, from Internet capabilities to networking to software development, particularly if they are the chief technology officer. Managers are responsible for making recommendations for upgrades to the current software and hardware at a company as well as carrying out those planned upgrades. Other responsibilities might include helping a company's management team come up with a long-range strategy for personnel and equipment needs. Network security is also increasingly becoming a big part of many computer and information systems managers' job description. Those who wish to become computer and information systems managers would do well to earn a minimum of a bachelor's degree, but an MBA helps individuals attain the best jobs available. Even so, job prospects should be excellent between 2008 and 2018, when 17 percent job growth is expected in the profession, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The average annual salary for computer and information systems managers was $112,210 as of May 2008, the BLS noted, but the highest salaries often rested with those who had the highest level of responsibility. Industries with the highest salaries included software publishers, computer systems design and related services and management of companies and enterprises, the BLS affirms.
Computer Systems Analysts
Computer systems analysts are in charge of making sure a company or organization's available technology, both hardware and software, is operating as efficiently as possible. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), most computer systems analysts specialize in a particular area, such as business, accounting and financial systems or scientific and engineering systems, depending on the type of company or organization they work for. Computer systems analysts recommend computer systems to the management team, drafting reports on the benefits such a system could bring to the company or organization as well as the system's financial feasibility. If the system is approved, the computer systems analyst is responsible for implementing it. They may test the system and oversee the implementation, making sure everything is running smoothly the way it was intended to. Sometimes they work alongside computer programmers to identify any problems and "debug" a computer system. After all the kinks have been worked out of a computer system, some computer systems analysts conduct trainings on the new system for employees who will be using it. Networking is also increasingly becoming an important part of a computer systems analyst's job responsibilities. Employment of computer systems analysts will grow much faster than average between 2008 and 2018, with a whopping 20 percent job growth expected in that time frame, the BLS projects. The average annual salary for computer systems analysts was $75,500 as of May 2008, the BLS notes, with the middle 50 percent earning between $58,460 and $95,810 per year.
Network and Computer Systems Administrators
Network and computer systems administrators are responsible for designing, installing and supporting a company or organization's computer systems. They handle LANS, WANS and network segments, as well as a company's internet and intranet capabilities. Everyday tasks might include installing and upkeeping hardware and software, troubleshooting to get to the bottom of any problems. They keep a sharp eye on a company or organization's networks, making sure they are available to staff and workers. Network and computer systems administrators often must take note on the system's performance and make recommendation on how it might be improved. They must make sure networks and computer systems are efficient and take care of any obstacles that are slowing it down. Network and system security is becoming a big part of the network and computer systems administrator's job description as cyber-attacks happen more and more frequently. They are often charged with ensuring that only certain people within the company or organization have access to the network. Employment of network and computer systems administrators is projected to grow much faster than average, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), with 23 percent job growth expected between 2008 and 2018. Much of this job growth will stem from a surge in companies conducting business online. The average annual salary for network and computer systems administrators was $66,310 as of May 2008, the BLS noted, with the middle 50 percent earning between $51,690 and $84,110.
