Technical Management Bachelor’s Degree Online
Is a Technical Management Degree for You?
As technology becomes more and more prevalent in the professional arena, technical degrees become even more valuable. A technical management degree prepares workers to manage networks, upgrade company technology, and contain the costs of technology. In general, a technical manger is responsible for all of the employed technicians' understanding of their specific job responsibilities. They are masters of project planning and management techniques, as well as accounting and budgeting principles. Those who are most successful in technical management degree programs are individuals who are highly organized and enjoy leadership roles.
Advice for Earning Your Technical Management Degree Online
Because technology is such a specialized field, educated and qualified employees are desired in nearly all sectors of the job market. Most technical management programs prepare students to earn their project management certification through the Project Management Institute. Earning a certification through the PMI can be a great way to help set you apart in the eyes of employers. Some technical management graduates enter a Masters in Business Administration (MBA) program after completing their bachelor's degree as well to further increase their employability. An MBA degree with a concentration in technical management prepares an individual for job titles such as chief information officer, information technology manager, or information technology administrator. Those who hope to pursue a career in information technology will want to seek further certifications in IT depending on the field where they want to work in.
Required Courses
A bachelor's degree in technical management includes courses in business administration, human resource management, project management, computer science, mathematics, finance and budgeting. Students should expect to work closely with computers in various settings and contexts. Because a technical management degree works to prepare students for leadership positions, students should also expect to work closely with groups of peers towards a common goal.
Common Career Paths
Here are some common career paths for those with a technical management degree:
- Computer and Information Systems Mangers
Computer and information systems managers play a vital role in modern businesses. They ensure that all technology in use is working properly. They also plan and implement the installation of new hardware and software, design programs, launch and maintain computer networks, and develop Internet and intranet sites. They are also involved in the maintenance and security of computer networks and will analyze the technology needs of their companies to determine immediate and long-term equipment needs. Median annual salaries for computer and information systems mangers was $112,210 in 2008, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. However, keep in mind that your salary may vary from the average, depending on where you work and the level of your managerial responsibility.
- Project Managers
Project managers are responsible for leading a team of workers, coordinating employee efforts, and making sure all workflow is completed on time. Project managers must be able to balance the time constraints, financial goals, and the time frame of the project they are overseeing. They must also be flexible because project deadlines and goals can often change during the project. While annual income will vary depending on the industry, pay should be comparable to other management positions. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for project managers in the construction industry was $79,860 in 2008, while project managers working in engineering earned a median annual income of $115,270.
- Management Analysts
Also referred to as management consultants, management analysts typically work for private companies that advise other companies on how to improve technology, structure, efficiency, and profits. Analysts working in technology will research a company's existing equipment, and how they use it, to find a way to enhance the company's productivity. While a bachelor's degree will provide access to a career in consulting, further education can help you gain access to higher level jobs and can help your chances of advancement. Salaries will vary by experience, education and location for management analysts. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, medial annual wages for people in the field were $73,570 in 2008.
