There are several directions one can take to pursuing a career as an Information Technology (IT) Manager. Some start careers as entry-level computer support specialists or analysts who enjoy the opportunity of troubleshooting and problem solving technical issues. Some technically-minded business students see the high salary and job security benefits of IT Management and begin to make a plan for a position in the fast-paced career field. Still others are drawn to the challenges and complexities involved in managing people and building software and technical infrastructure within an organization. IT managers typically hold a bachelor's degree in computer or information science, but many companies and organizations also graduate degrees for their IT Management hires, such as an online Master's in IT Management or an MBA. No matter what may bring you to consider a career as an IT Manager, there are some incredible degree programs across the country which will equip you for this field.
Undergraduate Degree
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Most Computer and Information Systems/Information Technology Managers will get their start in the industry by completing an undergraduate degree in an information science or computer science-related field of study. Courses contained within such a program will typically include curriculum based in mathematics, fundamental engineering, technology, and computer science. Stanford University's highly-respected Computer Science bachelor's degree includes such courses as Data Structures and Algorithms, Introductory Electronics, Electricity and Magnetism, Mathematical Foundations of Computing, and Introduction to Probability for Computer Scientists.
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Master's of Science in Information & Technology Management
This advanced graduate degree in IT Management does not typically require any previous work experience of its students and allows them to prepare for an entry-level position in management. These programs are offered online as well as in the classroom on campuses all over the country. One of the very best online MIS programs in the nation is offered at Bellevue University. The school's Master's of Science in Computer Information Systems and Master's of Science in Management of Information Systems have been designed to train students in managing "information systems infrastructure, evaluate current and emerging technologies, and create strategies that align technology with an organization's strategic business objectives. Students will analyze IT project management processes and policies, seeking ways to optimize and innovate. Elements of the degree are modeled from The Association for Computing Machinery for IS Management and Technology (ACM), with emphasis on real-world management issues." This program also allows students the chance to choose from concentrations like Business Administration, Business Analytics, Cybersecurity, Information Security Management, and Information Technology Project Management.
Master's of Business Administration in IT Management
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Known as the benchmark for education in business leadership, the MBA is best suited for working professionals seeking to broaden their skill set as leaders and pursue higher levels of responsibility within an organization. Most business schools require applicants to have at least two years of professional work experience, sometimes in management, before being accepted into a program. While an MBA may take one to five years to complete, an online program allows students to often work at their own pace by completing coursework during evenings and weekends.
The job market for IT Managers continues to look promising as technology continues to grow in business applications. While it is clear that a higher education in Information Technology plays a key role in a professional being able to advance in the field, there have never been more high-quality programs across the country to choose from.