Computer Information Technology
The Occupations
Computer Network Support Specialist
Computer User Support Specialists
Database Administrators
Software Developers, Applications
Web Developers
About The Occupations
Computers have become essential to all phases of modern life including traditional areas of business and science, as well as applications in entertainment and personal life. The most crucial element of any computer system is the person operating it. The computer field includes an ever-growing array of occupations. Three important jobs are programmers, microcomputer support specialists, and information technology specialists.
Computer programmers convert project specifications from end-users and statements of problems and procedures to detailed, logical flow charts for coding into computer language. They develop and write computer programs to store, locate, and retrieve specific documents, data and information.
Computer support specialists provide technical assistance and training to computer systems users. They investigate and resolve computer software and hardware problems of users. They answer client inquiries in person, and by telephone, and by e-mail concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, word processing, programming languages, electronic mail, and operating systems.
Information technology specialists are proficient with application software commonly used in the workplace. This includes word processing, spreadsheets, database, presentation software and operating systems. Information technology specialists support the day-to-day operation of typical business activity in numerous fields.
Work Environment
Employers:
Advertising services
Health services and professions
Educational institutions
Financial institutions
Governmental entities
Manufacturing businesses
Data processing and information services
Public utilities
Wholesale and retail enterprises
Typical Schedule:
40-hour work week normal
Occasional overtime
Shift and part-time work possible
Telecommuting is becoming more common for some computer professionals, including programmers and specialists
Tools and Equipment:
Computers and related equipment
Technical manuals
Computer reports and graphs
Worker Portrait
Skills and Aptitudes:
Works well independently and with others
Concentration and the ability to think logically
Tenacity and patience
Ability to attend to exacting analytical detail
Works well under pressure
Ingenuity and imagination in problem solving
Ability to communicate with non-technical personnel
Ability to work with abstract concepts and do technical analysis
Interests:
Lifelong learning
Enjoys problem-solving
Embraces technical advancements
Career Outlook
Outlook |
Occupation |
Stable |
Information Tech Specialist |
Excellent |
Computer Programmer |
Excellent |
Computer Support Specialist |
Position |
Avg. Salary |
Computer Network Support Specialists |
$29,400-$85,800 |
Computer User Support Specialists |
$27,400-$85,800 |
Database Administrators |
$40,800-$114,000 |
Software Developers, Applications |
$55,900-$133,800 |
Web Developers |
$46,000-$124,800 |
(Note: Individual earnings may vary based upon the job setting and position.)
Sources: America’s Career InfoNet: www.acinet.org
Degree Plans
Computer Information Technology – A.S. (Business Emphasis Transfer Program)
Computer Information Technology – A.S. (Engineering and Scientific Emphasis)
Computer Information Technology – A.A.S. (Computer Application Support Technician)
Computer Information Technology – A.A.S. (Computer Programmer / Software Developer)
Computer Application Technology Support Certificate
Computer Information Technology Certificate
Computer Information Technology Programming Certificate
Computer Information Technology Web Developer Certificate
Software Development Certificate