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Guide to Master's Degree
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Guide to Master's Degrees in Technology & IT
Technology and information technology (IT) define how we live and do business today. As Microsoft founder Bill Gates observed in 2008, "There are about a billion PCs in use around the world today. The number of people who use cell phones is close to 3 billion. About 300 million people are connected to broadband Internet. Software permeates every sector of the economy and almost every aspect of our day-to-day lives."
The demand for highly trained technology professionals has never been stronger. A master's degree in technology and IT prepares you to take advantage of these opportunities. Whether you use the degree to keep pace with evolving technology, advance into a supervisory role, or expand your expertise into a new field, a graduate education offers a powerful tool for growing your career.
Master of Science and Professional Master's Degrees in Technology and IT
Master's degree programs in technology and IT range from the research-oriented Master of Science in technology to the applied professional master's degree.
Graduate technology and IT program options include:
- Master of Science (MS or MSc): The MS resembles the traditional academic master's degree, combining advanced coursework and a research capstone project. Though most graduates go on to a professional career, some use the MS in technology as a springboard into a technology PhD program or a teaching career. The MS qualifies you to teach at vocational schools, community colleges, and in corporate training.
- Professional Master's Degree (PMD): The professional master's degree is a relatively new credential designed to reflect the real-world needs of IT professionals. The curriculum bridges the gap between the MS and the MBA with up-to-date technical instruction and practical business skills development. Students prepare to advance into management roles with training in leadership and communications.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA): The MBA in IT management fosters the business skills and technical understanding needed to run an IT department or oversee projects. IT professionals generally use this degree to advance into supervisory roles such as project manager, IT manager, and CTO. Working IT professionals can earn a master's degree online in IT management.
Technology and IT Disciplines
Graduate technology and IT programs reflect the the vast landscape of technical careers. Choose from master's degree programs in these technology disciplines:
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Guide to Master's Degrees in Technology & IT
Technology and information technology (IT) define how we live and do business today. As Microsoft founder Bill Gates observed in 2008, "There are about a billion PCs in use around the world today. The number of people who use cell phones is close to 3 billion. About 300 million people are connected to broadband Internet. Software permeates every sector of the economy and almost every aspect of our day-to-day lives."
The demand for highly trained technology professionals has never been stronger. A master's degree in technology and IT prepares you to take advantage of these opportunities. Whether you use the degree to keep pace with evolving technology, advance into a supervisory role, or expand your expertise into a new field, a graduate education offers a powerful tool for growing your career.
Master of Science and Professional Master's Degrees in Technology and IT
Master's degree programs in technology and IT range from the research-oriented Master of Science in technology to the applied professional master's degree.
Graduate technology and IT program options include:
- Master of Science (MS or MSc): The MS resembles the traditional academic master's degree, combining advanced coursework and a research capstone project. Though most graduates go on to a professional career, some use the MS in technology as a springboard into a technology PhD program or a teaching career. The MS qualifies you to teach at vocational schools, community colleges, and in corporate training.
- Professional Master's Degree (PMD): The professional master's degree is a relatively new credential designed to reflect the real-world needs of IT professionals. The curriculum bridges the gap between the MS and the MBA with up-to-date technical instruction and practical business skills development. Students prepare to advance into management roles with training in leadership and communications.
- Master of Business Administration (MBA): The MBA in IT management fosters the business skills and technical understanding needed to run an IT department or oversee projects. IT professionals generally use this degree to advance into supervisory roles such as project manager, IT manager, and CTO. Working IT professionals can earn a master's degree online in IT management.
Technology and IT Disciplines
Graduate technology and IT programs reflect the the vast landscape of technical careers. Choose from master's degree programs in these technology disciplines:
Computer Science
Upgrade your design and development skills with a Master of Science or professional master's degree in a computer science field. The following programs range from theoretical computer science degrees to applied training in the software and hardware development:
- Computer science
- Computer and software engineering
- Computer programming
Information Technology
The MS in IT offers an overview of the advanced technology used to manage information. The IT degree generally blends computer science, information management systems, and digital media communications training in the following programs:
- Information science
- Information technology
- Information systems
- Information systems
- Information systems security
- Information assurance
Network and Database Management
Network and database management master's degrees prepare you to build and maintain information systems. Learn how to apply available technology to manage data securely and efficiently, affording reliable access, transmission, and storage of information in the following programs:
- Database management
- Network administration
- Network security
Digital Media and the Internet
Digital media play a crucial role in commercial ventures, communications, and entertainment. Discover the latest digital media design technologies with an online master's degree in:
- Multimedia and Web design
- Web development
- Game design and development
Interdisciplinary master's degrees prepare students for roles that require both technical and non-technical skills, as in the following programs:
- IT management. Business topics include IT management, project management, marketing, communications, finance, and more.
- Technology education. Education topics include classroom management, K-12 education, IT curriculum development, and distance education.
Graduate-Level Careers in Technology and IT
Graduate-level careers in information technology represent some of the fastest growing occupations in the U.S., according to the Department of Labor.
- Read about online versus campus degrees and learn how the two models stack up against one another.
- Find out who uses online learning and see if you match the profile for students taking courses online.
- Learn how your personal learning style can help determine the type of master's degree delivery model you should choose.
Information Technology
The computer systems design industry is set to grow 45 percent between 2008 and 2018, or four times as fast as average for all other industries. Network systems analysts make up the fastest-growing occupation in the U.S., with an estimated 53 percent job growth through 2018.
Graduate-level careers in information technology include:
- IT management
- Systems analyst
- Database analyst
Technology Development
Software development jobs, meanwhile, are on course to grow 30 percent during the same period. Computer research scientists will increase their ranks by about 24 percent through 2018, adding an estimated 7000 jobs nationwide.
Careers in technology R&D include:
- Computer research scientist
- Software engineer
- Computer programmer
With strong demand across high-level technology and IT careers, you can expect to recoup the value of your master's degree in professional advancement and salary increases.
The Road Ahead for Graduate Technology and IT Programs
Students in technology and IT are receiving historic support for graduate education, as the government and private industry struggle to increase the supply of workers with advanced degrees. Science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) workers account for more than 50 percent of the nation's sustained economic growth, according to the U.S. Department of Labor. Yet between 1994 and 2004, the number of master's degree graduates steadily declined.
In response to this alarming trend, public and private organizations have joined forces to promote master's degrees in technology and IT. In a 2008 speech before the U.S. House of Representatives, Bill Gates called for the U.S. to "double the number of science, technology, and mathematics graduates by 2015." The federal government has taken various measures to ensure continued support for technology education, including the STEM Education Coordination Act of 2009.
The implications of these efforts for master's degrees in technology and IT include:
- National Science Foundation and private funding for graduate education
- Improved accessibility of graduate education; for example, distance education programs enable students to earn a master's degree online
- Professionalization of the master's degree in IT, including "coursework in finance, project management, and other areas of business"
Robust demand for advanced technology and IT degrees combined with ample support for graduate education add up to ideal conditions for earning a master's degree. Earn a master's degree online, and you'll earn the means to advance your technology or IT career.
Sources
- "Computer Network, Systems, and Database Administrators," Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- "Computer Scientists," Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2010-2011 Edition. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- "Computer Systems Design and Related Services," Career Guide to Industries, 2010-2011 Edition. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Professional Master of Science and Technology (PMST), University of Utah
- "Software Publishers," Career Guide to Industries, 2010-2011 Edition. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- STEM Education Coordination Act of 2009, Committee on Science and Technology, U.S. House of Representatives (Jun 8, 2009)
- Terrell, Nicholas. "Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics Occupations," Occupational Outlook Quarterly (Spring 2007)
- "The 30 fastest growing occupations covered in the 2010-2011 Occupational Outlook Handbook," Bureau of Labor Statistics
- "The STEM Workforce Challenge," U.S. Department of Labor (April 2007)
- Written Testimony of William H. Gates Chairman, Microsoft Corporation And Co-Chair, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, Committee on Science and Technology United States House of Representatives (Mar 12, 2008)
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Pursue your Technology & IT degree today.
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Virginia College
Earn your associate's, bachelor's or master's degree from Virginia College. Our extensive programs are offered 100% online, so you can launch the career of your choice from the comfort of your own home.
Learn more about programs at Virginia College.
Earn your graduate certificate in the important field of Network and Communications Management. Gain the skills you need to succeed by completing coursework in systems analysis, planning and control; network concepts, strategy and design; strategic management; law and regulation; wireless communication.
Virginia College is a senior college accredited by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools to award certificates, diplomas, associate's, bachelor's, and master's degrees. The Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools is listed as a nationally recognized accrediting agency by the United States Department of Education and is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
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Strayer University
Get the right foundation for your future with a degree from Strayer University. Evening, weekend and online classes are all available to meet the needs of busy adults.
Learn more about programs at Strayer University.
The MBA program offers a broad-based education, with a choice of concentrations. The program features a curriculum that prepares adult students for the emerging knowledge economy while emphasizing the latest concepts, practices, and skills in today?s rapidly changing marketplace. It is designed for working professionals from a wide range of backgrounds who wish to advance or enhance their business careers.
This program offers specializations in the following areas: Accounting, Acquisition, Finance, Health Services Administration, Hospitality and Tourism Management, Human Resource Management, Information Systems Management, International Business, Management, Marketing, Professional Studies, Project Management, and Public Administration.
*Programs may vary by state and by campus
Learn to protect the sensitive data and mission-critical systems that support today's companies with Strayer's MSIS in Computer Security Management.
The MSIS in Decisions Support System Management focuses on the technological, managerial, and policy issues involving today's business computing systems.
Learn to create, design, implement and administer business network systems with Strayer's MSIS in network management.
Students in the MSIS program in systems development management learn to treat data and information as organizational resources, subject to strategic planning and control.
Strayer University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
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AIU Online
American InterContinental University Online's flexible curriculum allows you to study when and where it's most convenient. Earn your degree at an accelerated pace from an accredited school that is respected by employers.
Learn more about programs at AIU Online.
This online master's degree was created in response to the demand for IT professionals. The team-based program is one of the few in North America solely dedicated to providing graduates with the cutting-edge IT skills required in today's competitive market. The dynamic, flexible curriculum is based on market demand and designed to keep pace with changing technologies. In addition, the Master's of Information Technology program combines the technology portion with key courses from AIU's business program, enhancing students' new technical skills with a strong business background to ensure success in the job market.
If you are seeking an online Master's degree with a concentration in Internet Security, AIU Online can help you with your education needs.
The AIU Online Master of Information Technology degree with a concentration in Internet Security was designed for career-minded students with the desire to quickly reach the peaks of their professions. This accelerated online degree program can be completed in as little as 10 months.
The online Master of Information Technology degree with a concentration in Internet Security is a team-based program and is one of the few in North America solely dedicated to providing graduates with the up-to-date Information Technology and skills required in today's competitive market. The flexible curriculum is based on market demand and is designed to keep pace with changing technologies. In addition, the Master of Information Technology program combines the technology and Internet security portions of the coursework with key information management courses to ensure success in the job opportunities that you may pursue.
AIU Online Master's Degree in Information
Technology with a concentration in Internet Security was designed
for career-minded students with the desire to quickly reach the
peaks of their professions. This accelerated online degree program
can be completed in just 10 months. This team-based program is one
of the few in North America solely dedicated to providing
graduates with the up-to-date Information Technology and skills
required in today's competitive job market.
American InterContinental University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and a member of the North Central Association. Additional information is available at 312-263-0456 or www.ncahigherlearningcommission.org.
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Capella University
Capella University offers online degrees in the fields of business management, health care, higher education, human resources, information technology, mental health, K-12 education, public safety and public administration, social work, and public service leadership. An accredited university, Capella delivers a challenging education to more than 30,000 students in all 50 states and 45 other countries. Capella combines outstanding academics with a supportive faculty and staff in a program designed for working adults. Learn more about our 42 PhD, PsyD, DPA, DBA, DSW, DNP, DHA, EdD, EdS, MS, MSN, MPA, MHA, MBA, MPH, BS, BPA, and BSN degree programs and 137 specializations by talking to one of our enrollment counselors at 1.888.227.3552.
Learn more about programs at Capella University.
Strengthen your credentials in the fast-growing field of business analysis, which demands a combination of strong business and IT skills. The curriculum covers such topics as eliciting and analyzing business needs; determining, developing, and communicating IT project requirements; and implementing and monitoring IT solutions that meet business goals. Capella's Business Analysis specialization provides a unique opportunity to develop these skills online. People who choose this specialization are often interested in pursuing staff or consulting positions as business or computer system analysts.
Develop the diverse IT and business skills you need to master this emerging, in-demand occupation that focuses on aligning enterprise-wide IT solutions with business strategies. In this Enterprise Software Architecture specialization, you will analyze IT problems in distributed enterprises and refine your ability to design, propose, implement, and manage solutions using technologies such as service-oriented architecture (SOA), distributed databases, and Web services. You will have access to Capella's Virtual Lab Environment, which allows you to develop and test technology projects in an environment that closely mirrors real-life settings. People who choose this specialization are often working IT professionals who want to pursue careers as systems architects, technical officers, or software engineers.
Design a master's degree in Information Technology that meets your professional interests and provides the business knowledge and Information Technology skills needed to make significant, far-reaching contributions to your organization. Choose a broad range of Information Technology electives or focus your study in such areas as information security, networking, project management, health informatics, or enterprise architecture. You will have access to Capella's Virtual Lab Environment, which allows you to develop and test technology projects in an environment that closely mirrors real-life settings. People who choose this specialization are often working Information Technology professionals who want to advance to supervisory or management positions or people with bachelor?s degrees in related fields interested in pursuing senior-level or management careers in information technology.
Electronic recordkeeping and patient privacy mandates have created an increased demand for IT professionals in health care settings. This Health Information Management master?s specialization offers health care-focused course work on information systems, databases, system security, data analysis, decision support, and strategic management, along with overviews of important IT and business topics. The curriculum follows the model curriculum of the American Health Information Management Association (AHIMA) and was developed to align with the criteria of the Commission on Accreditation for Health Information and Information Management (CAHIIM). It is designed to help you use information management and security to support efficient, accurate health care delivery and management. People who choose this specialization are often IT professionals pursuing health information
management or consulting positions in hospitals, clinics, and health care systems.
The need to protect enterprises against threats to information system availability, integrity, and confidentiality has made information assurance and security expertise a valuable skill within businesses, government agencies, and military organizations. This online master's specialization in Information Assurance and Security is designed around the domains of knowledge in the Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP?) certification. The curriculum addresses core information assurance and security topics, including enterprise security and security risk management, as well as such emerging areas as wireless security and computer forensics. It combines technical and policy-focused course work that will strengthen your ability to protect information system security while supporting organizational goals. You will also have access to Capella's Virtual Lab Environment, which allows you to test open vulnerabilities and simulate and protect against attacks on system design. People who choose this specialization are often pursuing information security management or consulting positions in business, health care, government, and the military.
Develop the skills necessary to design, implement, and maintain diverse network environments that meet business needs. This Network Architecture master's specialization focuses on Internet, intranet, and extranet design, emerging network technologies, and the integration of divergent and disparate networks. The curriculum is based on the vendor-neutral concepts of network architecture, but also includes a Virtual Lab Environment that offers hands-on experience with vendor-specific network solutions. You will have the opportunity to acquire skills in designing, planning, and maintaining local and wide-area networks (LANs and WANs), and developing and implementing information security and disaster recovery plans. People who choose this specialization are often pursuing senior management or team leader roles in network management and administration, or network architecture and design.
With today's smaller budgets and tighter deadlines, IT project managers who can deliver the desired results, on time and on budget, are a valuable business resource, especially those with the advanced skills needed to oversee multiple projects spanning a range of geographic locations. This online Project Management master's specialization is mapped to "A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge" (PMBOK) from the Project Management Institute (PMI?) and includes Capella's award-winning course in Project Management for Technology Professionals. Because Capella is a Registered Education Provider of the Project Management Institute (PMI), you can earn your master's degree from Capella and professional development units (PDUs) from PMI at the same time. People who choose this specialization are often pursuing management, director-level, or consulting positions overseeing and managing technology projects and teams.
Capella University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission and is a member of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (NCA), www.ncahlc.org.
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