Online Vocational Degrees in Telecommunications

Online Telecommunications Degree Programs

The telecommunications industry has exploded over the past decade, spurred by the incredible growth of the Internet, satellite communications, and cellular phone usage. Those working in the industry have profited accordingly, with telecommunications workers, including telecommunications equipment installers and repairers and telecommunications line installers, earning significantly more than the average for workers in private industry, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Getting the right education and experience is key to positioning yourself for a lucrative career in the telecommunications industry.

Telecom Training

Because the telecommunications technology is both emerging and evolving, the paths to a telecom career are varied. Most jobs in the field require at least a high school diploma, and many also require an associate's degree or even a bachelor's degree. Employers generally look for a background and education in computers and/or electronics.

Having the right educational background can be the key to getting your foot in the door in this competitive field, and a bachelor's degree can enhance your chances for advancement. Once hired, you can also expect considerable on-the-job training. Although a few formal apprenticeships similar to what you might find in the plumbing or electrician trades are available, on the job training with most employers is still a process that can take several years, and often includes classroom or online instruction.

Because technology that drives the telecom industry is constantly changing, telecom workers typically receive ongoing training throughout their careers. This training is sometimes provided by the developers of the new technology, but many telecom companies provide it themselves via online training sites.

Jobs in the Telecommunications Industry

The telecom industry as a whole should continue to grow steadily over the next decade, but employment opportunities within the industry may change. Currently, more than a quarter of all jobs in the telecommunications industry are related to installation, maintenance, and repair of telecom equipment and telecom lines. The total number of installation jobs in the telecom industry is actually expected to decline over the next decade as most of the country gets wired into the latest technology.

Continuing demand, the retirement of existing workers, and changes in technology should continue to provide a strong job market for workers in this field, and many workers will have opportunities to move into sales and support jobs, where strong job growth is expected. Workers with two- or four-year degrees who stay current with technological advances will have the best opportunities for advancement.

Telecommunications Salaries

Telecom jobs generally have much higher salaries and wages than jobs in private industry as a whole. Telecommunications equipment installers and repairers made an average of nearly $52,000 in 2007, while telecom line installers averaged $46,570, according to the BLS. The BLS also reports that full-time telecom jobs typically include substantial benefits packages, particularly those jobs covered by a union contract, which account for more than one-fifth of all jobs in the telecom industry.