Degrees to Get A Job In The Technology Field

Lindsay Fargo was headed for Hollywood with a bachelor’s in film and television production. However, Fargo made a surprising turn toward computer professions after she could not secure a position in a studio.

After some time, Fargo managed teams that developed apps and countered piracy, worked as an Amazon product manager and oversaw technology strategy at Disney ABC. Despite majoring in cinema, she has found a place in tech “as a techie with particular experience in film and TV.”

How did she transition from making short films to employing tech giants?

There are many additional alternatives for people with non-tech degrees like Fargo (who also holds a master’s in communication management). Whether cybersecurity firms or transcribing services, the tech business is enormous and encompasses many industries.

Even if you are not a computer scientist, you can still play a vital part in the industry. Here are the six most sought-after degrees in technology that can land you a job. 

Masters of Science in Engineering 

You might wonder what an engineering degree has to do with the technology field. With the robust shift in the industries, employers seek professionals well-versed in the business’s technical and management aspects. Engineering degrees provide the opportunity for graduates to learn both technical skills and gain management knowledge.

Professional qualifications like an online masters of engineering degree polish the technical skills of the graduates and train them to become great future leaders with advanced management skills. Online platform prepares students to experience innovative solutions in the global environment. 

After having this degree, students can work in senior management and leadership positions such as project manager and technical director. In the US, the average salary of a technical director stands at $113,635. You can oversee multiple technical operations and cross-functional aspects of the business with a master’s in engineering. In addition, you can advance your knowledge base by aligning with global trends and developing new solutions for real-world problems. 

Master in Computer Science

The most common yet promising degree in the information technology sector is a master’s in computer science. Students who feel confused about where to get started in the IT industry can enroll in a degree program in computer science. 

With time, they can develop a better understanding of other majors. They can opt for a specialization aligning with their goals. Computer science graduates can expect to study mostly software and their systems. In addition, they learn about digital theories, development, design, and application of the software. 

After earning a degree in computer science, you can pursue a career as a systems analyst, data scientist, and IT manager. The average salary of a data scientist working in the United States is $101460 per year. You can also continue higher education in computer science and move toward teaching, research, and innovation. 

Master in Software Engineering 

Software engineers design and develop code for computer programs, software, applications, and websites. It’s similar to a degree in web development. However, the difference lies in it is more advanced and comprehensive, covering all the digital applications and systems rather than just websites. 

With a degree in software engineering, you can master a specific programming language to maximize your expertise and yield potential benefits. 

Several certifications are also available to learn programming languages that can help you build a strong portfolio. After earning a degree in software engineering, you can join the IT industry as a software engineer, developer, and architect. 

On average, an American software engineer earns $93,809 per year. The increasing demand for software and digital applications throughout the world helps you to launch your successful career in the IT industry. 

Master in Information Technology

Information technology uses technology and digital systems to manage and store information and data. You can go for a master’s in information technology or informatics to learn the art of data storage, management, and retrieval. 

Information technology is a diverse field that holds a promising future for graduates. You can opt for specialization in cloud computing, IT management, information security, data analytics, and many more. 

After a masters in information technology, you can kickstart your career in the IT field as an IT analyst, IT technician, data analyst, IT manager, etc. 

Several organizations look for data experts with the technical competence and required skills to unleash result-oriented patterns out of complex and massive data sets. With a degree in information technology, you can empower organizations to make well-informed decisions and optimize performance. 

The average salary of a data analyst is $65,812 in the United States. 

Masters in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is the key that leads to secure digital operations and applications across the world. A highly connected and vast network of computers storing precious data and crucial information face constant threat from cybercriminals. 

With a master’s in cybersecurity, you can learn how to identify a potential threat, safeguard the systems and respond to malicious attempts and security breaches. This degree includes computer science theories, hacking techniques, and cryptography. In addition, you might learn the tactics to avert potential risks. 

Some cybersecurity degrees also teach graduates advanced engineering and research modules. 

The highly vulnerable areas include networks, database management, and information systems, where you can secure a stable career. You can start your career as a cyber security analyst, security engineer, or security architect. More advanced positions include a chief information security officer and chief privacy officer. 

The average salary of a cybersecurity analyst stands at  $83,681 per year.

Masters in Web Design and Development

Web design primarily deals with creating and developing websites and web applications. Web designers and developers handle the website’s outlook and technical aspects while making it responsive and fast. 

The constant rise of eCommerce and digital applications paved the way for the high demand for web design and development experts. Companies are looking for tech-savvy individuals who can shift their business over websites and help them in digital operations. A master’s degree in web design and development increases your employment chances. 

You can become a web developer, visual designer, application developer, full stack developer, UI designer, and front-end web developer with a master’s in web design and development. 

On average, a web developer earns $67,752 annually in the United States. Graduates learn about a wide range of programming languages with hands-on coding practice to ensure the seamless working of the websites and their applications. 

Conclusion 

Undoubtedly, degrees in technology guarantee your success in the job market and increase your earning potential over the years. Still, it would help if you considered what you want to achieve. If you are inclined more toward leadership roles, you must opt for degrees that would lead your way to senior positions. In this way, you don’t get stuck in subordinate positions for years and have better chances for career growth.