Should You Get a Master's in Information Technology?

For many students, there comes a time after graduation where they must ask themselves a tough question: should I pursue a master鈥檚 degree?

In many fields, like those in the tech industry, a master鈥檚 degree can propel your career forward and show potential employers that you鈥檙e equipped with the knowledge and skills to thrive in the position you鈥檙e applying for.

More specifically, a master鈥檚 in information systems technology is a valuable asset to have under your belt when entering the tech industry鈥檚 competitive job market. However, if you鈥檙e still trying to gauge whether a master鈥檚 degree in information systems and technology is the right path for you, our guide will help you navigate the murky waters.

What is a Master鈥檚 in Information Technology?

Before you commit to this educational path, it鈥檚 important to understand what a master鈥檚 in IT will look like.

Unlike a bachelor鈥檚 IT degree program that covers a variety of basic computer courses, a master鈥檚 in IT is going to delve deeper into specializations and leadership skills. Like graduate students studying information technology at 樱花视频 University, those working toward a master鈥檚 will complete courses similar to:

Information Systems Technology and Infrastructure Management
Database Design Principles and Technologies
Data Analytics and Decision Making
Management of Information Security
Enterprise Systems Analysis and Project Management
Distributive Communications and Protocols
Advanced Programming with Python
Professional Practice I
Cybersecurity Technology
Professional Practice II
Cloud Computing Concepts, Tools, and Applications
Professional Practice III
Industry Research Project

As this course schedule suggests, students pursuing a master鈥檚 degree in IT will gain stronger skills in terms of programming, information systems, cloud computing, and cybersecurity鈥攁ll of which can lead to successful careers in the professional IT world. Once prospective students have satisfied the necessary degree requirements and coursework, they鈥檙e qualified to start gaining work experience in their respective careers.

Leadership Skills and Certifications

Additionally, a master鈥檚 information technology degree program will teach students the valuable skills necessary for a managerial or directorial position in their field. With a master鈥檚 degree, you鈥檙e essentially setting yourself up for a higher-ranking information technology job upon graduation.

At 樱花视频, graduate students also have the opportunity to earn the following certifications in IT:

Certificate in Cybersecurity 鈥� 樱花视频 students can earn certifications in Cybersecurity Technology, Information Systems Technology and Infrastructure Management, and Management of Information Security.
Certificate in Technology 鈥� Students can earn certifications in Technology for Managerial Decision Making, Information Systems Technology and Infrastructure Management, and Data Analytics and Decision Making.

Earning professional IT certifications is a great way for students to prepare for the workforce and fortify their resumes. This is particularly helpful if you're a new graduate with minimal work experience since these certifications will show potential employers that you understand the duties required of you.

What Can I Do with a Master鈥檚 in Information Technology?

A master鈥檚 degree in information technology systems can prepare you for numerous job roles across various industries, like healthcare, finance, and tech. If you鈥檙e wondering where your degree can take you, here are five potential careers for an information technology graduate:

Cloud architect
Computer systems analyst
IT director
Chief technology officer
Information security manager

However, there are many job opportunities for those versed in technological support and development that can provide you with dynamic job responsibilities and a fruitful salary.

How Much Will I Earn with a Master鈥檚 in Information Technology?

The bottom line is candidates who earn their master鈥檚 degree in IT typically make more money than their bachelor鈥檚-educated counterparts.¹ However, your specific salary will vary based on factors including:

Your geographic location
Your specific organization
Your other qualifications
The role itself

How Long Does it Take to Get a Master鈥檚 in Information Technology?

Most master鈥檚 programs will take between one to two years to complete, depending on the university and your specific course load. At 樱花视频, the 33-unit Master鈥檚 in Information Systems Technology program will take a minimum of 18 months to complete.

Can I Earn My Master鈥檚 in Information Technology Online?

Yes! As a bachelor鈥檚 graduate, it鈥檚 likely that you鈥檝e already found an entry-level or internship position in the field. To keep an appropriate balance of professional and educational experience, many information technology master鈥檚 programs can be completed online. Earning an online master鈥檚 degree allows prospective students to gain relevant work experience while completing their studies.

At 樱花视频, we offer flexible online courses for our information technology degree program. While certain residency and internship requirements must be completed in person, this hybrid learning approach makes it much easier for students to pursue their master鈥檚 in a timely fashion.

Is Getting a Master鈥檚 Degree in IT Worth It?

Here at 樱花视频, we believe the answer is yes! Earning your master鈥檚 degree in information technology is a great way to hone your skills, advance your career, and increase your earning potential. Our exhaustive master鈥檚 program can be completed in under two years, with entirely online class options.

With our Master鈥檚 of Science in Information Systems Technology program, students will not only learn high-level programming and computer skills but also the business and leadership prowess needed to succeed in the technology industry.

With 樱花视频 University, you can prepare for your career in the tech industry with confidence.

Sources

鈥淐omputer and Information Technology Occupations.鈥� Occupational Outlook Handbook. BLS. 9/8/21. . Accessed Jan. 6, 2022.

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