What is a Masters in Technology Degree?
A Masters in Technology Degree could be a great academic choice for the student who is interested in studying the uses of computers and other electronic devices to solve human problems. Technology degree programs can vary from school to school; the broad goal of masters in technology programs is to provide learners with skills and knowledge in an array of technical areas.
Computers touch so many aspects of our lives. From ignition-less cars, consumer electronics, and cell phones, to online banking, we use technology for so many tasks. In order to maintain networks, create new software, and ensure that sensitive data is secure from cyber attacks, the work force must meet evolving demands. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of systems software developers is projected to grow 72% between 2010 and 2020![i]
Technology Masters Programs General Information:
There are different technology masters programs to look through on GradSchools.com. Some of these focus on the study of information technology, and combine studies in technology with business administration, management and leadership. Others may be specialized masters of science in computer science. If your goal is to be prepared to pursue a technically complex job, earning a master’s in computer science could be appropriate.[ii]
FACT: Computer systems design and related services, from building cloud-computing to creating security applications, are constantly demanding and in high demand[i]
You can also concentrate in Cyber technology, or, information assurance. With the dramatic increase of cyber attacks the BLS projects employment growth in computer systems designs and related services.[i]
FACT: Recent data point to a 17-fold increase in the number of cyberattacks on U.S. infrastructure between 2009 and 2011
[i]
Potential Career Paths in Technology:
There are different occupations within the technology industry that might be of potential interest for graduates. Some high-technology occupations are scientific, while others are technical or engineering oriented[iii] According to BLS data, computer occupations form the largest portion of the industry, however, there are also managers, business and financial workers, and administrators, as different jobs help keep the IT world running efficiently.[ii] The four career paths that are identified by the BLS as having a high growth rate[i] are:
- Software Developers[iv] are the largest occupation in the industry[i]. From creating computer programs and mobile games to upgrading operating systems and designing software for cloud computing, this industry is projected to grow 22% between 2012 and 2022
- Computer Programmers[v] are writers of code that is used to create software programs. Job prospects are predicted to be better for programmers who have a bachelor’s degree or higher.[vi]
- Computer Systems Analyst[vii] study an organization’s current computer systems and procedures and design information systems solutions to help them operate more efficiently.
- Computer Support Specialists[viii] provide help and advice to people and organizations using computer software of equipment.
Ready To Pursue a Masters in Technology?
Whether you are approaching a master’s in technology from the standpoint of jumpstarting an existing career in the industry, or you are hoping to be part of the evolving workforce and in technology, begin looking into all your options on GradSchools.com. Whether you want to develop the latest greatest app, stop computer viruses in their tracks, or manage a team of IT for a large corporation, the Technology industry has many career paths for the future graduate to look into. Find the Master’s in Technology graduate program that could potentially help you reach your academic and vocational goals!
Sources: [i] bls.gov/opub/btn/volume-2/pdf/careers-in-growing-field-of-information-technology-services.pdf | [ii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm#tab-4 | [iii] bls.gov/mlr/1999/06/art3full.pdf | [iv] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm | [v] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm | [vi] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-programmers.htm#tab-6 | [vii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm | [viii] bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm
