Technology
Humans are tool-making animals, and technology is our collection of tools. While technology can be defined as tools or as applied science, these simple definitions hardly indicate the vast array of tools that technology can encompass, from simple machines like pulleys, levers and fulcrums to the complexity of supercomputers and the vehicles that take us to space.Virtually every aspect of modern life is touched and shaped by technology in some way...and that trend is only speeding up. The most far-reaching and influential modern development in technology is the integration of computers and microprocessors into our everyday lives. Electronics have revolutionized the way we learn, work and interact, not to mention the ways we communicate and even the ways we create. As hi-tech becomes more and more widespread (not to mention more and more complicated), there will be an ever-growing need for trained experts to create, build, maintain and upgrade the devices, software and systems that form the core of our hi-tech society and world.
Two of the major divisions of this field are computer science and information technology. Although these fields overlap in many ways, the essential difference between them is the difference between theory and practice.
Computer science is the more theoretical end of the spectrum of computer technology. It encompasses such areas of study as the models, methods and techniques of computing systems, information theory, and methods of data processing. These fields can include the design and refinement of mathematical algorithms; the basic design principles of computing hardware and software; computer systems organization and methodologies; and the structure, encryption and coding of data, among many other analytical elements.
Information Technology, on the other hand, is generally more concerned with the practical application of computer science than with its theoretical foundations. IT focuses on the processes and technologies used in information processing — the "how" rather than the "why." IT concentrates on the design, development, installation, and implementation of information systems and applications devoted to the storage, retrieval and transmission of information. The domain of IT can include hardware, software, and peripheral equipment, telecommunications equipment, and the management of databases or other information processing applications and technologies, along with the support services necessary to install, upgrade and maintain this equipment.
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Technology Degrees
The pathway to a great career in computer technology begins with a good education, and a growing number of colleges are offering an increasing number of courses and degrees in hi-tech disciplines. Although many computer technology positions can be acquired with as little schooling as a certificate or certification, in general, this field requires trained professionals at all levels of education, from bachelor's degrees through the doctoral degree level. The good news is that many schools now offer certifications in key areas as part of a bachelor's degree curriculum, providing graduates with the skills and certificates necessary to begin working in this field immediately upon graduation, without any additional training. As is the case in any occupational field, the more advanced the degree, the wider the range of possibilities that are open.More and more hi-tech professionals are earning their degrees online, as the freedom from geographical restrictions and the flexibility of online courses allows this study to be accomplished quickly, and on a schedule convenient to employed individuals wishing to forward or switch their careers.
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Career Opportunities in Technology
The pervasive nature of hi-tech means that there are a wide range of available jobs, occupations and careers at every level of professional development and to suit virtually any interest, from art to assembly, from hardware to software, and from theory to practice. These positions include a wide variety of specialties such as telecommunications, multimedia, and technology management, performed in a wide range of working environments in virtually every corner of the world, including private industry, government and academia.Find more information on Technology careers or to explore some of the major divisions in this field, simply click on any of the categories below.
Computer Programming: Computer programming involves writing the code that directs computers to perform a specific activity, as well as testing and debugging these applications.
Database Administration: A database is a body of information stored electronically. Managing a database can include the design, installation and maintenance of a system, recovering data, instituting security procedures for access, managing the physical storage devices, and other responsibilities.
Graphics & Multimedia: This area combines art and technology to create imagery which can be used in numerous forms of media for information, publicity, advertising or many other purposes.
Information Systems (IS): IS manages an institution's information. This can include the physical infrastructure, software, databases, and networks, as well as the storage and retrieval of the data. One rapidly-growing branch of IS deals specifically with security of an organization's data.
Computer Networking: Network engineers oversee the interconnection of hi-tech equipment, enabling numerous different devices and software applications to communicate with one another seamlessly.
Software Engineering: Software engineering uses principles drawn from math, engineering and computer science to develop software systems.
Web Design & Development: Web design combines art, design, business sense and computer skills to create visually appealing, user-friendly Web sites. Web developers create and maintain applications used on Web sites, like shopping carts, search tools, and secure password systems.
Financial Outlook for Careers in Technology
According to the U.S. Department of Labor, the computer technology field is one of today's fastest-growing job markets for qualified and experienced personnel. Not only are job opportunities abundant, but the rate of compensation is higher than the average as well. Data compiled by the National Science Foundation's 2003 National Survey of Recent College Graduates indicates that those holding engineering and computer science degrees are more likely to be employed full time after graduation than graduates in other fields, as well as earning higher wages in their positions. For detailed information on salaries, salary ranges, and projected opportunities for specific positions, please select that position from the list below.Get started today on your career in Technology.
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