Associate's Degree in Computer Information Technology

The Associate's degree of Information Technology with emphasis in Business Systems Analysis is one a few second steps on the road to success in the Information technology field. This degree program focuses on a wide variety of skills necessary in order to succeed in this particular field. The core of the Information technology program focuses on the specialized and fundamental skills to provide a strong foundation of knowledge and understanding within the core areas such as systems analysis and design; computer programming; database design; network architecture and administration; Web technologies; and application development, implementation, and maintenance. These skill areas focus on the attainment of theories and application of the technological competencies of the Information Technology profession. Get the overview you need from any of the schools listed below.

These skills, align with the Information Technology profession, are taught through varied courses such as Management of Information Systems, Fundamentals of Programming with Algorithms and Logic, Web Design I and II, Project Planning and Implementation, Network and Telecommunications Concepts, SQL for Businesses and Application Implementation. Through the completion of the core courses, the student will have gained the fundamental skills and knowledge necessary in order to operate in the area of Information Technology.

Computer Information Technology Training

 

Upon successful completion of the core courses in Information Technology, the student will have the necessary foundational skill sets needed to continue with training and study of the concentration emphasis area of Business Systems Analysis. This concentration course focuses on providing the student with a specialized skill set and a strong foundation in the focused areas of specific theories, attributes, skills and expertise to succeed in the areas of a business analyst. The student will focus on the methodologies and tools important to the field of business systems analysis through classes such as:

Introduction to Operating Systems introduces the student to the operation of various operating systems, the internal workings, code execution, processes, concepts and security of them. Fundamentals of Business Systems Development II is a continuation of the first core course and examines more in depth the tools and standards used in the business systems development field, while focusing on the enterprise level of businesses

Systems Analysis Methodologies focuses on the understanding of the methodologies used to identify problems in business information technology and looks for possible information solutions for addressing the problems. Systems Analysis Tools builds on the methodologies of possible business problems while emphasizing computer based and non-computer based tools and when and how to use Microsoft Visio instead or in conjunction with other tools.

Project Management Planning examines project planning management according to the best practices of professional standards. The components of a project plan will be analyzed according to the Project Management Body of Knowledge and the students will show their ability to integrate their knowledge by building a project management plan and implementing it.

When the student completes these concentration courses and adds them to the core courses completed earlier in the degree program, he will have acquired the skills, knowledge and understanding necessary in order to progress within the field of Information Technology. The completion of these courses also affords the student the earning of the Associate's degree in Science of Information technology with emphasis in Business Systems Analysis degree.

 

Find the Best Computer Information Technology Schools

When looking for schools that offer Associate’s degrees in computer information technology you’ll first want to research what the schools offers to help you pay for your education Below are just some of the things to talk to your admissions representative about before enrolling.

1. Verify that the program you are taking is an Associate’s degree and that it can be completed in 2 years. I would question any school if the program is under a year as it might be a certificate based program and not lead to an actual degree.

2. If you do not have your GED or high school diploma verify that you’ll be able to be accepted. Some schools will accept you if you aren’t using federal Financial Aid or funding.

3. If you do need financial assistance check to see if the school you want to attend is approved to offer Title IV funding. If you qualify you can get loans at a cheap interest rate and depending on your needs you might qualify for funds that don’t require you to pay them back.

4. Were you in the military? If you are active duty or a military veteran you can qualify for special funding and your GI Bill could pay for some if not all of your education. Be sure to check with the school to make sure they are approved to accept military funding.

5. Another way to help pay for college is to find scholarships that you can apply for. Millions of dollars of scholarships each year are wasted as nobody applies for them. The school you are attending might also offer scholarships and nothing states you can only use just a few scholarships to feel free to apply for as many as you can.

 

Computer Information Technology Careers

With your degree completed you’ll be able to apply for entry level positions in the following areas:

- Computer Programming
- Database Administration
- Desktop Administration
- Desktop Computer Support
- Call Center Specialist

Types of Courses Taken in your Associate’s Degree
- Computer Programming
- Systems Applications
- Database Structure and Analysis
- Computer Architecture

 

Be Successful During School

When going back to school it is important that you set yourself up for success. Below are the Top 3 ways to be successful when you start your degree.

1. Support System – Be sure to have the right support system in place before you start. Are you a single mother? Do you need a babysitter? Do you have to work a 9-5 job and then attend school at night? Be sure you use the support of your friends and family during your training. Talk to them and tell them how important this is and if they can help out with certain things in your life while you attend school.

2. Time Management – One of the hardest things to master is time management. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to study and come up with a detailed calendar to ensure you get things done on time.

3. Get Assistance – If you are taking an online program one of the hardest things to get use to is the fact you aren’t with your peers. Just because yo u are taking a program online doesn’t mean you can’t reach out. Many schools offer support groups or even study groups where you can get assistance from others during your training. If not you can always reach out to members of your class socially and start study groups. It is much easier to learn when you have others that can help you.

 

Resources
http://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm