Why Information Technology
Do you like to solve problems? Enjoy gadgets and staying ahead of the curve? Then a career in IT might be just the fit for you!
IIT jobs are fast-paced and challenging. As the field is constantly changing, IT professionals work to develop new skills to enhance their career.
IT is at the heart of every major business and institution, from hospitals and universities to entertainment studios and banks. Job opportunities are booming and you can start your tech career path with Cabrillo College's Computer Information Systems (CIS) programs. IT includes rapidly emerging and evolving computer hardware, software, networking, telecommunications, Internet, programming, and information systems technologies. CIS courses allow students to update job skills or prepare for careers in IT as well as transfer to four-year institutions.
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A career in Computer Information Systems might be right for you if you:
Like gadgets
Like to solve problems
Enjoy saving the day
Can handle complex situations
Have a great imagination
Are a good listener
Naturally multi-task
Are a team-player
Pay attention to details
Like staying ahead of the curve
What is IT?
Information Technology (IT) is at the heart of every major business and institution, from hospitals and universities to entertainment studios and banks. IT Professionals typically work in a business environment supporting and installing computer systems, applications and internal networks, and perhaps programming.
Computer Science is focused on creating usable computer programs and applications and the theories behind those processes. It requires an in-depth knowledge of computers, programming languages, and computer science theory. Computer Science employees typically work independently applying complex algorithms and writing code.
What Education Do I Need to Work in IT?
Many employers do prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree, especially for more advanced or specialized IT roles. However, the demand for certain IT jobs, especially in support roles, can be filled with candidates who have an associate's degree, relevant certifications, or substantial practical experience. The importance of hands-on experience, practical skills, and certifications has grown in recent years, sometimes even outweighing the need for a bachelor's degree, particularly in more entry-level roles.
Information Technology (IT) Associate in Science (A.S.)
According to various forecasts, the number of Internet of Things ( IoT) - connected devices worldwide is expected to reach around 38.6 billion by 2025. As a result, the demand for skilled IT professionals will continue to skyrocket. Networking, security, storage, and cloud programming are expected to be particularly marketable skills. CIS students can enhance their career prospects by gaining the necessary skills to thrive in the evolving IT industry.
Cabrillo College's Computer Information Technology Associate in Science (A.S.) degree prepares students to work in the IT industry, specifically in network and system administrator, computer support specialist, information security analyst, computer network support specialist, and network and computer systems administrator. Courses include networking concepts and theory, network infrastructure administration including the Cisco Systems CCNA/CCNP courses, system and network administration using Unix/Linux and Microsoft operating systems, network security, network management, virtualization, storage technologies, and emerging technologies. Various certificate and degree options are available, including courses which transfer to four-year universities for those students pursuing a bachelor degree.
The IT program offers various certificate and degree options to prepare you for a career in computer networking and systems administration, update your IT skills, or transfer to a four-year institution.
Computer Support Specialist (CSS)
The Computer Support Specialist (CSS) program at Cabrillo prepares students for a career in the field of computer technical support. Courses provide hands-on experience with computer hardware and software, basic networking and help desk concepts. The program emphasizes communication skills, which are critical to success in this field.
The CSS program helps prepare students for CompTIA certification exams like the A+, Network+ and Security+. CompTIA is the world's largest developer of vendor-neutral industry certification exams. Many employers value CompTIA certifications. CompTIA certifications are widely regarded as valuable credentials by managers and can play a significant role in promotion considerations within many organizations.