How an Associate Degree in IT Opens Doors

Ever heard the phrase “recession-proof job?” It means a job that withstands economic ups and downs, where there’s a continuous demand for the role.

Information technology (IT) jobs are perennial favorites on many top recession-proof jobs lists. And there’s good reason for that. In our data-driven, network-connected, internet-of-things world, qualified people who can work and thrive in IT are always in demand — and this should continue far into the future.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow 11 percent between now and 2029. That’s a much faster rate than the average for all occupations.

The BLS also reports that:

• IT positions are projected to add about 531,200 new jobs over the next eight years.
• The need for more IT professionals comes from growth in the cloud computing, data collection and storage and information security sectors.
• The median annual wage for computer and IT occupations was $88,240 in May 2019, which was higher than the median annual wage for all other occupations ($39,810).

If you’re interested in a career in IT, this is great news.

A Degree Can Be a Difference-Maker

Both experience and education will play a role in your IT career. While it’s possible to get a technology job without a two- or four-year degree, IT is a competitive field. An employer often sifts through hundreds of resumes for one open position. A degree can make you stand out from the crowd of people with no formal technology education under their belts.

Working toward a degree in IT can also capture hiring managers’ attention. Your “degree in progress” status can be included on your resume. This sends a signal you’re motivated to learn and are making education a priority.

Get an IT Degree in Two Years

University of Cincinnati Online’s Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Information Technology is a smart option if you work and want to carve out time to earn a degree. Our program is fully completed online with no on-campus requirements, saving you travel time to and from school. You can study full-time or part-time — the choice is up to you.

The AAB in IT curriculum provides you with the foundational knowledge of critical specialty areas in demand today, including:

• Software application development (web, enterprise and desktop)
• Networking and systems administration (e.g., technologies for data centers and storage)
• Database management (design and administration)
• Digital media (development of digital images, audio and video to support IT solutions)

Students studying for their AAB in Information Technology associate degree have the flexibility to balance work and family obligations. Most complete the program in two years, and some go on to earn a bachelor’s degree. Your associate degree is conferred by the University of Cincinnati, which is reflected on your transcripts and degree.

Learn more about the ease of earning an associate degree online.

Career Opportunities in IT

An associate degree in IT sets you on the path to work in numerous technology roles at companies from every industry and of every size, including large, well-known companies like Adobe and Expedia. You can also set your sights on smaller organizations, including nonprofits. And when it comes to deciding where you’ll be located, businesses worldwide rely on the expertise of IT professionals — so you can work just about anywhere.

Career opportunities and job descriptions in IT vary, but here are some of the more common roles and their high-level responsibilities:

• Computer systems analysts study an organization’s computer systems and procedures and design solutions to help them operate more efficiently and effectively.
• Network and computer system administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operation of these networks.
• Computer support specialists provide help and advice to computer users and organizations.
• Computer programmers write and test code that allows computer applications and software programs to function properly.
• Web developers design and create websites, focusing on the look of the site and its technical aspects.

Fast-Paced Environment for Challenge-Seekers

Because new and emerging technologies power IT, there’s virtually no limit on the specialty areas our graduates can dive into. There’s computer animation, artificial intelligence, machine learning, robotics engineering and video game design, to name just a few. The common denominator in these areas? The work is fast-paced and challenging, where there’s always something new to learn and new problems to figure out. Ask a person working in IT today, and they’ll undoubtedly say there’s never a dull moment.

You might be wondering if a career in IT is for you and what else, besides education, can make you marketable. According to the job site Indeed, the top traits valued by the IT industry include a mix of “hard” skills, such as strong coding and analytical abilities, and “soft” skills like communication and curiosity.

An appealing aspect about our Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in Information Technology program is you’ll have the opportunity to grow both skill types, hard and soft, with classes that focus on topics that include application development and interpersonal communication.

Ready to Explore an Associate Degree in IT?

If starting or expanding a career in IT is what you’ve been considering, our University of Cincinnati Online staff is here to help you explore the next step.

Connect with an advisor online, or call our associate degree team at 833-556-4428 to learn more about the AAB in IT program.

At the University of Cincinnati Online, we’re focused on meeting the needs of today’s modern students. We’re backed by the rich heritage of the University of Cincinnati and its renowned faculty and academic excellence. From admission to graduation, we’re committed to your success — and we can’t wait to meet you.