There is no doubt that computers are used in nearly every aspect of our lives. From TVs to games, mobiles to machines, computers rule our day to day at home and at work. In addition to this, mainframe computers are used in industries and by governments and super computers continue to push the frontiers of technology and science on a daily basis. The computer industry is ever-changing and demands an up-to-date knowledge and skillset to succeed. In spite of the current economic down turn and the slow down of the technology markets, there are no long term fears about the decline of the computer industry and career prospects continue to develop irrespective.

To maintain this competitive edge, education and industry continue to work towards scientific and engineering advances. There is always a demand for a qualified workforce equipped with the scientific and technical training necessary to perform effectively on the job. A majority of those employed in IT have received a Bachelor’s degree and most competitive candidates have all the necessary programming skills and up-to-date courses to their credit. You can opt for degree programs in Computer Science, Computer Technology and Networking, or Computer Programming if you’re interested in pursuing a career in Information Technology.

As a Computer Science professional, there is a wide range of opportunities waiting for you once you complete the required qualifications and certifications. You could find yourself in a variety of environments in academics, research, private and business organizations, government or industry. These jobs would demand a skillset of analyzing problems, finding solutions, testing, using multi-media equipment, or product development. There are a number of vocational areas in computing, some of which include Computer Design and Engineering, Information Technology, Software Engineering, Computer Architecture, Software Applications, Computer Theory, Operating Systems and Networks and Artificial Intelligence.

Individuals with Computer Networking degrees are the ones in charge of the networks that support an organization. These professionals provide daily support for software users in all types of work environments from schools to businesses, government to industries. This includes designing and maintaining local area networks and wide area networks. Computer networking professionals also work in developing and implementing the information security plan and disaster recovery plan for their organization. Computer networking will also provide you with skills required for jobs in computer programming, systems analyzing, and database administration, to name a few.

Computer Programming, on the other hand deals with the instructions and languages that computers use to operate. Programmers work towards solving problems and developing and carrying out tests within the system. The responsibilities of such engineers vary depending on the business or industry in which they work. Software development programmers, for example, often work with other specialists in developing customized or general-use software. This could include games, financial management packages and even programs used for training and educational purposes. The need for a particular set of skills will therefore vary depending on the field - whether it is in science, engineering, educational or business related.

In addition to an educational degree, qualified job applicants need to prove their business and management skills. These and other skills can be acquired through internships or on-campus work programs in conjunction with college degree program. Understand that the computing field is one of the fastest changing areas technologically and to be successful requires an ongoing commitment to learning to maintain knowledge, skills, and career opportunities. The market only continues to become more and more competitive and those with a greater number of skills and certifications will become highly favorable in the long run. Practical experience and staying abreast of the current technologies is the only way to make your mark in this dynamic career path.