It’s no secret that the Information Technology sector is growing. IT jobs are some of the most in-demand positions available today, and the demand for skilled IT professionals is expected to keep rising.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and information technology occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2024 to 2034, with about 317,700 openings projected each year.
Approximately 6.7 million individuals work in IT in the United States today. The industry is projected to grow by another 13% by 2030, which is far more than anticipated for all other types of jobs or industries. Of course, there are a variety of compensation packages available in this adaptable sector. Computer support specialists with less training, for example, typically earn about $55,000 per year. If you have a Master’s degree in computer science and work as an information scientist, you can make up to $126,000 per year. The median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $105,990 in May 2024, compared to $49,500 for all occupations.
MyComputerCareer is an educational institution that aims to help as many students as possible earn IT certifications from leading organizations such as Microsoft, CompTIA, Cisco, EC-Council, and Linux. The school is accredited by the Accrediting Council for Continuing Education and Training (ACCET), which has been recognized by the United States Department of Education as a reliable authority on educational quality since 1978.
Candidates who fulfill the requirements may apply for financial assistance, and MyComputerCareer has several computer training courses in a variety of fields, including Cybersecurity, Networking, Systems Administration, and more. Candidates that complete the course will also have lifelong access to the school’s Career Services department.
If you’re interested in starting a career in IT, there are many different ways to learn the skills needed for a successful IT career. In this guide, we will discuss what to study for IT jobs, where candidates can start their IT careers and what skills are required in the industry. We’ll also talk about how candidates can learn these skills, as well as which IT classes can help them get started.
How Do You Start a Career in IT?
The most crucial thing you can do before starting a career in IT is to do your homework. Learn about the sector and discover what IT employees do on a daily basis. You can also take MyComputerCareer’s free career evaluation, which takes less than 10 minutes to complete. You may consider which specialty you’d want to focus on after you have a better understanding of the IT business.
There are a plethora of IT jobs to choose from, so make sure you pick one that is a good fit for your abilities and interests. The IT industry has numerous sectors. You may begin by interacting with clients or administering databases or networks as an IT employee. However, if you become more experienced, you might work in areas such as network security.
After you’ve completed the first stage of your research, make a shortlist of prospective career possibilities. Continue to research the skills needed to be considered for occupations you’ve chosen as you continue your education and training.
What Skills Do You Need for an IT Job?
When it comes to the Information Technology sector, there are a few key skills that are needed to be successful:
- Candidates need to have strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- They need to be able to think critically to find solutions to complex issues.
- They need excellent communication skills to work effectively with other team members.
While often neglected, these so-called soft skills mentioned above help IT professionals stand out and be successful in their field. But aside from these soft skills, future and present IT specialists also need to possess strong technical skills in one or more of the following fields:
- Help-Desk: Help-Desk is the first point of contact for any employee that has IT-related issues. They need to understand the problem and provide a solution in a timely manner.
- Network Administration: Network administrators are responsible for ensuring the company’s network is up and running smoothly. They also need to be able to troubleshoot any network issues that may arise.
- Database Administration: Database administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining the company’s databases. They need to have a strong understanding of database concepts and be able to use various database management tools.
- Systems Administration: Systems administrators are responsible for managing and maintaining the company’s computer systems. They need to have a strong understanding of computer systems and be able to use various system administration tools.
- Web Development: Web developers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining the company’s website. They need to have a strong understanding of web development technologies and be able to use various web development tools.
- DevOps: DevOps is a relatively new field combining the roles of software developers and systems administrators. DevOps professionals need to understand both development and operations in order to effectively manage the company’s software development life cycle.
- Cloud Computing: Cloud computing is a rapidly growing field that deals with the delivery of cloud services. Cloud computing professionals need to understand and use various cloud computing technologies.
- Cybersecurity: Cybersecurity specialists are responsible for protecting the company’s computer systems and networks from security threats. They need to have a strong understanding of cybersecurity concepts and be able to use various cybersecurity tools.
Why Is Help Desk a Good Place to Start in IT?
If you’re just starting out in the IT field, then Help-Desk is a good place to start. Help-Desk is the first point of contact for any employee with IT-related issues. They need to understand the problem and provide a solution in a timely manner.
While Help-Desk may not be the most glamorous position in IT, it is a good way to get your foot in the door and start gaining some experience. It is also a good opportunity to learn about different areas of IT and figure out which one you’re interested in pursuing further.
What Are the Best Ways to Learn IT Skills?
Many people benefit from IT skills in a variety of ways. IT abilities may help you to get a job, keep a job, and even advance in your present position. IT skills are also useful for personal use. Many individuals use computers and other devices on a daily basis but don’t know how to repair them when they malfunction. IT skills can help you fix these problems yourself or, at the very least, figure out what is wrong. There are several methods to learn IT skills. The following are some of the most common:
- Self-Learning
This may be accomplished by using the internet, books, or other resources. People who are already familiar with computers and how they function might find this approach most effective. If you have any IT expertise, teaching yourself IT skills may be a viable alternative. Young people, particularly in high school or even earlier, are more likely to learn new abilities this way. They generally have a lot of free time, allowing them to learn at their own pace. Self-learning, however, isn’t for everyone. Those who don’t have enough time or don’t have the ability to learn IT skills on their own may not see a strong ROI.
- Earning a Degree
Information Technology degrees are another option for learning IT skills. This may be done through traditional schooling or online classes. IT degrees generally take two to four years to finish, depending on the program you choose. However, IT degrees may be costly, time-consuming, and unavailable to all individuals.
A bachelor’s degree in Computer Science is not always required to work in IT, but it may help you stand out among other job candidates who do not have one. Degrees cover a wide range of IT topics, so the knowledge gained is broader than what a certification provides. A college education provides an excellent basis for understanding IT, but it is less specialized in one area.
- IT Certifications
Another method to acquire IT skills is through IT certifications. IT certifications give employers a standardized way to evaluate your qualifications and knowledge. There are numerous types of IT certifications, so it’s vital to do your homework and pick the one that best suits you. In addition, each certification has different requirements, such as coursework, experience, and exams. IT certifications can be an effective way to demonstrate your IT skills to potential employers without having to earn a degree.
Do You Need a Degree to Work in IT?
Not always. Some IT roles require a bachelor’s degree in computer science, but many entry-level positions focus more on whether you have the theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills needed for the job.
While a Computer Science degree may help you get a higher starting salary in the IT sector, it will not be enough on its own. Relevant certifications and practical experience also play an important role in showing employers that you are prepared for the work.
Which IT Certifications Should Beginners Earn First?
IT certifications are a reliable way to demonstrate that you have the necessary skills and knowledge for a particular job. Earning an IT certification also shows your commitment to self-improvement. Many employers will want to see that you have relevant IT credentials, even if you don’t have a college education. There are numerous IT certifications to choose from, so it’s important to find ones that will be most useful for your chosen career path.
At the entry-level, certain IT certifications that demonstrate a solid understanding of core concepts and implementation include:
- CompTIA A+: This certification covers basic hardware and software maintenance and troubleshooting.
- CompTIA Network+: This certification covers network infrastructure and troubleshooting.
- CompTIA Security+: This certification covers cybersecurity threats and countermeasures.
- CompTIA Server+: This certification covers server administration and troubleshooting.
- Linux Essentials: This certification covers the basics of using the Linux operating system.
- Microsoft Fundamentals: These certifications cover the basics of using Microsoft products and services.
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): This certification covers network installation and configuration.
Any of these entry-level certifications would make a great addition to your resume and set you apart from other job candidates.
What IT Classes Does MyComputerCareer Offer?
IT courses are available in a wide range of disciplines and topics, including network administration, software development, hardware maintenance, and more. The strongest IT courses will help you prepare for in-demand certifications while also providing the skills you’ll need to get a job in this growing area.
Below are the IT training programs offered at MyComputerCareer. For a broader comparison, see our guide to the best IT courses: most effective IT courses.
Information Technology Security and Administration (ITSA) Program
The Information Technology Security and Administration (ITSA) program is for anybody looking to start a new career in IT or acquire the essential skills and certifications they need to advance in their current job. The curriculum prepares students for four IT Certifications in high demand for systems support and networking, including some from three of today’s most well-known names in Information Technology:
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft AI-901: Azure AI Fundamentals
- Microsoft AZ-104: Azure Administrator Associate
The only prerequisite for this program is a high school diploma or GED. The program covers fundamental hardware installation, diagnosis and repair, networking and topology support, security configuration and analysis, as well as computer network configuration, securing, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Cyber Security Specialist (CSS) Program
The Cyber Security Specialist (CSS) program is for ITSA graduates and other IT professionals who wish to develop their skills or obtain higher credentials in Advanced Networking and Cyber Security or Information Assurance. This program prepares students for certifications in Network Administration and Security, including wireless networking on a variety of platforms and devices. The following certifications are available through this program:
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
- EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Linux Essentials
Chief Network Administrators with these certifications that have industry experience may be able to apply for high-level server and system administration jobs in major businesses. Systems engineers and Chief Network Administrators with these skills are highly sought after in the IT sector. CSS students will be able to set up, maintain, and repair basic WAN and switched LAN networks. They will also know how attackers escalate privileges and what measures can be taken to secure a system after completing the program.
Cyber Security Engineer (CSE) Program
Individuals who wish to focus more in depth on network design and administration may pursue the Cyber Security Engineer (CSE) program. This program covers a wide range of topics relating to network design, implementation, and management. Through this program, you can prepare for six high-demand certifications in network design and administration, as follows:
- EC-Council Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
- Cisco Certified CyberOps Associate
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- CertNexus CyberSec First Responder (CFR)
- CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+)
- CompTIA SecurityX (formerly CASP+)
After completing this program, students will be able to plan, configure, and manage basic WAN and switched LAN networks. VLSM, IPv6, OSPF, and EIGRP will all be discussed as well as access lists for NAT and DHCP.
Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration and Cyber Security
An Associate’s Degree is a realistic objective if you’ve already completed the ITSA, CSS, and CSE programs. MyComputerCareer’s Associate’s Degree helps you develop skills that will help you land a job in almost any career, such as public speaking and business math. Consider how it may strengthen your resume and help you prepare for a Bachelor’s Degree from another institution (if you want to go that route).
The Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration and Cybersecurity is comprised of 12 IT courses (which you may have completed in our other programs), as well as five non-IT general education classes.
- Introduction to Communications
- American Government
- Business Math
- Introduction to Psychology
- English Composition I
- Philosophy (optional program course substitution)
You will be able to do the following after you have completed the Associate of Applied Science in Network Administration and Cybersecurity program:
- Install, Repair, and Maintain Computer Hardware
- Create and Implement Network Security Strategy
- Plan and Configure Advanced Networks
- Stop and Prevent External Security Attacks and Threats
- Understand Network Protocols
Key Takeaways: What to Study for IT Jobs
IT classes are a great way to start your Information Technology career. However, it is important to note that there are different skills that are needed in the Information Technology sector. The best way to learn these IT skills is by taking courses from an accredited institution and earning the appropriate certifications. By doing so, candidates will be able to get the necessary training and education that they need to be successful in their careers.
IT certification preparedness is essential for every IT professional. We provide access to IT certification training and preparedness, as well as continuous Career Placement Services and Financial Aid possibilities for those who qualify. For more information on IT certification preparedness, contact us today!