5 Highly Coveted Degrees For Technology Professionals

People looking for careers in the technical professional field can bolster their experience and knowledge with an academic degree. Finding the best degrees for higher salaries, interesting careers, and job-related benefits can be a challenge.

I have found some of the most coveted degrees for technical professionals that can lead to rewarding and lucrative careers.

Associate of Science Degree in Computer Science or Information Systems

Entry positions in computer support services can be achieved through a two-year Associate’s degree in computers. This degree offers graduates the classes they need to become computer support specialists earning an average of $46,000 a year. Graduates can work as help-desk technicians, technical support specialists, or other basic technical computer work.

Though the wages are lower than for other technical professionals with advanced degrees, students are attracted to the two-year program that results in a respectable salary and job advancement opportunities. If and when graduates decide to continue their study to earn a Bachelor’s at a college or university, the AS degree credits can be transferred and applied for the higher degree.

Bachelor of Computer and Information Science

Graduates with a Bachelor’s in Computer and Information Science have the opportunity to write their own tickets to fast-growing, high-paying careers. Graduates who work as Database Administrators can earn approximately $73,490 per year with one to five years experience. Computer analysts provide IT services involving designing, trouble-shooting, and adapting computer systems to employers or clients.

Due to the increasing demand for computer technicians, graduates can transform their experience and education into consulting work or the creation of their own business. Supplement this degree with courses in accounting, finance, management, marketing, and organizational design for additional opportunities to increase salary, benefits, and employment possibilities.

Masters in Business Analytics

A new program involves a Masters in Business Analytics. This data analysis degree will be in high demand by businesses, institutions, and agencies to deal with the flood of data and the necessity for specialists to manage, interpret, and apply to the organizations’ goals and objectives. The degree was unveiled in 2012 at colleges and universities such as Northwestern and New York University with advertised start dates in 2013.

The degree often involves a segment of study overseas, such as in Singapore, so that graduates have world business experience and contacts. Graduates with a Masters in Business Analytics can expect to earn from $40,000 to $100,000 a year. To pump up the salary, job seekers can combine the Masters in Business Analytics with the traditional and still highly-regarded Masters of Business Administration for access to top-paying job opportunities.

Masters of Business Administration

The Masters of Business Administration (MBA) opens the door for technology professionals to enter management and executive positions. Job-seekers who hold a bachelor’s degree in a technical field can enhance their marketability, increase their salaries, and broaden their career prospects with an MBA.

Students seeking an MBA can select the standard two-year program at a college or university campus. Other choices include a blend of on-site and online coursework or a completely online degree. For the highest level of careers, salaries, benefits, and opportunities, select an MBA program with a technology specialization.

Ph.D in Computer Science

With a Ph.D in Computer Science, graduates are qualified for increased salaries and positions offered to Computer and Information Research Scientists. With a median wage of $100,000, jobs include technology invention and design, applications for technology, and research and development. Software developers and engineers and expect up to $130,000 a year, while Computer Scientists can earn up to $200,000.

Graduates can work for private companies, government agencies, or as private consultants or contractors. Though this terminal degree takes additional time and expense, the investment added to experience can pay off to ensure a long and lucrative career with high level of job satisfaction.

Sam Nelson

About the Guest Author:

Sam Nelson is an IT manager and guest author at Graduate Degree Program, where he has contributed guides to top-ranked online graduate degree programs.