What Can You Do with a Master of Science in Information Technology?

Information technology is a broad term that covers a wide range of fast-growing occupations. IT professionals analyze components within large networks, lead teams, and work with business leaders to execute the technology vision for an entire company.

Employers demand more than tech skills from today’s IT pros. They’re also looking for employees with:

• Critical thinking skills
• Business aptitude
• Collaboration capabilities
• Strong communication skills

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports employment of computer and information technology occupations is expected to grow 11% between 2019 and 2029, which is faster than average for all occupations.* Under the IT umbrella, there are several high-profile positions that are in especially high demand. Some may require a master’s degree in IT for candidates to be considered.

Here are five IT positions for which a Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) may benefit you.^†

1. Computer and Information Systems Manager

Computer and information systems managers plan, execute, and manage computer-related activities in an organization. They:

• Analyze how current systems are doing and make recommendations to improve them
• Determine IT goals of an organization and create a strategy to achieve them
• Coordinate the installation and maintenance of new computer hardware and software
• Manage the work of other IT professionals at an organization

The BLS reports there are expected to be 48,100 new computer and information systems manager jobs added between 2019 and 2029. That's a growth rate of 10%, which is much faster than average for all occupations in the U.S.

2. Database Administrator

Data is important for organizations ranging from health care to financial institutions. MarketWatch reports the global big data market is estimated to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 17.5% from 2015 to 2022, to reach more than $11 billion by 2022.

Database administrators store and organize data. They:

• Recommend and use specialized software for data storage
• Back up and restore data to protect against loss
• Identify users who need to access data
• Manage and update existing databases

The BLS predicts that 12,800 new database administrator jobs will be added between 2019 and 2029, with a job outlook growth rate of 10%, much faster than average for all occupations.

3. Computer Systems Analyst

Organizations need the help of IT professionals who can analyze systems and make recommendations to help them operate more efficiently. A computer systems analyst helps by understanding both the business and IT needs of the company and researching potential solutions.

Computer system analysts:

• Work with management to analyze the role of IT systems
• Research new technology to determine whether it can make the organization more efficient
• Design, implement, and test new systems of hardware and software

According to the BLS, the employment of computer systems analysts is expected to grow at a rate of 7% between 2019 and 2029, adding about 46,600 new jobs in the same time period.

4. Network and Computer Systems Administrator

If there is a group of computers at an organization, then they are likely managed by a network and computer systems administrator. Network and computer systems administrators:

• Find and install network software and hardware that fit an organization's needs
• Ensure computer systems are operating correctly
• Evaluate and optimize network performance
• Add and train users who are added to a computer network

It’s expected that 16,000 new network and computer systems administrator positions will be added between 2019 and 2029, according to the BLS. That’s a job growth rate of 4%, about as fast as average.

5. Computer Network Architect

The people in charge of building the computer networks that network and computer systems administrators manage are computer network architects. Computer network architects:

• Design and build data communication networks
• Explain to key stakeholders why certain networks are recommended
• Identify and implement hardware and software for computer networks
• Manage and troubleshoot computer networks

Between 2019 and 2029, the BLS predicts 8,000 new computer network architect positions will be added, resulting in a 5% growth rate.

Interested in One of These Positions? Get the Education to Get There.

According to the BLS and O*NET OnLine, most of these positions require at least a bachelor's degree in a related field to be considered. To obtain a leadership position or to gain a competitive advantage over other candidates, a master's degree in IT may be helpful.

“The rigorous curriculum and experienced faculty help ensure that our graduates are well-prepared for today’s challenges and a variety of leadership positions.”

-Jeffrey M. Buck, PhD
Dean and Vice President, School of Business and Information Technology

Purdue Global offers an online Master of Science in Information Technology, enabling students to continue working while they earn a degree. We’re regionally accredited, and we’re part of the respected Purdue University system. For more information, contact us today.