As information technology is continually updating itself, additional qualifications are often a necessity. This is not so much in order to secure a job - but more about maintaining ones competitive edge in the market place.

In the following article, Stephen Rampur explains the different career paths that IT offers. And this information can be invaluable when deciding on your next qualification update. Browse the links provided for more additional articles relating to studying IT online or visit CBN for business related news.


Careers in Information Technology
By Stephen Rampur

Information technology is a very wide field, and if a person is thinking of choosing a career in it, he may have to be very specific as to what he actually wants to do. There are several positions available in this field which may differ according to the responsibilities and duties of the IT professional. Moreover, these professionals are highly paid in comparison to other jobs. Certifications and IT-related trainings are very essential, if one has to prosper in this field, as they are even more important than basic educational qualifications such as bachelors and masters degree. Furthermore, previous IT experiences also counts. Let's know some of the famous careers in IT one can choose from.

Software Engineering: It is one of the most demanding careers in the information technology sector. The basic requirements to become a software engineer is a bachelors degree in computer science, though a masters degree may be preferred for senior positions. Software engineers are responsible for coding, linking application modules and functionalities, and locating and correcting errors in a program code. Senior software engineers are responsible for guiding and assisting the junior ones in the tasks they have already performed in the past. The pay scale of junior engineers is $50,000-$60,000 p.a., whereas, for senior engineers, the salary may differ depending on their years of experience.

Database Administrator: An IT professional who handles the administrative work of information databases is known as a database administrator. They are also called as DBA's; and carry out database designing, preserve and develop databases, and also perform several tests. They play a vital role in creating and taking backups of data, and ensure that the data is recoverable in the case of an accident. They are involved in planning, coordinating, and implementing security systems to safeguard the company's data. Their pay scale ranges from $70,000 to $95,000. One who wants to become a database administrator should at least possess a bachelors degree in computer science or have an equivalent experience. Additional qualifications are an added advantage.

Web Developer: The primary job of web developers is to design websites for their clients. They are required to be well-versed in web designing languages such as HTML, XML, CSS, Flash, PHP, etc. They use their coding skills and create websites and web pages which are viewable and compatible with any browser. Moreover, they are proficient in using other applications like photoshop, illustrator, dreamweaver, etc. They have a complete understanding of how websites and web pages work. They may be required to work for longer hours due to the project deadlines. They get paid in a range of $40,000 to $60,000 p.a., however, experienced professional can draw a significant salary.

System Administrator: These professionals are responsible for designing, testing, examining, and evaluating several data communication systems like Local Area Network (LAN). They may also require to conduct a research and suggest on various network and hardware technologies which keep changing from time to time. A system engineer needs to be up-to-date with the new or upgraded technologies in the market. They repair and maintain hardware components like the CPU, monitor, keyboard, and other computer peripherals. System administrators need to be adept in technical skills regarding installation of computer hardware and software. Their work becomes very hectic if there is a problem in the network or any hardware when important project work is being carried out.

These were some of the many careers available in the information technology sector. Selecting an information technology career is an individual choice, and totally depends on whether one wants to install a computer, design websites, or develop software.

By Stephen Rampur