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mel
Student
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Getting a good job...?
Is having a bachelors degree enough to get a good, stable job? (I'm thinking of majoring in computer information)
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20 answers
Michael Schepers
IT
2
Answers
Brandon, Mississippi
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Earning a Bachelor's degree is a basic stepping stone for kick-starting your career in certain technical fields. Don't worry if you lack work experience, it's understood that gaining years of expertise in a particular area can be challenging until you land your first job. Studying majors like Computer Science, Information Technology, or Management Information Systems can pave the way to rewarding and satisfying careers.
Burde Prerana Kamath
Developer
11
Answers
Lynnwood, Washington
Updated
Burde Prerana’s Answer
Earning a Bachelor's degree can unlock a multitude of opportunities in the exciting realm of computer science. As you progress towards graduation, you'll have the chance to delve into a specific area of interest, aligning your passion with the practical needs of the corporate world. This alignment will not only secure you a steady job but also, ideally, one that you truly enjoy!
Enhancing your technical skills, engaging in hands-on projects, and gaining real-world experience through internships are all valuable ways to deepen your understanding of the corporate landscape. This comprehensive approach will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your career.
Enhancing your technical skills, engaging in hands-on projects, and gaining real-world experience through internships are all valuable ways to deepen your understanding of the corporate landscape. This comprehensive approach will equip you with the knowledge and skills needed to excel in your career.
Dhimant Korant
IT Product Manager
50
Answers
Frisco, Texas
Updated
Dhimant’s Answer
Earning a degree in a particular field is truly valuable. Remember, your knowledge is something that no one can take away from you. I wholeheartedly suggest pursuing at least a bachelor's degree. This will not only broaden your horizons but also help you define your objectives and life path. Crafting a fulfilling life is of utmost importance, and I firmly believe that this can be realized through higher education.
Adam Quattlebaum
Senior IT Specialist
20
Answers
Montgomery, Alabama
Updated
Adam’s Answer
I'm a Senior IT Specialist for a huge corporation and not having a degree has hurt me financially for sure. I know everything there is about our organization, but not having a degree has made it to where I don't meet the requirements to fill larger and better paying roles.
Yes, a bachelor's degree in information technology (IT) is enough to get a good and stable job in the field. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for IT occupations was $91,560 in May 2021, which is significantly higher than the median annual salary for all occupations of $41,950.
Here are some of the IT jobs that you can get with a bachelor's degree:
Software developer
Computer systems analyst
Cybersecurity analyst
Computer network architect
Software engineer
Hardware engineer
Network administrator
These jobs are in high demand, and the demand is expected to grow in the coming years. So, if you are interested in a career in IT, a bachelor's degree is a good place to start.
In addition to a bachelor's degree, you may also want to consider earning some industry certifications. These certifications can demonstrate your skills and knowledge to potential employers, and they can help you advance your career.
Here are some of the most popular IT certifications:
CompTIA A+
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Security+
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
With a bachelor's degree and some industry certifications, you will be well on your way to a successful career in IT.
Get certified in any CompTIA cert that interests you.
Stay in school.
Focus and be patient!
Yes, a bachelor's degree in information technology (IT) is enough to get a good and stable job in the field. In fact, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual salary for IT occupations was $91,560 in May 2021, which is significantly higher than the median annual salary for all occupations of $41,950.
Here are some of the IT jobs that you can get with a bachelor's degree:
Software developer
Computer systems analyst
Cybersecurity analyst
Computer network architect
Software engineer
Hardware engineer
Network administrator
These jobs are in high demand, and the demand is expected to grow in the coming years. So, if you are interested in a career in IT, a bachelor's degree is a good place to start.
In addition to a bachelor's degree, you may also want to consider earning some industry certifications. These certifications can demonstrate your skills and knowledge to potential employers, and they can help you advance your career.
Here are some of the most popular IT certifications:
CompTIA A+
CompTIA Network+
CompTIA Security+
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
With a bachelor's degree and some industry certifications, you will be well on your way to a successful career in IT.
Adam recommends the following next steps:
Cung Nguyen
40
Answers
Updated
Cung’s Answer
Absolutely! Possessing a Bachelor's degree in a sought-after field could potentially secure your first job straight after graduation. However, the journey of learning should never cease. Whether you decide to pursue a higher degree, such as a Master's, or opt for specific professional certifications, continuous education is crucial. It allows you to keep abreast of the latest technologies and in-demand fields, and broadens your understanding of the world. More importantly, learning should be an enjoyable journey. Strive to acquire new knowledge that enriches you intellectually and emotionally. This continuous growth and enrichment will ultimately converge, propelling you towards success in your career. It will also provide stability in your professional and personal life.
Jacob Taylor
Production Manager
521
Answers
Stafford, Virginia
Updated
Jacob’s Answer
Having a bachelor's degree, especially in a field like computer information, can indeed open doors to many good and stable job opportunities. However, several factors influence your career prospects and job stability:
1. **Relevance of Degree**: Ensure that your degree aligns with the job market. Computer information is a valuable field with a high demand for professionals, which increases your chances of finding a stable job.
2. **Skills and Experience**: Beyond your degree, practical skills and relevant experience are vital. Internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs during your studies can help you gain hands-on experience and make you a more attractive candidate to employers.
3. **Networking**: Building a professional network can be invaluable. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with professionals in your field to discover job opportunities and gain insights.
4. **Certifications**: Consider earning certifications related to your field, such as CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, or Cisco certifications. These can enhance your qualifications and make you more competitive.
5. **Soft Skills**: Develop strong soft skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. These skills are highly valued in the workplace.
6. **Continued Learning**: The tech industry is dynamic, with evolving technologies. Be prepared to engage in continuous learning and professional development to stay current.
7. **Geographic Considerations**: Job markets vary by location. Research areas where your field is in demand, and be open to relocation if necessary.
8. **Industry Specialization**: Consider specializing in a specific area within computer information, such as cybersecurity, data analytics, or software development. Specialization can make you more competitive for certain roles.
9. **Graduate Education**: Depending on your career goals, you might consider pursuing a master's degree or further education in your field. Some advanced roles may require higher-level qualifications.
10. **Job Market Research**: Stay informed about job trends and salary expectations in your chosen field. This can help you set realistic career goals and salary expectations.
In summary, while a bachelor's degree is a strong foundation, your overall employability and job stability depend on a combination of factors, including your skills, experience, networking efforts, and industry-specific certifications. Continuous learning and adaptability will be key as you navigate your career in the ever-evolving field of computer information.
1. **Relevance of Degree**: Ensure that your degree aligns with the job market. Computer information is a valuable field with a high demand for professionals, which increases your chances of finding a stable job.
2. **Skills and Experience**: Beyond your degree, practical skills and relevant experience are vital. Internships, co-op programs, or part-time jobs during your studies can help you gain hands-on experience and make you a more attractive candidate to employers.
3. **Networking**: Building a professional network can be invaluable. Attend industry events, join professional organizations, and connect with professionals in your field to discover job opportunities and gain insights.
4. **Certifications**: Consider earning certifications related to your field, such as CompTIA A+, CompTIA Network+, or Cisco certifications. These can enhance your qualifications and make you more competitive.
5. **Soft Skills**: Develop strong soft skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, and adaptability. These skills are highly valued in the workplace.
6. **Continued Learning**: The tech industry is dynamic, with evolving technologies. Be prepared to engage in continuous learning and professional development to stay current.
7. **Geographic Considerations**: Job markets vary by location. Research areas where your field is in demand, and be open to relocation if necessary.
8. **Industry Specialization**: Consider specializing in a specific area within computer information, such as cybersecurity, data analytics, or software development. Specialization can make you more competitive for certain roles.
9. **Graduate Education**: Depending on your career goals, you might consider pursuing a master's degree or further education in your field. Some advanced roles may require higher-level qualifications.
10. **Job Market Research**: Stay informed about job trends and salary expectations in your chosen field. This can help you set realistic career goals and salary expectations.
In summary, while a bachelor's degree is a strong foundation, your overall employability and job stability depend on a combination of factors, including your skills, experience, networking efforts, and industry-specific certifications. Continuous learning and adaptability will be key as you navigate your career in the ever-evolving field of computer information.
Kiran Kakumani
Principal Engineer
3
Answers
New Jersey, New Jersey
Updated
Kiran’s Answer
Absolutely concur with the guidance others have given, and I emphasize it even more: ongoing education is the sole path to gaining an edge in your profession and climbing the career ladder. Wishing you nothing but success!
Public Cloud Certification, AWS Solutions Architect for example.
Data Science skills, learn Python and related libraries to get insights of data sets add value ( very hot skill )
Kiran recommends the following next steps:
James Kirkpatrick
Systems Engineering
4
Answers
Sanford, Florida
Updated
James’s Answer
Securing a Bachelor's degree is an excellent beginning, and for some, it's the ideal ending point in their professional journey. I remember when I earned mine, I didn't choose to pursue a master's degree until 15 years later. Interestingly, I took advantage of my company's benefits to cover the cost of the master's degree. So, in the long run, it turned out to be a smart move financially too.
Amol NAIK
3
Answers
Germantown, Maryland
Updated
Amol’s Answer
Absolutely, a multitude of career options will become available to you after completing your bachelor's degree. However, your career trajectory greatly influences these choices. For instance, if you aspire to teach at a college level, pursuing a Master's degree or a PhD is essential. Moreover, I would always encourage you to continue your educational journey, as learning is a never-ending process.
Donna Kenyon
tax preparation
2
Answers
Chicago, Illinois
Updated
Donna’s Answer
Hello there! A bachelor's degree can certainly open the door to a rewarding and stable career, especially if you choose a major that directly leads to employment opportunities right after college. Fields like information technology or education are great examples where a BA degree can be more than enough. However, if your passion lies in subjects like History or Philosophy, you might need to consider furthering your education with a graduate program. This could lead you towards exciting professional paths in areas such as Law or Medicine. So, whatever your major, there's a promising future waiting for you!
Cherilyn Cruz
Product Manager
4
Answers
Clifton, New Jersey
Updated
Cherilyn’s Answer
Having a college degree in my opinion is important and will put you at an advantage compared to someone without one. Work experience and proving yourself on the job is even more important!
Amalya Sukiasyan
ESOL teacher at Washington English Center
297
Answers
Yerevan
Updated
Amalya’s Answer
Hello Mel,
Bachelor's degree is a good advantage to have a better job. Higher degrees are much better!
Computer Science is a popular career path in today's world. It is also well-paid in many cases. If you are really interested in that discipline, follow that path.
Bachelor's degree is a good advantage to have a better job. Higher degrees are much better!
Computer Science is a popular career path in today's world. It is also well-paid in many cases. If you are really interested in that discipline, follow that path.
Jackie Weinberg
IT Application Support
2
Answers
Lake Mary, Florida
Updated
Jackie’s Answer
Earning a college degree is always a beneficial move. With most job vacancies attracting numerous applicants with comparable qualifications, recruiters and hiring managers are always on the lookout for standout candidates. When you apply for any job, possessing a college degree gives you a significant edge over other contenders who lack one. It's your ticket to standing out in the crowd!
John Ureta
System Engineer
3
Answers
Monroe Township, New Jersey
Updated
John’s Answer
Hi Mel,
In my opinion, a college degree gives you the basic ground work and training to help start your career. While on the job, you’ll definitely learn a lot more of the practical applications which is always fun. But to move your career forward, don’t be afraid to do the work. Get your certifications while you're at it to further your education. Don’t stop learning and enjoy while doing it!
In my opinion, a college degree gives you the basic ground work and training to help start your career. While on the job, you’ll definitely learn a lot more of the practical applications which is always fun. But to move your career forward, don’t be afraid to do the work. Get your certifications while you're at it to further your education. Don’t stop learning and enjoy while doing it!
Roel Ramon
Product Management and Development
64
Answers
Dallas, Texas
Updated
Roel’s Answer
Securing a bachelor's degree certainly paves the way for landing a rewarding, steady job post-college. While some professions may require additional education, you'll be aware of this need well in advance of entering the workforce. Here's to your successful job search!
VENKATESH KULKARNI
Principle Engr
1
Answer
Sacramento, California
Updated
VENKATESH’s Answer
Many believe that only a master's degree can open doors to high-paying jobs. However, that's not always the case. Degrees like Computer Science can also lead you to lucrative career paths. Once you're in, the opportunity for rapid growth is immense, especially with the 'learn as you go' approach that many jobs offer. Plus, numerous leading companies offer to cover a portion of your college fees annually, should you decide to pursue further qualifications like an MBA.
Tirumala Devoju
IT Architect
3
Answers
Tampa, Florida
Updated
Tirumala’s Answer
Hi Mel,
Starting a successful career definitely hinges on your Bachelor's Degree. However, to take your career to the next level, it would be beneficial to acquire some professional certifications in your chosen field. Let's say, for instance, you're drawn towards Data Science. In that case, you might want to consider earning certifications in Python and perhaps a visualization tool to kickstart your journey. After spending a few years gaining practical experience in the field, you might find it advantageous to pursue a Master's degree. This could be a significant asset to your career progression.
Work on identifying your choice of Domain (Cyber Security, IT architecture, Full Stack , Cloud or Data Science etc.,)
Prepare and get certified
Work towards your Masters Degree
Starting a successful career definitely hinges on your Bachelor's Degree. However, to take your career to the next level, it would be beneficial to acquire some professional certifications in your chosen field. Let's say, for instance, you're drawn towards Data Science. In that case, you might want to consider earning certifications in Python and perhaps a visualization tool to kickstart your journey. After spending a few years gaining practical experience in the field, you might find it advantageous to pursue a Master's degree. This could be a significant asset to your career progression.
Tirumala recommends the following next steps:
Rahul Koneru
Senior Manager at Verizon
3
Answers
Ashburn, Virginia
Updated
Rahul’s Answer
Hello Mel,
Absolutely, earning a Bachelor's degree is a fantastic stepping stone in your career journey, setting you up for a secure employment opportunity. However, as you've likely heard, the process of learning is an ongoing adventure. It's essential to stay current and continually update your knowledge to excel in your chosen field.
Moreover, when you secure a good job, you'll find that many employers provide educational support for their employees to further their studies. This could mean pursuing a Master's degree or even a Phd.
I strongly encourage you to consider investing your time in advanced degrees like these when the circumstances are right for you. Remember, education is an investment in your future, and it's one that can yield significant returns in terms of career growth and satisfaction. Keep striving, keep learning, and you'll go far!
Absolutely, earning a Bachelor's degree is a fantastic stepping stone in your career journey, setting you up for a secure employment opportunity. However, as you've likely heard, the process of learning is an ongoing adventure. It's essential to stay current and continually update your knowledge to excel in your chosen field.
Moreover, when you secure a good job, you'll find that many employers provide educational support for their employees to further their studies. This could mean pursuing a Master's degree or even a Phd.
I strongly encourage you to consider investing your time in advanced degrees like these when the circumstances are right for you. Remember, education is an investment in your future, and it's one that can yield significant returns in terms of career growth and satisfaction. Keep striving, keep learning, and you'll go far!
Sukthi Sattenapalli Sri Priya
Engineer
1
Answer
Westwood, New Jersey
Updated
Sukthi’s Answer
Absolutely it will help you for the Job market and will get you through initial filtration, however with the new AI based technologies impacting the business world it is absolutely crucial to be technically gain expertise through various additional certifications.
Matt Gardner
Data Science and Analytics
8
Answers
San Jose, California
Updated
Matt’s Answer
Its a start - but do not “rest on your laurels” - lots of graduates struggle to get jobs - my advice would be get the degree (whatever you do don’t drop out part way with debt and loans) - but also pay attention to getting job specific skills and ideally certification - there are lots of free certificates from the likes of Cisco and Google and AWS. You will not be taught all the skills you need at college - so think about the jobs you are interested in early and start finding ways to demonstrate that as well as a degree you have these skills. And finally find ways to connect with people who can help you get connected to people running or working inside organizations you might want to work at - for example volunteer, join meetups, get involved in hackathons, contribute to open source projects, find internships or apprenticeship opportunities. If you do all of this you will be very successful - if you only get your degree you might find it does not open the doors you hope - and then have to play catch up after graduation. Finally - if you can focus your efforts around things you love - it’s not very exciting to have a goal of getting a job. But having a goal of getting a job that lets you do a lot of what you already love doing will be way more motivating and will guide you better through the choices of program and courses as you go - and you will get better grades and enjoy the process of learning these skills.