13 answers
Gregory
Student
Sedro-Woolley, Washington
2
Questions
Asked
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College or Certifications for IT Jobs?
I keep seeing that job offerings for IT jobs require a Bachelors at the least, however I keep being told that you really only need certifications. Which is it?
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13 answers
Adit Sheth
Senior Software Engineer
114
Answers
Bellevue, Washington
Updated
Adit’s Answer
When choosing between a college degree and IT certifications, you should keep these key factors in mind:
1. Job Requirements:
A lot of employers still favor job applicants who have a Bachelor's degree in areas such as Computer Science or Information Technology, particularly for roles that need in-depth technical understanding. However, having certifications can also showcase your proficiency in particular fields, often making you a strong contender.
2. Career Objectives:
If your career targets include systems administration, networking, or cybersecurity, certifications like CompTIA, Cisco, or AWS can be extremely beneficial and sometimes adequate. On the other hand, for roles in software development, data science, or managerial positions, a degree might offer a more robust foundation.
3. Preferred Learning Method:
A college education provides a well-rounded learning experience, imparting fundamental concepts and critical thinking abilities. Certifications, on the other hand, are usually more specialized and enable you to acquire specific skills rapidly. If you favor a more practical, hands-on learning approach, certifications could be a suitable choice.
4. Networking Possibilities:
Colleges offer networking chances through classmates, teachers, and career events, which can be advantageous for securing jobs. Certifications, provided by industry-acknowledged organizations, can also present networking opportunities within the specific industry.
5. Combined Approach:
A lot of successful IT professionals have a blend of both qualifications. Consider working towards a degree while also gaining certifications to boost your resume and skill set.
In the end, the ideal path is determined by your career goals, learning style, and the specific job market in your region. Both options can pave the way for successful careers in the IT field!
1. Job Requirements:
A lot of employers still favor job applicants who have a Bachelor's degree in areas such as Computer Science or Information Technology, particularly for roles that need in-depth technical understanding. However, having certifications can also showcase your proficiency in particular fields, often making you a strong contender.
2. Career Objectives:
If your career targets include systems administration, networking, or cybersecurity, certifications like CompTIA, Cisco, or AWS can be extremely beneficial and sometimes adequate. On the other hand, for roles in software development, data science, or managerial positions, a degree might offer a more robust foundation.
3. Preferred Learning Method:
A college education provides a well-rounded learning experience, imparting fundamental concepts and critical thinking abilities. Certifications, on the other hand, are usually more specialized and enable you to acquire specific skills rapidly. If you favor a more practical, hands-on learning approach, certifications could be a suitable choice.
4. Networking Possibilities:
Colleges offer networking chances through classmates, teachers, and career events, which can be advantageous for securing jobs. Certifications, provided by industry-acknowledged organizations, can also present networking opportunities within the specific industry.
5. Combined Approach:
A lot of successful IT professionals have a blend of both qualifications. Consider working towards a degree while also gaining certifications to boost your resume and skill set.
In the end, the ideal path is determined by your career goals, learning style, and the specific job market in your region. Both options can pave the way for successful careers in the IT field!
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6175
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hey Gregory!
Decoding IT Job Prerequisites: Academic Degrees vs. Professional Certifications
The Information Technology (IT) sector often grapples with the question of whether a formal academic degree, like a Bachelor's, is essential for landing a job, or if professional certifications can do the trick. Let's dissect this debate into several crucial aspects:
1. Evolution of IT Job Market
The IT job landscape has seen significant changes over time. In the past, employers typically favored candidates with formal education, particularly a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or similar fields. However, with the rapid evolution of technology and the growing need for skilled professionals, many firms have started acknowledging that practical skills and certifications can be equally important.
2. The Power of Certifications
Certifications are specialized qualifications that validate expertise in specific IT areas. They are commonly pursued by individuals aiming to boost their skills or transition into new roles within the sector. Some popular certifications include:
CompTIA A+: A beginner-level certification focusing on essential IT skills.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): Concentrates on networking basics.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): An advanced certification for cybersecurity experts.
These certifications can occasionally open job doors without a degree, especially in technical roles where hands-on experience is highly prized.
3. What Employers Want
Different employers have different needs and cultures, influencing their hiring criteria. Some companies may still favor degree holders for their structured educational background and theoretical knowledge. Others might value practical experience and relevant certifications more, especially in dynamic settings like startups or tech firms where adaptability is key.
4. The Combined Approach
A combined approach of education and certifications is becoming increasingly popular among successful IT professionals. Many individuals pursue a degree while simultaneously acquiring relevant certifications to boost their job prospects. This combo can offer a competitive advantage in the job market.
5. Sector-Specific Factors
Some IT sectors may value degrees more than others. For instance:
Cybersecurity: Often demands both theoretical knowledge (attainable through a degree) and practical skills (provable through certifications).
Software Development: While many developers have degrees, robust portfolios demonstrating coding skills and projects can sometimes surpass formal education.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, while many IT job ads do mention a Bachelor's degree as a requirement, the industry also significantly acknowledges the worth of certifications and practical experience. The optimal approach depends on personal career aspirations, desired IT roles, and specific employer requirements.
Bold Answer: For IT jobs, having both a Bachelor's degree and relevant certifications can be beneficial; however, many employers also consider candidates with only certifications, depending on the role.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used to Answer this Question:
1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS offers extensive data on employment trends in various sectors, including information about educational prerequisites for different IT roles.
2. CompTIA
CompTIA provides insights into industry standards for certifications and their role in securing tech jobs.
3. LinkedIn Learning Blog
This source explores current hiring trends in tech industries, highlighting the equilibrium between degrees and certifications based on employer preferences.
Chances of Answer Being Correct: 95%
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Decoding IT Job Prerequisites: Academic Degrees vs. Professional Certifications
The Information Technology (IT) sector often grapples with the question of whether a formal academic degree, like a Bachelor's, is essential for landing a job, or if professional certifications can do the trick. Let's dissect this debate into several crucial aspects:
1. Evolution of IT Job Market
The IT job landscape has seen significant changes over time. In the past, employers typically favored candidates with formal education, particularly a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, or similar fields. However, with the rapid evolution of technology and the growing need for skilled professionals, many firms have started acknowledging that practical skills and certifications can be equally important.
2. The Power of Certifications
Certifications are specialized qualifications that validate expertise in specific IT areas. They are commonly pursued by individuals aiming to boost their skills or transition into new roles within the sector. Some popular certifications include:
CompTIA A+: A beginner-level certification focusing on essential IT skills.
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA): Concentrates on networking basics.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP): An advanced certification for cybersecurity experts.
These certifications can occasionally open job doors without a degree, especially in technical roles where hands-on experience is highly prized.
3. What Employers Want
Different employers have different needs and cultures, influencing their hiring criteria. Some companies may still favor degree holders for their structured educational background and theoretical knowledge. Others might value practical experience and relevant certifications more, especially in dynamic settings like startups or tech firms where adaptability is key.
4. The Combined Approach
A combined approach of education and certifications is becoming increasingly popular among successful IT professionals. Many individuals pursue a degree while simultaneously acquiring relevant certifications to boost their job prospects. This combo can offer a competitive advantage in the job market.
5. Sector-Specific Factors
Some IT sectors may value degrees more than others. For instance:
Cybersecurity: Often demands both theoretical knowledge (attainable through a degree) and practical skills (provable through certifications).
Software Development: While many developers have degrees, robust portfolios demonstrating coding skills and projects can sometimes surpass formal education.
Wrap Up
In conclusion, while many IT job ads do mention a Bachelor's degree as a requirement, the industry also significantly acknowledges the worth of certifications and practical experience. The optimal approach depends on personal career aspirations, desired IT roles, and specific employer requirements.
Bold Answer: For IT jobs, having both a Bachelor's degree and relevant certifications can be beneficial; however, many employers also consider candidates with only certifications, depending on the role.
Top 3 Reliable Sources Used to Answer this Question:
1. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS)
The BLS offers extensive data on employment trends in various sectors, including information about educational prerequisites for different IT roles.
2. CompTIA
CompTIA provides insights into industry standards for certifications and their role in securing tech jobs.
3. LinkedIn Learning Blog
This source explores current hiring trends in tech industries, highlighting the equilibrium between degrees and certifications based on employer preferences.
Chances of Answer Being Correct: 95%
Stay Blessed!
JC.
Heather Linn
AI Red Team
5
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Heather’s Answer
The best answer is to actually understand and know what you're doing.... college/university will introduce you to the concepts you'll need to master, but bridging the gap between being introduced to the concepts and knowing them well enough to apply them in practice is still up to you.
But, think about it this way...
Let's say you have a video game that makes money when you play it. You realize you can make more money if you pay someone else a part of what you earn to play it with you. Instead of getting your pay, you get your pay and half their pay too. They don't get to play the game on their own because you own the game. They need you to let them play the game. But, you get paid based on how well they pay.
You get 100 people who sign up to play. You get a piece of paper they wrote to decide from. How do you decide which person you want to bring on to play your game? You only get one, and the one you choose will determine how much money you make.
Do you choose someone who went to a school who taught them what video games are and how they are played, but never required them to play any games?
Do you choose someone who took a multiple-choice test asking questions about video games and how they are played, but never requires them to play any games?
Do you choose someone who has both?
What if you have someone who has a list of games and the high scores they have achieved (like with a capture the flag exercise or a practical certification)?
What if 50 of your candidates have equally high scores and equally long lists of games they've played?
What if 30 of them have a degree, too?
What if 10 of them have certifications, but no degree?
What if 10 of them have certifications, a degree, and high scores with equally long lists of games to everyone else?
What if 99 applicants have certifications and degrees, but only one of them has ever played a game before?
This is sort of how employers work. For every job that is posted, there are often hundreds of applicants. Certificates and degrees are designed to make applicants stand out. Experience also makes candidates stand out. How is an employer supposed to know whether you're best for the job or not?
But, think about it this way...
Let's say you have a video game that makes money when you play it. You realize you can make more money if you pay someone else a part of what you earn to play it with you. Instead of getting your pay, you get your pay and half their pay too. They don't get to play the game on their own because you own the game. They need you to let them play the game. But, you get paid based on how well they pay.
You get 100 people who sign up to play. You get a piece of paper they wrote to decide from. How do you decide which person you want to bring on to play your game? You only get one, and the one you choose will determine how much money you make.
Do you choose someone who went to a school who taught them what video games are and how they are played, but never required them to play any games?
Do you choose someone who took a multiple-choice test asking questions about video games and how they are played, but never requires them to play any games?
Do you choose someone who has both?
What if you have someone who has a list of games and the high scores they have achieved (like with a capture the flag exercise or a practical certification)?
What if 50 of your candidates have equally high scores and equally long lists of games they've played?
What if 30 of them have a degree, too?
What if 10 of them have certifications, but no degree?
What if 10 of them have certifications, a degree, and high scores with equally long lists of games to everyone else?
What if 99 applicants have certifications and degrees, but only one of them has ever played a game before?
This is sort of how employers work. For every job that is posted, there are often hundreds of applicants. Certificates and degrees are designed to make applicants stand out. Experience also makes candidates stand out. How is an employer supposed to know whether you're best for the job or not?
Cierra Mardis
Software Development
2
Answers
Enid, Oklahoma
Updated
Cierra’s Answer
A lot of this depends on your location, and your expectations from the career as far as time, salary, etc. If you have the ability to go to school, I would advise school, go get a degree, you will find you are more likely to get a job with a degree than a certification. However, you can get a certification, you will just need to show your skills far more than a degree-holder, such as filling up your github with lots of projects to showcase what you can do. A degree gives you a really great foundation that you can build off of in your career, and many choose this route, but you can definitely go either way. However, if cost is a factor for you, bootcamps are really expensive and last a very short amount of time. They are trying to give you as much information as possible in just a few months, and for many, the information just doesn't stick.
If you are looking into an IT technician, cybersecurity analyst, things that aren't programming, you can study and receive many of the CompTIA certifications to land a job. However, for development, I recommend school.
If you are looking into an IT technician, cybersecurity analyst, things that aren't programming, you can study and receive many of the CompTIA certifications to land a job. However, for development, I recommend school.
Betsy Walters
Technical Writer
25
Answers
Raleigh, North Carolina
Updated
Betsy’s Answer
I would not have gotten anywhere if I hadn't had a bachelors. I'm a technical writer and my career started when someone saw I had an English degree and asked me to edit their engineer-written manuals. Plus, I had a lot of fun during my college years and was exposed to many subjects and points of view, which always helped me and kept me open to learning.
Granted college is much more expensive now than it was when I went to school in 1984. So, your financial situation will help determine whether or not to go to college or get certification. Can you get a college scholarship? That will help with college costs.
If you can't yet afford college, get the certificates, and then get your degree after you have a job and are making money. But definitely get a bachelors - I'd say most if not 99.99% of job postings if they don't ask specifically for a degree, they assume you have one. I believe the one to start with is the CompTIA (Security +). Cybersecurity is a growing field. I'm working on that certification now because it will increase my credibility for certain IT writing roles.
You could also start with a certificate to test whether or not you really like IT. But as Efrain indicated, certifications are for specific skills, so make sure you pick one that aligns with your career goals. Also, have you considered a 2-year associate’s degree? You might start there, there are lots of 2-year associates' IT programs.
Another idea is to do informational interviews with people already working in IT and ask what their educational experience has been. I have found that when I’m in doubt, gathering more information always helps guide my decision making.
Granted college is much more expensive now than it was when I went to school in 1984. So, your financial situation will help determine whether or not to go to college or get certification. Can you get a college scholarship? That will help with college costs.
If you can't yet afford college, get the certificates, and then get your degree after you have a job and are making money. But definitely get a bachelors - I'd say most if not 99.99% of job postings if they don't ask specifically for a degree, they assume you have one. I believe the one to start with is the CompTIA (Security +). Cybersecurity is a growing field. I'm working on that certification now because it will increase my credibility for certain IT writing roles.
You could also start with a certificate to test whether or not you really like IT. But as Efrain indicated, certifications are for specific skills, so make sure you pick one that aligns with your career goals. Also, have you considered a 2-year associate’s degree? You might start there, there are lots of 2-year associates' IT programs.
Another idea is to do informational interviews with people already working in IT and ask what their educational experience has been. I have found that when I’m in doubt, gathering more information always helps guide my decision making.
Biplab Panda
Engagement Director
70
Answers
Atlanta, Georgia
Updated
Biplab’s Answer
The "objective" answer is that it will depend on the companies that you're applying to and their requirements.
That said, most listings we see and that even my own company posts job descriptions for in IT require a Bachelor's degree with certifications listed as preferred. There are exceptional cases where we will hire a candidate who doesn't necessarily meet all requirements, including the degree one, provided that the skillset and cultural fit are an excellent match. This usually requires equivalent years of industry experience, however.
That said, most listings we see and that even my own company posts job descriptions for in IT require a Bachelor's degree with certifications listed as preferred. There are exceptional cases where we will hire a candidate who doesn't necessarily meet all requirements, including the degree one, provided that the skillset and cultural fit are an excellent match. This usually requires equivalent years of industry experience, however.
Mike Volpe
Customer Success Executive
2
Answers
Hoboken, New Jersey
Updated
Mike’s Answer
Hello Gregory! Both elements hold great worth. A college degree can equip you with the broad knowledge needed to excel in numerous job roles, while specific certifications can sharpen your skills for a particular role, making you a standout candidate for companies seeking that exact area of expertise.
In the long run, it's beneficial to pursue a blend of both - a college degree and certifications. This approach will ensure you're a versatile professional, ready to steer your career towards any direction you choose!
In the long run, it's beneficial to pursue a blend of both - a college degree and certifications. This approach will ensure you're a versatile professional, ready to steer your career towards any direction you choose!
Efraín Escobar
Cloud Engineer
12
Answers
Medellín, Antioquia, Colombia
Updated
Efraín’s Answer
Hi Gregory,
I'd always recommend a college degree. It provides a broader foundation for your career. Certifications can be helpful for specific roles within a company that uses the certified technologies, but if you switch jobs and the new company uses different tools, those certifications might not be as valuable unless they're very general.
For example, I completed the full training for the AWS Solutions Architect Associate certification. When I changed jobs, my new company used Azure, so I had to start over with Azure certifications.
I'd always recommend a college degree. It provides a broader foundation for your career. Certifications can be helpful for specific roles within a company that uses the certified technologies, but if you switch jobs and the new company uses different tools, those certifications might not be as valuable unless they're very general.
For example, I completed the full training for the AWS Solutions Architect Associate certification. When I changed jobs, my new company used Azure, so I had to start over with Azure certifications.
Laks Narayanan
Architect
2
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Laks’s Answer
Hello, I would consistently advocate for finishing your college degree. It equips you with a robust base necessary to grasp the fundamentals of the IT landscape.
Certifications, while focused on particular platforms and tools, are not the only thing employers are seeking these days. They also value hands-on work experience along with these certificates. Nevertheless, having certifications can demonstrate your profound understanding of a specific platform or tool, potentially giving you an edge during the hiring process.
Certifications, while focused on particular platforms and tools, are not the only thing employers are seeking these days. They also value hands-on work experience along with these certificates. Nevertheless, having certifications can demonstrate your profound understanding of a specific platform or tool, potentially giving you an edge during the hiring process.
Michael Knox
Customer Success Manager
7
Answers
North Brunswick Township, New Jersey
Updated
Michael’s Answer
Hey Gregory,
I've found that the fact of the matter is if you don't already have experience or a proven portfolio, it will be tough to make a splash in this industry with only certifications. Although that is not to say you can't, a Bachelors degree would help get you an entry-level role which you can then expand on with certifications.
If you did have years of relevant industry experience, it becomes a different scenario where a Bachelors Degree could hold less importance depending on the role and company.
I've found that the fact of the matter is if you don't already have experience or a proven portfolio, it will be tough to make a splash in this industry with only certifications. Although that is not to say you can't, a Bachelors degree would help get you an entry-level role which you can then expand on with certifications.
If you did have years of relevant industry experience, it becomes a different scenario where a Bachelors Degree could hold less importance depending on the role and company.
Swathi Hoysala
Software Engineer
2
Answers
Toronto, Ontario, Canada
Updated
Swathi’s Answer
As many responses have already pointed out, blending both elements is the optimal choice. Certifications can equip you with the essential skills a job demands, while a bachelor's degree introduces you to the unique experience of college life and connects you to an extensive alumni network. Typically, colleges host career fairs, simplifying the process of securing interviews and landing your initial job. Higher education exposes you to a variety of fields you might choose to explore.
Finally, the friendships you form during your college years often last a lifetime. That's an invaluable benefit!
Finally, the friendships you form during your college years often last a lifetime. That's an invaluable benefit!
Ishani Chowatia
Internal Auditor
2
Answers
Parsippany-Troy Hills, New Jersey
Updated
Ishani’s Answer
If you're interested in IT Auditing, the CISA would be great!
Addie Wright, PMP
1
Answer
Sacramento, California
Updated
Addie’s Answer
Absolutely, you can do BOTH! While it's true that a bachelor's degree has become a common requirement for many jobs, it's not the end of the road. If you're aiming for a specific IT role, certifications can provide the specialized knowledge and experience you need. A bachelor's degree in information technology or a related field will equip you with a comprehensive understanding of the IT landscape. Meanwhile, certifications can sharpen your specific skills, making you a perfect fit for your desired position. So, go for it! Both paths can lead you to success in your IT career.
Thank you, Addie for the advice.
Gregory
I have a lot of personal problems and disabilities that would make college extremely hard for me. Would it be possible to get by with high school and certifications alone?
Gregory
Hi Gregory. Yes you can, though it make take a bit longer because you may need to acquire more experience to make up for a college degree. Mind you, experience doesn't always mean a "job." You will need to tangibly demonstrate that you can perform all the skills needed for a position. Also, it will be important to build up a network/community or find a mentor who can help you with projects, offer advice, and provide references if needed. Hope this helps.
Addie Wright, PMP