Bachelor of Science in Information Technology programs train students for future careers as computer and information systems analysts and managers. While the majority of information technology academic programs in the United States are available to on-campus students, several accredited traditional and online universities offer online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree programs.

Online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree programs typically offer students numerous specialized concentrations of study from which to choose, including: networks administration, software, management, networks design, database security, database administration, informatics, enterprise architecture and software architecture. Each specialized area of study prepares students for focused analysis and entry-level management positions within IT companies and corporate entities with IT management needs.

Careers in the health care industry are typically stable in nearly any economy. A graduate certificate in health information technology from an online learning program can help you start a career in the industry.

An online certificate in health information technology prepares graduates for careers in health and medical records and coding. Health and medical coders are needed in a variety of settings including insurance agencies, hospitals and doctor’s offices.

Information technology is a field that the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) believes will continue to offer excellent job opportunities, with growth of 17 percent estimated through 2018. IT professionals should expect to need training and education in technical computer skills, business principles and management techniques. According to BLS, the average salary in 2008 of an information technology systems manager was $112,210. In 2008, IT managers held 293,000 jobs in the U.S. IT professionals work in organizations to oversee network security, Internet operations and software development, among other responsibilities.

Chose the type of program you want to complete. While associate’s degree programs are available online, most employers prefer a bachelor’s degree when hiring. You may elect to begin with an associate’s degree and then proceed to enroll in a bachelor’s degree program after completing your two-year degree.

If you enjoy tinkering around with your computer, creating programs, keeping an eye on security measures and maximizing your system’s performance, a career in information technology may be a match. It’s also projected to be a career choice on the rise. The United States Department of Labor states that employment in information systems will continue a 17 percent rise through the year 2018. For students who prefer to learn from home, consider beginning an information technology degree program through a distance-learning university program.

Consider an online associate degree program in information technology, applicable for students who have never taken college courses in any field. Programs such as the South University degree take approximately two years and cover database design and development, object-oriented program design and modeling, Internet software development and client-server, three-tier development. A high school diploma or GED and SAT or ACT scores are required. Students interested in continuing their education may be able to apply their associate coursework to a four-year bachelor’s program.