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As companies have become more reliant on technology for everything from financial analytics to sales lead development, the role of computer and information systems managers have increased as well.
IT managers play a vital role in the future of every organization because they not only lead the teams that manage the expansion of their information systems and oversee cybersecurity initiatives, they also provide the strategic direction for long-term IT needs.
Becoming a computer and information systems managers requires a background in technology as well as a passion for solving problems, strong project management skills and the ability to lead and motivate others.
Here are five steps for securing a job as a computer and information systems manager:
1. Enroll in a technology bachelor’s degree program
A bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology is a requirement for most computer and information systems (CIS) managerial positions. Computer programming, software development, and computer network security are all important skills and knowledge areas for computer and information systems managers. There are many types of jobs you can get with an IT degree in which you can build practical experience in the field and prepare you best for managerial positions in the future.
While you may choose to begin your IT career in a more focused discipline, you can also begin preparing for managerial roles now. Enrolling in an IT management bachelor's degree program can help you build the foundational skills and knowledge to qualify for entry-level jobs right from the start.
| Length | 36 months |
|---|---|
| Format | Online |
| Credential | Bachelor of Science in Technology Management |
2. Find an internship in the field
Competition for IT jobs is tough, which is why an internship – which gives you real-world experience with CIS managers – is so important.
You’ll have hands-on insight regarding network administration, software engineering and more before you even begin your official job search.
3. Gain work experience
Like every profession, securing a managerial position requires some experience. For example, many individuals start out in an IT support tech or IT help desk role, learning the ins and outs of the organization as they pursue a higher-tier position.
From their experience, they are able to achieve a well-rounded perspective of an organization’s IT needs, and build up their arsenal of strong technical skills in order to become a top-notch information technology manager one day.
Now Through June 30th
| Length | 14 months |
|---|---|
| Format | Online |
| Credential | Master of Business Administration with a Concentration in Technology Management |
| Length | 8 months |
|---|---|
| Format | Online |
| Format | Post Master's Certificate in Technology Management |
4. Continue your education
Many employers require a master’s degree in computer and information systems management.
Consider an MBA program that focuses on technical, strategic, and managerial concepts.
An MBA in Technology Management is a good option for those who want to advance their IT career. Additionally, look into post-master’s certificate options that explore project management and technology management.
Frequently Asked Questions
Information Technology (IT) is a broad and evolving career field encompassing a wide variety of tasks and core competencies. Because of this there are many types of IT degrees to choose from in addition to IT management, including:
- Information Technology (IT) – Certificate, Bachelor/Associate of Science
- Cybersecurity – Bachelor of Science
- Data Analytics – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Networking – Bachelor of Science
- Computer Programming – Bachelor of Science
- Software Development – Bachelor/Associate of Science
Bachelor’s degree holders may consider additional graduate and post-graduate education in IT, including master’s degrees or post-master’s certificates.
Herzing University’s post-baccalaureate programs emphasize the business side of technology, including MBA options in data analytics and technology management, and a post-master’s certificate in IT management.
Yes!
Going back to school to earn a bachelor’s degree in technology management positions you to become eligible for jobs with solid average pay and an optimistic projection for growth from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (15% increase expected for computer and information systems managers from 2022-2032*). You will have an opportunity to pursue many different types of job opportunities.
Your path to a career in IT management begins by getting educated. Herzing University exists to help you build your skills and earn the education you need to pursue the career of your dreams. Apply today!
To earn your MBA in IT management degree, you’ll take a combination of business and IT-focused classes. Specific course topics include:
- Business Integration and Strategic Planning
- Information Security and Privacy
- Leadership and Organizational Behavior
- Marketing and New Product Development
- Technology and Innovation
- …and many others
Depending on which IT courses you choose to take, you may gain foundational knowledge that may help you prepare for one or more of the following certificationsi:
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA Routing and Switching
- Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)
- Oracle Certified Associate
- Certified Entry-level Python Programmer
- CompTIA Linux+
i. Successful completion of related coursework may help you prepare for professional certifications, but most students will find they need to spend additional time studying beyond their coursework to successfully prepare for certification exams.
The Herzing University Technology Management bachelor’s degree program typically takes 3 years to complete.
However, many students with technical degrees may be able to transfer prior credit from a diploma or associate degree program and earn their degree in less than 3 years.
Both MBA and MS IT Management degrees focus on technology and innovation. However, the MBA coursework is designed to develop skills required for business and management careers, as well as technology.
A Master of Science in IT Management has a greater focus on the science of technology and growing IT-related skills. The curriculum for both degrees may overlap somewhat depending on the program, but both also offer unique benefits.
An MBA with a concentration in IT management helps you develop the business and management skills to thrive in many types of unique environments.
Compare MBA vs. master's degree programs and gain a better understanding of what educational path is right for you.
Technology management professionals, such as IT managers, help organizations assess and implement short and long-term tech needs. This can include software, hardware, and telecommunications. They provide executive guidance on how to best use technology to help business operations run efficiently.
While technology managers possess the expertise to carry out specific IT-related tasks, they generally delegate these tasks and focus on supervision and larger initiatives.
Projects IT managers may oversee include:
- Data security
- Hardware and software upgrades
- Vendor selection and negotiation
Learn more about a career as an IT manager
What does an IT manager do?
IT managers provide oversight and direction on technology upgrades and consult with top executives on how to use technology to improve business operations.
FULL ARTICLE:
What Does an IT Manager Do?
How much does an IT manager make?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and information systems managers earn an average annual salary of $173,670 per year ($83.49 per hour). Average salaries in technology management can vary widely based on where you’re employed and the expectations for the specific position.
FULL ARTICLE:
How Much Can You Make in IT Management?
What skills are required for IT management?
Key skills required for success as an IT manager include strategic thinking, communication skills, ability to work under pressure, attention to detail, and much more.
FULL ARTICLE:
7 Essential Skills IT Managers Need
What are the different types of IT degrees?
There are many pathways to advance your education in IT and potentially qualify for managerial positions.
FULL ARTICLE:
Consider These Types of Technology Degrees
What can you do with an IT management degree?
A degree in technology management prepares graduates for jobs leading and managing IT departments, including computer and information systems manager, IT project manager, computer systems analyst, and more.
FULL ARTICLE:
What Can I Do with a Degree in IT Management?
5. Get the job
With the right experience and education, you can become a skilled computer and information systems manager, helping organizations prepare for and respond to the IT needs of the future.
Often, computer and information systems managers that start out in mid-level management positions can eventually advance to executive or C-suite roles, such as IT director or CTO.
Learn more about the Herzing Technology Management program
* Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics 2022 / Occupational Outlook Handbook 2022. BLS estimates do not represent entry-level wages and/or salaries. Multiple factors, including prior experience, age, geography market in which you want to work and degree field, will affect career outcomes and earnings. Herzing neither represents that its graduates will earn the average salaries calculated by BLS for a particular job nor guarantees that graduation from its program will result in a job, promotion, salary increase or other career growth.
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