Computers have continued to evolve since their inception decades ago and today we can definitely proclaim that we are living in a computer age. There are few facets of our lives that remain untouched by computers today and the technology continues to develop all the time. What is needed as a result are skilled professionals who are trained in designing, adapting, maintaining and implementing these new technologies and making our lives more productive as a result.

Computer training can be divided into a number of sub-specialties that include computer hardware, computer networking, computer software, and Web development. For those students who have an interest in math and science and show an aptitude for problem solving and analytical skills, a career in computers might be the right one for you. Working towards a career in computers can be done in several ways. You can opt for Associate, Bachelor’s, or Master’s degree programs and / or complete various certifications and certificate programs. Some employers require specific certifications in addition to your degree while others may need only a certification or two. It is therefore sensible to research the jobs that you are interested in and find out what exactly is demanded from a potential job applicant. In general, there are three main fields of study that you can choose from – a computer science degree, a computer networking and technology degree, and a computer programming degree.

Computer Science Degrees - Students interested in computer science degrees might be surprised to discover that the curriculum is barely about computers. Computer science degrees aim to prepare students to understand the technology behind computers and to analyze and solve problems and develop new technologies. There is a strong focus on mathematical computing and data analysis making computer sciences an extremely math-oriented program. As a graduate with a computer science degree, you can expect to spend a large part of your education and career in research. Colleges offer a wide range of computer science degrees from Associate’s to Masters but the minimum requirement for most employers is normally a four-year Bachelor’s degree. Many schools also offer a computer science degree program in tandem with another specialization such as engineering or information sciences for those students who want to diversify into more specific fields after they graduate. Employment opportunities are assured to computer science students as companies are always in need of professionals to develop and maintain their software and hardware. If you want the upper hand in the competitive IT market, a computer science degree would be very useful.

Computer Programming Degrees – Computer programming as a career looks to be stable over the next few years. As long as students are prepared to be up-to-date with the current advancements and technological certifications, there should be no dearth of job opportunities for graduates with a computer programming degree. Computer programmers are those professionals who develop, test and maintain the programs that determine a computer’s functions. Programmers create new computer languages and tools to make computers do specific tasks. Top employers of computer programmers include software development companies who create packaged and specialized software. These could range from general use software, games, educational packages and the like. Programmers with a strong technical base and skills to understand a client’s requirements are always in demand. Web-based organizations, multimedia companies, wireless applications, cyber security are all up and coming new arenas that programming graduates can look forward to as challenging job prospects.

Computer Technology and Networking Degree – A degree in networking and technology will introduce you to the latest theories and practices in computer networking and technology. Students will learn about operating systems of computer networks and will be trained in installing and maintaining the various structures and components of these networks. Job possibilities include becoming a network administrator, computer support specialist or a network systems analyst. Statistics indicate that as industries and businesses rely more and more heavily on the Internet and computer technology, the demand for such jobs will only increase.