Although there are a variety of things an individual can do to advance personally and professionally, attaining a graduate degree can be particularly advantageous. This is the case for several reasons, including the fact that earning a graduate degree can make one a more marketable job candidate while also ensuring higher pay. In many cases, students who have a passion for computers and/or technology find themselves thinking about earning a Masters in IT. However, if you find yourself hesitant about earning a Masters in IT, you should know that there are a wide variety of other options available to you.

Masters in IT-The Basics

As many technology experts know, IT (or Information Technology) is the study and/or utilization of systems like telecommunications and computers for the purpose of retrieving, storing, and sending data. Although the type of information that a student might be exposed to in a Masters of IT program will differ, the programs generally place primacy upon the acquisition of both technical and domain knowledge. Emphasis is often placed upon preparing students to handle formidable software development projects while also leading teams of IT professionals to engage in analysis, design, implementation, and service delivery.

Graduate Degree Options Other Than Master’s in IT

If you are interested in the field of Internet Technology yet find yourself wanting to explore other graduate degree options, you should know that there are a plethora of other similar majors that you could pursue. Here are two:

1. Computer Science

Although broadly defined, computer science is basically the practical and scientific approach to computation as well as its application. If one were to pursue a graduate degree in the field of computer science, studies would likely be predicated on the structure, mechanization, feasibility, and expression of information stored in computer memory. In discussing graduate degree programs in Computer Science, Jacquelyn Smith notes that “computer science ties physician assistant studies for the No. 1 advanced degree.” Smith goes on to point out that the average mid-career pay for a computer science grad is $109,000. Moreover, employment opportunities for those who hold degrees in computer science is expected to expand by 27% between the years of 2008 and 2018.

2. Information Systems/Computer Information Systems

Information Systems (also referred to as Computer Information Systems) is the branch of information technology that incorporates studying the complementary networks of software and hardware used by individuals and organizations for the purpose of collecting, filtering, processing, creating, and distributing data. Students who obtain a Masters in Information Systems combine knowledge of organizational and managerial issues with information systems proficiency. Generally, an individual who obtains a master’s degree in Computer Information Systems will have advanced knowledge in the documentation and analysis of requirements for design, architecture, and implementation of computer applications systems. They will also possess proficiency in computing and software skills as they relate to the implementation and design of data communications, database systems, design, and systems analysis.

Conclusion

As made plain by the information listed above, individuals who are interested in the field of Information Technology do not have to obtain a graduate degree in IT to pursue a viable vocational path. Both Computer Science and Information Systems are great alternatives for individuals who enjoy the worlds of computers and technology. By considering the information listed above, you can make an informed decision regarding which vocational path would be most appropriate for you. Good luck!