What to Expect in an Information Technology Program

You’re aware of the abundant opportunities in the world of information technology and eager to enter this exciting field. First, however, you obtain targeted training that can give you an edge as you embark on the job search and help you handle the many opportunities and challenges you encounter in your future career.

An Information Technology Certificate program or degree program can equip you with a variety of relevant skills, plus the connections and confidence you need to pursue a career in IT. To help you determine whether this path is right for you, we’ve compiled a deep dive into the life of an IT student: which courses you may take, the skills you can develop and the career paths you can pursue upon graduation.

Coursework to Expect in an IT Program

As you enroll in your IT program, be prepared to take a variety of courses that can help you build a strong foundation in computer science. Specifically, your program should cover computer hardware and software, networking, operating systems and cybersecurity. The following are a few of the many courses you might encounter:

Computer Literacy & Applications for the Professional

This course provides an introduction[1] to office productivity software, such as word processing, spreadsheet, presentations, and email. Topics include basic computer use, information literacy, and working with productivity applications in a professional setting.

Networking Essentials

Discover the principles of network design through core courses[2] that delve into networking terminology and protocols. You’ll emerge with a better understanding of local area networks and wide area networks – along with the myriad of troubleshooting and maintenance procedures that keep them running smoothly.

Introduction to Cloud Computing

An in-depth understanding of cloud computing[3] is a must for today’s IT professionals, as the cloud is now widely regarded as the gold standard for improving agility and innovation. Through foundational courses, you will explore virtualization, migration and cloud-based management — and how these relate to other IT concepts. Again, simulation software will help you develop these skills and apply them in a variety of complex scenarios.

Cybersecurity

From access control to cryptography, cybersecurity courses provide a valuable introduction to the wide range of vulnerabilities and threats that plague today’s businesses, customers and clients. You’ll learn which mitigation strategies are most effective — and how they can be implemented to protect individuals and organizations alike. These are vital skills, as many of the top IT jobs of tomorrow will involve cybersecurity[4].

What Skills Can You Develop in an IT Program?

By taking the courses like those described above — and a variety of other targeted classes — you will develop a wide range of skills that allow you to thrive as an IT professional. Those skills can include:

Technical Skills

Installation, configuration and deployment are all complex skills that require a thorough understanding of computer systems, as well as extensive practice via simulations and real-world problem-solving. These skills must be developed within the context of modern IT concerns and processes, such as the cloud and artificial intelligence.

Database Management

IT graduates should be able to navigate software systems with ease. This includes developing, updating and managing data within often complex databases. As you master these skills, you will gain a greater understanding of — and appreciation for — the modern data lifecycle.

Programming Languages

From JavaScript to Python, programming languages[5] form the building blocks of our modern digital world. IT programs introduce you to these languages, which can open a world of potential as you seek job opportunities in everything from software development to cybersecurity.

Protocols for Networking

Network protocols determine how data should be transmitted between various devices. By the time you graduate, you should understand how computers communicate over networks and how that communication can be protected.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving

Soft skills are a critical component of any IT program. Among the most important? Critical thinking, which allows you to think on your feet as you objectively analyze complex problems and come up with effective solutions. These skills can only be developed through practice, but thankfully, simulations, capstones and externships provide a wealth of opportunities to do precisely that.

Teamwork Communication Skills

Teamwork and strong communication are critical to success in IT, which is nowhere near as solitary of a profession as many people assume. Instead, IT professionals work closely with a variety of team members to allocate important tasks while pooling their knowledge and resources. IT programs encourage students to work together to develop critical teamwork and communication skills[6], including conflict resolution and team-oriented decision-making.

Different Paths as an IT Graduate

Information technology is a diverse field with lots of room for movement. Most opportunities fall into one of a few categories: software, hardware and networking. As new technologies emerge, however, the field continues to expand. While enrolled in your IT program, you may find yourself gravitating toward one of these compelling career paths:

Explore Network Administration

Do you have a knack for handling the day-to-day complications of computer networks? If so, you may thrive in the problem-solving role of a network administrator[7]. Be prepared to evaluate and install hardware or software as you make targeted upgrades. This is a top option for IT graduates, who may handle everything from mobile equipment to employee workstations or even provide technical support for struggling users. This field is vast enough to accommodate IT graduates with a variety of skills and interests.

SJVC’s Online IT Program

The right IT program can equip you with a variety of skills. At San Joaquin Valley College, we are determined to give you a solid start. We offer a well-rounded Information Technology Certificate program that can be completed in just 31 weeks. Another excellent option? Our Associate of Science in Information Technology, which can prepare you to make your mark in the IT industry.

AT SJVC, our approach to IT skill development emphasizes not only technical and analytical skills but also soft skills like communication, problem-solving and other essentials that today’s employers value. Through targeted coursework and hands-on application, you can gain exposure to a variety of essential concepts. Visit the page to learn more about  Information Technology.

* Please visit the IT program page to learn more about the specifics of the Information Technology Program at SJVC.

[1] San Joaquin Valley College. “2023 SJVC Catalog.” 27 Nov. 2022. 170, https://static.sjvc.edu/_downloads/consumerinfo/2023-SJVC-Catalog.pdf.

[2] San Joaquin Valley College. 2023 SJVC Catalog. 27 Nov. 2022, 170. https://static.sjvc.edu/_downloads/consumerinfo/2023-SJVC-Catalog.pdf.

[3] Davis, Lee . “What Is Cloud Computing? The Ultimate Guide”. Forbes, 19 Oct. 2022, www.forbes.com/advisor/business/what-is-cloud-computing/.

[4] Lake, Sydney. “This cybersecurity job is one of the fastest-growing in the U.S.—and it pays six figures”. Fortune, 08 Dec. 2022, fortune.com/education/articles/this-cybersecurity-job-is-one-of-the-fastest-growing-in-the-u-s-and-it-pays-six-figures/.

[5] Wang , Keʻalohi . “The 7 Best Programming Languages To Learn For Beginners”. Forbes, 09 Feb. 2023, www.forbes.com/advisor/education/easiest-programming-language-to-learn/.

[6] Tanjung, Gandhie. “Communication Skills – How Important Is It in the IT Industry?”. LinkedIn, 03 May 2021, www.linkedin.com/pulse/communication-skills-how-important-industry-gandhie-tanjung-w.

[7] National Institute of Standards and Technology. “Network Administrator”. Computer Security Resource Center, csrc.nist.gov/glossary/term/network_administrator.