Are you looking for a career with job security and opportunities for growth?
“Computer science jobs have longevity and flexibility in the marketplace,” said John Thacher, program director for the computer programming, web design and game development programs at Gwinnett Technical College.
Technology hiring is on the rise and so are salaries, according to Network World magazine. Compared to the national unemployment rate of around 9 percent, the jobless rate for technology positions is only about 4 percent.
According to Robert Half Technology, a leading provider of IT professionals, four trends are fueling the increased demand for computer technologists:
1. Skyrocketing growth in mobile media (smart phones and tablets).
2. Companies and individuals have access to ever-increasing amounts of data.
3. Combating IT security threats is an ongoing necessity.
4. More businesses are using online collaboration.
“Information technology is so ubiquitous in our business and private worlds. Every business wants to increase its market share, and a website is a relatively inexpensive way for even small companies to achieve a worldwide presence,” Thacher said. “Companies need people who can update and manage their websites; that’s where the money is.”
Computer science programs are booming at Gwinnett Tech. There are almost 300 students enrolled in computer programming, 300 in Web design and 200 more in game development.
The school offers associate degrees, diplomas and specialized certificates. For a 15-credit-hour load, in-state tuition is $1,357 (plus fees) per semester.
Contrary to popular opinion, prospective students don’t need to be a technology nerd or a math wizard to enter the computer field. “We start interested students with the basics — here’s a computer, here’s the on-switch, and [we] go from there,” Thacher said.
Most computer science programs don’t require math skills beyond college algebra, although gaming requires some precalculus.
All computer science students take the same three or four introductory courses, which prepare them to select from the wide spectrum of specialties in information technology.
“By the time they’ve taken courses in computer concepts, structured query language, and program design and development, something will grab them and we can guide them into the technology program that fits their interests and aptitudes,” Thacher said.
Computer programmers learn the languages, concepts and techniques that make computers process information and perform applications. Web designers need programming skills, but they also can express their creative sides when they design websites. Gaming is a mix of programming, art and entertainment.
“Strong work ethics are important in all computer fields. You can be the best Web designer, but if you’re always fighting with your co-workers, you won’t last long,” Thacher said.
Students receive a work ethics grade in every course, and hone their workplace skills through internships, which often lead to jobs.
“They graduate with a portfolio of work. Many companies will test an applicant’s skills before hiring them, and that’s when our students shine. They’re trained to hit the ground running,” he said.
Graduates find jobs with annual salaries starting from $40,000 to $50,000. To learn more about Gwinnett Tech's programs, call 678-226-6679 or go to http://gwinnetttech.edu/computer.
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