Tuesday, 29 May 2012

Online Schools for Computer Technology: How to Choose

Computer technology degree programs are available at many different levels and areas of focus. Some of the most common online programs in computer technology include associate degrees in computer technology and bachelor's degrees in information technology. Graduate level computer technology programs are also commonly available through distance learning.

How to Select an Online Computer Technology School

Field Diversity and Degree Specificity

Computer technology is a huge field, comprised of many different subsections for a vast number of careers. Prospective students seeking an online degree program in computer technology may first want to decide what field they are specifically interested in. Programming, networking, software support and hardware are just a few of the possible focus areas for online students in computer technology programs. Different institutions may offer different degree and program options, making students' choice of the online educational institution important for their career direction. At the bachelor's degree level and above, online computer technology degrees are often found as information technology programs.

Career Support and Graduate Placement

Some institutions offer career support for online computer technology graduates, which may be in the form of resume writing assistance, interview practice or even providing business contacts. Career support helps students to market themselves to prospective employers and often provides statistics and assessments to help students see how they can improve their chances to succeed and stand out within the field of computer and information technology. Career services for distance learning students are offered available through a variety of means, such as e-mail and Skype video calls.

List of Online Computer Technology Programs

Associate of Applied Science in Electronics and Computer Technology

An online Associate of Applied Science in Computer Technology degree program provides students with general knowledge of computer and networking hardware, routers, switching, programming, software and IT support. Students often use simulation programs to gain basic knowledge of how to assemble and run many different types of computer-related technology. Class communication is often handled via education software that allows students to communicate with the rest of the class via forums and with instructors through e-mail and, at times, voice or video chat.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

An online bachelor's degree program in information technology may have one of several different focuses, such as computer graphics, Web development, network administration or information security. Courses for this degree vary depending on the focus a student chooses, but often include basic courses in networking and data structures, operating systems, database elements and telecommunications data. Students may be required to acquire software specifically for their particular focus, such as graphics, Web publishing or network software.

Online Master of Science in Information Technology

Information technology master's degree programs typically have a tighter focus than an undergraduate degree. Online students may choose between several options of focus, such as Web technology, business information technology, systems design and communication systems analysis. Often online graduate-level degrees in information technology are designed for students who work full time and require flexible class schedules. Presentation methods are similar to other lower level information technology degrees, but may stress asynchronous communication.

Online Graduate Certificate in Information Technology

Graduate certificate programs in information technology are also available through distance learning. They also typically deal with one particular aspect of information technology, such as software design, database management or data security. Work may be completed entirely online, using unified education software in a flexible format similar to master's degree programs that allows students to turn in assignments and tests as fits their schedule, usually by a single class end date, and communicate with their teachers and the rest of their class through message boards and e-mail.

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