IT Careers for Students to Know

In an increasingly digital world, information technology (IT) fluency is crucial. IT careers are always growing because the need for computer-literate professionals spans industries. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the computer and technology fields are projected to be among the fastest-growing job sectors between 2024 and 2034, with high demand in a range of specialties.

If you’re interested in an IT career, a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technology can offer the knowledge, real-world skills and connections to succeed.

Why IT Careers Are in Demand

The BLS projects an average of 317,700 annual job openings in computer and IT careers between 2024 and 2034. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) across industries, qualified IT experts will be more necessary than ever. Companies will need people who understand the technology that underpins these emerging tools.

AI is also transforming the landscape of available IT jobs. Because AI can automate so many low-level tasks, IT professionals will need to be more dynamic and adaptable. Careers in high-demand fields such as AI, cybersecurity, and data analytics will start to grow as companies replace legacy systems with emerging technology. Even as technological fluency increases, IT professionals are still necessary to build and maintain the systems that these technologies run on.

What Can You Do With an IT Degree?

IT covers a wide range of computers and other digital devices. IT professionals work in cloud computing, cybersecurity, data analytics, internet technologies, and software development, among other areas. In an increasingly online world, companies are looking to build resilient, future-proof systems. Three growing sectors in IT are cybersecurity (protecting data and networks), data analytics (drawing insights from raw information), and information and communication technology (developing and maintaining communication networks).

Necessary Skills for IT Professionals

IT professionals benefit from fluency in programming languages. BS in Information Technology programs offer hands-on coursework in programming languages such as Python, Java and C++. Coding, maintenance, and bug resolution are important skills for many IT careers .

Students also need skills in configuring and securing networks to ensure reliable access. Cybersecurity skills are crucial for building firewalls, understanding encryption, and defending against hackers. Another important skill is data management, including database design and Structured Query Language (SQL) querying.

Salary Outlook

The median annual salary for computer and IT careers was $105,990 in May 2024, according to the BLS. With the ongoing need for technology experts, salaries for IT professionals are expected to continue growing.

IT Careers Students Should Get to Know

A BS in Information Technology gives students access to a wide variety of careers. Developing skills across systems, programming languages, and channels prepares students to succeed.

Computer Support

Entry-level roles in this field often include IT support technician or help desk technician. These positions support a wide variety of computer-related services, such as maintaining computer networks and providing technical support to users. They monitor software and hardware, troubleshoot issues, or recommend system upgrades.

The median annual salary for computer support specialists was $61,550 in 2024, according to the BLS.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity, also known as information security, involves protecting computer networks from unauthorized access. Cybersecurity professionals install firewalls, conduct penetration testing to assess cyber defenses and train employees in digital security. They also work to detect breaches and prepare incident responses.

The median annual salary for information security analysts was $124,910 in 2024, according to the BLS.

Data Analytics

Data analysts gather, organize and interpret information to turn raw data into insights that support business decision-making. They use programs such as Python for cleaning and visual presentation and SQL for managing and querying data.

The median annual pay for data analysts was around $70,500 as of May 2026, according to Payscale.

Networks and Systems

Network and computer system administrators install and configure communications networks. The work ranges from intercompany networks to large-scale cloud infrastructure. Information and communications technology is critical across all business operations.

Network and computer system administrators earned a median annual salary of $96,800 in 2024, according to the BLS.

Software Development

Software developers and engineers develop programs that allow users to perform specific tasks on computers and other digital devices. They analyze user needs, design program architecture, write code and test the final result. These professionals need to have fluency across coding languages.

Software developers earned a median annual salary of $133,080 in 2024, according to the BLS.

Web Development

Web developers build and maintain websites. While many developers focus on either the front end (the user-facing side of sites) or the backend (the server side), full-stack developers do both. They ensure a seamless digital experience across channels and have to be fluent in coding HTML, Cascading Style Sheets (CSS) and JavaScript.

The median annual salary for web developers and digital designers was $95,380 in 2024, according to the BLS.

Cloud Computing

Cloud services remotely host websites, databases and more, and large-scale cloud computing touches many aspects of IT education. Cloud engineers work with systems such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud.

The median annual salary for cloud engineers was around $91,400 as of March 2026, according to Payscale.

What to Look for in an IT Degree Program

When considering programs, students should look for career-focused curricula. Alongside technical knowledge, good programs also offer skill-building courses in soft skills such as project management and cross-functional teamwork.

Many programs offer concentrations, so students can specialize in their chosen career paths. Programs should also emphasize real-world applications: Professors with experience outside academia can help students learn how to apply their skills.

Students should also look for programs that offer academic advising and internships.

Begin your IT Career With NCCU Online

A long-lasting career requires a strong foundation. Future leaders in technology should have an education that helps them solve unique problems in today’s ever-changing technology landscape.

NCCU Online’s BS in Information Technology is a springboard for aspiring IT professionals. Students can choose from three concentrations: Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, and Information and Communications Technology. With a focus on professional development, the program offers both technical expertise and interpersonal and management skills.

Find out how NCCU Online can help you start your IT career.

Recommended Readings

Computer Science vs. Information Technology: What’s the Difference?

How Long Does It Take to Learn Programming?

How the Top Tech Companies in North Carolina Are Driving Industry Growth

Sources:

CIO, 92% of IT Jobs Will Be Transformed by AI

Payscale, Average Cloud Engineer Salary

Payscale, Average Data Analyst Salary

MIT Sloan School of Management, “How Artificial Intelligence Impacts the U.S. Labor Market”

North Carolina Department of Commerce, The Future of Jobs Across North Carolina: Regional Trends to Watch

TechTarget, “What Is Information Technology?”