Information technology (IT)

Information technology (IT) is the application of computers and telecommunications equipment to store, retrieve, transmit and manipulate data, often in the context of a business or other enterprise. The term is commonly used as a synonym for computers and computer networks, but it also encompasses other information distribution technologies such as television and telephones. Several industries are associated with information technology, including computer hardware, software, electronics, semiconductors, INTERNET, telecom equipment, e-commerce and computer services.

The computer industry is one of the largest and fastest-growing in the world. The rapid spread of computer-based technologies requires skilled technicians wherever there are computers:

• Businesses of all kinds and sizes
• Government agencies
• Nonprofit organizations
• Schools and universities
• Hospitals and health care facilities
• Homes and home-based businesses

The Computer Information Technology (CIT) program prepares you for today’s constantly changing workplace with four separate career paths, each offering skill-specific awards. Based on the skill sets you build, you’ll have a wide variety of options in a competitive job market.

Computer Information Technology Career Paths

Networking/Security
Network specialists design, install, configure, administer, evaluate and test a wide array of networks including LANs (local area networks), WANs (wide area networks), Internet-based networks, intranets, voice communication and wireless systems, VPNs (virtual private networks) and cloud-based networks.

PC Support
Personal computer support specialists install computer hardware and software, interpret and resolve problems for users, and provide technical support for hardware, software and systems.

Programming
Programmers design, write and update computer programs or software using programming languages such as C, Objective-C, C++, C#, Java and Visual Basic.NET. They perform these tasks for a wide variety of platforms that include Apple and Windows desktop; Apple, Windows and Android mobile; and Web.

Web/Internet Services
Web developers design, code, test and debug Web-based programs and media to create, publish and maintain websites. They integrate graphics, text and digital audio/video using both server-side and client-side technologies to develop rich Internet applications and Web services.