Most information technology positions require at least a bachelor's degree, though with adequate experience or certification, a graduate with an associate's degree can also build a solid career in technology. Information Technology school graduates who hold master's degrees will find the best employment opportunities. Here are the information technology degrees most often seen within the industry.

Associates' Degrees in Information Technology

Associate's degrees in Information Technology prepare graduates for entry-level employment in specialty areas such as IT support, network administration, computer repair, helpdesk support and other related fields. Typically some degree of experience is necessary to be competitive in the field of information technology, as it is a highly in-demand area of employment. Certification in one or more areas of IT can also greatly bolster your employability with an associate's degree.

Some subjects you'll learn in an Information Technology associate's degree program include:

• Programming Fundamentals
• Web Design Basics
• LAN/WAN Technology
• IT Security Fundamentals

In most colleges, an associate's information technology degree credit can be applied toward a bachelor's degree.

Bachelor's Degrees in Information Technology

Bachelor's degrees are the most common degree type found in the field of information technology. Bachelor's degree holders can find employment from entry-level to mid-level technician and analyst positions, and typically earn more than graduates holding associate's degrees. An information technology degree at the bachelor's level can prepare graduates for employment as a database administrator, network administrator, programmer, security analyst, systems analyst or other higher-level technician role.

Some subjects taught in an information technology bachelor's degree program can include:

• Multimedia and Visual Communications
• Software Engineering
• Telecommunications
• Systems Analysis
• Information Systems Security
• Web Design and Development
• Project Planning

A bachelor's degree in information technology combined with appropriate certification can lead to a very successful and lucrative career in technology and IT. Typically, bachelor's degree program credit can be applied toward a master's degree.

Master's Degrees in Information Technology

Information Technology degree program graduates who hold master's degrees are prepared for high-level management roles in information and business systems. These graduates may apply their theoretical and practical knowledge to big-picture strategy decisions, business structure analysis and other functions in IT management.

Master's programs in Information Technology may cover subjects such as:

• Business Systems
• IT Infrastructure
• Systems Analysis
• Emerging Technology Issues
• Database Management
• CIS Strategic Management
• IT Security & Ethics