As the cost of a college education continues to rise, some students forgo four-year degrees in order to obtain faster and cheaper certifications, such as IT certifications or web design. Information technology has been a very popular and lucrative career field since the 1990s, and after the field rebounded from the dot-com crash and subsequent economic downturn, these careers are now in vogue again.
Web design certification is a great way to enter the information technology field. Schools like Computer Career Center in Las Cruces, NM and El Paso, TX, provide a comprehensive education in web design that prepares students for certification in this field. CCC’s web design education also offers students the opportunity to learn graphic design skills, including photo manipulation and desktop publishing. The web design certification, or an education in graphic design, allows students to pursue entry-level jobs in desktop publishing, web design and editing, or graphic design prepress.
For an entry-level computer network or repair career, there are a number of technology certifications that must be obtained. Some schools offer a network administrator study course, which prepares students to pursue several of the top IT certifications in today’s technology field. One of the most popular information technology certifications on the market is the CompTIA A + certification. The network administration education that CCC provides at its Las Cruces and El Paso schools enables students to earn this certification, as well as Microsoft MCSE, CCNA, and other certifications.
Many IT professionals report that professional networking certifications made the difference between career advancement and career stagnation. And certifications aren’t just for people with no prior education or work experience. They can be valuable assets for mid-career adults who want to change fields or who want to add network certifications to their education credentials.
Students with a network certification are equipped to enter one of several fields of technology. Some start in computer repair, where they use their hardware and systems knowledge to repair and upgrade computer hardware. Other students with a network certification take entry-level technical support jobs. They may receive technical support calls to resolve computer problems over the phone, or they may work for an on-site company as technical consultants.
The fields of technology offer great opportunities for growth. Students starting out in entry-level web design positions can progress to the level of web master or lead web designer at a technology company. Similarly, students in entry-level computer repair and technical support jobs may eventually pursue careers in consulting or work in IT at the managerial level. Some students even switch to sales. For example, a person with a web certification could also sell web ads, while a person with an IT certification can more easily switch to selling computer software and systems. An education in the desired technology field, as well as field experience that demonstrates progressive responsibility, are two great assets in an information technology or web design career.
Many educational institutions tout the advantages of obtaining a master’s degree in a technology field, especially for bachelor’s degree holders who want to change careers. However, master’s degrees can be expensive, and the salary increase may not be as significant as the money spent on the degree. Certifications in web design, network administration, and other technology areas are cheaper and faster than completing a master’s degree. Education providers like Computer Career Center help mid-career professionals grow or change careers with ease.
Students interested in educational or career advancement can benefit (in some cases find great success) by investing in a web design or IT certification.