Career Ideas for an Information Systems Major

SYSTEMS DEVELOPMENT

• Analysis
• Design
• Support
• Systems Integration
• Database Administration
• Business Application Development
• Executive Administration

• Most areas of business and government: Financial institutions, Insurance companies, Consulting firms, Manufacturers, Computer companies, Telecommunications companies, Retailers, Healthcare organizations, Hotels and restaurants, Entertainment companies, Educational institutions, City, state, and federal government

Develop excellent interpersonal skills for effective communication with technical and non-technical colleagues. Gain programming experience and knowledge for increased opportunities. Become an effective problem solver. Plan to continually educate self on new computer languages and technology. Obtain business experience through internships or part-time employment. Supplement program with courses in accounting, human resources, and procurement.

NETWORK TECHNOLOGY

• Intranet Development
• Intranet Administration
• Hardware and Software
• Design
• Support

• Most areas of business and government: Financial institutions, Insurance companies, Manufacturers, Computer companies, Telecommunications companies, Retailers, Healthcare organizations, Hotels and restaurants, Entertainment companies, Educational institutions, City, state, and federal government

Gain work experience in university computer labs. Develop communication skills and interest in helping others. Gain knowledge in a variety of computer areas including minor programming, software, and hardware. Plan to stay abreast of latest technology and software. Obtain applicable certifications such as Cisco or Microsoft. Develop relationships with small business owners for part-time or freelance network consulting opportunities. Supplement program with courses in computer science.

INTERNET

• Programming
• Software Design
• Systems Analysis
• Hardware Production
• Web Site Design
• Web Site Administration

• Network access points
• Internet service providers
• Hardware and software vendors
• Internet-related companies including: Browsers, Search engines, Web site design services
• Organizations with complex, self-manage web sites

Gain experience in web development or maintenance through part-time jobs or internships. Volunteer to design web sites for student organizations or community groups. Learn web-related programming languages. Develop a flare for creativity. Learn to work effectively in a team by participating in group projects or student organizations. Earn a graduate degree in technology or business for advanced opportunities in analysis, project management, and executive operations.

NON-TECHNICAL

• Customer Service
• Product Support
• Training
• Technical Writing
• Sales
• Marketing

• Software developers
• Technical service providers

Develop excellent verbal and written communication skills. Display interest and ability in customer problem solving. Work in university computer labs. Take technical writing courses to develop skills. Obtain general sales or customer service experience.

EDUCATION/TRAINING

• Proprietary (for profit) schools
  Community colleges
• Universities
• Corporations
• Non-profit organizations

Earn a graduate degree for post-secondary teaching opportunities. Develop a research specialty. Gain experience working with students through tutoring or assisting in computer labs. Obtain advanced certifications for training opportunities.

CONSULTING

• Consulting firms
• Self-employed

Develop exceptional analytical and interpersonal skills for communicating with clients. Obtain a strong technical knowledge of computers, a background in business management, and experience in systems analysis. Become familiar with various programming languages and operating systems. Earn applicable certifications. Demonstrate ability to self-motivate and work independently.