Information Systems Technician Troubleshooting for the US Navy

When people ask me what I’m studying in school, I tell them I’m studying Information Systems. This is usually followed by a series of befuddled looks and a short response of “oh… nice.” It’s okay to say you have no idea what Information Systems is. You’re not the only one. Sometimes I explain myself and other times I allow them stay confused and act like they do know what I’m talking about. To set the record straight, today we’re talking about what the heck Information Systems actually is.

Information Systems bridges the gap between the fast paced business world and the complexity of the computer world. Business people are great at coming up with solutions, but when most business solutions require computers, business people aren’t so great at implementing or creating solutions. This is typically where they hire a computer programmer, but it’s not uncommon for business people and computer programmers not to speak the same language. This is where an Information Systems specialist comes in. They know how to speak business and they also know how to speak “geek” and they translate.

For a person that knows both business and computers, it’s not uncommon to see them with a job description of “Account Controller” or “Software Engineer”. I like to think of it as a “jack of all trades” degree in the business world, but often times people with a degree in Information Systems will specialize in accounting or go into hard core computer programming.

When trying to decide what to major in, consider Information Systems. It is one of the best degrees in a down economy because it is essentially a combination of two degrees (accounting and business) and will help open twice as many doors after you graduate.

Online degrees have made education possible for many people in recent years, and their biggest impact has been on working professionals. If you are already working full time, supporting yourself and possibly a family, then quitting your job to go back to school (or go to college for the first time) is probably not an economic possibility. Even if you were so inclined, limited by where you live, the local college may not offer the specialized degree program that you need to move your career forward - but online degree programs, available anywhere there is an internet connection, offer both variety in programs, and flexible schedules. The best ways to use online degrees in your career:

- If you are an accountant, obtain an online MBA, Masters Degree in Accounting, or Masters of Taxation to earn the requisite 150 credits to become a CPA. Your online degree program may include a CPA prep course, or offer a discount for one.

- As a library professional, you can use online degrees in technology and multimedia to expand your skill set in an ever changing environment. This will let you be as employable as possible as more libraries lose funding - which means fewer jobs.

- Earn more money as a teacher by earning a master’s degree in education. Consider specializing in early childhood, educational media, or even become qualified to become a guidance counselor. A Ph.D. program in education can pave your career path further by opening up the possibility of becoming a school principal.

- Further your career in information technology with online degree programs that will allow you to command a much higher salary as a specialist in programming, networking, or even web design. Information technology is a constantly changing and growing field, which means that to just maintain your current position you must stay informed. Moving upwards professionally requires the extra step of formal education, which can be obtained through an online degree.