With the boom of the IT sector in the 90s in India, this is one field that has diverse and lucrative career options within the country and abroad. The strategic importance of computers and information technology in the corporate world has put India in a higher pedestal when it comes to churning out skilled IT professionals.
Careers in information technology can be classified broadly into two main fields - software and hardware.
Software branches out into manufacturing, developing, programming, testing, maintenance and support and hardware branches out into manufacturing, maintenance, research and development and management.
Some of the most preferred career paths after a degree in information technology include computer hardware engineering, software engineering, systems manager, network administrator, programmer, systems and data analyst etc.
Careers in hardware
With the development of many multinational companies, the hardware industry has witnessed quantum growth in turnover and profits and has widened opportunities for skilled hardware professionals.
Hardware engineers
Hardware engineers design, develop, test, supervise and monitor the computer hardware. They usually work as a part of a team that designs hardware equipment such as chips and device controllers and other hardware devices.
Network specialists
There is never a dearth in the requirements for network specialists in this exponentially growing internet era. Network engineers are responsible for security and administration of the networks they design and keeping them functioning smoothly. Planning and installation of hardware and software needed for seamless functioning of the network, addition and deletion of files to the network server and troubleshooting problems are also part of their job responsibilities.
Careers in Software
Computer programmers
Although getting into the software line offers a sea of options and opportunities, being a programmer is one of the most sought-after. Application Programmers and Systems Programmers are the two main categories in this.
Application Programmers write software for specific jobs and focus on business, engineering and science. System Programmers maintain and control the computer systems software such as the operating system, compilers etc.
Database administrators
They are involved in database planning, conceptual, logical and transactional design, implementation, testing and debugging. Database specialists design, install, update, maintain and offer technical support/troubleshoot computer databases.
E-Commerce professionals.
The growth and requirement of E-Commerce in India in the last decade cannot be understated. These professionals are responsible for developing and growing sales channels and expanding customer base. Identifying fields of growth, customer care, marketing, providing online technical support and administering the B2B transactions are all part of their role.
Education
The booming IT sector means the demand for it in the field of education is also ever-growing. The need for trained and passionate professionals to serve as faculty in universities and training institutes is always increasing.
User-Interface Architect
This is an upcoming field and deals with the interface detailing and ergonomics in computing. These architects design the user interface of a computer system which enhances the communication experience between the user and the computer.
Software engineers
Software developers analyze user needs and design, create and maintain computer applications software and programs. They are also responsible for system software research, design, testing, operating etc.
System Analysts
System analysts or architects enable computer technology to meet individual needs of an organization. Planning and developing new computer systems and using existing systems resources to perform additional operations is also part of their responsibilities.
Testing and monitoring that the system performs as planned, working on specifications and structure charts and debugging are also the responsibilities of a system architect.
Web designers
Web designers/developers work with their multimedia expertise to build, design and write or edit online content and websites. UI architects work in tandem with web designers and software developers to make online experience user friendly. They work on creating, maintaining and supporting websites for commercial purposes according to client requirement.
App Developers
Application developers feature as one of the most-wanted IT professionals. They develop and design applications and websites with suitable interfaces for mobiles and other hand-held gadgets. This industry integrates individuals with front-end development talent and back-end integration skills.
Graphic Designers
These designers work on computer graphics and how to use them in website design considering both aesthetic and technical aspects. They are involved in manipulating graphics for optimum website use and addressing the compatibility aspects between displayed graphics and the web browsers.
With an array of options that are promising and lucrative, a degree in Information Technology is undoubtedly an easy choice for aspiring students.
The School of Computing and Information Technology (C & IT) has a rich blend of experienced and committed faculty who are well-qualified in various aspects of computing and information technology apart from the numerous state-of-the-art digital classrooms and laboratories having modern computing equipment.
In addition, the school has a unique academic collaboration with the University of Alabama in Huntsville to jointly offer an MS program in Computer Science. In addition, the school has a research center in which students can conduct cutting edge research leading to a Ph.D. degree.