Is it better to be an IT specialist or an IT generalist?

Whether it’s better to be an IT generalist or an IT specialist depends on various factors, including your career goals, the job market, personal preference, and the specific needs of the organizations you wish to work for. Companies often seek IT generalists because they possess a broad range of skills and knowledge across different IT domains and can bridge the gap between specialists from different areas. Generalists often have a better understanding of how different technologies interact, which can be valuable in creative problem-solving and innovation.

What is the difference between a BA and a BS in information technology?

A BA program designation represents a Bachelor of Arts degree, whereas a BS designation represents a Bachelor of Science degree. The titles and designations of programs differ between universities, but at University of Massachusetts Global our IT programs have a structure aligned with a Bachelor of Science. Traditionally, degrees listed as a BS align more closely with science, math, and technology; BA programs generally align with arts, humanities, and the social sciences. Through this BS in Information Technology program, you will learn skills aligned with programming, networking, discrete mathematics, and computer systems architecture.

Is it worth earning a bachelor's in Information Technology degree?

There are many obvious benefits to earning a Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technology (IT):High demand for IT professionals: There is a high demand for skilled IT professionals across various industries, and the demand is expected to continue to grow in the future. Having a BS in Information Technology can open various career paths and provide job stability.Good compensation: IT careers are known for offering competitive salaries and benefits, making it a financially rewarding career path.Opportunity for advancement: An IT degree can provide a foundation for career growth and advancement. With experience and additional training, IT professionals can move into management positions or specialize in specific areas of IT.Constant innovation: The field of IT is continually evolving, and professionals need to stay up to date with the latest technologies and trends. Pursuing a BS in IT provides an opportunity to learn about the latest advancements in the field and prepare for future opportunities.Flexibility: IT is a versatile field, and professionals can work in various industries and sectors. They can also work remotely, providing a flexible work-life balance.Overall, earning a BS in Information Technology provides a foundation for a rewarding career path with job security, advancement opportunities, and strong earning potential.

If I’ve already earned a certificate or certificates, which certificates qualify for direct college credit with UMass Global?

University of Massachusetts Global accepts the following industry standard certification examinations for college credit in the competency-based Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree program: CIW: CIW Web Foundations Associate, CIW Database Design Specialist CompTIA: CompTIA IT Fundamentals, CompTIA Projects+, CompTIA Network+ Exam, CompTIA A+ 220-901, CompTIA A+ 220-902, CompTIA Security+ Microsoft: Windows Server Admin Fundamentals, MCP: Server Virtualization, MCP: Querying Microsoft SQL Server 2012 MTA: MTA Database Fundamentals Topics, MTA Software Development Fundamentals, MTA HTMLS Application Dev Fundamentals

What is the quickest information technology degree to get?

Obviously, there is variability here, depending on your prior education and experience, but UMass Global offers a flexible IT degree program with multiple emphases, including the unique “self design” option discussed above. Because you can customize your specialization, tailoring it to your career goals and interests, you have more flexibility to complete your degree more quickly. Also, because the degree is offered in UMass Global’s MyPath, our self-paced, competency-based format, you have options for how fast you earn your degree. In this format, there isn’t any limit on the number of courses you can complete within a 24-week billing period. You can progress through the program at your own pace, potentially completing it more quickly if you have prior IT knowledge or experience in areas covered with each course. Overall, the speed at which you earn a degree depends on your dedication and the time you can commit to your studies. The B.S. in Information Technology, with its self-design option and competency-based format, offers flexibility to accelerate your IT degree while maintaining a high standard of education.

Can I become a data scientist with an information technology degree?

The “Data Science” emphasis in this UMass Global IT degree positions you to become a data scientist upon graduation. That’s because our Data Science emphasis is comprised of 4 Subdomains and 8 Competencies, all specific to the world of data analysis. You’ll take courses in machine learning, database querying, spatial visualization, business intelligence, data analytics, and more. This focus will give you the tools to step into a career in data science upon receiving your degree. As with all areas of the technology world, you’ll need to continue to improve your skills and evolve with changes that come your way. Continuing education and earning additional certifications are a part of working in the IT universe.

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Earn your bachelor's degree, master's degree or certificate at UMass Global, a regionally accredited university. UMass Global offers 55+ online programs for our students.

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Learn and incorporate the business acumen and leadership skills needed to inspire innovation, solve complex challenges, and advance your career. UMass Global's business programs are designed to expand your business IQ and develop leadership skills to equip you for a future role or to expand your current position within the business world.

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The mission of the School of Business and Professional Studies is to empower working adults to lead with flexible, affordable, applied education built in collaboration with employers, anchored in real-world projects, and aligned with industry credentials, delivering impact at work and in the world.

Whether you thrive in an instructor-led environment or prefer the self-paced MyPath approach, our business and IT programs are designed to inspire innovation, develop leadership, and fuel your career. Leadership skills, communication concepts, strategic planning, and ethical reasoning are embedded in our coursework, priming you to achieve your career aspirations. From business and technology to healthcare and leadership, we’re excited to support your journey to achieving your goals.

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Jennifer Teague, PhD

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Amy Burks-Stewart, DBA

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Kristin Regis

Associate Dean, School of Business and Professional Studies, Professor of Finance

The flexibility is 100% my favorite thing. There are no deadlines. It means that if something does get in the way I don't get stressed about that.

Colin G.

Management and Organizational Leadership (MyPath), BBA

UMass Global has helped me see that what I once believed was impossible can indeed become possible. From the One-Stop staff to the Academic Advisors and Professors, each of them has played a part in helping me reach where I am today. I have successfully fulfilled my lifelong dream of earning a master's degree because UMass Global's online education paved the way and made this journey a reality.

Angela M.

MBA

MyPath with UMass Global has been wonderful as a self paced BA for Business with emphasis on Organizational Leadership. It allowed me to balance full time work and school. Shout out for always supporting me anytime I reached out and all the guidance from the instructors.

Brandi C.

BA in Organizational Leadership

I gained more than just knowledge at UMass Global; I learned a new way to navigate life with even more resilience and purpose. The flexibility of this program and the support of faculty turned what could have been overwhelming obstacles into challenges I could overcome.

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MA in Organizational Leadership

Flexible Ways to Learn

At University of Massachusetts Global, we recognize that every student is unique and can learn in different ways. Some are completely self-driven and can work on their own; others prefer the more traditional instructor-led approach. That’s why we offer two approaches for our online curriculum in our School of Business & Professional Studies — instructor-led/session-based degrees and competency-based, self-paced degrees (UMass Global MyPath). Which works better for you?

Self-Paced vs. Instructor-Led: Select the option that meets your needs!
	SELF-PACED	INSTRUCTOR-LED
100% online
Pace controlled by	Student	Instructor
Textbooks and course materials included
Start at	Any time	6 convenient times per year
Tuition charged per	Flat rate per session	Unit per class
Ability to pause coursework
Programs offered	11 Business & IT Programs	55+ programs, credentials, and certificates
Interact with classmates
How grading works	Mastery of competencies (B or better)	Traditional grading system