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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Why UMass Global?

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Made for busy lives

Education that fits into your busy life with two fully online/mobile accessible learning options
Self-paced online (MyPath) — work at your pace, on your schedule, start any time
Term-based online — instructor-led schedule, eight-week courses, six starts per year

Education for the Real World

Education tailored for your development
Over 55 degree, credential, and certificate choices
Learn from industry experts
Gain real-world skills you can start using immediately

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Support when you need it

Support you need to succeed
Receive one-on-one dedicated support every step of the way
Free math and English tutoring, along with technology support
Lifelong connections, resources, and networking

How will a degree help me?

Check out some fast facts on why going back to school is a good option.

$1.2M

in additional lifetime earnings — that’s the average boost for bachelor’s degree holders compared to those with only a high school diploma

21%

more pay for having a master’s (or higher) instead of just a bachelor’s

60%

of workers will require training before 2027

I thought going into my MBA it would reinforce things I had already learned, but it also opened up new ways of thinking.

Alice C.

Business Administration, MBA

I did this for my son and the mothers of children with special needs. Someone who could truly understand them needed to sit on the other end at those IEP meetings; UMass Global made it possible.

Andrea M.

Education, Leadership in Early Childhood Education, MAE

For an individual that was returning to college after a long break, this was an excellent experience! I learned so much through this program that I could apply in today’s working world. I highly recommend this program to anyone who wants to obtain their higher education!

Marsha S.

Business Administration, BBA

I'm over the moon that their staff made it so easy, and I learned so much that I could apply to my work right now. I improved myself in leadership competencies and it’s made me a much better leader for the Department of the Navy.

Michele R.

Organizational Leadership, BA

WASC Senior College and University Commission

University of Massachusetts Global is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

California Commission on Teaching Credentialing

University of Massachusetts Global's School of Education is accredited by the California Commission on Teaching Credentialing (CTC).

Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation

University of Massachusetts Global is a member in good standing of the Association for Advancing Quality in Educator Preparation (AAQEP), a national accrediting organization recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation

Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

UMass Global's Bachelor and Master of Social Work programs are accredited by the Council on Social Work Education (CSWE)

Ways to Get Started

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