Careers in IT are in demand so it makes sense to study something with aIt makes sense to study something IT related before trying to get a job. By studying you increase your chances of getting a job higher in the ladder.
There are plenty of IT-related courses available, you will need to choose what area of study you want to follow. Start by asking yourself what you like about IT.
- Do you like building or fixing computers? – hardware
- Do you like programming? – software
- Do you like the creative side? – digital media
- Do you like just working with computers? – integration of every career these days works with computers
Your choice of study will depend on how you answer these three questions.
- Hardware: Work with hardware, networks and physical computer and electronic components and infrastructure to support IT. Study a bachelor’s degree or a national diploma in Computer Engineering, Electronic, Telecommunications or Mechatronic Engineering.
- Software: Learn to programme computers using various programming languages. Study programming or computer science either at university or at a college.
- Information Systems Management: Study information systems or business information systems in order to use computer applications for commercial use. For example, a Bachelor of Commerce (BCom) with Information systems or National Diploma in Information Systems at a University of Technology. This type of course has a programming element to it.
Alternatively, you can study at a TVET college on a more practical level or through a private college. There are numerous private colleges from which to choose. I could recommend many of these but perhaps sift through the following options below:
What subjects do I need at school?
Compulsory Subjects: Mathematics (University or University of Technology). Mathematics and Physical Science are required for Engineering studies.
Can I study IT without Maths?
Yes, but only if you study at a private college. You will need to check the entrance requirements at the institutions you are applying to.
Am I suited to a career in IT?
Are you very interested in computers and what they can do?
Do you build, take apart and put back together your own computers?
Are you good at problem solving using Maths?
Are you interested in the latest computer technology and programmes?
Are you good at Mathematics?
If you answered yes to most of these questions, then you would probably be well suited to a career in IT. Read through the following career summary and select a link for more comprehensive information on each career.
Business systems analysts study the overall business and information needs of an organization, in order to develop solutions to business and related technology problems. As the name suggests, this career focuses on the needs of business with specific reference to the IT field.
Data administrators ensure that large amounts of information are efficiently and effectively managed stored in computer databases. Data administrators ensure that information is easy to access and can be managed effectively in order to save time and money for the company.
Computer Hardware Engineers (commonly refered to as Computer Engineers) design, develop, implement, evaluate and maintain computer systems, and equipment that forms part of that system. In addition to design and development, computer hardware engineers may supervise the manufacturing and installation of all computer-related equipment.
Computer Operations Manager and Project Manager
Computer Operations Manager and Project Manager works in the operations department in an organisation and is responsible for the production of the data centre. Operations managers plan software, organise personnel, helping them to set and accomplish goals, and control the operation of all data processing equipment and software.
Computer and Information Systems Manager (CIS Manager)
Computer and information systems manager or CIS manager is the title given to a person in charge of the overall computer operations of a company. This person, also know as the information systems manager or IT manager may also be a director responsible for planning, coordinating and directing all computer-related activities of firms.
Computer programmers create, modify and test the forms, scripts and code that tell the computer what to do. They serve as the link between the operator and the computer. The work of computer programmers is both demanding and rewarding.
Computer scientists not only understand the intricate innards of a computer, they also know how to write programs and have an intimate knowledge of everything relating to computers. Computer scientists can be involved in all dimensions of computers, including: hardware electronics, operating systems, artificial intelligence, communication related information such as programming languages, and all aspects of applications, that is, software.
Computer security specialists assess administrative, physical and technical security risks to information, software and hardware; and develop policies, procedures and contingency plans to prevent or minimize the effects of security breaches and concerns.
Computer software engineers apply the principles and techniques of computer programming, engineering, and mathematical analysis to the design, development, testing and evaluation of the software and systems that enable computers to perform their many applications. This is basically an Electronics Engineering qualification with more software subjects and less engineering subjects.
The explosive use of computers has created a high demand for specialists to provide advice to users on hardware and software related problems, as well as for day-to-day administration, maintenance, and support of computer systems and networks. Computer support specialists are troubleshooters who provide technical assistance, support, and advice to customers for hardware and software systems.
Computer systems analysts may best be described as systems consultants who assist organizations to realise the maximum benefit from their investment in computer equipment and personnel. At all times systems analysts are accountable to clients in developing the best possible systems according to the requirements specified.
Computer technicians or computer service technicians are workers who install, diagnose problems, repair, maintain and upgrade a wide variety of computer and peripheral equipment.
Game designers invent, build, produce and promote computer games. Game design is like being the film director, but for a computer simulation (imitates the appearance of reality). They are limited only by their own imagination and the customer’s budget.
Electrical engineering is often associated with power generation and distribution of power. Power generation involves the generation of electrical power from a variety of sources: hydro-electrical, thermal coal power, nuclear, as well as renewable sources of power such as solar and wind power.
Electronics engineering is concerned with the generation, transmission and processing of information and includes computers, software, transmission networks, telephones, radio, television, signal processing and optics.
Geographic information systems (GIS) specialists use specialised computer programs and software to create maps. The world of cartography (map-making) has undergone significant changes in the last decade, mostly revolving around the emerging technology of GIS, a type of software that can combine socio-economic, demographic, political and environmental data. GIS specialists use this software to create maps or graphs.
Mechatronic engineers research, design, develop and maintain machinery with electronic and computer control systems, such as aircraft, robots, motor vehicles, cameras, power generators and mining and chemical plant machinery. They also test automation, intelligent systems, smart devices or industrial systems control.
Mobile phones (cell phones) have become as important as our wallets and purses in everyday living, and development in this area is moving at a very fast pace. Mobile devices have become a tremendous source of entertainment, communication and information, and also jobs for millions.
Network Systems and Data Communications Analyst
Network systems and data communications analysts design, test, and evaluate systems such as local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), the Internet, intranets, and other data communications systems.
Systems engineers are mainly responsible for coordinating all the computer-related systems available in a company. They work closely with database administrators, and develop and change databases to ensure an environment that is streamlined and automated.
Telecommunications engineers are responsible for the continual and rapid development in the science and methods of telecommunications; the general and basic planning of future expansion; the design and planning of automatic exchanges, carrier systems, telex systems, coaxial cable systems, microwave radio systems; optical fibre systems and videotext systems.
Web designers use a combination of design and IT skills to produce web pages for the Internet. In order to create a website, a web designer starts with the end user in mind. Webmasters, also known in some cases as website managers, are responsible for managing websites. The main management functions include ensuring that the website is updated regularly so that the information remains relevant accurate and "fresh".