With advancements in the information technology arena escalating at such breakneck speed, it should come as no surprise that of all the STEM (science, tech, engineering, math) occupations, one of the fastest growing is computer software engineering. In fact, it’s grown so fast the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports it splitting into two definitive specialties: Software Systems Engineers and Applications Engineers. While there are overlaps between them, they are well on their way towards becoming their own unique careers, with different needs and skill sets, and it's worth one's while to find the best online degree program for entry. For this article we’ll discuss systems engineering.
A software system engineer must know how to handle the construction, maintenance and/or upgrading of a computers. This includes examining their employer’s IT needs and then implementing the additions and fixes. The job could also have them on their employer’s intranets. Intranets are the inside communications system linking the client’s computers, as well as the creation and implementation of security and data systems.
Systems engineers often work for the MIS departments of larger companies. They are also hiring out as independent consultants. In many cases, they may be part of a marketing or sales staff, providing logistical and technical support. As every company’s computer needs tend to be unique, software engineers help to identify and new needs and changes to existing systems.
As one can imagine, one needs at least a Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science to enter the field. Minors in mechanical engineering, electric/electronic engineering, math and some business courses are highly suggested. One can study for this field at either an on campus or online college, as many offer solid, accredited courses in this specialty.
It’s also a field that will require perpetual study due to the constant innovations in the digital arena. Many systems engineers usually go on for their Masters and PhD and keep subscription accounts with an online school. They are often refunded for this by their place of employment as having up-to-date employees are good business.
The Bureau states the field is growing faster than average (over 20% over the next decade). So there are a number of financial aid programs to assuage the demand. Besides the standard Pell and state grants, the National Science Foundation consider it as S-STEM career, thus it provides scholarships. Major corporations in the field, such as Apple and Sony, have both internship and scholarship programs for young software geniuses. To get a full list, do some research on your and be sure to check with your college’s financial aid officer.
According to the Bureau, the salary of a systems engineer is pretty darn good. The median salary is slightly over $92,000 with about ten year’s experience. Salaries can go into the hundred thousand arenas as one rises up the corporate ladder. Benefits packages usually include bonuses and commissions, insurance, retirement programs and education refunds.
So, while systems engineering is a relatively young field, it has the promise of being not only an incredible one in the here and now, but for the foreseeable future. Those with an interest will find that their online degree is geared toward this growing field. Your degree in technology of some type, with further education as one's career progresses, will allow the student to remain cutting edge. If you are interested in a career as a computer software engineer and would like to get more information about your science bachelor degree, you will find it on the internet.
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment