These lucrative careers in Information Systems Security include internet security roles and careers in information systems security (IS security). Computers and information technology are a huge part of our daily lives. And with internet security such an important issue, there are several lucrative careers in IS security.
Information systems security is an ideal career choice for individuals who want job security, regular challenges, and excellent wage potential. The number of cybersecurity threats hitting individuals, government agencies, and business leaders increases every day. Additionally, new technology is constantly changing. So, there is high demand in this career field and many job opportunities. But these jobs also pay well, so there are many lucrative careers in IS security.
What Can You do with a Computer Information Systems Degree?
A degree in computer information systems qualifies individuals for many IS career paths. They can pursue a career in software engineering, computer programming, software development, systems analysis, database management, web development, network engineering, computer security, computer graphics, and also IT consulting. Jobs are also available in business management, marketing, operations, artificial intelligence, or customer service.
5 Information Systems Security Careers
These are some of the highest paying information systems jobs.
- Computers Systems Analyst
- Information Security Analyst
- Computer Programmer
- Information Systems Manager or Director
- Director of Information Technology
1. Computer Systems Analysts
A Computer System Analyst determines an organization’s needs, applies the appropriate computer technology to meet those needs, and fixes the company’s computer problems. They recommend to the company what type of computer technology, equipment, and personnel they should invest in and help them make the most out of their investments.
Computer system analysts often also have information systems security training and understand security measures. And many focus on a specialized system area, such as financial systems, engineering systems, business, or financial systems.
Salary: $60,060 to $158,010 (BLS data on Computer Analyst)
2. Information Security Analysts
An Information security analyst protects computer networks at organizations, government agencies, and even non-profit companies. They oversee a company’s computer network system to prevent possible security breaches. In addition to working in computer systems design services, they also work in insurance, finance, and administrative support services.
They maintain a system by advising management on software updates, updating the software, and teaching employees about hardware and software use. These professionals are expected to see job growth of 35 percent during the 2021-2031 decade, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).
Salary: $61,520 to $165,920 (BLS)
3. Computer Programmers
A computer programmer or computer scientist is needed anywhere there are computer programs in use. These professionals code, write, and test instructions and programming languages to make the program perform as required.
The BLS does not expect programmers to see high employment growth. However, computer programmers continue to be in demand to write the various programs used in every area of our life and have the potential to earn high wages. In addition to writing programs, computer programmers may also help a company implement a new security system.
Salary: $47,560 to $155,240 per year (BLS)
4. Information Systems Managers or Directors
The Information Systems Manager or Director is generally the individual in charge of the information system used by an entire company. Although they may report to the chief information officer (CIO), the information systems manager or director typically oversees the entire operation. Securing the organization’s information system is a vital role of this individual.
The duties of information systems managers include ensuring the organization’s security and supervising the upgrade and installation of software. These management information systems professionals are in charge of the technical aspects like an internal network. They also choose the appropriate software, manage the information systems technicians, and oversee other IT managers and the tech help desk. Because of the complexity and responsibility of this job, this individual must be highly trained in information systems security and with relevant experience.
Salary: $95,220 to $208,000 (BLS)
5. Director of Information Technology
A director of information technology is the one that plans, develops, and administers the goals and policies of a company’s information technology department. They research the various departments to determine each department’s needs and the most efficient way to meet their goals by implementing new information processing systems.
The IT director also has a hand in selecting and managing information technology, applications, equipment, and supplies. A director of information technology typically has a degree and several years of managerial experience. Salary.com indicates that information technology directors earn an average annual wage of $194,343.
Average Salary: $194,343 (Salary dot com)
Other Jobs:
Information systems professionals can work in many roles. Below are additional information systems job titles with their median salary per year.
What is Computer Information Systems? (CIS)
Computer Information Systems (CIS) is the study, design, implementation, and management of computer-based information systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware. This field of study combines computer science, management science, and technology to manage and deliver information systems.
It focuses on developing and using information systems to solve business problems. CIS uses technology to facilitate organizations’ data and information storage, retrieval, and use. It encompasses the planning, analysis, design, implementation, and management of information systems.
What’s the Difference Between IS and IT?
Information Systems (IS) is an umbrella term that describes any system of people, processes, and technology that are used to collect, store, and analyze data to support efficient decision-making and operations within an organization. information systems jobs
IT or Information Technology is the term used to describe the technology used to store and access data, including hardware, software, and networks. IT is a subset of Information Systems focusing on the technology that stores and accesses data. Most companies now have an IT department where their IT professionals work.
What are the Types of Computer Information Systems Degrees?
A degree in information systems can open the door to job opportunities and career advancement. An information systems program can put you on the career path for a wide range of opportunities.
Associate Degree in Computer Information Systems
An associate information systems degree provides students with a basic understanding of the fundamentals of computer technology and its application in the modern business world. This type of degree is typically a two-year program and students learn the skills necessary to develop, design, and manage computer information systems.
Coursework for this type of degree may include classes in programming languages, operating systems, database management, computer networking, web design, and software engineering. Students may also be required to take classes in social science, business, and communication. Upon completing this degree, graduates will be prepared to work in various positions in the computer industry. They may find software development, systems analysis, network engineering, or database administration positions. Additionally, graduates may also be prepared for entry-level positions in web development or help desk technical support.
Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems
A Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Information Systems (CIS) is an undergraduate degree. Students learn a broad overview of the computer technology industry and the skills necessary to work there. The bachelor’s degree in information systems typically focuses on studying computer hardware and software, information theory, networking, database management, information security, web design, and other topics related to computer technology and systems.
Students in a CIS program will often learn to design, implement, and maintain computer systems and networks and develop software applications. The degree may also include courses in business and communications, which provide students with essential skills for working in the computer technology field. A graduate can work as a computer systems administrator, computer systems analyst, or software developer.
Master’s Degree in Computer Information Systems
What do you learn in a Master of Information Systems degree program? A Master of Information Systems (MIS) degree program prepares students for careers in the field of Information Technology (IT). Students in an MIS program learn how to design, develop, implement, and manage an information system.
Courses in a master’s degree cover topics such as database management, analytics, computer programming, systems analysis, project management, network security, software engineering, and data communications. This master’s degree program also prepares students to sit for professional certifications, such as Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) and Certified Information Technology Professional (CITP).
Doctoral Degree in CIS
A Doctoral Degree in Computer Information Systems is a research-oriented program designed to prepare students for a career in the field of computer science. In this program, students gain advanced knowledge in programming, software engineering, database systems, networking, and other related disciplines.
What Skills do you Need to Work in Information Systems?
In addition to education, the best job candidates have soft skills, like excellent communication skills and time management skills. Prior work experience also helps applicants land jobs. Furthermore, most companies want employees with specific hard skills to work in IS.
- Business Analysis: The ability to assess a business’s current IT system, processes, and procedures, identify improvement areas, and develop recommendations for new or upgraded computer systems.
- Database Design and Management: The ability to design, implement, and manage databases using a structured query language (SQL) and other database software.
- Networking: The ability to design and maintain local and wide area networks (LANs and WANs) using various networking protocols and technologies, such as Ethernet, TCP/IP, and others.
- Systems Analysis and Design: The ability to analyze a business’s needs and develop a computer information system to meet those needs.
- Programming: The ability to write computer code to develop software applications and websites and maintain and troubleshoot existing programs.
- Project Management: The ability to manage IT projects and ensure they are completed on time and within budget. Technical Support: The ability to provide computer systems troubleshooting, installation, and maintenance support.
- Security: The ability to identify security threats and develop and implement countermeasures to ensure the safety of an organization’s computer systems.
Is an Information Systems Degree Worth it?
It depends on the individual and their career aspirations. An information systems degree can be useful for individuals interested in working with data or computer systems. Many of the skills learned in this type of program can be applied to various industries. Furthermore, the BLS reports there will be an increase job growth of 15 percent from 2021 to 2031. So, with 682,800 new jobs over this decade, the field offers job security.
Computer technology is essential to every area of our lives, which results in a need for highly trained information systems security professionals. Candidates in IS Security often describe their jobs as rewarding, challenging, and fun. Combined with the fact that IS security offers several lucrative careers, it’s easy to see why so many choose this field.
Related:
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- 25 Most Affordable Accelerated Master’s in Computer Information Systems Online
