Mapping Your IT Career: 6 Career Paths to Follow

The information technology (IT) industry impacts countless areas of our daily lives, from providing tools for advanced data analysis in medical research and creating efficient supply chains for businesses to delivering improved connectivity through smart devices. With such a wide scope of influence, the IT field offers numerous career opportunities.

Understanding the range of available IT career paths is essential for any technical professional. In this post, we discuss six in-demand IT career paths to help you align your professional trajectory with your aspirations and strengths.

IT Support

IT support is a foundational sub-field within the IT sector. With technology’s growing influence in modern organizations, the role promises sustained demand and advancement opportunities.

IT support professionals maintain and troubleshoot organizational systems and networks. They address technical issues, set up systems and assist users, ensuring the seamless operation of technology within various organizational contexts.

Job Titles and Salaries

Professionals in this sector may hold various job titles at different career stages, including:

• Entry-Level: Help desk technician
• Mid-Level: IT support analyst
• Senior-Level: IT director

Salary ranges for IT support professionals can vary widely depending on the role and experience level:

• Lower-end, Help desk technician: $32,324 
• Higher-end, IT director: $196,277
• Average base salary: $50,589

Pros and Cons

Pursuing a career in IT support offers both benefits and challenges.

Advantages include:

• Stable demand ensures consistent job opportunities
• Positions across diverse industries

Challenges include:

• Constant need for skill updates with technological advancements
• Potential high-pressure situations

Educational Prerequisites

An associate’s degree in computer science or a related field is sufficient for entry-level positions. However, a bachelor’s degree in any relevant concentration is an absolute prerequisite for management roles.

Certifications

Acquiring relevant certifications can enhance your credentials and career prospects in IT support. Some of the top options include:

• CompTIA A+
• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Security+
• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• Certified Cloud Security Professional (CCSP)

Network Administration

Network Administration occupies a pivotal position among technological professions. Since organizations lean heavily on internal networks to facilitate their operations, the role of the network administrator is integral to the seamless and secure flow of data.

Network administrators ensure data is transmitted securely and efficiently between devices, which involves managing routers, switches, firewalls and wireless access points. They oversee the intricate operations of an organization’s internal networks, ensuring optimal connectivity between devices, formulating and implementing network design and maintaining and monitoring networks.

Job Titles and Salaries

In the field of network administration, professionals progress through different roles, such as:

• Entry-Level: Network technician
• Mid-Level: Network administrator
• Senior-Level: Network architect

Salaries in this career path can differ based on experience and specific job roles:

• Lower-end, network technician: $41,658
• Higher-end, network architect: $186,317 
• Average base salary: $75,431

Pros and Cons

Pursuing a career in network administration offers several advantages and challenges:

Advantages include:

• Persistent high demand given the increasing reliance on internal networks
• Competitive compensation packages across sectors

Challenges include:

• Managing network downtime can be stressful, demanding swift problem-solving
• The evolving nature of network technologies requires continuous upskilling

Educational Prerequisites

A foundational degree and/or coursework in computer engineering, computer science or management information systems is often seen as a precursor for this role. Degrees in related fields can also be pertinent. Additionally, it’s worth noting that many ITL master’s program applicants received initial training, not in an academic setting, but while serving in the US Armed Forces.

Certifications

Some of the top certifications in network administration include:

• CompTIA Network+
• Cisco Certified Network Associate
• Cisco Certified Network Professional Enterprise
• Cisco Certified Technician
• Microsoft 365 Certified: Administrator Expert
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert
• Microsoft Certified: Azure Security Engineer Associate
• VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is a critical field focusing  on protecting digital assets and data from threats. As data breaches and cyber attacks become more frequent, organizations rely on cybersecurity professionals to secure their systems and information.

Cybersecurity professionals design secure systems, detect vulnerabilities and act promptly against cyber threats to ensure the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive data.

Job Titles and Salaries

In cybersecurity, career paths can include a variety of positions:

• Entry-Level: IT security analyst
• Mid-Level: Cybersecurity specialist
• Senior-Level: Chief information security officer (CISO)

Salary ranges in this field can be quite broad, reflecting the high stakes and specialized skills required:

• Lower-end, IT security analyst: $59,808
• Higher end, CISO: $248,842
• Average base salary: $111,244

Pros and Cons

Pursuing a career in cybersecurity has its set of advantages and challenges.

Advantages include:

• Steady demand due to increasing cyber threats
• Competitive salaries
• The satisfaction derived from protecting vital data

Challenges include:

• Can entail high-pressure situations, especially during security breaches
• Requires continuous learning to address evolving threats

Educational Prerequisites

A bachelor’s degree in computer science with an emphasis on cybersecurity is common for those entering the field.

Certifications

To enhance career prospects and credentials in cybersecurity, obtaining the following certifications can be beneficial:

• Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
• Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)
• Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)
• Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)
• GIAC Security Leadership (GSLC)
• Certified in the Governance of Enterprise IT (CGEIT)
• Certified Chief Information Security Officer (CCISO)
• Certified Authorization Professional (CAP)

Database Development

Database development holds significance as organizations increasingly depend on robust and secure data storage solutions. Given the pivotal role data plays in decision-making, operational efficiency and strategic planning, database developers are central to creating and maintaining this foundational infrastructure.

Database developers craft and implement databases tailored to an organization’s needs. Their expertise ensures databases run efficiently and securely, with maintenance procedures that align with best practices and business objectives.

Job Titles and Salaries

Within database development, roles evolve as professionals gain experience:

• Entry-Level: Database administrator
• Mid-Level: SQL developer
• Senior-Level: Data architect

The salary spectrum in this domain is influenced by role and expertise:

• Lower-end, database administrator: $65,458 
• Higher-end, data warehouse architect: $178,745 
• Average base salary: $85,940

Pros and Cons

Working in database development offers several advantages and challenges.

Advantages include:

• Central to the operations of data-centric organizations
• Consistently high demand in the job market

Challenges include:

• Continuous learning is required to keep pace with evolving database technologies
• Mastery of various database languages and systems is necessary

Educational Prerequisites

A degree in computer science provides the foundational knowledge for database development. However, coursework in related fields, such as computer information systems and computer algorithms, can also be appropriate.

Certifications

To enhance career prospects and credentials in database development, obtaining the following certifications can be beneficial:

• Certified Data Management Professional
• Certified Data Professional
• IBM Certified Solution Architect – Data Warehouse
• Oracle PL/SQL Developer Certified Associate

Systems and Applications Administration

Systems and applications administration involves the comprehensive management and upkeep of an organization’s software applications and systems. This area of IT ensures the secure and proper functioning of applications by addressing issues, applying updates, managing configurations and optimizing performance to support business operations.

An application systems administrator specializes in managing and supporting software applications. Responsibilities include diagnosing and resolving issues, performing regular updates and ensuring applications run efficiently. They collaborate with various teams to enhance application functionality and reliability, utilizing their expertise in technologies like SQL to administer and optimize complex systems.

Job Titles & Salaries

Career progression in systems and applications administration encompasses various roles:

• Entry-Level: Junior systems analyst
• Mid-Level: Systems analyst; IT systems administrator
• Senior-Level: IT project manager; IT systems manager

Salaries in this field can range widely depending on the specific job and level of experience:

• Lower-end, junior systems analyst: $42,306 
• Higher-end, IT project manager: $142,657
• Average base salary: $83,102

Pros & Cons

Pursuing a career in systems and applications administration presents various advantages and challenges.

Advantages include:

• Serves as a bridge between technical and non-technical stakeholders
• Includes opportunities to work in diverse industries
• Is a dynamic role that evolves with technological advancements

Challenges include:

• Requires a broad understanding of both business processes and IT infrastructure
• Requires continual learning to stay updated with emerging technologies and business strategies

Educational Prerequisites

Typically, a bachelor’s degree in computer science is essential. However, Zippia reports that around 30% of these professionals hold advanced degrees.

Certifications

To boost credentials and career prospects in systems and applications administration, obtaining the following certifications can be beneficial:

• CompTIA A+ Certification
• CompTIA Security+
• Project Management Professional (PMP)
• Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)
• Certified ScrumMaster (CSM)
• CompTIA Project+

Web Development

Distinguished from traditional IT roles, web development carves out a unique niche among tech professions. While it shares certain foundational elements with IT, web development is oriented toward the design and functionality of websites, positioning it as its own field and specialization.

Web developers focus on the technical aspects of website creation, including back-end development, server management and database integration. This role differs from web design, which centers on visual aesthetics and user experience, and front-end development, which involves client-side scripting and ensuring a seamless user interface.

Job Titles & Salaries

In web development, professionals may advance through various roles:

• Entry-Level: Junior developer
• Mid-Level: Web developer
• Senior-Level: Website engineer

Salaries in web development can vary significantly based on role and expertise:

• Lower-end, Junior developer: $75,006
• Higher-end, Web developer: $134,110
• Average base salary: $81,412

Pros & Cons

A career in web development offers a mix of advantages and challenges.

Advantages include:

• Opportunities to exercise creativity
• Flexibility in work environment and methodologies
• Persistent, high demand in the digital age

Challenges include:

• The dynamic nature of web technologies demands regular skill updates
• The pace can be demanding, requiring adaptability

Educational Prerequisites

A degree in computer science or computer engineering is often a gateway into this profession. 

Certifications

To improve career prospects in web development, earning the following certifications can be helpful:

• Red Hat
• Oracle
• Professional Scrum Developer

Choosing the Right IT Career Path

Choosing the right career path in IT requires your direct attention, introspection and research. To navigate this decision-making, follow these steps:

Step 1: Engage in Self-reflection and Research 

Before diving into a specific IT field, take time for introspection and thorough research to ensure your personal strengths align with your career ambitions.

Questions to ask yourself:

• In which technical and soft skills do you excel and where do challenges arise?
• What are your long-term professional goals and how do they align with different IT career paths?
• How much responsibility and intensity are you ready to tackle in your job?
• Which IT roles resonate most with your passions and interests?
• How open are you to continuous learning and enhancing your skills?
• Does your ideal work setting match the typical environment of your chosen IT role?

Step 2: Research Specific Career Paths 

Begin by investigating the specifics of potential IT roles that capture your interest.

Considerations:

• Assess the current and future demand for roles in your preferred IT sector
• Research the compensation structures and potential for upward mobility within your desired career path
• Examine potential roadblocks and rewards in each IT area to see how they fit your career vision

Step 3: Weigh Key Factors 

Before making a decision, it’s essential to consider various aspects of the career path and how they align with your personal and professional aspirations.

Considerations:

• Consider your long-term contentment and fulfillment prospects in your chosen field
• Look at the potential for a balanced personal and professional life in your selected IT role
• Understand the learning progression and requirements for proficiency in your chosen path
• Explore the opportunities for advancement and specialization in the future

Step 4: Connect with Professionals for Guidance

Seek out insights from mentors, career counselors and professional networks in the IT field. Their experiences and advice can sharpen your clarity and direction as you finalize your decision.

The IT Roadmap: What’s Next?

As the IT industry diversifies and expands into these numerous sub-fields, there is a growing demand for leaders who can navigate this complex landscape. The University of San Diego’s MS in Information Technology Leadership prepares IT professionals like you for leadership roles across these various sectors. 

The program combines technological knowledge with leadership skills, enabling graduates to manage teams effectively, make informed decisions and implement IT strategies. Earning this advanced degree can give professionals a competitive advantage in job applications, facilitate faster career progression and lead to higher salary opportunities.

Looking to take the next step in your IT career? Be sure to ask the right questions before choosing a degree program! Start the process on the right foot by downloading our free eBook: 9 Questions to Ask Before Selecting an Information Technology Leadership Master’s Degree.