Technical Schools: Why You Should Enroll and Where to Find One

WJ Content, Yahoo! Contributor Network
Mar 23, 2010 "Share your voice on Yahoo! websites. Start Here."

America's slow economy hasn't caused much of a lull in the world of technology careers. In fact, job growth in the technical industry is expected to increase by 50% by 2016. Fortunately, technical careers come in all shapes and sizes, so there's something for everyone. From network systems and data communications analysts to technical writers, today's technology graduates will enjoy variety, stability, and top salaries. Just a few top salaries in the field include:

Systems Engineer - $87,100 (median), $130,000 (top salary)

Information Technology Project managers - $98,700 (median), $140,000 (top salary)

Technical Writers - $67,400 per year (median), $99,600 (top salary)

Computer/Network Security Consultant - $99,700 (median), $152,000 (top salary)

Software Developer - $79,400 (median), $116,000 (top salary)

If you're considering a career in technology, you will have to enroll in bachelor's degree program at a technical school. You may choose from three types of formats including traditional (on-campus), blended (on-campus and online), or online (no classroom required).

When you have decided on a format, it's time to search for a school. Visit sites such as U.S. News & World Report College Rankings. After searching through listings and ratings information, make a list of your top 5 schools. You should visit each school's website (whether online or traditional) and check to make sure the school is accredited by an agency that is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education (Ed.gov).

Use U.S. News or Princeton Review to compare tuition rates. This will help you separate the schools that are in reach financially from the schools that are definitely out of reach. Once you have reviewed tuition rates, rankings, and accreditation status, your list should contain 2 schools.

You may apply online for the quickest response, but be sure to pay close attention to admission requirements, especially if the school you have in mind was not listed with any of the websites listed in this article; or if you are having trouble verifying accreditation status. A high quality technical school program will request test scores, transcripts from all schools attended, recommendation letters, an application letter, and any other credentials.

If you are still unsure, take a look at the school's curriculum. The curriculum for a Bachelor of Science degree in computer science will be divided into the following sections:

-Computer Science

-Mathematics/Probability

-Engineering and Natural Sciences

-Humanities and Arts

-Required Minor

-Free Electives

Major computer science courses should include:

-Introduction to Data Structures

-Effective Programming in C and UNIX

-Freshman Immigration Course

-Fundamental Data Structures and Algorithms

-Principles of Programming