Choosing a Career Path: Information Technology or Information Science?

Choosing a Career Path: Information Technology or Information Science?

The decision to choose a career path is one of the most important decisions anyone will ever make; it will have a profound impact on their lives and the lives of those around them. Two highly sought-after career paths in recent years include Information Technology (IT) and Information Science (IS). While both career paths are similar, there are critical differences to consider when making a decision on which one to adopt.

Overview of Information Technology and Information Science

IT encompasses all areas of technology aimed at facilitating, managing, and processing information. IT professionals include system administrators, network engineers, information system managers, software developers, cybersecurity experts, and many others. Their job is to keep the technology of an organization running efficiently and securely.

IS, on the other hand, focuses on the way people, organizations, and society interact with technology. An IS professional may analyze data, design and develop information systems, or research new ways of improving technology to meet user needs.

Career Outlook

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the demand for IT and IS professionals is expected to grow faster than average across all occupations. However, the job outlook for each field is different. While still in high demand, the growth rate for IT jobs is expected to be slower than it has been in the past. Meanwhile, IS jobs are expected to grow faster than average, with a projected job growth rate of 11% in 2029.

Job Opportunities

There are significant job opportunities in both IT and IS. As technology becomes increasingly important in our lives, everything from healthcare to marketing relies heavily on the knowledge and expertise of IT professionals. At the same time, IS professionals are critically important to the development of new and innovative technologies. They bridge the gap between the technology that exists and the technology that can meet the needs of society.

Salary

Both IT and IS are well-paying fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median wage for IT professionals in 2020 was $91,250 per year, and for IS professionals, it was $91,940 per year.

Education and Training

A bachelor’s degree is the minimum requirement for most jobs in both fields. However, the degree requirements may differ based on the specific job. IT professionals often require a degree in computer science or engineering, while IS professionals may require a degree in information systems or a related field. To stay ahead of the curve, professionals in both fields need to be committed to ongoing education, certification, and skills development throughout their careers.

Final Thoughts

Choosing a career between IT and IS depends on an individual’s interests, abilities, and career goals. While both career paths are linked with technology, they have different focuses and job responsibilities. IT may be the right choice for those who enjoy fixing technical issues, implementing technology updates, and troubleshooting networks. IS may be the right choice for those who enjoy designing and analyzing systems, or using technology to improve businesses. Ultimately, the choices you make will determine your career success and happiness.