Choosing the right technology degree is a critical decision that can shape your career and future prospects. With the ever-evolving tech landscape, it’s essential to stay informed about which degrees offer the best opportunities. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll rank technology majors from S tier (the best) to F tier (the worst), focusing on key metrics such as entry-level demand and salary prospects. This year’s list includes a new,
crucial metric: demand at the entry level, which is vital for those just starting in their careers. Let’s dive into the 2024 Technology Degree Tier List.
S Tier: The Cream Of The Crop
1. Computer Science
Computer Science consistently ranks at the top, and for good reason. According to Glassdoor, the average yearly salary for a computer science graduate is a whopping $91,000. Additionally, a quick search on LinkedIn reveals over 191,000 entry-level job listings for
affordable computer help science roles. This degree opens doors to various high-paying and in-demand careers, making it an undeniable S-tier choice.
2. Management Information Systems (MIS)
Management Information Systems (MIS) is another top-tier degree that combines business acumen with technology skills. This degree offers a broad range of career paths, from systems analysis to IT management. MIS graduates are highly versatile and can fit into numerous roles within the tech industry. One notable example is Antoine from the YouTube channel Black Heights, who pursued an MIS degree and now earns over $540,000 annually. The versatility and high earning potential place MIS firmly in the S tier.
A Tier: Excellent Choices
3. Information Technology Management
Information Technology Management (ITM) blends IT skills with leadership and management capabilities. On Glassdoor, ITM professionals earn an average of $124,000 per year, and there are 46,000 entry-level job listings on LinkedIn. While it’s a step below computer science, the addition of management skills makes this degree highly valuable. Many find success by leveraging certifications and self-study to enter the field, making it an A-tier degree.
4. Cyber Security
Cybersecurity is a critical and rapidly growing field. Glassdoor reports an average annual salary of $84,000 for cybersecurity professionals, and LinkedIn shows 107,000 entry-level job openings. Although it’s possible to break into cybersecurity without a degree through certifications and hands-on experience, a formal education provides a strong foundation and better job security. Cybersecurity is undoubtedly an A-tier degree due to its high demand and vital importance in the tech industry.
5. Information Security and Assurance
Closely related to cybersecurity, Information Security and Assurance focuses on protecting data and information systems. Graduates can expect to earn around $90,000 per year, and there are 141,000 entry-level job listings on LinkedIn. This degree also offers various paths to entry, including self-study and certifications. The high demand for professionals in this field and the solid earning potential make it an A-tier degree.
6. Information Science
Information Science is another excellent degree with an average salary of $101,000 per year and 49,000 entry-level job listings on LinkedIn. This degree focuses on the management and utilization of information, combining aspects of computer science and library science. The high salary and ample job opportunities secure its place in the A tier.
B Tier: Solid Choices With Some Caveats
7. Information Technology
Information Technology (IT) is a popular choice, with an average salary of $74,000 per year and 218,000 entry-level job listings on LinkedIn. While IT is a good degree, it often leads to entry-level positions such as IT help desk roles, which can also be accessed through certifications and self-study. For those looking for a more direct path, alternatives like Course Careers offer targeted training and guaranteed interviews, making traditional IT degrees a B-tier option.
C Tier: Middle Of The Pack
8. Telecommunications
Telecommunications is a degree that focuses on communication technology and infrastructure. Graduates earn an average of $73,000 per year, and there are 54,000 entry-level job listings on LinkedIn. While it’s a decent degree, the demand is not as high as other tech fields, placing it in the C tier. It offers solid but not outstanding opportunities compared to other technology degrees.
D Tier: Less Desirable Options
9. Computer Graphics Technology
Computer Graphics Technology is a specialized degree focusing on visual computing. Graduates earn an average of $59,000 per year, with only 3,900 entry-level job listings on LinkedIn. The limited job opportunities and lower salary prospects make this degree less appealing, earning it a D-tier ranking. While it’s suitable for those passionate about graphics, the career prospects are not as robust as other tech fields.
10. Network Administration
Network Administration involves managing and maintaining computer networks. This degree offers an average salary of $72,000 per year, with 33,000 entry-level job listings on LinkedIn. Despite the reasonable salary, the demand for network administrators is lower compared to other tech roles, relegating it to the D tier. It’s a viable option but lacks the high demand and growth potential of other tech degrees.
F Tier: The Worst Choices
While we won’t delve into F-tier degrees in this guide, it’s crucial to note that these degrees offer the least return on investment. They may have limited job opportunities, lower salaries, and fewer career growth prospects. It’s best to avoid these degrees if you’re looking to maximize your career potential in the tech industry.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the right technology degree can significantly impact your career trajectory. Degrees like
affordable computer help Science and Management Information Systems offer the best opportunities, with high salaries and abundant job openings. Fields such as Cybersecurity and Information Technology Management also provide excellent prospects, especially for those who combine formal education with certifications and hands-on experience.
For those looking to enter the tech industry through alternative paths, services like Course Careers offer valuable training and guaranteed interviews, often making traditional degrees less necessary.
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Choosing the right technology degree is a step towards a successful and fulfilling career. By staying informed and making strategic choices, you can secure a bright future in the ever-evolving tech industry.