The information technology (IT) industry is one of the fastest-growing industries in the world. With technology playing a central role in daily life, having at least a basic knowledge of computers benefits just about everyone. Whether you’re a student, someone already working, or figuring out your career path, understanding IT can open the door to a wide range of career opportunities.

At its core, information technology is the study of computers and information systems. It’s all about how computers are used to store, process, transmit, and secure data. The entire field is massive and constantly evolving, and the global IT industry is estimated to be worth trillions of dollars. It’s no surprise that many students are choosing IT as a college major, especially considering how vital technology is in today’s digital world.

Despite how huge and important this industry is, there’s still a lot people don’t know about it—including common IT job types, average salaries, and how to qualify without a four-year degree. With strong income potential, job security, and relevance across all industries, IT is an attractive option for long-term career planning.

Many people are surprised to learn just how common, high-demand, and high-paying IT jobs are. They’re not just rare dream roles—they’re some of the most accessible and in-demand positions in the modern job market. In Callie Malvik’s article, “What Does A Software Developer Do? A Deep Dive into the Career,” published May 4, 2020, she writes, “In today’s digital economy, virtually everything is revolved around technology. This means qualified software developers are a hot commodity.” That quote hits the mark. Software development is just one of many IT paths—and while it’s well known, it’s far from the only option.

Popular careers in IT include database administrators, IT managers, computer programmers, and computer research scientists. These roles are needed in almost every industry—not just tech companies—because every business depends on digital infrastructure. Salaries in these roles typically range from $60,000 to $150,000+ per year, depending on experience, education, and location. For most people, that’s a strong income—especially in a career field that continues to grow.

One of the best parts about working in IT is the variety of education and training options. While a traditional degree is one path, it’s definitely not the only one. Many people break into tech with industry-recognized IT certifications, which can be completed much faster and at a lower cost than a college degree. These credentials are offered by universities and major tech companies, and they carry real weight in the hiring process.

In Ryan Day’s article “IT Certifications: 5 New Realities” on Global Knowledge, he explains how much more employers value certified employees. He writes, “The additional skills that certified employees bring to the table are also a welcomed benefit in an industry that’s currently facing ever-widening skills gaps. When asked to estimate the economic benefit of a certified staff member versus a non-certified peer, 63% of IT decision-makers said it exceeds $10,000 annually. Twenty-two percent say that number is more than $30,000.” That’s a huge return on investment, especially when most certification programs cost a fraction of what a college degree does.

Some of the most in-demand certifications in IT include the Google IT Support Professional Certificate, CompTIA A+ and Network+, and Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA). These credentials give you practical, job-ready skills that employers are actively looking for. They also help you stand out from the crowd, especially when applying for entry-level IT positions.

At the end of the day, there’s a lot that people still don’t know about careers in information technology. The diversity of job roles, solid earning potential, and flexible education pathways make IT an area worth exploring. It’s not just about being good at computers—it’s about understanding how technology supports real-world solutions. Whether you’re choosing a college major, changing careers, or simply exploring options, information technology offers more opportunities than you might expect.

Works Cited

Malvik, Callie. “What Does a Software Developer Do? A Deep Dive into the Career.” Rasmussen University, 4 May 2020, https://www.rasmussen.edu/degrees/technology/blog/what-does-software-developer-do/.

Day, Ryan. “IT Certifications: 5 New Realities.” Global Knowledge, 27 Aug. 2019, https://www.globalknowledge.com/us-en/resources/resource-library/articles/certification-value-continues-to-grow-for-it-professionals/#gref.