Information Technology (IT) has revolutionized the world in the way no one could have ever thought of. Constantly being able to stay connected to our friends sitting miles away on Facebook or being able to work simultaneously on a project even while sitting in two different continents, or finishing a routine report on laptop, information technology is the one essential lifeline that we cannot afford to live without. This field of computer science commonly known as Information Technology is one of the fastest growing fields in the area of engineering studies. Information technology as an area of engineering that includes designing, developing, implementing and managing computer-based information systems including software applications and computer hardware. With the increasing complexities in human life and ever growing need for newer IT based systems this mammoth industry will continue to grow at an ever greater pace and there is virtually nothing that can stop its ever escalating need.
Personality Traits-
One of the foremost skills that are required in this area of studies is good programming and analytical skills. To elucidate, the ability to learn complex programming softwares with ease and being able to find programming solutions to work -related needs is a priority. Also being able to keep up-to-date with the latest in the field of IT is essential. Patience and perseverance comes handy. Being flexible with different methodologies and work timings is also essential.
Course/Training-
All those who wish to enter this field of engineering have to first complete their class XII in science stream. Aspirants are then required to appear for Joint Entrance Exam (JEE) conducted by CBSE for gaining admission into B.Tech in top engineering colleges in the country like IITs, NITs etc. Aspirants can then choose Computer Science Information Technology stream as their area of specialization. Science graduates can also pursue a postgraduate degree in computer science or IT in the form of MCA or M.Tech. There are also various diploma programs available that train in various areas of programming.
Career Opportunities-
Opportunities after completing an undergrad or post graduate degree program are immense. There are various arenas that an IT engineer can venture into. A few of them are mentioned below.
- Software related jobs: Professionals can join top software development companies like Infosys, TCS, Microsoft, Wipro etc in the areas of software systems and applications, software design and development , system analysis and application. Software engineers can work as Systems Analysts, Analyst Programmers, Application Programmers, Information Systems Managers, Systems maintenance analysts, Software Quality managers, Computer Operations Manager, Operation Research Analysts and lots more. The opportunities are abundant; all that one requires is love for computers and software designing.
- Consultancy related jobs: Professionals with an entrepreneurial bent of mind can start their own consultancy business wherein they can provide all IT related solutions to their clients in areas like software development, data processing and computer-linked services.
- Network Engineers: IT engineers can work as network specialists who not only design but also install, administer and maintain the computer networks in the organization.
- Multimedia and e-commerce: With online commerce becoming all the more important each passing day and a lot of banking procedures going online, software engineers are required to design softwares and programmes that are convenient and safe.
Remunerations
An average salary of an IT engineer ranges between Rs. 4-7. lakh per annum. Graduates from top institutions like IITs and NITs can earn packages with top software companies that range between Rs. 12 to 25 lakh per annum.
List of Institutes for undergrad and post-grad courses in India
Name of Institute Website
Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi www. iitd.ac.in
Indian Institute of Technology, Madras www.iitm.ac.in
Indian Institute of Technology, Mumbai www.iitb.ac.in
Indian Institute of Technology, Kanpur www.iitk.ac.in
Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee www.iitr.ac.in
BITS, Pilani www.bits-pilani.ac.in
List of Institutes for undergrad and post-grad courses in Dubai
Name of Institutes website
Birla Institute of Technology & Science Pilani – Dubai Campus www.bits-pilani.ac.in/dubai
Heriot Watt University Dubai www.hw.ac.uk
Manipal Education Dubai Campus www.manipaldubai.com
Amity Dubai Campus www.amityuniversity.ae