Career And School Info For Computer Systems Managers

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Computer Systems Manager Job Description

Career tips, salaries, and lists of schools.

Every business relies on technology for their day to day operations, and computer systems managers make sure the right technology is in place and performing well. Typical responsibilities of computer systems managers include:

• Interviewing managers of departments to determine their technology requirements
• Working with business leaders to establish organizational goals for growth and capability
• Researching the latest software and services to prevent potential problems
• Planning for the purchase and implementation of technical solutions
• Overseeing software development, Web and network connections, and security
• Supervising programmers, software engineers, systems analysts and support specialists
• Coordinating the installation and maintenance of software and hardware
• Designing systems and overseeing their installation
• Creating and maintaining websites for the public and for employee use

In addition to these general responsibilities, Chief Technology Officers (CTO) evaluate innovative solutions and determine how they can be best implemented. They weigh the costs against the benefits, and analyze how the solution will bring profit after a large investment. CTOs also establish technical standards and processes and write security policies, working with Chief Information Officers (CIO).

Information Technology (IT) or Management of Information Systems (MIS) directors make sure that information is available and secure for users in the organization. They oversee IT employees, identify and uphold performance standards, and manage the implementation of projects.

Project managers in IT identify requirements, manage budgets, and coordinate schedules for projects - overseeing the process from development through implementation. They interact with their organization’s IT employees, clients, consultants and vendors.

Computer systems managers often work long hours, and they can work all hours of the day and night. They frequently travel or work remotely to manage issues at other locations.

Degrees and Schools

Many four-year institutions offer bachelor's degrees in computer science, management information systems (MIS) or information science. A Master's in Business Administration with emphasis on technology is usually preferred by employers of computer systems managers, and can be obtained with an additional two years of study at a college or university.

Vocational schools and community colleges also offer computer-related associate's degrees, which may be sufficient for employers when combined with work experience and/or professional certification.

Classes

Students pursuing an undergraduate degree or MBA that will prepare them for a career in computer systems management divide their time between classroom and computer lab. They also work on team projects and collaborate with local businesses through internships and research projects. Common courses include:

• Computer science theory and application
• Software development, programming and engineering
• Systems design, networking and security
• Database management
• Mathematics and statistics
• English and communications
• Finance and accounting
• Management, business and marketing

Online Classes and Programs

Programs that offer bachelor's and master's degrees in computer-related fields through e-learning are some of the most well-developed on the Web. Some programs are offered by Internet-based schools, while most are offered by universities and colleges that have campuses.

Online courses should be part of an institution with accreditation from agencies approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or United States Department of Education (USDE).

Employment Requirements

A bachelor's degree in information science, computer science or management information systems (MIS) is usually the minimum requirement for computer systems manager positions, although many employers prefer candidates with MBAs that focus on technology. With sufficient work experience and/or professional certification, an associate's degree from a trade or vocational school may be sufficient for some positions. In these cases, the employer may assist the employee in obtaining their bachelor's or master's degree during their employment.

In addition to the proper academic background, computer systems managers are expected to have professional certification in specific software and technology used on the job, as well as a minimum of several years of computer science and business experience. They should also be good leaders with excellent communication skills.

How to Evaluate Computer Systems Management Schools

Here are some questions to consider when comparing computer-related degree programs:

• Degree field - Does the degree align with specific career goals? For example, if the student is interested in information systems more than networking, he or she may wish to consider an MIS rather than computer science.
• Course availability - Are there a substantial number of courses available in specific areas of interest? Are business courses available as well as IS courses? Are the courses difficult to get into?
• Learning technologies - What school-related tasks are students able to complete online? How many courses are available via the Web? Are computer labs well-equipped with enough workstations to support demand?
• Accreditation - Is the program affiliated with or part of an accredited school?
• Location - Is the school located in a major technology center such as the Silicon Valley in California or Denver / Boulder, Colorado, where internships and job opportunities may be more plentiful?
• Tuition and financial assistance - Does the school provide an abundance of resources to help students find financial support, such as student loans, scholarships, grants and work study?
• Career searching - Does the program offer job placement assistance? Are desirable employers well-represented at career fairs? What kinds of jobs do graduates of the program have now?

Career Highlights

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What Kind of Person Has This Career?

(Percent of people in the occupation who agree.)

Important Natural Abilities	% Agree
Written Comprehension	81%
Oral Comprehension	78%
Oral Expression	78%

Full List

Work Values	% Agree
Pleasant Working Conditions	92%
Organizational Support	78%
Achievement	72%

Full List

Areas of Personal Interest	% Agree
Starting And Leading Activities	95%
Following Instructions	72%
Mental Problem-Solving	56%

Full List

Work Style Characteristics	% Agree
Integrity	94%
Dependability	94%
Adaptability/Flexibility	93%

Full List

Which Skills and Knowledge are Needed for this Job?

(Numbers are % of people choosing the item.)

Important Personal Skills	% Agree
Reading Comprehension	81%
Active Listening	75%
Critical Thinking	75%

Full List

Important Professional Knowledge	% Agree
Computers And Electronics	88%
Administration And Management	76%
Customer And Personal Service	72%

Full List

Which Activities and Situations Are Involved in Doing The Job?

(Numbers are % of people choosing the item.)

Common Work Conditions	% Agree
Telephone	100%
Electronic Mail	100%
Indoors, Environmentally Controlled	97%

Full List

Common Job Activities	% Agree
Interacting With Computers	95%
Getting Information	92%
Establishing And Maintaining Interpersonal Relationships	86%

Full List

Related Resources

• MBA Degrees
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