What is an Information Technology (IT) Major

College Board

• January 24, 2025

Do your friends and family come to you with computer questions? Do you get a sense of satisfaction when you've solved their problems? If so, imagine working some day as the go-to "tech person" at a small company or a large institution where the flow of information is critical to its mission.

As an information technology (IT) major, you'll study computer science, business, and communications. Along the way, you might focus on one specialty such as web development or digital communications. But regardless of your focus, you'll acquire strong technical and communication skills.

IT majors focus on how information and computing systems support business, research, and communications needs. Instruction ranges from the basics of computer hardware to the complex relationship between humans and computers.

Did You Know?

According to a 2008 report from the Pew Internet and American Life Project, most workers use the Internet or email on the job.

Are You Ready To...?

• Intern off-campus as a member of a company's IT staff
• Study the ethical issues and social impacts of IT
• Learn about IT from an international and historical perspective
• Take classes in different departments, from computer science to philosophy

It Helps To Be...

A flexible and adaptable problem solver who is ready and willing to learn about working with systems and with people.

College Checklist

• Will you be able to specialize in an area of interest?
• Are some professors working off-campus as well as teaching -- thus practicing the latest trends in information technology?
• Will you get credits toward your major for related courses in other departments such as journalism, philosophy, or business?
• Will the college help you find an internship?

Did You Know?

The Pew report also found that so-called networked workers have mixed feelings about the technology they use, saying it adds stress as well as flexibility to their lives.

Course Spotlight

Since an IT major involves taking core courses in several different departments, many students end up with a specialty or track in one area of interest. For example, you may decide to specialize in Web development and take classes such as Web page design and database development for the Web. Or you may be drawn to digital communications and take classes in telecommunications networks and the science of telephones.

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