Apart from technical experience, IT managers are required to have at least a bachelor’s degree in IT. A well-rounded major such as computer science, information technology or management information systems is always preferred.
Although a bachelor’s degree is sufficient when combined with extensive field experience, most of the hiring managers prefer IT management candidates having a graduate degree. A Masters of Business Administration (MBA) with a technology background is the ideal program for IT managers.
The MBA curriculum comprises the business and managerial skills necessary to succeed in a leadership role. Whereas, IT focus teaches managers on how to apply this knowledge in the technology workplace. Most of the MBA programs include projects where students put their hard-earned skills to the test in a business project to be judged by professors or practitioners in their respective fields.
The marketable skills to look for in an IT management education program include project management, professional development, IT strategy, team leadership, corporate decision-making, database & network management, research & analysis methodology, managerial finance, and excellent oral, written & non-verbal communication skills.
With the recent technological advancements in online learning platforms, the curriculum in IT manager training programs works better than ever before in the distance learning format.
How many years does it take to become an IT manager?
If you know you want to end up working as an IT manager, earning a master’s degree or MBA can increase the job opportunities available to you. Before you become a manager, you’ll need at least five years of work experience in addition to your degree.
What is the salary of an IT manager?
The base salary for Information Technology Manager ranges from $106,812 to$131,370 with the average base salary of $119,301.