Information technology is one of the leading employers in today’s economy. The popularity of information technology is fueled by the drive by many technology companies to capitalize on the wave of technological advancements that have consumed the industry. As a result, we have seen great leaps in Nano-technology, telecommunications and computer technology that are pushing the limits of man’s imagination.

To gain afoot-hold in the field of information technology, one must get formal training on the systems, principles and mechanisms used within the profession. For individuals who are interested in the field of information technology, an online diploma in information technology is one of the easiest ways of gaining a sound knowledge of the industry. Online universities work in collaboration with leading information technology experts and companies to design their online courses. This ensures that the courses are current, applicable and relevant to the various happenings of this dynamic industry.

The diploma in information technology is an extraction of the level 1, 2 and level 3 courses of the bachelor’s degree in information technology. As a result, the general online diploma in information technology takes an average of three years for completion. At level 1, students focus on basic mathematical and scientific courses that prepares them for the more specialized courses later on in the course. These subjects include calculus, circuits, physics and basic programing languages. At level 2, students start going into their core subject areas. This level entails subjects such as communication, information technologies, computers and processors and designing with visual basic. Level 3 entails studies in areas such as foundation and practice of e-business technologies, technologies for digital media and advance communication technologies.

Top Online Colleges for an Online Diploma in Information Technology

When choosing an online college to pursue an online diploma in information technology, students must ensure that the university and its programs are accredited by the Department of Education. This accreditation will prove critical in the future when the time comes for employment or further studies. Many online colleges with grant credit exemption based only on the accreditation of the previous university.

Some of the best universities offering Accredited Online Diplomas in Information Technology include:

• ITT Technical Institute: Over the years, ITT Tech has been one of the premium online colleges that supply the information technology industry with highly qualified graduates capable of pushing the industry forward. ITT technical online offer students an unparalleled diploma program that is supported by financial aid and career services that ensure students get value for their money.
• Strayer University: Strayer University offer students an online diploma in Internetworking Technology that encompasses all the various facets and applications of information technology. Students study at any time convenient and have direct access to their instructors to clear up any misunderstanding from the course work material.

So you’re still not sure what you want to major in? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. Selecting a major that is perfect and will give you career stability can be a difficult task. I have listed below my picks of the top 10 most popular online college majors based on the job market and what will always be in demand.

Business

A bachelor of business in administration offers a variety of career paths. Many people are pursuing their online degree in business including business communications, information technology, e-business, accounting business management and much more, making it the single most popular undergraduate program in the nation.

Culinary Artist

If you have a love for food, then a culinary degree can lead to an exciting and fulfilling career.

Computers

A bachelors of science in Computer Science and Information Systems are both offered online and are usually flexible, offering students comprehensive education in computers in areas such as web development, databases and security among others.

Visual Communications

If you like working with graphics design, animation, illustration and drawing is truly passionate about communicating your ideas and concept through visual media, then this could be a career path for you.

Arts & Liberal Studies

Online Arts and Liberal studies degree programs will give you a wide ranging education covering everything from science to history to human nature, among others. An online major in liberal studies provides you with a wide range of knowledge of the broader world.

Health

Nurses (RN to BSN) are in high demand and is expected to grow at a fast pace due to the current shortage of nurses across the country. There are also medical-related programs such as: medical assisting, health administration, medical transcription, psychology, health care management to choose from.

Education

If you are already in the teaching profession an advanced degree from an accredited online institution can also increase your job opportunities, earnings and career advancements. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, education is now one of the second largest industries in the United States, employing over 2.7 million.

Interior Design

Thinking of a career in Interior design? Interior designers work with clients and other design professionals to plan develop and design functional and attractive plans that will meet the needs of their clients.

Legal

Most of the top online colleges and universities offer associate and bachelor degrees in criminal justice, homeland security, criminal justice, forensic and much more. Criminal Justice is one of the most popular online undergraduate degree programs for students.

Engineering

Some of the most popular fields in engineering are: computer information systems, software development, game and simulation programming and networking. Engineers are always in demand.

If you are thinking about business school, you are probably wondering if you should attend Campus College or an Online College. Well, if you have the time to attend classes on campus then you should go for it. However, online learning is mainly designed for those of us who cannot attend the traditional classroom setting, due to our hectic work schedule, family obligations and other life activities. Online schools are a great place to further your education. So, if you are looking for a better way to earn a living, advance your career or improve your salary from the comfort and convenience of your home then here is the 10 best online business schools that you can consider attending.

• University of Phoenix – Online
• DeVry University – Online
• Kaplan University, School of Business – Online
• Colorado Technical University – Online
• American InterContinental University – Online
• ITT Technical Institute, School of Business – Online
• Capella University Graduate School - Online
• University of Maryland University College – Online
• Westwood College –Online
• Asford University –Online

What is the Best Online Business School for you?

Only you can determine which online business school can best meet your individual needs. Our main goal is to save you some time by giving you a list of what we think are the best online business colleges and universities. We advise and encourage you to request free information from any of the colleges listed above which interest you, then you make determine which online school best meet your needs.

Campus College Vs. Online College

Highlighted in an article written by Sheila Tucker, from East Carolina University, titled Distance Education: Better, Worse, than or as Good as Traditional Education? This article shows that it is important that research be done to determine if distance learning is as effective as traditional education. The major goal of this study was to determine if distance education is better, worse, or as good as traditional education. The same instructor taught both classes and ensured that the requirements for both classes were the same. Both classes required the use of technology and provided considerable rigor and value to the education process. This study concurs with the general body of knowledge that distance education can be just as good as traditional face-to-face education.

No Significant Differences in Distance Education vs. Traditional Education

No significant differences were found between pre-test scores, homework grades, research paper grades and final course grades. However, there were significant differences between the two groups with regard to age, post-test scores, and final exam scores. Distance education students scored higher in all three categories. Yet, this is not sufficient evidence to conclude that distance education is superior to traditional education. Other factors may have contributed to these results. For example, the distance education delivery method catered to, in part, students’ preferred learning styles. They preferred Direct Experience, and the structure of the course allowed for considerable hands-on experience in learning course content. They least preferred authority and the structure of the course allowed them the freedom to work Independently on course material.

Conclusion

This study adds to the growing body of research regarding distance education. It is important to note that a lack of significant difference in final course grades may indicate that one delivery method is not superior to the other. Thus, this study can conclude that while distance education may not be superior to or better than traditional face-to-face education, it is not worse than traditional education. It can be an acceptable alternative because it is just as good as traditional education.