Study Applied Technology Management: Degrees at a Glance
Technology management is a broad term used to describe leadership positions in various areas of technology, including development, support and research. Applied technology management programs teach you the management concepts needed for needed for this positions. In addition to a degree, you may need several years of experience to qualify for a technology management position. If you are interested in beginning as an assistant or in a support position, then an associate degree may be ideal for you. A bachelor's degree may provide a quicker route to management positions.
Two positions related to technology management are computer support specialist and computer systems analyst. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment opportunities for computer support specialists are expected to increase 18% from 2010-2020. Over that same time period, the BLS predicted that the employment of computer systems analysts will increase 22%. The growing reliance of businesses on computers and other technologies will be one of the factors contributing to this growth.
| Associate | Bachelor's | |
|---|---|---|
| Who is this degree for? | Individuals interested in support or assistant positions | Individuals looking for positions with more responsibility and a quicker route to a management position |
| Common Career Paths (with approximate median annual salary) | - Computer support specialist ($48,000)* - Technical support specialist ($29,000 - $66,000)** | - Computer systems analyst ($79,000)* - Computer and information systems managers ($118,000)* |
| Time to Completion | 2 years full-time | 4 years full-time |
| Common Graduation Requirements | - Approximately 60 credits | - Roughly 120 credits |
| Prerequisites | High school diploma or equivalent | - High school diploma or equivalent - SAT or ACT scores |
| Online Availability | Yes | Yes |
Source: *U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2011 figures), **Payscale.com (October 2012 figures), ***Experience is typically required in addition to a degree
Associate Degree Programs
Associate degree programs in majors related to applied technology management are primarily offered through community colleges, although some four-year schools may offer them. Relevant programs may be offered as a specialization of a management major. Often, these curricula are diverse and include topics in different areas of business.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Programs may be tailored to a specific form of management technology like business
- Don't require as many general education courses as bachelor's degrees
- Credits may be applied toward a bachelor's degree
Cons
- Some programs may not be specific to technology management
- May not be sufficient for management positions
- Many jobs available to individuals with associate degrees pay less than those available to bachelor degree graduates
Coursework and Requirements
Applied technology associate programs include general education requirements in math and communications. You may take courses in several business areas, like accounting, economics or marketing. Some of the courses you may take include:
- Foundations in information technology
- Networking concepts
- Introduction to management
- Programming fundamentals
Online Programs
Online programs are available through both traditional and professional schools. Some of these programs may be offered as hybrids. These programs require some courses to be completed on-site so you may want to review the curriculum and investigate what the requirements are.
How to Get Ahead with This Degree
Some positions may require you to be knowledgeable about computer life-cycles or the general use of office technology. These tasks may include making upgrades, monitoring performance and installing new technologies. Therefore, having experience performing these tasks may be beneficial. Depending on the position, familiarity with some forms of computer programming languages may be necessary.
Bachelor's Degree Programs
Similar to associate programs, bachelor's degree programs specific to applied technology management are rare. However, related programs like technology management and applied technology are available. These programs may require the completion of all general education coursework or a full associate degree for admittance. Some specializations in certain forms of technology, such as information technology or control engineering technology, may be available.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- May make you eligible for a management position
- Specializations in certain technologies are offered
- May include supporting coursework in professional concepts like project management
Cons
- Experience may still be required for some positions
- Programs specific to applied technology management are rare
- May have specific coursework completion requirements for admission
Coursework and Requirements
Besides courses devoted to applied technology management topics, you will complete courses in business topics, like finance and management. In addition to coursework, you may need to complete a capstone project to graduate. Some of the courses you may take in a bachelor's program include:
- Legal aspects of managing technology
- Quality management
- Engineering and technology management
- Project and change management for technology
- Information technology and security
Online Programs
Some online bachelor's programs are available. These programs may accept transfer credits and allow you to finish at an accelerated pace. The curricula for these programs are similar to traditional on-site bachelor's programs. You will learn through tools like online lectures and discussions.
How to Get Ahead with This Degree
Similar to associate degree holders, you may consider becoming familiar with a specific computer programming language. You may also want to familiarize yourself with technology specific to the career you're interested in pursuing, especially if your program doesn't offer a concentration. Professional certification is another option. Organizations like the Association of Technology, Management and Applied Engineering offer credentials that require you to pass a certifying exam. Experience and education requirements may also be included.
