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Old Jun 28, 2006, 03:59 PM
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jennie jennie is offline
Poohbah
 
Member Since: Dec 2002
Location: DC metro area
Posts: 1,366
some IT jobs will train on the job, if you have some recognized skill but no diploma

there are so many types of IT field occupations . . . a few worth mentioning (according to US Dept of Labor)

Database Administrators ($65,590/yr)

Coordinate changes to computer databases, test and implement the database applying knowledge of database management systems. May plan, coordinate, and implement security measures to safeguard computer databases.

Network and Computer Systems Administrators ($63,210/yr)

Install, configure, and support an organization's local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and Internet system or a segment of a network system. Maintain network hardware and software. Monitor network to ensure network availability to all system users and perform necessary maintenance to support network availability. May supervise other network support and client server specialists and plan, coordinate, and implement network security measures. Exclude "Computer Support Specialists"

Computer Support Specialists ($43,380)

Provide technical assistance to computer system users. Answer questions or resolve computer problems for clients in person, via telephone or from remote location. May provide assistance concerning the use of computer hardware and software, including printing, installation, word processing, electronic mail, and operating systems. Exclude "Network and Computer Systems Administrators"

******
I think the Database Administrator job could be learned by self research and study online, through books, and certification tests.

According to http://www.bls.gov/oco/ocos042.htm . . .

"Despite employers’ preference for those with technical degrees, persons with degrees in a variety of majors find employment in these occupations. The level of education and the type of training that employers require depend on their needs. One factor affecting these needs is changes in technology. Employers often scramble to find workers capable of implementing new technologies."

and . . .

"Certification is a way to demonstrate a level of competence in a particular field. Some product vendors or software firms offer certification and require professionals who work with their products to be certified. Many employers regard these certifications as the industry standard. For example, one method of acquiring enough knowledge to get a job as a database administrator is to become certified in a specific type of database management. Voluntary certification also is available through various organizations associated with computer specialists. Professional certification may afford a jobseeker a competitive advantage."

I'd recommend the Database Administrator job. For detailed info on this job, see US Dept of Labor's page