In order to enter an accredited program that offers a college degree information technology, a prospective student must have a high school diploma or GED. Training requirements for specific positions within the field of information technology vary. Most employers prefer to hire candidates with at least some formal college training. Therefore, getting into a post-secondary school that offers a degree in information technology is important for a high school graduate that wishes to enter the field of information technology in any capacity.
For entry-level positions, some employers require only an associate degree in a computer-related filed. Most employers prefer candidates with a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, information technology or information systems. Most entry-level computer support positions require new hires to undergo job specific training that can last anywhere from one month to one year. In positions with longer, mandatory training periods, it is not uncommon for an employer to hire applicants with any type of bachelor's degree as long as he or she has the technical skills and knowledge the position requires.
Management positions in information technology usually require bachelor's degrees in a computer-related field. College students interested in information management generally pursue degrees in computer science, information science, of management information systems. Most employers prefer applicants to have a master's degree. A MBA with a focus on technology is the preferred degree for this career path. Very few computer and information systems managers obtain their positions with an associate degree or less, however this is not impossible. Managers holding only an associate degree generally have logged a sufficient number of hours in professional development classes or seminars and have acquired the experience and management skills required to successfully perform in a management position by working in the field for a significant period of time.