Is there a possibility that I can receive an IT related career with a Business Administration Degree?

Question

I majored in Business Administration when I was in college, but it turned out that my true interest in is computers. Is there a possibility how I can receive an IT related career with a Business Administration. If so, what all can I do?

Answer 1

Having a degree in Business Administration can definitely be an advantage in the IT field. Many IT departments are run by a companie's CFO. But you still must have hands on experience with computers and computer networks.
I would suggest that you take some classes and/or self study then try to get into an entry level IT position to gain job experience. Without experience you will not get hired into an IT position. Start with some CompTIA certifications first. The CompTIA Network+ and Server+ certifications are not too hard and will prove you have some knowledge. Also get the CompTIA A+ certification.
You should also have experience with Microsoft software.
Getting the Microsoft MCSE which is somewhat difficult and takes time would be a very good thing to do. Set up a home computer network with 2 or more systems and run Windows 2003 server and learn how to manage a Windows network. Also get experience with routers, switches, firewalls and other network hardware. Cisco is the most popular and a Cisco CCNA certification is a very good start. The main thing is to start learning about computer networks and the hardware and software associated with it. Learn enough to get a foot in the door with an entry level job and then continue to get experience and certification. Your Business Administration degree with give you a big advantage and get you into management positions a lot faster. But you must have experience. A lot of people get their IT start by doing phone technical support for a company like Time Warner or Cox. They work there at least a year while studying and then move to a better job. You will know pretty quick if you really want an IT job or if you just like computers as a hobby. Being in the IT business you must constantly update your knowledge and skills or you will fall behind. YOu must constantly read technical manuals and books and stay on top of changes. It can be very stressful being a Network Administrator for a company and being on call 24/7 in case a mission critical server crashes. YOu may have to go into work at 3am and start rebuilding the crashed server. Expect company employees to constantly bother you about minor problems with their work PCs. Expect all family, friends, neighbors and anyone you tell that you work IT to expect you to be their personal computer guy. "Can you get me a free computer?" is a question you will here several times a day. IT isn't a job you learn and then just do. You must constantly learn or you can't do it. If you think you want computer networks to be a job and not just a hobby then you won't have any problem wanting to learn and get experience. I would start with the CompTIA A+ certification which isn't the greatest but it's a start and shows you have some knowledge. Then move on from their. With the CompTIA A+ you can get a job with the Geek Squad at Best Buy. Within a year you could maybe get in the door at a decent company with an entry level IT job or an internship. If you are good you will move up fast. Decide if you want to specialize in network security or routers and then go that direction. Always continue working on certifications and continue building and growing your home network for learning. If you get in at a decent company they will pay for your training and certifications. Who you know can also be the most important thing. Make friends with IT people and let them know you want to start working in IT. One day they may be in a place to get you a job somewhere.
Good luck!

Answer 2

It depends on your level of knowledge with computers. You could could get some computer certifications like Microsofts MCSE or Cisco Certifications.

The combination of both computer skills and a business degree should be very marketable.