Information Technology (IT) is a broad discipline that encompasses all forms of technology used to create, process, store, exchange and use information in its various forms (business data, voice and text messages, still images, motion pictures, multimedia presentations and other forms). It is a convenient term for including both telephony and computer technology in the same word. It is the technology that is driving what has often been called “the information revolution.” It is a rapidly growing area that is radically changing the world by making possible new ways of doing business, making entertainment and creating art. In short, it includes matters concerned with the furtherance of computer science and technology related to computer hardware and software, design, development, installation and implementation of information systems and applications.
Subjects covered in this field of study include software development, programming, business and management information systems, data base management, graphic design, multimedia, networking systems, web design, hardware engineering, data communication systems and digital computer systems.
Those who have passed SPM/STPM could obtain a degree in information technology in any of the public or private universities in Malaysia. Degrees awarded by some selected foreign universities are also recognized. Prospective students should check with the Public Service Department prior to pursuing their studies abroad.
Career opportunities are extensive because computer usage is almost universal. IT graduates could find employment in government agencies; commercial enterprises; industrial organizations; computer manufacturers; public utilities; banks; research organizations; local authorities, universities or as private consultants.
IT professionals wear many hats and go by different names, depending on their area of expertise and specialization: applications programmer; systems analyst; data base administrator; network administrator; systems administrator; software consultant; web designer; multimedia specialist; animation specialist; information systems manager; web administrator; IT project manager; hardware engineer; computer systems auditor; software engineer; data base design specialist; and data communications analyst.
IT professionals would be able to earn better salary if they could obtain the most coveted professional qualification - Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP). In Malaysia, a fresh IT graduate could get a starting salary of between RM 2,000 - RM 2,500 per month. Those with expertise in networking, web design, graphics design could earn much more.
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