Which ICT Job is Right for You? Let’s Explore Options

Discover the growing field of information and communication technology, explore ICT jobs on the market, and learn how to get started on your ICT career path.

Are you looking for a career track with great pay and job security? Information and communication technology, or ICT, is one of the fastest-growing job sectors in recent years, and it could be just what you’re looking for.

The field rapidly expanded during the COVID-19 pandemic, when more and more businesses moved their operations to remote work, and the trend continues to this day. According to Learn.org, ¹ careers in communications technology are expected to steadily increase, with job growth projections varying from five to nine percent through 2030.

At NMSU Global Campus, we know you need cutting-edge skills to stand out in the job market, especially in tech-related industries. That’s why our Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology program was designed to equip you with the most up-to-date knowledge in the field. In this affordable, 100% online bachelor’s program, you’ll gain hands-on experience and learn from expert faculty as you prepare for an exciting career in ICT.

But what is ICT? What types of jobs does it offer? And how do you get started in the field? In this article, we’ll dive into all these questions and help you get on the right track.

What is ICT?

ICT stands for “information and communication technology.” The field encompasses a variety of different professions, but in general, it refers to jobs that make it possible to communicate and share information remotely. In ICT, you’d usually be working with the hardware and software that make the internet, cell phones, and computer programs function, though the field is actually distinct from IT. ²

Is ICT a Good Career Path?

It’s hard to find a more promising career track. As you can imagine, ICT is central to the operations of virtually every modern workplace. Both the public and private sectors rely on it, which means specialists are needed in education, business, healthcare, and more. ICT hasn’t just revolutionized the way we communicate; it has also transformed the job market, creating an array of exciting career opportunities. Let’s take a look at some of them.

What Types of Jobs Are Available for ICT?

ICT Project Manager

• Role: Similar to other project management roles, ICT project managers oversee the planning, execution, and delivery of projects within an organization. As an ICT project manager, you would have a specific emphasis on projects related to communication technology, such as broadcasting, wireless networks, and unified communication platforms. 
• Requirements: In terms of formal education, you need at least a relevant bachelor’s degree. Certifications like PMP, PRINCE2, or ITIL can significantly enhance your qualifications, and experience in ICT is generally required. 
• Advancement: There are plenty of opportunities for advancement into roles like senior project manager, ICT director, and even Chief Information Officer (CIO).
• Job Outlook: According to Zippia, ³ the average communications technology major salary is $68,783, with New Mexico salary averages around $61,806 annually. 
• Best Jobs in the Field: The highest paying jobs ⁴ with an ICT degree include: network engineer, systems analyst, business analyst, and technical support technician.

User Experience (UX) Developer

• Role: As a UX developer, you would apply both design and development skills to make websites and apps intuitive, accessible, and aesthetically pleasing.
• Requirements: There are certification programs for UX design, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and design tools like Adobe. While a bachelor’s degree is not always required, it can greatly increase your job prospects. You should also have a strong portfolio of work to share with potential clients and employers.
• Advancement: UX developers have the skills to transition into roles like UX director, product manager, and Chief Experience Officer (CXO).
• Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics ⁵ anticipates 8% growth by 2033, much faster than average, with a median salary of $92,750 per year.

Telecommunications Technician

• Role: As a telecommunications technician, you would design, install, and manage telecommunications systems, including phone networks and satellite communications.
• Requirements: You should have at least a relevant bachelor’s degree. Additional certifications in wireless networking can be helpful. 
• Advancement: There is strong opportunity for advancement, especially if you specialize in emerging technology like 5G networks or cybersecurity.
• Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics ⁶ expects about 24,600 jobs to open each year over the next decade, with a median salary of $62,350 per year.

Network Architect

• Role: In this role, you would ensure the connectivity of local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and other complex communications systems.
• Requirements: Although certifications are available, network architects are generally required to also have a relevant bachelor’s degree. 
• Advancement: In this job, you can advance to senior architect roles. You can also be eligible to become an IT director or Chief Technology Officer (CTO). 
• Job Outlook: With 13% anticipated growth by 2033, much faster than average, the Bureau of Labor Statistics ⁷ reports that network architects make a median salary of $129,840 per year.

Wireless Communications Engineer

• Role: As a wireless communications engineer, you would design, implement, and optimize wireless communication networks like cellular, Wi-Fi, and satellite systems.
• Requirements: In addition to a bachelor’s degree, you can earn valuable certifications in network architecture, wireless security, modulation techniques, and radio frequency.
• Advancement: If you pursue this specialty, you can find yourself on track for managerial positions and even CTO, especially if you stay up-to-date on burgeoning technologies like 5G and Wi-Fi 6.
• Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics ⁸ expects 9% growth by 2033, much faster than average, with a reported median salary of $109,010 per year.

Unified Communications Specialist

• Role: “Unified communications” means integrating various communication platforms like messaging and video conferencing into one cohesive system. As a UC specialist, you would make an organization’s communication channels simpler and more effective.
• Requirements: A bachelor’s degree is generally required. Certifications aren’t necessary, but proving your familiarity with LAN/WAN, network protocols, and network security will improve your career prospects.
• Advancement: Having a specialization in UC can help you advance to leadership roles like ICT project manager and CTO.
• Job Outlook: The median salary for a UC specialist is about $67,000 per year. ⁹

Digital Broadcasting Engineer

• Role: As a digital broadcasting engineer, you would ensure the quality of audio and visuals during social media livestreams and TV broadcasts. You would also fix equipment when it isn’t working and ensure compliance with FCC guidelines.
• Requirements: A relevant bachelor’s degree is generally necessary. You can also get certified as a broadcast technologist.
• Advancement: As a digital broadcasting engineer, you can advance to managerial roles, including CTO.
• Job Outlook: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, ¹⁰ this sector is expected to grow 3% by 2033, and has a median annual salary of $54,160.

Web Designer

• Role: As the name implies, web designers create the visual layout of a website. Your job would be to create a website that looks good and is easy to use, all while incorporating client feedback.  
• Requirements: As with any ICT job, a bachelor’s degree can be highly valuable. You also want to have a strong portfolio, and you can earn certifications in Adobe and various programming languages (such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript). 
• Advancement: Web designers can advance to the role of creative director, and advancement opportunities can be especially strong for candidates with UX expertise.
• Job Outlook: The Bureau of Labor Statistics ¹¹ anticipates 8% growth by 2033, faster than average, with a reported median salary of $92,750 per year.

How Do I Get Started?

There are many ICT jobs in this ever-expanding field. To find the path that’s right for you, ask yourself a few key questions:

• Are you more interested in creating new technology or solving technical problems?
• Do you want to work in healthcare, education, media, business, or government?
• What are your goals in terms of career advancement? Do you aspire to fill leadership positions, or would you rather work independently?
• Which degrees or certificates do you feel most equipped to pursue?

Once you have a sense of direction, it’s time to gain expertise and build a professional network. The most effective way to start is by finding a great degree program.

Launch Your ICT Career at NMSU Global Campus

Perhaps you already have a specific career track in mind. Or, perhaps, you’re simply looking for a general path toward a job in ICT. Either way, consider exploring the Bachelor of Information and Communication Technology program at NMSU Global Campus, where you get to choose from four unique specializations:

• Standard: Learn the ICT basics you need, including digital communication, project management, and emerging technologies. 
• Cyber Defense:  Prepare for the essential duties of risk management and threat prevention in this highly rewarding career. ¹²
• Network Technologies: Master the fundamentals of network management, such as IP addressing, cloud networking, and managing wireless networks.
• Software Development: Understand programming languages like Java, Python, and JavaScript and learn how to create web and mobile applications.

No matter which specialization you choose, this 100% online program will give you in-depth knowledge, hands-on experience, and access to expert faculty. Plus, we offer two distinct pathways to earning your degree:

• The first path is designed for undergraduate students who have completed the required prerequisites. 
• The second path is a two-year completion program for students who have a relevant associate degree.

All of this was designed to give you an affordable, first-rate ICT education in the most convenient modality. Choose your specialization, find your path, and see why our ICT program was named one of the best of its kind by Forbes Advisor. ¹³

Tailor Your Journey at NMSU Global Campus. Earn Your Degree in Information Communication Technology 100% Online.

Why Choose NMSU Global Campus?

At NMSU Global Campus, our dedicated advisors are ready to guide you through the admissions process, helping you get into a program that aligns with your passions and career aspirations.

As a Higher Learning Commission (HLC) accredited institution, NMSU Global Campus is ready to support you at every step of your online learning journey. Our flexible, affordable, and 100% online degree programs make balancing your studies with other activities easy.

Our commitment to cutting-edge technologies and teaching methodologies ensures a dynamic and relevant education, preparing you for success. You’ll also join a supportive network of students and mentors worldwide who share your drive and determination to develop your talents.

Explore our 70+ programs, connect with our dedicated faculty and advisors, and discover the transformative power of online education.

References

1. “Careers in Communications Technology.” Learn.org, 7 October 2024.

2. “What Is Information and Communication Technology?” NMSU Global Campus Blog, 21 November 2023.

3. “Average Communications Technology Major Salary.” Zippia, 14 September 2023.

4. “What Jobs Can You Get With a Communications Technology Degree?” Zippia, 17 November 2023.

5. “Occupational Outlook Handbook: Web Developers and Digital Designers.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, last updated 29 August 2024. 

6. “Occupational Outlook Handbook: Telecommunications Technicians.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, last updated 29 August 2024. 

7. “Occupational Outlook Handbook: Computer Network Architects.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, last updated 29 August 2024. 

8. ”Occupational Outlook Handbook: Electrical and Electronics Engineers.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, last updated 29 August 2024. 

9. “Unified Communications Specialist Salary.” ZipRecruiter, 1 September 2024.

10. “Occupational Outlook Handbook: Broadcast, Sound, and Video Technicians.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, last updated 29 August 2024. 

11. “Occupational Outlook Handbook: Web Developers and Digital Designers.” U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, last updated 29 August 2024.

12. “Is Cybersecurity a Good Career Choice?” NMSU Global Campus Blog, 17 June 2024.

13. “Best Online Information Technology Degree Of 2024.” Forbes Advisor, 3 September 2024.