Graduates with information technology degrees have a competitive edge in this growing industry, as positions are readily available in order to address new technological requirements. Vigilant information technology workers are needed to address real and rapid security threats daily, create application software, and to address customized requirements. As the information technology field continues to grow, there have been an increasing number of entry level positions across the industry seeking workers with IT degrees, approved certifications, and relevant work experience. Information technology professionals will continue to remain in demand in order to keep the U.S. competitive in our global e-commerce based economy.

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  • Ability to Communicate - Present ideas clearly in writing and orally; Turn data into useable information; Argue and debate effectively; Negotiate and mediate conflicts; Listen critically
  • Methods and Research - Interpret and analyze data; Perform basic quantitative analysis; Effectively employ a variety of research sources, including the Internet; Design research; Summarize findings; Test theories and hypotheses
  • Analytical Ability - Understand components of complex problems; Synthesize themes from complex issues; Think "outside the box;" Think internationally; Assess policy and propose options; Analyze and solve problems systematically and logically
  • Planning and Development - Organize information; Conceptualize problems; Implement strategies; Make effective decisions; Demonstrate leadership
  • Group Skills - Develop consensus; Interact effectively within a diverse environment; Work in a team and individually

To identify what education or training is typical for careers within the public administration field, use the O*Net hyperlinks below and click on "Job Zone."

As with all majors, the education you receive serves as a foundation of knowledge that prepares you for what you may face in the professional world. The career field you chose may require additional education or experience.

Gaining real-life experience is an ideal way to start a new career. The career services website has an extensive list of internships and fellowships. Browse through the internships, organized by interest or by federal program.

There are government-organized internship programs, many of which require students to maintain either a half-time or full-time student status. The best ways to identify potential opportunities such as these is to contact branch offices directly, to search USAJobs.gov, or to look at the agencies' career portals. Keep in mind that these positions are not always posted online, so direct contact with the agency is key.

Pathways

The Pathways Program is a federal initiative that offers internship programs for current students and training and career development opportunities for recent graduates. Recent graduates must apply within two years of degree or certificate completion (except for veterans, due to their military service obligation, will have up to six years to apply).The internship program for current students replaces the former Student Career Experience Program (SCEP) and Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP).

The Presidential Management Fellows Program (PMF)

PMF is designed to attract to federal service outstanding men and women from a wide variety of academic disciplines who have a clear interest in, and commitment to, a career in the analysis and management of public policies and programs. To be eligible for nomination, an individual must be a graduate student completing or expected to complete, during the current academic year, an advanced degree from a qualifying college or university.

The Workforce Recruitment Program (WRP)

WRP is coordinated by the Office of Disability Employment Policy and the U.S. Department of Defense, and aims to provide summer work experience, and in some cases full-time employment, to college students with disabilities. The program develops partnerships with other federal agencies, each of whom makes a commitment to provide summer jobs and a staff recruiter. Each year, recruiters interview about 1,500 students with disabilities at college and university campuses across the nation, and develop a database listing the qualifications of each student.

There are several government agencies and organizations that seek candidates with degrees in international relations. The list below provides a few places one might find employment specific to this degree.

Involvement in professional organizations is a great way to stay up-to-date on new technology, tools, and best practices in your field. Professional organizations are also a great networking opportunity. Below are a few professional organizations you may be interested in as an international relations major.

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