Studying Technology at a U.S. University
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According to MIT Technology Review, while 3D Printing has existed since the 1980’s, we can only now print metal objects and create complex shapes that wouldn’t be possible with more conventional methods. In 2014, via software update nicknamed Autopilot, Tesla suddenly gave its customers self-steering electric cars. Tap your phone screen a few times, and you have all the information you need, from directions and transportation options to research papers and definitions.
These are only a few examples, but technology is revolutionizing the way we live our daily lives. It is changing the ways in which we are able to communicate, and intertwining with every field to provide better ways of living. But, how does it all start?
It starts with being creative enough to imagine and come up with ideas. It starts with seeing the world and how it needs to change, and then following the technical training to try and see it happen.
Technology Education in the U.S.A.
U.S. universities and colleges offer a greater variety of programs with a specialized focus in areas such as security, user interface design and geospatial technology. Program coursework incorporates both theoretical and hands-on practical training.
A new trend in technology education is a heightened focus on “soft skills.” Soft skills are the interpersonal skills required to be effective in a professional setting. These include oral and written communication skills, project management, and teamwork. These skills will make you a more dynamic employee and increase your chances of success.
What to Look for in a Program
It is important that a program’s curriculum reflect the latest in technology. Therefore, the university or college must strive to update its curriculum so that it is relevant. There’s nothing worse than spending a year focused on a specific platform, only to read a news article announcing that platform’s pending demise.
The school should also provide the equipment needed to study your area of interest. For example, it wouldn’t make sense to study network engineering at a school that did not provide the equipment needed for practical training.
Students in certain specialized degree programs may also have access to high-end industrial tools and equipment. There’s nothing more exciting than getting a chance to work with a piece of equipment that you’ve read about and otherwise couldn’t afford. In addition to modern equipment, network connection speeds are equally important. Fast connectivity is now a high priority because distributed computing has become more common. Many American colleges and universities even offer gigabit Internet connections. This gives students the ability to develop new and creative uses for networked communications, without being encumbered by a limited Internet connection.
Seek schools that employ faculty with industry experience. It is also important that the program seeks the advice of technology professionals when shaping future curriculum. A school that regularly reaches out and works with the surrounding community will be the first to know about emerging technologies.
Degrees and Certificates
You can qualify for many careers in technology with a Certificate or Associate of Applied Science degree. These degrees can be earned at technical or community colleges, private specialized training schools, and for-profit training companies. In addition, you could continue with a bachelor’s or master’s degree if you are interested in a management, research or security position in technology.
Technology Fields of Study
Electrical Engineering:Combines the best of engineering and technology in areas such as robotics, simulation, and real-time systems.
Computer Science: Incorporates advanced work with software, programming languages, graphics, operating systems, and user interfaces.
Information Technology (IT):Installing and configuring software and hardware, data management, networking, engineering computer hardware, database and software design, and the management and administration of entire systems.
Software Development: Writing business application programs to instruct a computer to perform a variety of tasks. It involves analysis of the expected output, information flow, and writing and testing of the code.
Web Development: Developing server-based applications using standard web protocols. It typically involves a combination of IT and software developer skills, alongside an ability to design a functional user interface.