Six Back-to-School Options for Techies

— Allan Hoffman

Should you pursue an MBA? Seek another certification? Consider a second bachelor's degree -- this time in comp sci rather than the classics?

Technology professionals enter the workplace with all sorts of education backgrounds, from GEDs to PhDs. But many of them now have one thing in common: They're considering returning to school. Today's competitive job market has everyone thinking about their current credentials: “Are they good enough to reach my goals or even maintain the status quo?”

"The downturn is the time to upgrade your skills," says Charles Caples, program director in the Office of Workforce Development at Monroe Community College in Rochester, New York. "You've got to position yourself to get ready for that upturn."

Various circumstances, from prior educational achievements and work experience to finances and other personal issues, play a role in each student's decision. The choices can be daunting.

Caples's institution, for instance, offers both degree programs and nondegree courses leading to certifications from CompTIA, Microsoft and other organizations. Caples recommends getting a degree, but acknowledges even a two-year degree can take four or five years for part-time students. "The decision isn't always clear-cut," he notes.

Ivy League institutions, such as the University of Pennsylvania, offer a variety of programs for technology professionals. One, a master's in computer and information technology, is designed for students who did not major in computer science as undergrads.

Another Penn program, the Executive Master's in Technology Management, attracts a diverse range of professionals -- from design engineers to system developers -- who "want to move into a broader kind of challenge," says Dr. Joel Adler, associate director of the program. Students learn to "operate in two spheres," working with both technical and business professionals, and see technology as "a tool to solve a business problem," says Adler.

Here are six possible approaches for you:

Associate's Degree

An associate's degree is often a convenient, affordable way to gain additional training or start pursuing educational goals such as a bachelor's degree.

Pro: Flexible class schedules and affordability.

Con: Companies often want more than a two-year degree even for entry-level positions.

Bachelor's Degree

Many technical positions, including those previously open to nondegreed candidates, now require a bachelor's. Pursue one if at all possible; consider part-time study. A second bachelor's for non-IT grads sometimes makes sense, but a master's program is often preferable.

Pro: A bachelor's degree is a virtual necessity for many jobs.

Con: If you've been out working for a while, satisfying the requirements of a bachelor's degree can be a challenge.

Master's Degree

In addition to a master's in computer science and other technical specialties, universities now offer master's programs in technology management, information systems and other fields. Some have fewer prerequisites than traditional programs.

Pro: A master's degree signals you're serious about the field and have attained a high level of achievement.

Con: The cost and time commitment can be substantial.

MBA

CIOs, hiring managers and recruiters emphasize that tech pros must learn to serve business needs. No wonder so many are exploring the MBA option, especially "techno-MBA" programs that combine the two areas.

Pro: An MBA is a clear sign you're more than just a techie.

Con: Prestige matters for MBAs. Grads from lesser-known programs say their degrees sometimes don't get proper recognition in the job market.

Certificates

Continuing-education programs at colleges and universities offer certificate programs in databases, e-commerce and other topics.

Pro: A quick way to acquire expertise.

Con: The certificate may have limited recognition, though institutional reputation is a factor. Not a substitute for a degree.

Certification

Certifications are no substitute for a degree. Instead, they complement the work experience you've already gained. Certifications make the most sense when you have industry experience but realize you need specific credentials sought by employers.

Pro: In many fields, such as networking and tech support, certifications are a must; without them, employers will bypass your resume.

Con: Certifications won't get you very far without work experience.

How to make a decision? "Talk to as many people as you can," says Caples. "You're never going to go wrong doing that."

Search MonsterLearning for technology courses and programs.

This article originally appeared on Monster.com.

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