The Details You Need to Know for an Applied Technology Online Degree Program

Applied technology is a catchall term for the application of technological practices to solve practical problems. The National Institute of Justice holds an annual conference on applied technologies, at which the following technologies are discussed:

• Computer-aided training
• New technology in personal protective equipment
• Cell phone forensics
• DNA technologies

As you can see, career possibilities range from traditional science to computer science fields. The first step that can get you started in the applied technology field is to decide what specific technological or scientific field to pursue.

Online Education and Training for Applied Technology

Once you've got a general idea of what field interests you, you can research specific applied technology online degree programs. If you're headed toward science technology, you typically need a two-year associate's degree. If your focus is in computers or electronics, a four-year bachelor's degree program is the way to go. Some promising programs to look into are computer science, computer technology, or computer engineering.

A Wide-Ranging Career Outlook for Applied Technology

The job outlook in applied technology is very diverse. Forensic science technicians are expected to enjoy much faster than average job growth, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Networks systems technicians may see as much as a 53 percent increase in jobs. Biological technicians are also expected to enjoy strong job growth, as demand for prescription drugs spurs competition between pharmaceutical companies.
Earnings vary just as widely as the jobs. A biological technician is expected to earn an annual salary in the mid-$30K range. A network systems technician can potentially make six figures with the top BLS projections at $112K. Regardless of the dollars and cents, take a look at what piques your interest, and find the applied technology degree program today that can take you there.
Sources:
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Computer Scientists and Database Administrators
Bureau of Labor Statistics, Science Technicians
National Institute of Justice, NIJ Applied Technologies Conference

James Tolles is a freelance writer with Bachelor of Arts degrees in Creative Writing and History.