Overview of Technology
Technology is the use of scientific knowledge for practical purposes or applications leveraging data, machines, equipment, and/or software.
Computer programmers to turn designs created by software developers and engineers into sets of instructions that computers follow, which result in word processing programs, social media platforms, browsers, and more that people use every day.
Get details on the salary and job security of these Technology careers:
Get Career Ready for Technology
Find out what it takes to land a career in Technology
Earn a Degree
To work in the field of Technology, it is recommended you have a strong background in computer science, software engineering, or data science. Check the Mason Catalog for degree requirements.
Along with your degree, professional certifications like these may increase your employment options:
- AWS Cloud Practitioner (Foundational)
- Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)
- CompTIA Security +
- Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)
- Project Management Professional (PMP)
- Salesforce Administrator (entry-level)
- If you have an international interest, consider the Foreign Affairs IT Fellowship: https://www.faitfellowship.org/
Gain Experiences
Employers expect at least six to twelve months of related experience to be competitive for full-time positions. Gain experience while you are a student at Mason.
Here are the types of experiences most valued by Tech employers, and where to find them:
Internships/Jobs
Projects
- Academic projects: Ask your professors about research projects.
- Capstone projects: Consult your academic advisor about capstones in your department.
- Personal projects
Challenges/Competitions
Market Yourself
It is important for you to be able to clearly communicate the knowledge, skills and experiences you have gained in and outside of the classroom.
Below are top ways to showcase your qualifications to Tech employers:
Resume
- Undergraduate-level Cybersecurity resume sample
- Undergraduate-level Information Technology Hybrid resume sample
- International Graduate-level Engineering resume sample
Online Portfolio
A portfolio gives you the opportunity to demonstrate your skills and experience in a visual format (e.g., code, database design). Here are a few resources where you can share your work:
- Github
- Your LinkedIn profile
- Your own website
Technical Interviews
Career Ready
Career ready Mason grads have gone on to work for Tech employers, such as:
Amazon Web Services |
CGI |
GDIT |
Booz Allen Hamilton |
Deloitte |
Leidos |
Capital One |
Freddie Mac |
Lockheed Martin |
Join the Technology community
Get involved with academic and professional societies to grow your network while you're still a student.