How to Learn Information Technology
Find out how to learn information technology by exploring IT skills and discovering where to get them.
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Information technology (IT) has become an integral part of everyday life. Learning about IT can provide personal satisfaction and a greater ability to navigate technology. However, if you want to pursue a job in IT, you must cultivate specific IT-related skills.
Identifying these skills and knowing how to acquire them can help you start your IT career path. Use this guide as a starting point to explore the skills you’ll need and how to develop them.
professional certificate
Google IT Support
Get on the fast track to a career in IT. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Network Security, Wireless Security, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Backup, Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), Directory Service, Critical Thinking, Network Model, Ipv4, Computer Architecture, Domain Name System (DNS), Troubleshooting, Problem Solving, Accounting, Computer Networking, Cloud Computing, Network Architecture, Linux, Binary Code, Communication, Customer Support, Command-Line Interface, Linux File Systems, Powershell
Essential IT skills
IT skills refer to the technical abilities that professionals within the field need to complete their tasks. Although skills may vary from role to role, the following are standard skills to have to be successful in this career:
Cloud computing
Cloud computing involves using hosted services delivered via the internet by a cloud services provider. Types of cloud services include:
Knowing how to work in cloud platforms like Google Cloud and Amazon Web Services (AWS) can help you become more marketable in the IT career field. Demand for employees with these skills continues to grow because of the expanding need for cloud computing services.
professional certificate
Microsoft Cloud Support Associate
Launch your career as a Cloud Support Associate. Build job-ready skills for an in-demand career in information technology in as little as 6 months. No prior experience required to get started.
4.7
Beginner level
Average time: 4 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Troubleshooting, Software configuration, Microsoft Azure, Cloud Computing, Network Protocols, Microsoft Entra ID, Manage Virtual Networks, Configure Security Groups, System Maintenance, Diagnostics, Network Connectivity, Digital Platform Security, Endpoint Security, Microsoft 365, Integrating Automation Tools, Create Azure Storage accounts, Secure Azure Storage, Configure load balancers, Troubleshoot virtual networks, Configure virtual machines, Resource Management, Configure Basic Monitoring, Azure Monitor, Troubleshooting (Problem Solving), Advanced Monitoring Techniques, Cloud Computing Security, Network Monitoring, Network Security, Security Mitigation, Computer Network Infrastructure, IT Security, Data Management, Software Set-up, Hardware configuration, Data Back-up and Recovery, Computer Architecture, Computer hardware, Operating Systems, Computer Software, Cybersecurity, Azure Networking, Azure Compute, Microsoft Sentinel, Azure Kubernetes Services, Azure Security, Azure Services, Azure Resource Manager, Privacy settings, Password Management, Virtual Private Network (VPN), Multi-Factor Authentication, Implement Backup Strategies, Azure Site Recovery, Implement Compliance Policies, Azure Cloud, Configure Automatic Updates
Coding
Coding involves using a language to write code, allowing you to “communicate” with the computer and create programs. IT professionals typically have experience with at least one programming language, which includes popular options like:
Data analytics
Data analytics involves using computational techniques and tools to transform raw data into something useful. Through analysis, users gain insights about data, including the relationships and patterns among different data points. Data analysis offers various benefits. For instance, helping businesses boost profits, improving workflows, and enhancing decision-making.
professional certificate
Google Data Analytics
Get on the fast track to a career in Data Analytics. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Spreadsheet Software, Data Management, Data Analysis, Business Communication, General Statistics, Business Analysis, Data Visualization, SQL, Data Cleansing, Developing a portfolio, Creating case studies, Metadata, Data Ethics, Spreadsheet, Data Collection, Data Calculations, Data Aggregation, Rstudio, R Markdown, R Programming, Presentation, Tableau Software, Sample Size Determination, Data Integrity, Decision-Making, Questioning, Problem Solving
Data visualization
Data visualization involves presenting data in a way that people can understand. Tools for helping people visualize data include charts, infographics, maps, and scatter plots. Employees with data visualization skills can help employers understand data, resulting in quicker, better decisions.
Data visualization can also help employers:
Identify relationships between data variables
Share important information with employees or stakeholders
Detect general and specific trends (like overall sales and sales per associate)
specialization
Data Analysis and Visualization Foundations
Get ahead w/ Data Analysis & Visualization skills. Enhance your career by learning to analyze data using Excel spreadsheets, and create stunning visualizations and interactive dashboards with Cognos.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 1 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Data Analysis, IBM Cognos Analytics, Data Visualization, Dashboard, Microsoft Excel, Pivot Charts, cognos analytics, Data Structure, Databases, Data Management, Data Science, Spreadsheet, Python Programming, SQL, Spreadsheet Software, Pivot Table
Generative AI
Generative AI refers to the capacity of artificial intelligence to generate original content like images, text, sounds, or animation based on specific prompts and data. It has proven helpful in many business sectors, including creative arts, entertainment, health care, and manufacturing, marketing.
Employees with knowledge of generative AI and experience with its tools grow increasingly more attractive to employers as this technology evolves. Some of the more common generative AI tools include:
ChatGPT: A chatbot created by OpenAI that answers questions, writes content, and more
DALL-E 3: An AI tool created by OpenAI that creates images from text
MusicGen: An AI tool created by Meta that transforms text into music
Synthesia: An AI tool that creates video from text
specialization
Generative AI Fundamentals
Unlock and leverage the potential of generative AI. Learn how you can use the capabilities of generative AI to enhance your work and daily life.
4.7
Beginner level
Average time: 1 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Prompt Engineering, Generative AI Careers, Generative AI, Stable Diffusion, Foundation Models, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Hugging Face, ChatGPT, Responsible Generative AI, Ethics in Generative AI, Limitations of Generative AI, Impact of Generative AI, Business Transformation, Career Opportunities, Career Enhancement, AI empowered workplace, prompt patterns, Large Language Models (LLM), Pre-trained Models, Natural Language Generation
How to learn information technology skills
You can learn IT skills in various ways, from getting an information technology degree to independent study. Depending on the direction you want to take your career, consider the level of education you would like to pursue:
Get an associate degree.
A variety of community colleges offer associate degrees in different IT fields. Some examples include:
Earn a bachelor's degree.
Format: Online or in-person, depending on the school or program
Duration: Four years
A bachelor's degree can be valuable for a variety of IT jobs. Types of bachelor's degrees you might consider include:
Earn Your Degree
Participate in a coding boot camp.
Duration: Three to six months
A coding boot camp packs a lot of education into a short amount of time compared to an associate or bachelor's degree program. Instead of a theoretical learning approach, you would work through a more project-based curriculum to practice using real skills needed for real jobs. Topics covered in a coding boot camp might include:
Learn on your own.
In addition to earning a degree or attending a bootcamp, you can learn IT skills independently. Gain more knowledge in your spare time by:
Taking online courses
Becoming part of the online IT community
Reading relevant books, magazines, newsletters, or blogs
Attending tech industry events
professional certificate
IBM Cybersecurity Analyst
Launch your career as a cybersecurity analyst . Build job-ready skills for an in-demand role in the field, no degree or prior experience required.
4.7
Beginner level
Average time: 4 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Cybersecurity Compliance, Database Queries, Digital Forensics, Network Security, Penetration Testing, Cybersecurity Case Study Analysis, Incident Response, Cybersecurity Controls, Physical Threats and Controls, Cybersecurity Threats, Laws and Regulations, Risk Management, Cybersecurity Standards, Cybersecurity Framework, Linux, Windows, MacOS, User Accounts, Virtualization, User (Computing), Operating Systems, Directory and File Management, Certification exam practice, CompTIA CySA, CompTIA Security+, Cybersecurity, Cyber Threat Intelligence, Cryptography, Cyber Threat Hunting, Penetration Test, Generative AI, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Incident management, Security Information and Event Management (SIEM), Vulnerability Management, Application Security, Information Security (INFOSEC), Cyberattacks, Cybersecurity Incident Management, Security Analysis and Reporting, Digital Evidence Handling, Resume, Interviewing Skills, Job Search Strategies, Cybersecurity Careers, job interviews, Digital Network Architecture, Data Security, Intrusion Detection Systems, Network Configuration, Endpoint Security, Firewall Configuration, Password policies, User profiles, Database Security, Database injection vulnerabilities, Database auditing models, CompTIA Certifications, ISC2 certifications
3 information technology jobs
To find out how you might put your IT skills to practice, consider three jobs in the field. Learn more about the roles of a computer systems analyst, a database administrator, and a web developer.
1. Computer systems analyst
Median annual US salary: $103,800 [1]
Job outlook (2023–2033): 11 percent annual growth [1]
Educational requirements: Bachelor's degree in information technology or related field
As a computer systems analyst, you would evaluate a company's computer network, systems, and protocols and provide ideas and methods for improvement. Depending on the business field (e.g., engineering, health care, manufacturing), this role may require you to specialize in a specific computer system).
2. Database administrator
Median annual US salary: $117,450 [2]
Job outlook (2023–2033): 9 percent annual growth [2]
Educational requirements: Bachelor's degree in information technology or related field
As a database administrator (DBA), you would manage databases to ensure that users have access to needed information. You could also engage in regular database maintenance to ensure proper function.
3. Web developer
Median annual US salary: $92,750 [3]
Job outlook (2023-2033): 8 percent annual growth [3]
Educational requirements: Associate or bachelor's degree or equivalent
As a web developer, you create websites using computer coding and programming. You might also ensure that new websites work correctly and efficiently and have visual appeal.
Getting started on Coursera
Information technology offers a variety of exciting career options. Knowing essential IT skills and how to acquire them can help you decide how to proceed on your IT career path.
To build a good foundation in IT, consider getting a Google IT Support Professional Certificate on Coursera, led by industry leaders at Google. You can learn about the fundamentals of computer networking, how to configure computer hardware and software, how to troubleshoot common computer problems, and more. Another excellent option is the IBM Information Technology (IT) and Cloud Fundamentals Specialization, a six-course series designed to help you develop software development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing skills.
professional certificate
Google IT Support
Get on the fast track to a career in IT. In this certificate program, you’ll learn in-demand skills, and get AI training from Google experts. Learn at your own pace, no degree or experience required.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 6 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Network Security, Wireless Security, Cryptography, Cybersecurity, Backup, Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), Directory Service, Critical Thinking, Network Model, Ipv4, Computer Architecture, Domain Name System (DNS), Troubleshooting, Problem Solving, Accounting, Computer Networking, Cloud Computing, Network Architecture, Linux, Binary Code, Communication, Customer Support, Command-Line Interface, Linux File Systems, Powershell
specialization
Information Technology (IT) and Cloud Fundamentals
Kickstart a new IT and Cloud Career . Master hardware, operating systems, programming, database, networking, storage, cybersecurity, and Cloud computing essentials.
4.8
Beginner level
Average time: 2 month(s)
Learn at your own pace
Skills you'll build:
Databases, Software Development Process, Computer Programming, Database basics, Software Application Development, IT Fundamentals, Technical Support, Operating Systems, Troubleshooting, hardware, Application Security, Cryptography, Information Security (INFOSEC), Cybersecurity, Cyberattacks, Devops, Iaas PaaS Saas, Cloud Computing, Cloud Native, Hybrid Multicloud, Cloud, CompTIA ITF+, Certification Test, Exam Practice, Cloud Storage, Wireless Networks, Network Troubleshooting, Computer Networking, Networking Hardware, Network Architecture
Article sources
US Bureau of Labor Statistics. "Occupational Outlook Handbook: Computer Systems Analysts, https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/ computer-systems-analysts.htm." Accessed March 11, 2025.
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This content has been made available for informational purposes only. Learners are advised to conduct additional research to ensure that courses and other credentials pursued meet their personal, professional, and financial goals.
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