Associate Degree in IT Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
Getting an Associate Degree in IT in Des Moines, Iowa
If you’re considering a career in Information Technology (IT), earning an Associate Degree in IT is a great way to build foundational knowledge and practical skills. This guide explores the opportunities available for pursuing an IT Associate Degree in Des Moines, Iowa, including local schools, career prospects, and professional certifications that can enhance your career.
About Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines, the capital city of Iowa, is a vibrant hub for business, culture, and education. Known for its thriving insurance and finance industries, the city is also home to a growing technology sector. With a population of over 200,000, Des Moines offers a mix of urban amenities and a friendly, small-town feel. For more information about the city, visit the official website of Des Moines.
IT Associate Degree Programs in Des Moines, Iowa
Des Moines and the surrounding areas provide several options for pursuing an IT Associate Degree. Below are three schools offering IT programs:
Des Moines Area Community College (DMACC)
- Program Offered: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Information Technology
- Highlights: DMACC offers a comprehensive IT program that includes courses in programming, networking, and cybersecurity. The college also has transfer agreements with four-year institutions like Iowa State University and the University of Iowa.
- Location: 1100 7th Street, Des Moines, IA 50314
- Website: DMACC IT Program
Indian Hills Community College
- Program Offered: Associate of Science (AS) in Information Technology
- Highlights: Located approximately 85 miles southeast of Des Moines, Indian Hills Community College provides specialized tracks in software development and network administration.
- Location: 525 Grandview Avenue, Ottumwa, IA 52501
- Website: Indian Hills IT Program
Kirkwood Community College
- Program Offered: Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Network and System Administration
- Highlights: Situated about 115 miles from Des Moines, Kirkwood Community College offers a strong focus on hands-on training and industry certifications.
- Location: 6301 Kirkwood Blvd SW, Cedar Rapids, IA 52404
- Website: Kirkwood IT Program
IT Employment Opportunities in Des Moines
Des Moines is home to several major employers in the IT sector, offering various career opportunities for IT graduates. Below are some key organizations:
Principal Financial Group
- About: Principal is a global financial services company headquartered in Des Moines. It employs IT professionals in roles such as cybersecurity, data analysis, and software development.
- Location: Downtown Des Moines
- Careers Page: Principal Careers
Wellmark Blue Cross Blue Shield
- About: As a leading health insurance provider, Wellmark relies on IT professionals to support its technology infrastructure and data security.
- Location: Downtown Des Moines
- Careers Page: Wellmark Careers
Hy-Vee, Inc.
- About: With its headquarters in West Des Moines, Hy-Vee employs IT specialists to enhance its e-commerce platform, logistics systems, and customer technology experiences.
- Location: West Des Moines
- Careers Page: Hy-Vee Careers
For detailed job outlook statistics, visit the Bureau of Labor Statistics page on Computer Support Specialists.
Prerequisites for IT Associate Degree Programs
Before enrolling in an IT Associate Degree program, students typically need to meet the following prerequisites:
- Educational Requirements: High school diploma or GED equivalent.
- Minimum Age: Most programs require applicants to be at least 18 years old.
- Entrance Exams: Some institutions may require placement tests or standardized exams like the ACT or SAT.
- Technical Skills: While not always mandatory, basic computer literacy is beneficial.
IT Certifications and Career Advancement
An Associate Degree in IT can be complemented by industry-recognized certifications, enhancing employability and career prospects. Some popular certifications include:
CompTIA A+
- Focus: Hardware and software troubleshooting.
- Website: CompTIA A+
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
- Focus: Networking fundamentals and security.
- Website: Cisco CCNA
Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals
- Focus: Cloud computing basics.
- Website: Microsoft Azure Certifications
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
- Focus: Cloud architecture and scalability.
- Website: AWS Certification
These credentials can open doors to specialized IT roles and higher earning potential.
Get Started Today
An Associate Degree in IT is an excellent first step toward a rewarding career in the technology field. With options available in Des Moines and nearby cities, you can find a program that fits your career goals. Contact a school today to learn more about their IT programs and take the first step toward building your future in IT.