Build practical IT skills in networking, cybersecurity, and data analytics through hands-on, project-based training.
Learn the essential skills needed to become a Data Analyst or Business Analyst, including data analysis, data visualization, and statistical analysis. Gain practical experience through real-world projects and prepare for a successful career in the field of data analytics.
Become proficient in Microsoft Excel and go from beginner to pro with our hands-on Excel Bootcamp. Learn functions, formulas, Pivot Tables, macros, and time-saving techniques to conquer all the key skills needed to excel in Excel.
Learn to extract information from databases by writing SQL queries, joining tables, aggregating data, and filtering results. You'll learn PostgreSQL in this class, but the concepts apply equally to other databases such as SQL Server and MySQL.
Unlock the power of Python for data-driven decision-making as you master Python programming fundamentals and dive into data analysis. Acquire essential skills to clean and manipulate data, create insightful visualizations, and perform statistical analysis, all through hands-on projects with real-world datasets.
Learn how to use Tableau, a powerful data visualization tool, to create interactive and aesthetically pleasing charts, graphs, and maps. This course will teach you how to connect to datasets, analyze and structure data, customize visualizations, and publish your work.
Learn how to use Power BI, a powerful data visualization tool, to create interactive and aesthetically pleasing charts, graphs, and maps. Learn how to connect to datasets, analyze and structure data, customize visualizations, and publish reports.
Learn Python, SQL, automation, and machine learning to become a Data Scientist. Gain Python programming, data analysis, SQL querying, and predictive modeling skills. Perfect for beginners, this program prepares you for entry-level data science and Python engineering roles. Unlock high-paying job opportunities in the field of data science.
Learn how to harness the power of artificial intelligence to transform your workflow with hands-on training in ChatGPT and Microsoft Copilot. This course will teach you how to generate content, streamline tasks, and integrate AI into business communication, writing, analysis, and productivity tools.
Gain the skills and knowledge to become a Full Stack Developer and meet the growing demand for professionals who can develop and maintain web applications. This project-oriented course teaches you how to code websites from scratch, and you'll build a portfolio of working web applications to showcase to potential employers.
Learn front-end development with HTML & CSS, JavaScript, and React, and back-end development with Python, Django, and Node.js. Get 1-on-1 mentoring and a structured curriculum to become a skilled Software Engineer or Full Stack Developer.
Begin your journey as a professional graphic designer by learning the essential skills and tools used by industry experts. Gain hands-on experience in Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, and Illustrator, and create a stunning portfolio to showcase your talent to potential employers or clients.
Become a skilled Video Editor and Motion Graphics Designer by learning Adobe Premiere Pro, and After Effects. Develop creative techniques and concepts for editing videos, and showcase your skills by creating a professional demo reel.
Commonly known as IT, the field of information technology refers to the computer systems, hardware, software, and networks related to the processing and distribution of data. The umbrella of IT also covers things like networking hardware (servers and routers) and applications that allow communication over a variety of networks and the internet.
The term “information technology” was originally used in a 1958 publication of the Harvard Business Review, which divided IT into the following three categories: techniques for processing, the use of statistical and mathematical methods to make decisions, and the simulation of higher-order thinking through computer programs. Enterprises devote entire departments to information technology.
Data processing plays a significant role in a variety of business practices, including product development and design, marketing and market research, sales and invoicing, customer development and retention, accounting and taxes, human resources and payroll, and regulatory compliance. IT has become an essential part of nearly every modern industry, so it is a wise choice to become an expert in information technology.
Gaining certification in information technology has several benefits. An IT certification is a recognized credential within the field of IT. It showcases your dedication, motivation, and proficiency in the subject matter. Preparations for certification exams, training, and fees cost time and money, further confirming your commitment to the field.
Being able to prove your dedication and proficiency can help you stand out from other job seekers. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics estimates that there will be around 377,500 job openings in IT each year from now until 2032. And, with the median salary sitting well above the national average at $100,000, you can expect a healthy salary in most of these open roles.
Most companies will require ongoing certifications, especially within the field of information technology. This means that, if you currently work in IT and want a promotion, attending a certification course can be a great way to show that you deserve a higher-paying, higher-ranking job. Cisco’s recertification requirements, for example, include earning continuing education credits, taking an exam, or attending training during each three-year cycle. If your employer demands ongoing training, there’s a high probability they will help pay for your certification, so make sure to check with them before enrolling.
IT professionals often have the added benefit of being able to work from wherever they choose. Virtual work offers more flexibility for IT experts, allowing you to assist fellow employees or clients via email, video chat, or by taking over their desktops. Gone are the days of being tied to living in expensive cities.
Getting certified in IT is the quickest way to make your dream career a reality. Keep reading to discover more about what you’ll learn in a training program and how to choose the right certification for you.
Information technology is a multifaceted field that requires professionals who are adept in a variety of tools and techniques. Below are the most common skills you’ll master in a certificate program, so that you know what to look for when you’re researching potential training courses. It’s important to note that there are many other hard and soft skills that you’ll want to master, especially collaboration, effective communication, and problem-solving. (And if you’ve already mastered some of the below, consider yourself ahead of the game.)
Security is a crucial element of an IT department. Starting in a help desk, networking, or system administration role can introduce you to concepts that are helpful to know for security purposes, but most training programs will cover the basics of security including familiarity with physical, network, and software security, installing firewalls and routers, data encryption, risk mitigation strategy and threat analysis, knowledge of compliance regulations and standards like PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and CCPA, and ethical hacking and penetration testing.
If you plan to develop software, web applications, and websites, knowing how to program will be extremely important. Typically used languages are Python, C++, JavaScript, Ruby, and PowerShell. Being confident in at least two is recommended to adequately troubleshoot any errors you may encounter on the job.
Troubleshooting problems and improving systems and networks means you’ll need to know how to properly dissect and analyze data. Monitoring performance data can assist you in finding security threats, coding errors, or seeing where inefficiencies exist in the overall operations. Having a basic understanding of SQL and statistics will go a long way when analyzing data.
Two common job titles for an IT professional are System Administrator and Network Administrator. Managing and improving computer systems and networks is essential to the work of an IT team. Working in IT may require you to administer diverse operating systems like Windows, Linux, or Mac, install and configure computer hardware and software, cloud administration and applications, maintain local area networks (LAN), wide area networks (WAN), storage area networks (SAN) and virtual private networks (VPNs), and troubleshoot and help employees with technical issues.
Cloud computing skills are in high demand within the IT industry. By managing the delivery of on-demand computing resources like hardware, storage, databases, networking, and software, cloud computing lets companies access and store information without managing their own physical devices or IT infrastructure. Its scalability, flexibility, and cost savings have helped it grow in popularity across a variety of industries.
Austin’s reputation as one of the nation’s leading tech hubs makes it a hotspot for information technology professionals. The city’s economy thrives on innovation, driven by major employers like Dell, Apple, IBM, and Oracle, as well as a growing number of startups. Known as “Silicon Hills,” Austin attracts thousands of tech workers each year thanks to its thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem and strong business infrastructure.
Beyond technology, IT professionals in Austin can find opportunities in healthcare, education, and government. With major research hospitals, the University of Texas at Austin, and state government offices all headquartered in the city, there’s a consistent need for IT specialists to maintain secure data systems, manage networks, and ensure digital operations run smoothly.
Austin also has a growing presence in industries like clean energy, film production, and advanced manufacturing. Each of these relies heavily on IT experts for automation, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Whether you’re interested in startups or established corporations, Austin’s booming tech-driven economy offers abundant pathways for skilled IT professionals.
There are several potential job titles for someone certified in information technology. You could become a Systems Architect, responsible for designing, configuring, and maintaining computer and networking systems. Systems Architects analyze desired processes and outcomes, then determine the right pathway to achieve specific business or departmental goals. In Austin, professionals in this role earn an average of $135,000–$160,000 annually.
Another possible career is as a Computer and Information Systems Manager, overseeing an organization’s technology infrastructure and strategy. These professionals may manage entire IT departments or focus on areas like cybersecurity and data governance. The average salary for this role in Austin ranges from $120,000 to $150,000.
You could also become a Cloud Security Engineer, responsible for protecting sensitive data and developing secure cloud systems. These professionals plan, implement, and monitor security measures, conduct system assessments for vulnerabilities, and ensure compliance with industry standards. In Austin, Cloud Security Engineers typically earn between $115,000 and $140,000 annually.
As you can see, there are many roles you can pursue within IT depending on your interests. With salary ranges well above the U.S. average of $60,000, you can build a rewarding and well-paying career in information technology.
While it may seem like these two terms are interchangeable, they are quite different regarding training programs. Gained through an assessment or a professional training program, a certification is a professional credential that usually culminates in a final exam or test. Many jobs require specific certifications for promotions and career advancement and can lead to increased pay, potential promotions, and enhanced professional expertise. Several professions require certifications to be renewed at regular intervals. Some companies may even cover the cost of certification, as these credentials bring value to the workplace.
Often considered continuing education, a certificate is given to showcase your successful completion of a course or training. Mid-career professionals acquire certificates to enhance or develop high-demand skills in their industry, while beginners use them to carve out new career paths. These courses are noncredit programs offered by educational institutions, so you won’t earn an associate’s or bachelor’s degree by completing them. A certificate can certainly add value to your resume, but it’s important to note that it doesn’t carry the same weight as an associate's or bachelor’s degree, which are commonly required for many jobs.
If your goal is to transition career fields entirely or learn as much about a new industry as possible, then a certificate is the right choice. A certification course is the right route if you are established in your career and looking to gain a new title or increase your pay.
You’ll also want to be mindful of the amount of time and money you can commit to your training. If your company requires a certification for you to advance in your career, they might either pay in full or offer assistance for your training. If they don’t, you’ll want to consider your budget, as these training programs can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Both certificates and certifications can vary in length, from a few days to several months, so it’s important to consider how long the program will take you to complete and how much time you can commit to both a daily level and overall for the length of the program.
Regardless of which path you choose, both can give you an upper hand in your professional development and expand your skill set, making you highly desirable within your current field or a new one.
Austin’s thriving economy, entrepreneurial energy, and expanding tech presence make it one of the best cities to study information technology. Below are some of the most valuable IT training programs available that can help you prepare for industry certifications and launch a successful career. Each program provides real-world experience and hands-on instruction to help you build a professional portfolio and strengthen your technical expertise.
The Data Analytics Certificate, offered by Noble Desktop, is ideal for those pursuing a career in data or business analytics. This comprehensive program covers the essential tools of modern analytics, Excel, SQL, and Tableau, alongside data visualization and statistical analysis. Students complete hands-on projects using real datasets while receiving 1-on-1 mentoring from experienced instructors. The course is open to beginners, offers flexible scheduling options, and includes a one-year free retake policy. Graduates receive a certificate of completion to verify their new credentials and prepare for data-focused roles across industries.
For those interested in software development, the Software Engineering Certificate is a complete training program that teaches both front-end and back-end development. Students gain experience with HTML, CSS, JavaScript, React, Python, Django, and Node.js while working on portfolio-ready projects. The program includes live, hands-on instruction, financing options, and 1-on-1 mentoring to support learners from start to finish. Upon completion, students earn a certificate verifying their readiness for high-demand roles such as Full Stack Developer or Software Engineer.
Another great option is the Python for Data Science Bootcamp, which helps beginners master Python programming fundamentals and transition into data science or analytics roles. Over 30 hours of hands-on training, students learn to analyze data, work with libraries like NumPy and pandas, and automate workflows. The course includes bonus 1-on-1 mentoring and a free retake policy, ensuring students can revisit lessons as they refine their coding and analytical skills.
If you’re interested in data visualization, Noble Desktop’s Power BI Bootcamp and Tableau Bootcamp are excellent ways to learn two of the most popular business intelligence tools used by analysts today. Both classes provide practical training in creating interactive dashboards and uncovering insights from data, making them valuable additions to any IT professional’s resume.
All courses are available live online or in-person at Noble Desktop’s Manhattan campus, offering flexible options for learners in Austin. Whether you’re seeking a full career change or adding technical depth to your current role, these programs deliver the skills and mentorship you need to thrive in today’s IT-driven job market.