Best IT Classes in Baltimore

Focused on the computer systems, hardware, software, and networks required for the processing and distribution of data, the field of information technology (IT) has existed long before computers were a common feature in every household.

Work in IT involves using specialized techniques for effective computer processing, applying statistical and mathematical methods to decision-making, and simulating higher-order thinking through computer programs.

IT professionals design, install, manage, and troubleshoot computers and networking components. The field of IT is always growing and evolving, and so are the various professional roles within the field. Taking an IT course can lead to a challenging career that offers flexibility, a higher salary, and the chance to learn something new every day.

Best IT Classes & Schools in Baltimore

The Community College of Baltimore County (CCBC) offers a Cisco Certified Network Associate Certificate which takes approximately two semesters (28-32 weeks) to complete face-to-face, online, or hybrid. The course is designed to prepare one to take the Cisco Certified Network Association (CCNA) certification exam. Students learn how to install, configure, operate, and troubleshoot medium-size routed and switched networks. They also become familiar with the architecture, components, and operation of routers, including the principles of routing and the primary routing process. By the end of this class, students should be able to install and configure networks using Cisco products, troubleshoot Cisco network problems, and pass the certification exam.

CCBC also offers a Network+ Certified Technician course, which prepares one for a career in computer network support. Students learn how to plan, install, configure, and troubleshoot a computer network. They also master implementing wireless networks, installing and configuring TCP/IP, performing diagnostic procedures to troubleshoot network malfunctions, and implementing and managing network security.​ This course takes approximately one to two semesters (14-32 weeks) to complete face-to-face, online, or hybrid. By the end, students should be able to excel in the CompTIA® Network+ Certification exam. 

Financial aid options are available for CCBC classes. There’s also the opportunity to waive select courses based on previous coursework from an approved curriculum, demonstrated portfolio, or prior occupational learning.

UMBC Training Centers offers several IT-related courses. Certified Wireless Network Administrator (CWNA), a five-day online course, provides the foundational knowledge needed to enter or advance in the wireless networking industry. Classes meet for eight hours a day for live instruction. Students benefit from a combination of lecture, discussion, and hands-on lab exercises. Topics include radio frequency fundamentals, basic WLAN analysis, 802.11 service sets, site surveying, and spectrum analysis. There are no prerequisites for this class except for basic networking and computer skills. Discounts are available for UMBC students, alumni, and faculty. 

They also offer the Certified Ethical Hacker program, which carries endorsement from both the Department of Defense (DoD) and the American National Standards Institute (ANSI). This program combines instruction and practice to prepare students for the CEH certification exam and CEH Practical Exam. Some topics covered during this course are trojans and backdoors, viruses and worms, hacking web servers, SQL injection, physical security, cryptography, data loss prevention, and patch management. Students can earn the CEH Master and CEH certification by passing both exams. Before taking this class, one should have working knowledge of Linux, strong Microsoft Windows skills, an understanding of computer networking, and CompTIA Security+ and Network+ certification or equivalent knowledge.

Baltimore Industries That Use IT

Information technology is the fastest-growing of Baltimore County’s nine priority

Industries. Overall employment in the field increased by 46% between 2001 and 2015. A projected further increase of 19% is expected by the end of 2025. A company that specializes in IT may have more openings for a student’s desired role. Tech companies can also more easily provide long-term career growth, as there will be more advanced roles available.

Transportation, distribution, and logistics is also a thriving industry in Baltimore, thanks to the city’s location along the East Coast corridor. There are more than 4,000 employers and 66,000 employees. The industry generates around $2.8 billion in worker income. With transportation, distribution, and logistics being an intricate part of the city’s future growth, it’s a great idea to pursue an IT job within this industry. IT professionals could help maintain the systems that keep large-scale deliveries running on time or protect a company’s infrastructure from cyberattacks. 

With more than 2,000 employers, Baltimore County employs 20% of the state’s workers in the financial services industry, which is currently making the move to cloud services. Consequently, there’s now a high demand for tech skills like AWS and automation, as well as Python for data analytics, Java for developing consumer-facing apps, and SQL for database work. Financial services companies need skilled IT professionals to help manage the integration of new and emerging technology, ushering in the modernizing of finance tech.

IT Jobs & Salaries in Baltimore

There are a variety of jobs one could pursue as an IT professional, each with its own salary range. One possibility is to become an Architect—an IT Systems Architect, Enterprise Architect, or Cloud Infrastructure Architect—and determine how IT services, solutions, and infrastructure should be built. The average salary for an IT Architect in Baltimore is $104,000, but it can be as high as $164,000 for certain roles.

One could also pursue a role in network and systems administration and become a Computer Systems Manager or Network Administrator. A professional with one of these titles can expect an average salary of $88,000, with the potential to earn over six figures once established in their career. 

Within software development, some IT professionals become Front-end, Back-end, or Cloud Developers. They are typically making $109,000-$133,000 as a Front-end Developer, around $108,000 as a Back-end Developer, and $128,000-$150,000 as a Cloud Developer.

For aspiring students looking for a more entry-level role within IT, take a look at Product Managers and IT Support Specialists. These roles pay anywhere from $55,000 to $65,000. They can help one make a start in the industry while also making at or above the national average salary.