With strong job growth and high salaries, the tech sector attracts many job seekers. But how can you launch a career in IT? 

If you're considering an IT career, use this list of top jobs to learn more about the earning potential, duties, and educational requirements for each. 

Information technology job outlook

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IT professionals benefit from a strong career outlook. Computer and information technology jobs continue to outperform other fields in terms of IT salaries and growth. In May 2021, tech professionals earned a median salary of$97,430 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). The BLS projects 13% job growth in computer and information technology occupations from 2020-30.

In addition to above-average salaries and high demand, IT professionals can choose a variety of career paths with a bachelor's in information technology. Many high-paying IT jobs offer career advancement opportunities and the ability to shift career paths. In addition, developers and engineers continue to benefit from strong demand.

The highest-paying careers in IT:Quick look

Source:U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics

Top careers in IT

IT professionals may have specialties including information systems management, cybersecurity, and software development. 

This list introduces some of the top-paying information technology jobs. After learning about the top IT careers, check out the best computer science jobs.

We found the top careers in IT for 2021 using salary and projected job growth rate data from the BLS. 

Computer and information systems managers

• Median annual salary:$159,010 (May 2021)
• Job growth (2020-2030):11%

Computer and information systems managers oversee IT professionals and direct the technology-related activities for an organization. They manage teams that protect network security, install new software, and organize databases. Common job titles include IT manager and chief information officer. 

Most computer and information systems managers hold a bachelor's degree and several years of professional experience. Some employers prefer candidates with a master's degree. Depending on their focus area, computer and information systems managers may study information technology management or management information systems. 

Computer and information research scientists

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• Median annual salary:$131,490 (May 2021)
• Job growth (2020-2030):22%

Computer and information research scientists research problems technology can solve. They develop new uses for existing technology and build new technologies, including new computer programming languages. Computer and information research scientists also run experiments on computer operations and work closely with other technology professionals to solve computing problems.

Most employers require a master's degree for computer and information research scientist jobs. A master's in computer science, information systems, computer engineering, or a related field typically meets the requirement. 

Computer network architects

• Median annual salary:$120,520 (May 2021)
• Job growth (2020-2030):5%

Computer network architects design communication networks for organizations. From small networks to cloud computing platforms, computer network architects create custom data communication systems. In addition to technical skills, they bring business training to evaluate an organization's needs and create a network that serves those needs.

Most computer network architects hold a bachelor's degree in fields like computer science or information systems. They also study network security, database administration, and systems administration.

Software developers

• Median annual salary:$110,140 (May 2020)
• Job growth (2020-2030): 22%

Software developers design and improve software programs. They develop new software based on user needs and upgrade software to incorporate new technology or add functionalities. Software developers work closely with a team of software engineers, testers, and programmers to build software programs. 

While building software, developers must closely track each step of the process to allow for maintenance or upgrades. Most software developers hold a bachelor's degree in computer science or information technology. 

Software quality assurance analysts and testers

• Median annual salary: $110,140
• Job growth (2020-2030): 22%

Software quality assurance analysts and testers review software programs and identify problems. They conduct tests to reveal defects and errors. Software quality assurance analysts and testers then report issues to software developers and software engineers. In addition to identifying defects, they review a software program's functionality and user experience. 

Career paths in software quality assurance and testing typically require a bachelor's degree in information technology, computer science, or a closely related field. 

Information security analysts

• Median annual salary: $102,600 (May 2021)
• Job growth (2020-2030): 33%

Information security analysts implement security systems to protect private data from cyberattacks. They investigate security breaches to prevent future attacks. Information security analysts also conduct simulated attacks to identify weaknesses. As cybersecurity specialists, they must research security trends, create standards for organizations, and recommend security upgrades.

Entry-level information security analyst jobs typically require a bachelor's degree and several years of IT experience. The role also requires strong problem-solving and analytical skills.

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Database administrators

• Median annual salary: $98,860 (May 2020)
• Job growth (2020-2030): 8%

Database administrators oversee data storage and security systems. They maintain databases that store health information, financial records, or retail transactions. 

Database administrators design custom databases, restore lost data, and train authorized users to access the database. Other job titles include database architect or database engineer.

Careers in database administration typically require a bachelor's degree in information technology or a related field. Professionals also need strong analytical skills and the ability to communicate and work collaboratively. 

Computer systems analysts

• Median annual salary: $99,270 (May 2021)
• Job growth (2020-2030): 7%

Computer systems analysts evaluate an organization's computing systems to create more efficient and effective procedures. Drawing on IT and business knowledge, computer systems analysts evaluate an organization's IT needs, research upgrades, and design new systems. Common job titles include systems architect or IT analyst. 

Most computer systems analyst jobs require a bachelor's degree and information technology training. The field requires strong technical abilities as well as effective communication skills. 

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• Median annual salary: $93,000 (May 2021)
• Job growth (2020-2030): -10%

Computer programmers write code to run software programs. Working closely with software developers and software engineers, programmers test the code to make sure it functions as expected. Programmers then identify and correct mistakes. Computer programmers specialize in many programming languages, including Python, C++, and Java.

Some computer programming jobs require a bachelor's degree. However, many top employers hire coding bootcamp graduates. Careers in computer programming require a detail-oriented outlook and strong analytical and troubleshooting skills.

Network and computer systems administrators

• Median annual salary: $80,600 (May 2021)
• Job growth (2020-2030): 5%

Network and computer systems administrators design and monitor computer networks for organizations. They build networks to transfer and protect data. Network and computer systems administrators also install and upgrade hardware and software. 

Other common job titles include information systems manager, IT specialist, or LAN specialist.

A bachelor's degree represents the most common entry-level education requirement. Most employers prefer candidates with a degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field. The career path requires strong analytical and problem-solving skills.

What makes a career in information technology great?

Information technology careers can be lucrative and rewarding. Professionals in the computing and technology field earn a median annual salary of over$91,000 per year