Hey everyone! I'm looking for some guidance as I consider a career change from healthcare to a sysadmin or IT infrastructure role. I graduated with a B.A. in Psychology and have spent years in clinical roles, but I'm eager to shift to something more technical.
I've done a bit of IT support in my current job, like troubleshooting computers and installing software, and I really enjoy fixing problems and working behind the scenes. That said, I'm curious about the best way to break into IT.
A few questions I have:
1. Should I focus on certifications like CompTIA A+, Net+, and Linux+ to get my foot in the door?
2. Is aiming for IT roles in healthcare beneficial since I already understand the clinical environment?
3. Has anyone successfully transitioned to IT without a CS degree? How long did it take?
4. If I plan to advance in the field, is a master's degree in IT, MIS, or Cybersecurity a good investment, or is it often just a waste of time unless aiming for management?
I'm really hoping to enter a stable sysadmin role that allows for growth, so I'd love any advice on the best initial steps, and how graduate school fits into that plan. Thanks in advance!
10 Answers
It's likely that many sysadmins don't even have a master's degree. Focus on getting those essential certifications and some hands-on experience to boost your employability.
Going the certification route is definitely a better option than pursuing a master's degree right now. This field highly values hands-on experience, and certs like A+ and Network+ can get you there faster.
Certifications are like the shortcut. A master's degree won’t hurt, but you might find you're stuck at entry-level without experience. Get those certs first!
From what I've seen, working in healthcare IT can be tough. Often underfunded and overworked with outdated systems. I recommend doing some research on the specific challenges of healthcare IT—it might help you decide if that's really where you want to go.
Absolutely! Understanding the clinical side is a big plus.
Consider exploring informatics roles too. They might be more enjoyable and lucrative than a straight sysadmin job, especially with your background.
Does informatics tie into data science at all?
Yes, it does! It’s a great blend of tech and healthcare.
I’d recommend targeting IT support roles in healthcare since you already have that background. It’ll make transitioning easier.
You might want to start with a helpdesk or tech support role first, instead of jumping straight into sysadmin. Building that experience is crucial, especially since IT requires a lot of customer service skills that you might overlook.
That's fair; I'm figuring it all out. My experience is mainly tech support for my colleagues.
For sure! Helpdesk roles are a great way to learn the ropes before moving up.
If you enjoy what you're learning, go for it! A master's may be useful, but it really depends on the program's focus. Consider a tech-focused degree to complement your skills instead of just a generic master's.
Honestly, unless you're planning on moving into upper management, a master's may not be worth it. Focus on getting real-world experience first.
I wouldn't invest in a master's unless you can pay outright. Certs are usually more beneficial and can help you get noticed in the job market.
It's true; it depends on the sector. But knowing regulations like HIPAA can be really helpful!