Training, Other Qualifications, and Advancement:
There is no universally accepted way to prepare for a job as a computer professional because employers' preferences depend on the work being done. Prior work experience is very important. Many persons develop an area of expertise in their jobs, which tends to make them more marketable to employers. For example, people move into systems analyst jobs after working as computer programmers. Another example is the auditor in an accounting department who becomes a systems analyst specializing in accounting systems development.

Job Outlook:
Computer scientists and systems analysts will be among the fastest growing occupations through the year 2005. In addition, tens of thousands of job openings will result annually from the need to replace workers who move into managerial positions or other occupations or leave the labor force. It is estimated that there will be approximately 1,403,000 computer scientists and systems analysts by 2005.

Sources of Additional Information: