The Fourth Industrial Revolution, also known as Industry 4.0 or 4IR, is the latest step in humanity’s technological evolution. This phase of development is defined by exciting enhancements in digital, physical and biological technologies that are improving how we live and work. Unlike previous industrial revolutions powered by steam, electricity and computers, 4IR is characterized by computing technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), automation, cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT). These technologies are making huge improvements to the operational efficiency and productivity of organizations, powering innovation at scale and changing the way people interact with machines and each other.
These developments make it an exciting time for anyone in the workforce, but technological advancements are especially relevant to IT professionals. Industry 4.0 will extend human capabilities, create new roles and prompt us to learn new skills.
To take advantage of the possibilities, today’s workforce must understand and adapt to these changes. Embracing them can lead to more engaging and meaningful work, ensuring that human employees remain essential contributors in an increasingly digital world.
How Is the Fourth Industrial Revolution Impacting IT Careers?
Industry 4.0 developments start with technology before extending outward into other industries, so this revolution will have a massive effect on job roles and career paths in the IT field. Junior-level IT roles involving programming and routine maintenance will likely be handled by automations and AI tools, especially as legacy systems are phased out and replaced.
However, this does not mean that all IT jobs will be taken over by machines and software. Instead, roles will evolve to require a higher level of technical skills and digital literacy in areas like data analytics, cloud computing and automation systems so that IT professionals can monitor automated software and AI/ML programs. In addition, critical thinking, problem-solving and the ability to see the big picture will become increasingly important as IT professionals take on a larger role in organizational planning, strategy and decision-making. Interpersonal skills like collaboration and communication will also be crucial as teams work more closely with other departments to address organizational challenges. This ongoing technological evolution will also require IT professionals to adapt to a constantly changing landscape. Continuous learning and upskilling will be essential to keep up with new tools and responsibilities.
How a Master’s in Information Technology Helps You Thrive in 4IR
A Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) is designed to prepare you to succeed in the dynamic IT environment by connecting technical concepts to business value. An MSIT program will provide you with a solid foundation focused on skill development in data management and leadership. By the time they graduate, students will have learned to:
- Support information security in a landscape characterized by accelerating threats
- Use data analytics to promote efficiencies and uncover insights
- Leverage IT to further organizational goals
At California Lutheran University, our master’s in information technology program offers IT professionals ample opportunities to incorporate real challenges from their workplace into assignments, which showcases your expanding abilities to employers. We also offer aspiring IT leaders the opportunity to practice their new skills in the real world via internships and research projects. And with flexible course formats, including online, on-campus and evening options, we make it easy for working professionals to incorporate their coursework into their lives.
The MSIT curriculum includes a wide range of electives to customize your studies to your interests and career goals, as well as three specialty tracks that align with high-growth areas in the sector:
- Cybersecurity
- Data Analytics
- IT Management
Cybersecurity: Protecting Digital Infrastructure
Increasing digitization and globally interconnected business operations, while bringing undeniable benefits, have created more opportunities for bad actors to infiltrate and attack systems. The impact of such incidents can be more severe as the effects of cybercrimes cascade across networks.
Unfortunately, many organizations struggle to prepare strong strategies that combat evolving cyberthreats. Given that cybersecurity is a top priority across industries, IT professionals with the ability to design, integrate and upgrade cybersecurity defenses will be highly sought after.
There is a global shortage of cybersecurity professionals. Over 4 million professionals are needed to fill the talent gap.
According to ISC2’s 2024 Cybersecurity Workforce Study, some of the most desired skills for cybersecurity professionals include cloud computing, AI/ML and risk management. Cal Lutheran’s MSIT and Cybersecurity track offer courses that align with these current industry needs, in addition to offerings that deepen your expertise for the future of 4IR. The Cybersecurity track will teach you to protect large data sets, manage cybersecurity risks, navigate digital forensics and design effective cloud security.
Some in-demand roles and their median annual salaries in this area include:
- Cybersecurity specialist ($111,900): This role focuses on identifying vulnerabilities and risks in technology infrastructures, implementing the appropriate security measures and developing response plans for security incidents.
- Security analyst ($108,400): Professionals in this job may monitor networks for security incidents, conduct threat research and perform risk assessments.
- Vulnerability analyst ($125,300): Vulnerability analysts, also known as penetration testers, use ethical hacking techniques to try to break into their organization’s networks and systems. This allows them to proactively find gaps in security and test defense.
Data Analytics: Turning Information to Insights
Data analytics is a true game-changer. Organizations in nearly every industry can use findings to:
- Make operations more efficient
- Predict risks and trends
- Support strategic decision-making
- Uncover new opportunities
Understanding how to gather and use data effectively is already a highly sought-after skill. Estimated at almost $70 billion in 2024, the global data analytics market is expected to experience explosive growth through 2030.
Cal Lutheran offers a Data Analysis track that emphasizes key skills and expertise related to gathering, storing and organizing data. Coursework in data analytics principles, data warehousing, big data and business intelligence systems provides a comprehensive understanding applying data analysis technologies effectively.
Top roles and their median annual salaries in this area of IT include:
- Data analyst ($93,600): These professionals collect and interpret data to find industry trends and patterns. They also synthesize their findings and communicate their analyses to stakeholders.
- Data engineer ($134,000): This role supports data analysis. Data engineers design and build accessible technological infrastructure for collecting, storing and analyzing large amounts of data.
- Business intelligence analyst ($124,800): Professionals in this role translate an organization’s operational data to find insights that can support greater efficiency and productivity.
IT Management: Leading Through Technological Change
Organizations need IT professionals with undeniable technical skills, but they also need strong leaders who can help organizations successfully navigate ongoing technological disruption and evolution.
In an IT setting, management requires a comprehensive understanding of interconnected technical systems, familiarity with industry trends, awareness of ongoing technological developments and strong management skills to effectively communicate and collaborate with other organizational leaders. Growth in this type of role is expected to rise 17% through 2033, in part due to the way in which 4IR is affecting the IT environment.
Cal Lutheran’s IT Management track emphasizes the relationship between IT strategy and business operations, especially when it comes to the fundamentals of enterprise systems and emerging technologies. By providing both technical and business expertise, this track develops students into IT leaders who can support organizations through technological changes and challenges.
In-demand roles and their median annual salaries in this area include:
- IT project manager ($117,600): This role involves planning and overseeing IT projects and ensuring they are completed efficiently, on time and within budget. Responsibilities include developing schedules, assigning responsibilities, anticipating potential risks and working through challenges.
- Chief information officer (CIO) ($165,800): IT professionals in this role play a critical role on the executive team, guiding technology adoption and operations to drive business innovation and advance organizational objectives.
- Technology consultant ($115,600): Individuals in this position use their IT expertise to help organizations select and implement the most appropriate technologies for their needs. Technology consultants will also identify how to maximize IT operations.
| Specialty Area | Job Title | Median Annual Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Cybersecurity | Cybersecurity Specialist | $111,900 |
| Security Analyst | $108,400 | |
| Vulnerability Analyst | $125,300 | |
| Data Analytics | Data Analyst | $93,600 |
| Data Engineer | $134,000 | |
| Business Intelligence Analyst | $124,800 | |
| IT Management | IT Project Manager | $117,600 |
| Chief Information Officer | $165,800 | |
| Technology Consultant | $115,600 |
Source: Lightcast
As you advance beyond entry-level IT roles, it can become necessary to earn a master’s degree in order to advance your career further. For senior-level, management and leadership roles, many employers strongly prefer or even require advanced education. A master’s in information technology demonstrates concrete evidence of IT expertise and management skills to employers, making you a more attractive candidate. Many hiring managers will even offer higher salaries to candidates with a master’s degree.
33% of employers are hiring workers with master’s degrees for positions that had previously been held by those with four-year degrees.
Earning your master’s in information technology at Cal Lutheran offers key advantages in addition to standing out amongst the competition. Our Career Services Center can help you map your career path, prepare for interviews and research employers. In addition, the School of Management hosts networking events throughout the year with local associations focused on entrepreneurship and economic development. During your studies, you’ll build relationships with your fellow students and have access to our extensive alumni network, leading to connections that support your professional growth and lead to future opportunities.
Earn Your MS in Information Technology from the Cal Lutheran School of Management
Get the skills you need to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of IT. With online and hybrid courses designed for working professionals, Cal Lutheran’s MSIT program offers the essential knowledge to stay ahead and the flexibility you need to manage other responsibilities.
The School of Management at Cal Lutheran is dedicated to producing graduates who are well prepared to succeed in their personal and professional lives — who lead, think, communicate and follow through with sustained excellence. As a Cal Lutheran School of Management student, you’ll learn from experienced faculty and benefit from personalized attention in small class sizes.
Download a program brochure or start your application to the MS in Information Technology.
