What to expect from a career in Information Management and Informatics
Informatics is the term for gathering, storing, manipulating and classifying recorded information. With so much information being generated and stored digitally, computer informatics and information management practices are becoming increasingly important to individuals and businesses. Information management and informatics programs at Ontario colleges prepare students for in-demand careers in managing digital documents and providing security to individuals and businesses alike.
If you have an interest in computers and security and want to start a career in the field of information management and informatics, here’s what you need to know.
Information Management and Informatics Courses
As mentioned earlier, informatics involves the storage and retrieval of information. A common application of informatics is bioinformatics, which uses computer technology to manage and classify biological information for the purposes of examining and extracting biological data. Bioinformatics programs combine biology and science knowledge with understanding of computers. Courses include molecular and biotechnology, statistics and computer programming.
Other informatics programs will cross over with computer information management programs and focus on issues like computer network and information security. Courses in these programs cover topics like computer system design and analysis, data communication and protection principles, encryption, risk management and much more.
General Information Management and Informatics Program Requirements
Ontario college information management and informatics programs are advanced programs, typically offered at the degree or graduate certificate level. For degree programs, requirements will include an Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) or equivalent, which includes a grade 12 English credit and a grade 12 math credit. Additional grade 12 or senior credits may also be required.
Information management and informatics graduate certificate programs require a degree or diploma, generally in a field closely related to biotechnology.
Information Management and Informatics Jobs and Salaries
The need for professionals trained in digital information management and informatics is increasing every day, and job opportunities are available across many industries. Just a few of the responsibilities that could fall on an information management professional include:
- Establishing security protocols between companies
- Deployment of security protocols across different platforms
- Analysis of systems and requirements
- Project planning, implementation and management
- Technology acquisition
Because of the advanced training and knowledge necessary in information management jobs, the average entry-level salary is between $38,000 and $45,000 a year, and may increase to more than $80,000 a year for managerial positions.
Ontario Colleges Offering Information Management and Informatics Programs
Use the left-column navigation to refine your search by College, Program Availability, Program Start Date and more, or see the table below for a complete list of information management and informatics programs at Ontario colleges.
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