What to Expect

Technology management is a diverse program that incorporates technology, business administration, computer skills, management and communication.

"What I liked the best was the fact that most of the professors had significant industry experience and could share real-world examples of the principles that we were learning," says Kevin Roderick, who took the program at George Mason University.

Students can expect to take classes in management, organization and math. Specific classes include economics of technology management, decision making using accounting and financial information, planning and control of projects and group decision making.

It can be a challenge to organize and budget time, internships and classes.

"The program is not so much difficult as it is demanding," says Roderick. "There is always more material to cover than there is time to study."

How to Prepare

Take math and communication courses. Communication is important in any field to express ideas.

Aside from taking classes, high school students can join technology clubs and involve themselves in leadership activities. Getting involved helps students get over their fear of expressing their ideas and making decisions.

"Get a computer and don't be afraid to explore....Learn all you can about the hardware, the operating system [and] the applications," says Roderick.

"A large part of learning comes through exposure, and the longer you are exposed to the technology, the more you will retain. This knowledge will be a very good foundation as you begin to expand your learning."