Becoming an IT specialist can be a lucrative career that offers competitive pay, work-from-home options, and good job security.
If you’ve ever wondered, “How long does it take to become an IT specialist?”, you’re not alone. With technology woven into nearly every part of our daily lives, IT jobs are in demand more than ever. However, the path can feel a little unclear for someone just getting started, thinking about a career change, or simply curious about the field.
How much training do you really need? Are certifications required? And when can you expect to start earning a paycheck?
The answer depends on the route you take. Some people jump into the workforce quickly with minimal formal education, while others take a more traditional path with degrees or multiple certifications.
There’s no single timeline, but there are a few general patterns you can expect if you’re starting from scratch and wondering how long it may take to become an IT professional.
What Is an IT Specialist?
First, let’s answer the question, “What is an IT Specialist?”
An IT specialist helps organizations manage their computer systems, networks, and digital tools. Depending on the role, that could mean setting up new devices, troubleshooting tech issues, installing software, maintaining servers, or even protecting data from security threats.
Some IT specialists work on the front lines, assisting users with login problems or hardware repairs, while others manage the behind-the-scenes infrastructure that keeps entire companies running. It’s a broad field, and many IT professionals start in general support roles before discovering a specific area, like networking, cybersecurity, or cloud computing, that they enjoy and want to pursue further.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median salary for a computer support specialist was $71,530, but this varies based on factors like location, company, and specialization.
How Long Does It Take to Become an IT Specialist?
So, you’ve decided that you want to become an IT specialist. Great! Your next question is likely, “How long does it take to become an IT specialist?” For many people, it’s possible to go from beginner to paid IT specialist in under a year.
That’s especially true if you aim for an entry-level support role like a help desk technician or IT tech. These positions usually require a foundational understanding of computers, operating systems, and basic networking skills you can begin building through short-term online courses like the ones at Stratford Career Institute.
However, everyone learns at a different pace, and some people may take over a year, depending on other responsibilities and how deep they want to go in their learning.
What Are the Different Paths to Becoming an IT Specialist?
Some people land entry-level roles even without formal training, especially if they’ve picked up real-world experience or skills on their own. So, know it may take less time than you think to get started, but becoming an expert? That’s a longer journey (and never really ends in the fast-moving world of tech).
Here’s a rough idea of how long it may take to start working in the field:
- Self-taught or short-term online programs: 6–12 months;
- Associate degree: 2 years;
- Bachelor’s degree: 4 years; and
- Certifications (like CompTIA A+): A few weeks to a few months.
Your path should be determined by how much time and money you want to invest in developing your skills.
Can You Work in IT Without a Degree?
In many cases, yes. The tech industry requires a degree or certifications, especially for higher-level or specialized roles. known for valuing skills over formal education. However, some employers may prefer a
If you’re aiming for an entry-level job or looking to switch careers, starting with an online course or basic certification can be a great way to test the waters.
What Training and Certifications Do You Need, and How Long Do They Take?
To prepare for a job in IT, you’ll want to understand basic computer hardware, operating systems (like Windows and Linux), networking concepts, software installation, and troubleshooting. Many entry-level roles also require strong communication skills since you’ll often be helping people solve problems.
You may eventually want to pursue more advanced training or certifications, like CompTIA A+, Cisco’s CCNA, and Microsoft Certified Azure Fundamentals.
Some people learn independently through tutorials and hands-on projects, while others prefer structured online courses. A great place to start is with a general computer training program that covers essential IT concepts and vocabulary.
Our IT Specialist Course is perfect for learning the basics and can even help you prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam, an industry-standard for IT specialists.
How Long Before You Can Start Earning?
So, how long does it take to become an IT tech and start getting paid? For motivated learners, the answer may be as little as 6 to 12 months. That’s enough time to build a strong foundation, complete a beginner course, and possibly earn a certification. From there, you may be able to land a role as a support technician, help desk associate, or junior IT specialist.
Your timeline may vary based on your location, availability, and the specific roles you’re targeting. Some people break in faster, while others take longer to build confidence and skills, but the path is flexible, and learning while working is common in the IT world.
Ready to Explore the Possibilities?
Would you like to find out more about becoming an IT specialist? Take a look at Stratford Career Institute’s online IT Specialist course. It can help you learn more about what’s involved in working in IT—and help you prepare for the CompTIA A+ exam, an industry standard that is often used to start an IT career.
Whether you’re starting with zero experience or just brushing up on tech basics, there’s room for you in IT—and it all begins with the first step.
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