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Overview
Writing a statement of purpose to get into that university that you’ve always wanted to pursue your Information Technology to be at can be quite an intimidating task. To simplify the process of writing an SOP for information technology, read our 4-step guide, which takes you through the format of writing a university SOP with relevant examples from sample SOPs for students with similar as well as different backgrounds.
Table of Contents
Toolkit for SOP for information technology
Here, we have curated a toolkit that is sectioned into 4 paragraphs for a university SOP, along with examples that will help you write an SOP for information technology.
| Action Item | Questions that need to be answered | Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction (motivation and goals) | What motivated you to opt for information technology? | Motivated by uncle’s career as a software engineer OR Motivated by the zeal to start a news website |
| What are your unique skill sets? | Knowledge of HTML, CSS, Javascript, PHP, WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla OR Journalism skills such as writing, storytelling, multimedia, and video production combined with my technical skills of PHP, Python, and MySQL | |
| What is that one bigger goal that you aim to achieve? | To become an IT project manager OR To start a news website | |
| Body paragraph I (learning, execution, and impact) | What is your academic background? | Completed a Bachelors in Computer Applications from Symbiosis Institute of Computer Studies and Research OR Completed B.A. (Hons.) Journalism from Delhi University |
| What is your professional background? | Worked as a freelancer and junior full-stack developer in Purple Zone, Pune OR Worked as a full-time journalist in The Quint for 3 years | |
| What are your academic and professional accomplishments? | Created 10+ functioning websites and learned how to integrate websites with third party services and components like payment gateways, geo-location services, and social media logins OR Have a clear understanding of the functioning of a news website, know the what’s and whatnot’s of journalism, how to pitch, write outreach emails, and follow them up | |
| Body paragraph II (Why course, Why University) | Why have you chosen to pursue this course in information technology? | To become an IT project manager to incorporate technical skills along with the passion to work in a leadership position OR To develop in-depth knowledge on the technical front |
| Why have you chosen this particular course? | The course provides knowledge on IT Leadership and IT Project Management Fundamentals and builds foundational knowledge on leading IT projects from initiation to completion within a company’s work and budget constraints OR Due to its focus on teaching students to build client-centered technology | |
| Why have you chosen this particular university? | Because of a good alumni network which would help to make connections in the field of information technology OR Impressed with the university’s curriculum and methodologies in information technology, interested in working with Professor Brian Atkinson | |
| Why will you be a valuable addition to the university? | Volunteer in student clubs and the annual Activities Fair OR Volunteer to work with the university’s journalism club | |
| Conclusion (Closing Statement) | What are your short-term goals? | To get an entry-level job as a project manager OR To gain hands-on working experience in the IT industry by working in a managerial role |
| What are your long-term goals? | To become a senior IT project manager OR To become an entrepreneur and start a news website | |
| How can you contribute to society with information technology? | To create a workplace environment with efficient human resources OR By making a news website that will stand up for the oppressed and help preserve the right to free speech for the citizens of India |
Sample SOP for a student with a background in information technology
“A leader is best when people barely know he exists, when his work is done, his aim fulfilled, they will say: we did it ourselves.” — Lao Tzu
Modern technology has altered the world in a way where it has become very easy to find any information in a fraction of second. As a little kid, unaware of the know-hows of the world, my uncle introduced me to the world of computers and technology. My uncle, being a software engineer at Microsoft, used to tell me about the advancements made in the field of science and technology, which made me a firm believer that technology will eventually become an integral part of the future world. I vividly remember my uncle buying me a computer as a present on my 12th birthday. This acted as a catalyst in my journey to learn more about computers, because of which I chose computer science as one of my major subjects in 10th grade.As a high school student, I have always been good at IT, yet I have been deeply interested in the field of web development as much as becoming a successful IT leader. To work towards the same, I have developed solid technical expertise in HTML, CSS, Javascript, PHP, along with the knowledge of CMS software such as WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla.I feel that the quote given by Lao Tzu deeply resonates with my interest in the field of IT and my ambition to emerge as a successful IT project manager who can drive my team towards success.
My journey into the world of information technology began shortly after completing my schooling, when I went on to pursue a Bachelors in Computer Applications from the Symbiosis Institute of Computer Studies and Research . During my second semester, I found the subject of Web Development using CMS particularly interesting, where I learned how to create websites using Drupal combined with CMF frameworks. It was then that I delved deeper into it and started to create websites using CMS platforms such as WordPress, Drupal, and Joomla. In subsequent semesters of my course, I got to study the subjects of Web Development using Python and PHP, which strengthened my basics of web technologies such as HTML, CSS, Javascript, Python, PHP, and MySQL, owing to which I learned how to make websites from scratch and started working as a freelance web developer.By the time I completed my degree, I had created 10+ functioning websites as part of my projects, which, combined with my knowledge, helped me get a job as a junior full-stack developer in Purple Zone, Pune.While working as a junior developer, I created effective websites by integrating a wide range of third-party services and components like payment gateways, geo-location services, and social media logins. However, during my 1.5-year work experience as a web developer, I felt stagnation in my career, and I could not see any opportunity for learning ahead in my current position. It was then that I decided to get a masters degree to become an IT project manager, where I could incorporate my technical skills along with my passion to work in a leadership position.
In order to open up new prospects in the field of information technology, I have applied to Clark University’s MS in Information Technology program to realize my dream of working as an IT project manager.I believe that Clark University’s Department of Information Technology Services is the ideal place for me to pursue my master's degree, which will equip me with theoretical as well as practical knowledge of IT Leadership and IT Project Management Fundamentals. My program will provide me with foundational knowledge on leading IT projects from initiation to completion within a company’s work and budget constraints. Apart from this, the coursework will also provide me with the knowledge of scope management, time management, cost management, leadership, and communication. The training at Clark University will not only help me to emerge as a professional IT project manager as I pursue a career in information technology, but it will also expand my horizons to build good alumni connections in my field. I look forward to being a valuable addition to Clark University by volunteering in student clubs and at the annual Activities Fair. I, therefore, feel that to become an impactful IT project manager who can identify, support, and provide solutions to an IT company, Clark University’s MS in Information Technology program is an ideal program for me.
After earning an MS degree in information technology, my immediate goal is to get an entry-level job as a project manager at a reputable IT company. With my MS from Clark University, I will accumulate the necessary skills and expertise to manage team members and develop department goals while overseeing the given budget for multiple IT projectsMy work experience as a web developer and IT project manager would help me move a step closer to accomplishing my long-term goal of becoming a senior IT project manager. I hope that my career as an IT project manager can contribute to creating a workplace environment with efficient human resources. I believe that a degree from Clarks University, combined with my passion to work in the field of IT, can help me achieve my academic and career aspirations.
Sample SOP for a student with a different background
“IT is not just another department in an organization. It’s pervasive, like electricity.” - The Phoenix Project
The quote by The Phoenix Project aligns with my deep interest in the field of information technology as well as journalism. For the past 3 years, I have been working with The Quint as a journalist; however, now I wish to transition into the field of information technology for my future growth and new challenges. I feel that my skills and work experience as a journalist will transfer well into this new career path, as it will aid me in achieving my larger goal of starting my own news website. I believe that my journalism skills, such as writing, storytelling, multimedia, and video production, combined with my technical skills in HTML, JavaScript, PHP, Python, and MySQL, will accelerate my growth in the field of information technology.I see my past experience as a journalist as a healthier way to shift to studying and working in the field of information technology in the near future.
From an early age, I have been a sincere student who focused equally on academics as well as extracurricular activities. As an undergraduate student pursuing a B.A. (Hons.) Journalism from Delhi University,I went the extra mile and managed to land an internship at The Quint as an undergraduate. After the completion of my degree, I went on to work as a full-time journalist at The Quintwhere my work initially focused on investigation, research, and fact-checking information. However, with time, I got the opportunity to write scripts for interviews, news articles, stories, and opinion pieces. The hands-on working experience of 3 years provided me with a clear understanding of the functioning of a news website, which strengthened my grasp of the what’s and whatnot’s of journalism. Most importantly, getting involved in the company taught me how to pitch, write outreach emails, and follow them up, which helped me build strong relationships with various news channels and journalists. I loved my workplace and my job, but at the back of my mind, I always had the idea to start my own news website. However, I was well aware that starting my own news website isn’t an easy task, given that a news website requires not only journalistic but also technical talent. To work towards the same, I got a diploma in Computer Science from Delhi Skill and Entrepreneurship University, which made me technically skilled in web development technologies such as HTML, JavaScript, PHP, Python, Javascript, and MySQL. However, in order to build my own news website, I feel that this knowledge isn't sufficient, and I require in-depth knowledge on the technical front.
For the same reason, I have decided to enroll in the MS Information Technology program with my major in Information Technology Security from Arizona State University.After extensive research for universities that offer masters programs in information technology, I was particularly interested in Arizona State University due to its focus on teaching students to build client-centered technology. In addition, the course’s approach to analytics, design, human factors, and entrepreneurship in technical advancements will boost my journey to become well-versed in working with technical support staff.The ASU Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering, with their leading curriculum and methodologies in information technology, will allow me to pursue my masters degree while maximizing my potential and technical expertise. I am interested in working with Professor Brian Atkinson in ASU because of his position as a reviewer at the annual EDUCAUSE conference. EDUCAUSE aligns with my goals of getting help and building connections with peers and industry experts in the field of information technology.I am confident that I can be a valuable addition to Arizona State University with my knowledge of web development, and I look forward to volunteering with the university’s journalism club. I believe that receiving a masters degree from Arizona State University will help me broaden my perspective and knowledge in the field of information technology, bringing me a step closer to my dream of starting a news website by being able to manage technical IT professionals.
Soon after the completion of my degree from Arizona State University, I wish to gain hands-on working experience in the IT industry by working in a managerial role. My long-term goal is to begin my entrepreneurial journey and start my own news website. I aim to set up a strong tech department for my news website, which will only be possible owing to my MS in Information Technology from Arizona State University. To me, setting up a technical department with great care and attention is of utmost importance, as I consider the technical department to be the backbone of my news websiteWhile, in the long run, I aspire to emerge as a successful entrepreneur who is capable of incorporating journalism skills with technology in order to create something worthwhile. I hope to create a news website that speaks for the masses and brings attention to important issues that must be addressed without compromising on morals. I believe that my news website will stand up for the oppressed and help preserve the right to free speech for the citizens of India. I am confident that a MS in Information Technology from Arizona State University, with its leading technologies and its commitment to academic excellence, will allow me to pursue my goal and move a step closer to building a news website that tells stories that are true.
How to write an SOP for MS in information technology
Here, we have provided you with an in-depth explanation of how to write an SOP for information technology with reference to the sample SOP given above.
Introduction (motivation and goal)
An introduction to a statement of purpose should always begin with a hook that interests your reader. Now, when it comes to writing an SOP, there aren’t many options to hook the reader as they might make your SOP sound unprofessional, so in order to be on the safe side, hook your SOP reader with something related to information technology.
Then, talk about your inspiration to work in the IT field and state your long-term goal that you wish to accomplish through your career in IT. Next, move on to discussing your unique skillets which show that you’re the perfect fit for your chosen course. In addition to this, explain what you wish to achieve from your course.
Checklist for writing introduction:
- Hook (quote related to information technology)
- Source of motivation
- Long-term goal
- Reason to pursue the course
- Unique aspects about your personality
- Future goals
Body paragraph I (learning, execution, and impact)
After the introduction, start off your first body paragraph by mentioning your academic and professional background and highlight your accomplishments during the same. Then, transition into describing the strengths that you’ve developed owing to your past accomplishments. The point here is to show the SOP reader how all your cumulative experiences over the years impacted you and made you choose the path of information technology.
Checklist for writing body paragraph I:
- Academic accomplishments
- Professional accomplishments
- Strengths and weaknesses
- Impact of all the cumulative experiences
- In case of a fresher, talk about internships and volunteerships
Body paragraph II (why course, why university)
Likewise, your second paragraph would be focused on your decision to pursue your chosen course in information technology from your desired university. First and foremost, state your reason for choosing your course. For example, in the sample SOP, the student wants to pursue a MS in information technology program and likewise backs up her choice with concrete examples.
Next, list all the factors that you considered while selecting your university and how your chosen university meets all your requirements. A lot of students make the mistake of singing praises about the university instead of focusing on the standout features of the university. These features could range from the university’s infrastructure, curriculum, faculty, extracurriculars, research centers to the university’s scholarship programs. Just make sure that your reasoning isn’t too ambiguous and irrelevant.
It’s always a good idea to give the SOP reader a reason to show how you will be a valuable addition to their university. When it comes to talking about your contribution to the university, it is always advised to mention your unique skills other than academics. Here, you can take the liberty to showcase your talent in any other extracurricular or sports related activities.
Checklist for writing body paragraph II:
- The skills and knowledge you know related to information technology
- Why this particular college/ university?
- What do you like about the university?
- How can you be a valuable addition to the university?
Conclusion (closing statement)
Your concluding paragraph is your last chance to bring together all your achievements and show the SOP reader how they align with your future goals. Approach this paragraph with an ambitious yet practical tone, where you will explain your career trajectory with respect to your short and long-term goals that you wish to achieve after the completion of your degree. In form, your closing statement should include your contribution to the society as a professional working in the IT industry reflecting your work towards the betterment of society at large.
Checklist for writing conclusion:
- Path to achieve your career goals (short-term and long-term goals)
- What after the course (long-term goals)
- Contribution towards the society
Conclusion
To sum it all up, writing a statement of purpose for masters in information technology can be a complicated task. Adhering to all the steps mentioned in our toolkit, along with reading the detailed explanation of the content that needs to be mentioned in each paragraph, will help you craft a compelling SOP that will help you move a step closer to your goal of working in the field of information technology.
FAQs
Why should you choose information technology?
Getting a degree in information technology is a good investment as it has a high return on your investment. In today’s world, information technology is the fastest-growing profession in the world which you can enter irrespective of your background. The field of IT not only provides one with numerous job opportunities that come with lucrative offers from around the world. The data by Statista suggests that the employment rate in the U.S. is forecasted to surpass 6.1 million people by 2032.
Why SOP is important?
An SOP provides you with the opportunity to give an extended explanation of your academic and professional background in relation to your future goals that cannot be mentioned in your resume or application form for the university. By writing an SOP, you get a chance to stand out in your application by giving the university members an insight into your prospective career trajectory with short-term and long-term goals and how you wish to achieve them with a degree from their university.
How long should an SOP be?
Usually, the word limit for an SOP is mentioned on the University’s website along with the guidelines to be followed while writing your SOP. If in case you fail to find a word limit on your chosen university’s website, stick to a word limit of 600-900 words and make sure you write your SOP accordingly.
What should be the tone of an SOP?
Your SOP should be written in your own words and sound like your authentic self. However, keep in mind to maintain a friendly and professional tone that is consistent throughout the SOP. But make sure that you do not go overboard with formal or colloquial language and use words that are easily read and understood by the university’s admissions committee. Likewise, you are advised to use specific terminologies related to information technology and not give generic examples in that case.
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