Data Processing and Data Processing Technology/Technician.

Degree Overview

Data Processing Technology (CIP 11.0301) is a technical program that prepares individuals to master the flow of information through computer systems. While a computer scientist focuses on creating new software, a Data Processing Technician focuses on the operational side—taking raw data and using specialized software to transform it into meaningful information for business, science, or government.

This degree is ideal for students who are meticulous, logical, and enjoy the "behind-the-scenes" technical work that keeps large organizations running. It is a path for those who want a hands-on technical career ensuring that data is processed accurately, securely, and on schedule.

What Is a Data Processing Technology Degree?

A Data Processing degree focuses on the practical application of computer software to manage large-scale data operations. It teaches students how to use hardware and software to input, verify, manipulate, and output data. Programs in this field are often highly practical, emphasizing industrial-strength database tools and automated processing systems.

Schools offer this degree to:

• Train technicians to handle the "batch processing" and "real-time processing" needs of large firms
• Teach the lifecycle of a data transaction from entry to storage to reporting
• Provide expertise in managing large databases and maintaining data integrity
• Address the technical need for staff who can troubleshoot "broken" data flows

What Will You Learn?

Students learn the technical workflows that allow thousands of pieces of information—like credit card transactions or medical records—to be processed every second.

Core Skills You’ll Build

Most students learn to:

• Write and execute SQL queries to extract specific information from massive databases
• Use "Scripting" (often in Python or PowerShell) to automate repetitive data tasks
• Understand computer hardware and "Mainframe" environments where high-volume data lives
• Verify data accuracy and perform "data cleaning" to remove errors
• Manage the security and backup procedures for sensitive digital records
• Generate technical reports and summaries for management

Topics You May Explore

Coursework is centered on the mechanics of information systems:

• Introduction to Databases: Learning the structure of tables, keys, and records.
• Data Transformation: Converting information from one format to another (e.g., CSV to SQL).
• Operating Systems: Mastering the environments (Linux/Windows) where data is processed.
• Systems Operations: The schedule and logic of running large-scale data "jobs."
• Information Security: Protecting data from being corrupted or stolen during processing.
• Business Logic: Understanding the rules that govern how a business uses its data.

What Jobs Can You Get With This Degree?

Graduates serve as the technical engine room for data-heavy industries.

Common job roles include:

• Data Processing Technician: Monitoring and managing high-volume data systems.
• Database Assistant/Technician: Helping maintain and update corporate databases.
• Computer Operator: Overseeing the operation of large-scale server and storage systems.
• Data Quality Analyst: Ensuring that the information going into a system is correct.
• Systems Support Specialist: Troubleshooting software issues for data-processing teams.

Where Can You Work?

You will find these professionals in any industry that moves massive amounts of information:

• Financial Services: Banks and insurance companies processing millions of daily transactions.
• Healthcare: Hospitals and insurance providers managing patient and billing records.
• Logistics and Retail: Tracking inventory, orders, and shipping data globally.
• Government & Utilities: Managing public records, tax data, and utility billing systems.
• Market Research Firms: Processing large-scale survey and consumer data.

How Much Can You Earn?

This field offers a solid middle-class salary with high stability, as data processing is an essential "always-on" function.

• Data Processing Technicians: Median annual salary of approximately $45,000–$58,000.
• Computer Operators: Median annual salary of around $48,000–$62,000.
• Database Technicians: Salaries typically range from $50,000 to $70,000.
• Data Managers: With experience, salaries can reach $85,000+.

Is This Degree Hard?

The difficulty is not in "high-level math" but in procedural discipline. You must be comfortable with repetitive tasks and have a high tolerance for detail. One small error in a processing script can affect millions of records, so the pressure for accuracy is high. It is a "linear" kind of difficulty—it requires following steps exactly every time.

Who Should Consider This Degree?

This degree may be a good fit if you:

• Like working with computers but don't necessarily want to "design" them
• Are the kind of person who double-checks your work and notices small mistakes
• Enjoy "puzzles" that involve sorting and organizing information
• Prefer clear, step-by-step instructions over vague creative projects
• Want a technical career that doesn't require a 4-year bachelor's degree (many programs are Associate-level)

How to Prepare in High School

• Take classes in Computer Applications, Algebra, and Business
• Practice your typing speed and accuracy
• Try learning the basics of Microsoft Excel or Google Sheets (especially formulas)
• Look at free tutorials for "SQL" or "Python" to see if you like data logic
• Focus on building strong "time-management" habits

Accuracy, technical reliability, and a steady hand in the digital engine room are the hallmarks of a successful data processing technician.