Enterprise Architects

High School

Take as many computer science classes (database management, programming, computer security, etc.) as possible in high school to prepare for this demanding career. You should also work on developing your critical-thinking and problem-solving skills by taking courses such as business, philosophy, mathematics, and social studies and participating in leadership positions on clubs and sports teams. Enterprise architects must be excellent communicators, so be sure to take writing, speech, and English classes to develop these skills.

Postsecondary Education

Enterprise architects need a minimum of a bachelor’s degree in computer science, database management, or another IT-related field. Some employers require enterprise architects to have master’s degrees in one of the aforementioned fields or in IT management or business management. A few schools offer master’s degrees in enterprise architecture. For example, Pennsylvania State University offers a master of professional studies in enterprise architecture and business transformation.

Certification

A growing number of colleges and universities offer certificate programs in enterprise architecture. For example, Pennsylvania State University offers a graduate certificate in enterprise architecture to students who complete the following classes: Enterprise Architecture Foundations, Enterprise Modeling, and Enterprise Information Technology Architecture. Contact schools in your area to learn about available programs.

Other Education or Training

Professional associations, online learning platforms, tech companies, and colleges and universities provide in-person and online learning opportunities that help aspiring enterprise architects explore the field and current practitioners expand their knowledge base and prepare for certification or re-certification examinations.