Technology is the application of science for practical purposes, and it is centrally important in structuring the modern world. “Tech” is often used as shorthand for computer science-based technologies, as the revolutions ushered in by the internet and devices like smartphones are perhaps the defining advances of our era. Applications of technologies like data science, cloud computing, machine learning, artificial intelligence (AI), and blockchain are redefining our daily lives and creating enormous new business opportunities.

However, cutting edge technology applications aren’t limited to the purely digital world. In factories, digital manufacturing and design technologies can create tremendous gains in efficiency as well as entirely new capabilities in the production of physical goods, as part of the paradigm known as “Industry 4.0.” Healthcare delivery and medical science are being transformed by genomics, bioinformatics, and other technologies that promise to dramatically improve our quality of life and perhaps even extend lifespans. Even the arts are discovering new avenues for creativity with the possibilities offered by visual effects, audio production, and interactive media.

While it has become easy to take technology for granted given its prominence in our lives, it is important to learn about these different areas to understand how our world works - and to anticipate the changes (and opportunities) ahead.

A background in technology is required knowledge for a wide range of in-demand jobs in computer science, including software developers, data scientists, data engineers, and information technology (IT) administrators. If you want to do truly cutting-edge work in this field, you can also pursue a career as a computer and information research scientist. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, these highly-educated and highly-paid experts typically have a master’s degree in computer science, and earn a median annual salary of $122,840 per year.

However, you don’t have to pursue a career in computer science to benefit from a background in technology. Technology has become increasingly important in the fields of medicine, manufacturing, logistics, and even agriculture. It’s also critical context for CEOs, managers, and aspiring entrepreneurs, who may not need to work directly with technology themselves but must keep abreast of emerging opportunities for innovative new business models and products.

Absolutely. Computer science subjects in particular are some of the most popular online courses available on Coursera, with a wide range of courses, multi-course Specializations, and even master’s degrees available to meet a variety of needs. You can also take courses to provide an overview of technology developments from a general business perspective, or in more specialized industries like healthcare, finance, and even music.

And, because educational technology now allows you to learn remotely on a flexible schedule, you can take courses in technology from top-ranked universities from all over the world like Johns Hopkins University, University of Michigan, The State University of New York at Buffalo, Rutgers The State University of New Jersey, Yonsei University, and the Indian School of Business. Leading technology companies like IBM, Google, and many others also offer opportunities to learn on Coursera, ensuring that you have a wide range of choices to meet your needs.