I've found that most IT managers consistently push certifications such as PMP and lead employees toward the path of management, because that is the same choice

I've found that most IT managers consistently push certifications such as PMP and lead employees toward the path of management, because that is the same choice they made for themselves in the past. I actually started working on a Masters in Program Management with a goal of also becoming a PMP to compliment the degree. After 7 courses (about half way through), I came to the realization that this path was leading me right into IT management... Something I quickly realized I wanted no part of. I then shortly after jumped from IT to Software Engineering at my company and have become much more satisfied with my work responsibilities. Not to mention the ability to follow a technical career path, which doesn't exist in IT at my company. To date this has been the best decision I've made when it comes to my career. For me... technical is the way to go.