IT information

Hi out there, I’ve recently completed my diploma in computer systems management (3yrs) and I’m returning in a couple of weeks to do a degree in IT management. My question resides around the fact that the course is academic and covers a large amount of general information, which although providing a basis into the IT industry, not all of the course content will be greatly applicable in the real world. My question is what specific area/s of the IT environment are most essential to be knowledgableabout, in order to get a better start in the real world.