5 Best Online Information Technology Degree Programs
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Information technology (IT) moves fast. A decade ago, roles like cloud architect and mobile app developer were brand new or didn’t even exist. Now they’re common titles for professionals in tech.
Career options within IT are always evolving to keep up with new technologies, like virtual reality. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects computer and IT jobs to grow much faster than the average for all other occupations between 2022 and 2032.
Earning an online information technology degree is one way to enter this growing field. Online education is a flexible path to securing a bachelor’s degree, the entry-level requirement for many computer and IT roles. Online IT degree programs also allow students to keep working full time while they study, potentially lowering their out-of-pocket tuition costs.
Top 5 Information Technology Degree Programs
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of Central Florida supports flexible educational opportunities for undergraduate students. A leader in hybrid education, the public college delivers both in-person and online learning options. According to the college, undergraduates can access 88 bachelor's degree programs on campus or pursue remote study across 19 degree tracks.
Whether enrolled in person or online, information technology students join a supportive learning community, working alongside peers, faculty, and staff. IT students complete information technology coursework as part of the program curriculum. Students gain skills and knowledge through their engagement with general and advanced classes.
Students can pursue minors, degree concentrations, and further customization in consultation with an academic advisor. Learners can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the IT program.
When preparing for the cost of education, degree-seekers can meet with the financial aid office to explore funding opportunities. At the college, 92% of all incoming students receive financial aid funding.
- In-State$4,478
- Out-of-state$19,810
- In-State$6,916
- Out-of-state$25,759
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate44%
- Students Enrolled69,402
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
Florida State University
- Tallahassee, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Students seeking a flexible information technology bachelor's degree program should consider Florida State University. The public college offers 95 bachelor's degree programs. While enrolled, students connect with premier faculty and benefit from a supportive learning community.
Students gain skills and knowledge through their coursework and become better prepared for their future careers. Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. Throughout their program, students can access resources such as career services, academic advising, and library services.
Students can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for funding and explore scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid. The college reports that 97% of all learners receive some form of aid, with the average financial aid award package being $9,442.
- In-State$4,640
- Out-of-state$19,084
- In-State$9,684
- Out-of-state$24,116
- Retention Rate93%
- Acceptance Rate36%
- Students Enrolled42,450
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment47%
- AccreditationYes
Brigham Young University
- Provo, UT
- 4 year
- Campus
Individuals looking for a premier bachelor's-level education that fits their schedule should consider Brigham Young University. For undergraduates, the college supports hybrid study from its main campus in Provo, Utah. Students gain access to a supportive learning community regardless of their location.
Once enrolled, students connect with colleagues, faculty, and staff. After enrolling, students complete coursework as part of the information technology program curriculum. Enrollees can also pursue internships, research projects, and experiential learning opportunities to supplement their learning.
Students can collaborate with an academic advisor to customize their degree program. Learners can also connect with career services to receive guidance throughout the IT program.
Learners can meet with a financial aid counselor to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and federal financial aid. Of all enrollees, 71% receive some form of financial aid.
- In-State$5,790
- Out-of-state$5,790
- In-State$7,290
- Out-of-state$7,290
- Retention Rate90%
- Acceptance Rate67%
- Students Enrolled34,318
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment12%
- AccreditationYes
Cornell University
- Ithaca, NY
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
Cornell University is a private college offering hybrid education in Ithaca, New York. Students can enroll in one of 97 campus-based bachelor's programs or opt for remote study. Enrollees in the information science program benefit from a supportive learning community, top-ranked faculty, and motivated peers.
Students complete foundational and advanced coursework throughout their studies. Degree-seekers can work with their academic advisor to modify their coursework, pick electives, and customize their learning to suit their academic and professional goals. While enrolled, students can access institutional resources including career services and academic advising.
Prospective students can meet with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships and other financial aid awards.
- In-State$56,550
- Out-of-state$56,550
- In-State$29,500
- Out-of-state$29,500
- Retention Rate97%
- Acceptance Rate11%
- Students Enrolled24,027
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment4%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Florida
- Tampa, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
The University of South Florida provides premier degree programs suitable for undergraduate students. To date, the college offers 84 in-person bachelor's programs, five of which are fully remote. Regardless of modality, enrollees benefit from rigorous coursework, supportive faculty and peers, and a premier education.
Enrollees in the information technology program complete general and advanced coursework, gaining the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the IT field. Students can customize their program by declaring a double major, minor, or degree concentration. Learners can also choose elective classes. The college connects students with numerous resources, such as academic advising and career services, throughout their degree program.
Prospective students can inquire with the financial aid office about funding opportunities, and explore their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other aid. The average financial aid package earned by students amounts to $11,181.
- In-State$4,559
- Out-of-state$15,473
- In-State$8,350
- Out-of-state$19,048
- Retention Rate91%
- Acceptance Rate48%
- Students Enrolled44,246
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment55%
- AccreditationYes
What Is Information Technology?
Information technology is the use of computer systems, software, and networks to process and distribute all kinds of data. For example, a cellphone is a type of IT. So are email, social media, cloud computing, and many other tools we use daily.
Generally, IT workers assist companies and organizations with computer support and security administration. They manage hardware, software, networks, and communication.
But IT is a very broad field, constantly growing and in high demand. Almost every industry needs these services, including retail, manufacturing, and healthcare.
What Is an Online IT Degree?
An online information technology degree prepares you for IT careers through online classes. IT programs often focus on the study of IT technologies and how business and society use them. Key concepts covered in most online IT programs include:
- Networking systems
- Programming languages
- Data management
- Network security protocols and governance
- Technical communication
An IT program combines IT and general education to provide a comprehensive education. They build a base of knowledge in IT and practical skills you can apply to a career. Some programs offer specializations, such as data analytics, cybersecurity, and business management.
What Can You Do With a Degree in Information Technology?
An online IT degree qualifies you for many high-paying and growing tech jobs. Examples include database administrator, information security analyst, and software developer.
These roles tend to offer competitive salaries. The median annual wage for computer and IT jobs was $100,530 in May 2022, according to the BLS. That’s almost twice as much as the median annual wage for all occupations, $46,310.
Popular IT Degree Jobs
| Role | Median Annual Salary (May 2022) | Job Growth Rate (2022-2032) |
|---|---|---|
| Database Architects | $112,120 | 8% |
| Software Developers | $124,200 | 25% |
| Computer Network Architects | $126,900 | 4% |
| Information Security Analysts | $112,000 | 32% |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $102,240% | 10% |
Why Accreditation Matters for IT Degree Programs
If you’re considering an IT degree, make sure to choose an accredited school. Why? There are several reasons.
Accredited institutions meet high standards for academic quality. You’ll also qualify for federal financial aid if you enroll at an accredited school. What’s more, many employers prefer candidates who graduated from accredited institutions.
A small number of information technology programs hold programmatic accreditation. Check ABET’s list of accredited programs to learn more.
Most IT degree programs hold accreditation through an institutional accreditor. You can find out a program’s accreditation statuses by visiting the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
Resources for Information Technology Students
Association for Women in Computing: Founded in 1978, AWC supports women in IT and computer science. The organization offers networking events, continuing education courses, mentorship opportunities, and scholarships.
CompTIA: Members of the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA) can earn professional certification and stay current with IT best practices by taking continuing education courses. Resources include IT career tools and guides detailing cybersecurity, networking fundamentals, and workforce development.
Information Systems Security Association International: If you want a career in cybersecurity, you can join ISSA International. Member benefits include access to networking events and savings on IT products and services.
Frequently Asked Questions About IT Degree Programs and Jobs
Is information technology a good degree?
An information technology degree is often considered a “good” degree because it leads to careers that are in high demand and pay competitive salaries. Computer and information technology is one of the fastest-growing sectors, according to the BLS.
The median salary for tech jobs is 125% higher than the national median wage, according to CompTIA. Some professionals, like information security analyst, earn median annual salaries over $100,000. Choosing an affordable information technology program can boost your degree’s return on investment.
What degree is best for an IT job?
Many IT jobs look for candidates with bachelor’s degrees in information technology, computer science, or a related field. Earning a bachelor’s degree demonstrates a broad knowledge of the field.
IT majors can also take specialized courses to gain career-focused skills. For example, some programs offer concentrations in cybersecurity, digital forensics, and information management.
Can you get an IT job without a degree?
Some IT jobs do not require a college degree. For example, some computer support specialist jobs do not require a degree. Similarly, some employers hire graduates from tech bootcamps for entry-level roles.
That said, many information technology occupations require a bachelor’s for entry-level positions. Earning a bachelor’s degree can help professionals build a broad skill set that employers look for in applicants.
Is a degree in information technology hard?
Earning a degree in information technology can be challenging. The major requires technical skills, including some programming knowledge. IT majors also need to take math courses.
But since IT emphasizes the use of computer systems, it’s less theoretical than computer science. For some college students, IT is more straightforward than computer science.
What field in IT pays the most?
The highest-paying information technology positions include computer network architect, software developer, and information security analyst.
Other professionals, such as information systems management, also earn high median salaries, but they typically possess more prior work experience. For example, computer and information systems managers earned a median annual salary of over $164,000 in May 2022, according to the BLS.
All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team.
