Computer and information technology (IT) careers include network architect, programmer, and computer system administrator. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports that IT professionals earn a median annual salary of $91,250. This figure exceeds the national median salary of $41,950 for all occupations.
According to BLS projections, demand for IT jobs from 2020-2030 varies by profession. The BLS projects the need for computer and information research scientists to grow 13% during this time. However, the BLS projects the computer programming field to decrease 10%. College students should study job outlooks closely before selecting a career path.
Information technology degrees use different admission requirements, depending on school and degree type. Bachelor's program applicants should hold a high school or GED diploma. Master's programs may require a minimum undergraduate GPA and recommendation letters.
Our guide answers common questions about information technology degrees. We highlight IT program goals, benefits, and requirements. We also provide sample professional organizations and scholarships for students pursuing a degree in information technology.
Top Online Bachelor's in IT
Top Information Technology Programs 2022
#1 Best Information Technology Programs
University of Central Florida
Orlando, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
#2 Best Information Technology Programs
Florida State University
Tallahassee, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
#3 Best Information Technology Programs
Brigham Young University
Provo, UT - 4 years
- 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.
#4 Best Information Technology Programs
Cornell University
Ithaca, NY - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
#5 Best Information Technology Programs
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
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.
What Are the Goals of an Information Technology Degree?
Aspiring IT professionals earn a bachelor's degree in information technology. The degree differs from a computer science degree in that it focuses primarily on solving problems. However, the similarity between these fields allow graduates with either degree to work as a computer systems analyst or database administrator.
An information technology program may offer specializations, such as digital investigations, network administration, and software analysis and development. All students complete core coursework in information systems fundamentals. They also take networking foundations and algorithms and logic for computer programming courses. Typical programs end with a capstone course.
Why Get an Information Technology Degree?
An information technology program provides many professional and personal benefits. Graduates can achieve positive outcomes by maintaining good grades and networking with potential employers before graduation.
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1
Higher Salary
Professionals with an information technology degree earn a median annual salary exceeding the national average. A high salary promotes many positive benefits, such as saving for retirement.
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2
Growing Job Market
The BLS projects that IT jobs will grow from 2020-2030. These projections suggest that graduates should enter a strong job market.
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3
Professional Growth
Workers with a degree in information technology enjoy many avenues for professional growth, including certifications and continuing education courses. Like a master's degree, these opportunities may lead to career advancement.
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4
Personal Satisfaction
IT workers take great pride in their work. They ensure their company's hardware and software infrastructure works as expected and remains secure.
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5
Multiple Careers
An information technology program prepares students for many career tracks. Examples include computer support specialist, computer system administrator, and web developer. Learners can work with a college counselor to refine their career goals.
What Are the Requirements for an Information Technology Degree?
Although admission requirements differ by school, bachelor's program applicants need a high school or GED diploma. Other criteria may include professional IT experience or adequate transfer credit. Master's programs may require a bachelor's degree in a STEM field and two years of work experience.
Typical information technology program graduation requirements include a capstone course in the final semester. Students work with a professor to develop an independent project demonstrating their proficiency with IT topics. Learners produce a project proposal and perform original research. Then, they write a report detailing how their project helps a specific company or organization.
Professional Organizations for Information Technology Students
Information technology students join professional organizations to network with potential employers. They can also sign up for mentor programs and apply for exclusive scholarship opportunities. Other benefits include professional development resources and a job board. Organizations like those below charge degree-seekers a low annual membership fee.
Scholarships for Information Technology Students
Even the most affordable online information technology degrees may charge tuition some degree-seekers cannot afford without financial aid. Instead of turning to loans, students should research scholarship opportunities. Many scholarships cater exclusively to future IT professionals, like the examples below.
Who Can Apply: Niche offers this scholarship opportunity monthly to high school seniors and college students at least 18 years old. Learners apply by creating an online account. Niche allows scholarship recipients to use the award for education-related expenses besides tuition.
Amount: $2,000
Who Can Apply: The Foundation for IT Education awards this competitive scholarship to undergrads with at least a 3.0 GPA. Other eligibility criteria include attempting at least 12 credits per semester and demonstrating financial need. Applicants must also have U.S. citizenship or permanent residency. Interested students apply from January 1 - May 31. Scholarship finalists submit official transcripts.
Amount: Varies
Who Can Apply: Computer science and IT majors with a minimum 3.0 GPA can apply to the Kevin Jetton Scholarship. The scholarship considers U.S. citizens and permanent residents studying at any accredited U.S. institution. Interested students apply by completing an online form before May 31. Applicants detail their career goals, academic ability, and leadership potential.
Amount: Varies
FAQ About Information Technology Programs
What exactly is an IT job?
IT professionals provide computer support services to companies and organizations. The field includes many job titles, such as systems administrator, WAN engineer, and desktop support engineer.
What are the types of information technology?
Workers perform several IT services, including software and hardware maintenance. Other specialties include network infrastructure, mobile device management, and cloud computing.
What is the main purpose of information technology?
IT allows employees to communicate and work using technology. IT professionals ensure technology performs flawlessly and remains safe from malicious actors, such as hackers.
What jobs are in information technology?
Information technology degree-holders can select from many well-paying careers. Examples include computer and information research scientist, computer network architect, and software developer.
Sources
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