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Information technology experts design websites, create data storage systems, and secure sensitive information. An information technology degree trains you to administer databases, manage information, and design computer networks. And the tech field continues to grow.
The top information technology programs offer experiential learning opportunities and career services support. These programs prepare you for a competitive job market — and high-paying careers. If you're interested in an IT degree, read on to learn more about jobs, salary expectations, and the best programs available.
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Top 5 Information Technology Degree Programs
Read About Our Methodology Here
These rankings include
#1 Best IT Degree 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 IT Degree 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 IT Degree 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 IT Degree 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 IT Degree 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 Is Information Technology Exactly?
Information technology, or IT, entails the use of computers and systems.
During a bachelor's degree in information technology, you'll study computer programming, information management, and information assurance.
You can also take specialized classes in web development, database design, or digital forensics to prepare for specific career paths.
In addition to gaining technical skills, you'll strengthen in-demand soft skills like communication, teamwork, and project management. With an IT degree, you can qualify for many high-paying tech careers.
Did You Know?
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The tech industry adds $1.3 trillion to the U.S. economy each year. -
Computer and information technology jobs are one of the fastest-growing sectors, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). -
High-paying roles like information security analyst report median annual salaries of over $100,000. -
The median salary for tech jobs is 125% of the national median wage.
Why Get an Information Technology Degree?
- You'll gain valuable computer and technology skills, including coding, data analytics, and project management.
- With an IT degree, you can qualify for in-demand jobs such as computer systems analyst and software developer.
- A degree in information technology can help you stand apart from job candidates who attended bootcamps but don't have a relevant degree.
- You can advance in your current field or move into tech with career-focused coursework.
- You can get a specialized IT degree with a concentration in IT management, information security, or game development.
Why Accreditation Matters for IT Degree Programs
Considering an IT degree? Make sure to choose an accredited school.
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 confirm a school's accreditation status by checking the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation.
What Can You Do With a Degree in Information Technology?
With an information technology degree, you can qualify for many high-paying and in-demand tech jobs. For example, you could work as a database administrator, information security analyst, or software developer.
As the table below shows, these roles tend to offer lucrative salaries.
| Job | Median Annual Salary (May 2021) | Job Growth Rate (2021-2031) |
|---|---|---|
| Database Architects | $123,430 | 10% |
| Software Developers | $120,730 | 26% |
| Computer Network Architects | $120,520 | 4% |
| Information Security Analysts | $102,600 | 35% |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $99,270 | 9% |
| Database Administrators | $96,710 | 8% |
| Computer Programmers | $93,000 | -10% |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrators | $80,600 | 3% |
| Web Developers | $77,030 | 30% |
Source: BLS
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
CompTIA members 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
An information technology degree can be a great investment. Many computer and information technology jobs offer high median salaries and strong job growth projections.
A bachelor's degree meets the entry-level educational requirement for most IT careers. Choose an affordable information technology program to boost your degree's return on investment.
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.
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 roles. Earning a bachelor's degree demonstrates a broad skill set.
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.
The highest-paying information technology jobs include computer network architect, software developer, and information security analyst.
Other jobs, such as information systems management, also report high median salaries but typically require more work experience. For example, information systems managers reported a median annual salary of over $159,000 in May 2021, according to the BLS.
All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the ASO Rankings Team.