Best Online Information Technology Programs
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A bachelor's in information technology prepares students for a variety of tech careers, as graduates can manage networks and develop new mobile apps. These programs generally require at least 120 credits and four years to complete, but some in-person and top online schools may offer accelerated options.
This degree can lead to many different careers, but a popular option is software developer. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), software developers earn a median wage of $110,140 per year as of May 2020, with 22% projected job growth between 2020 and 2030.
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Read on to learn more about online bachelor's in information technology programs.
What Can I Expect From an Online Bachelor's in Information Technology Program?
In general, students with a knack for STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) do well in this program. The degree typically requires 120 credits, including both general education and major courses, as well as electives.
Coursework blends advanced math and science with fundamental information technology knowledge, including programming languages and network security. Students also learn web design, project management, and technology ethics. Some courses feature a lab component, and many programs require an internship or capstone course.
Some online programs in information technology offer the student's choice of fully online or hybrid courses. Many schools allow information technology students to choose one or more concentrations. Popular concentrations include system administration, network administration, and mobile application development.
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Popular Online Bachelor's in Information Technology Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Courses Will I Take in an Online Bachelor's in Information Technology Program?
Human Computer Interaction
This course focuses on human perception, interface design, and the interactions between the two. Students learn to design, evaluate, and implement interactive computer systems with an eye toward their psychological effects on users.
Information Technology Project Management
In this course, students learn the lifecycle of IT projects and how to plan and manage all parts of that lifecycle. They also learn to align IT strategies with overall business goals to gain competitive advantages.
Networking Essentials
This course introduces students to the language and basic concepts of computer network administration. Students learn what to expect on a daily basis as a network administrator or support team member.
Web Design and Development
In this course, students explore the principles and practices of web development. They learn basic coding and other technologies such as web frameworks, along with important compliance and accessibility standards.
Cybersecurity
This course introduces the basics of cybersecurity, including common cybersecurity programming languages and technologies. Students learn common weaknesses across a variety of frameworks, along with information security policies and threat management techniques.
What Are Admission Requirements for an Online Bachelor's in Information Technology Program?
Although they sometimes vary by school, online bachelor's program admission requirements generally reflect those of on-campus programs. In addition to the requirements listed below, some schools require or offer in-house placement exams that could lead to exemptions from specific general education classes.
Application
All students must fill out an application. More competitive colleges typically require more information on the application, while less competitive schools may offer shorter applications. However, applicants for all schools should prepare to list at least their full legal name and address, birthdate, date of high school graduation and grade point average, and extracurricular activities.
Test Scores
For many schools, college entrance exams like the ACT and SAT remain standard. However, some schools have made test scores optional. Prospective students should be aware that choosing the test-optional path may require a strong academic record to remain competitive.
Another option at some schools is a school-based entrance exam. If students are unsure about the competitiveness of their application package, a strong exam score could strengthen their chances.
Letters of Recommendation
Many colleges require applicants to submit at least one letter of recommendation. Recent graduates should request letters from former professors or guidance counselors, while applicants with no recent school attendance may submit a letter from a supervisor, volunteer coordinator, or mentor. Though letters of recommendation rarely lead directly to admission, they can help admissions departments decide between applicants with similar credentials.
Essays
Application essays serve two main purposes. They help admissions departments learn more about applicants and they demonstrate the strength of prospective students' writing skills. Topics vary by school, but often focus on changing beliefs, pursuing goals, or overcoming adversity.
Official Transcripts
First-time college applicants must submit official transcripts from their high school. Prospective students who have taken even 1-2 college courses should also submit those transcripts for transfer credit evaluation. These credits may substitute for otherwise required courses, ultimately shortening the time to graduation. Some schools offer two-year degree completion programs for students with substantial previous credits.
What Can I Do With an Online Bachelor's in Information Technology Degree?
Career Outlook
The BLS notes that software developers made a median annual wage of $110,140 in May 2020. The BLS projects 22% job growth for these professionals between 2020 and 2030.
While many other career fields also employ graduates with a bachelor's in information technology, this example shows a strong outlook for this degree. Both pay rates and job growth projections compare highly favorably to those for other undergraduate degrees. Additional career options for bachelor's degree-holders in information technology include information security analyst, systems analyst, and database administrator.
Career Paths
Software Developer
Software developers are responsible for the design, creation, and testing of computer programs and apps. Although specific duties may vary, these professionals tend to work across the entire project rather than on a single component. Software developers typically report to a lead programmer but often enjoy a great deal of autonomy in their work.
Median Annual Salary: $110,140
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts take responsibility for protecting the networks and systems used by an organization. Duties include simulating cyberattacks to find and address security weaknesses, developing organizational security standards, implementing security measures, and documenting and addressing security breaches. Information security analysts also contribute heavily to organizational disaster recovery plans.
Median Annual Salary: $103,590
Systems Analyst
A systems analyst bridges the gap between business and IT by working closely with corporate managers to design computer systems and processes that better support operations. Research forms a key part of systems analysis, as analysts must constantly evaluate emerging technologies to determine their appropriateness for the organization. Systems analysts install new systems and seek ways to improve those that already exist.
Median Annual Salary: $97,330
Database Administrator
Database administrators are responsible for designing, implementing, and updating databases and digital storage systems for organizational data. Depending on the organization, this data could include financial information, shipping records, or proprietary statistics. Database administrators also take responsibility for security and data protection.
Median Annual Salary: $98,860
Web Developer
Web developers create websites, including planning, writing code, and designing interactive elements like clickable buttons. They work closely with graphic designers and other team members to determine layouts and often take responsibility for quality control testing and troubleshooting.
Median Annual Salary: $77,200
Information Technology Not For You? Check Out These Related Careers
Continuing Education
Many degree-holders go on to earn a master's in information systems and technology. Although a bachelor's degree remains standard for most jobs in this field, competition can prove stiff. A master's degree gives students a competitive advantage and opens up the possibility of supervisory or executive roles.
In addition, an advanced degree gives students the opportunity to delve deeper into a specific area of interest. This can be especially helpful for a student with work experience in one area, such as web design, who wants to switch to a different area, such as cybersecurity.
How Do I Choose an Online Bachelor's in Information Technology Program?
Cost
The cost of a bachelor's in information technology depends on the school. In-state tuition typically costs less than out-of-state tuition. Overall, online programs may be less costly than those offered on campus, but not necessarily.
Some schools charge out-of-state tuition rates along with additional technology fees for those attending classes online. Prospective students should add up the total costs of both programs before choosing a school or deciding whether to attend online or on campus.
Program Format
When deciding on an online bachelor's in information technology, prospective students should think about the program format.
A synchronous program requires all students in a specific course to log in at the same time and participate in live lectures and discussions. In an asynchronous program, students may log in to watch lecture videos and review course materials at any time before a certain deadline. Many programs offer a mix of synchronous and asynchronous courses, allowing the professor to choose which format to use.
In addition, some programs offer only full-time enrollment, while others allow students to attend part time. Some online programs provide an accelerated format that allows students to graduate in under four years.
Location
Most online bachelor's in information technology programs offer fully online study, with no on-campus requirements. Students who attend one of these programs may live anywhere. Still, some students prefer to live nearby in order to take advantage of campus facilities such as the cafeteria and library. Others prefer to enroll in both on-campus and online courses, creating a more traditional college experience.
Accreditation
Accreditation provides third-party standards for all institutions of higher learning. There are many different types and sizes of colleges and universities, and each has its own traditions and policies. Yet those with accreditation all meet the same basic educational standards.
Unaccredited schools may lack in educational quality, and accredited schools typically reject transfer credits from an unaccredited institution. In addition, to qualify for federal financial aid, students must attend an accredited school.
Student Support
Many students find college-based support programs essential to their success. Different schools offer different student services, but commonly offered programs include alumni networking, academic advising, and mentorship opportunities. Other potential services include tutoring, career services, and internship placements.
Online students should consider which student support services they can use. Some schools offer distance learners access to regular student support, while others provide additional services for those attending courses online.
Best Accredited Online Bachelor's in Information Technology Programs
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Franklin University
Columbus, OH - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $398
Out of State | $398
Credits to Graduate
124
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Franklin's BS in information technology builds on students' IT knowledge and experience. The curriculum provides learners with technical training in systems administration, database management, and information assurance.
Enrollees develop project management skills aligned with Project Management Institute standards. The program's labs provide hands-on experience. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills as they work in small groups on a capstone IT project.
Degree-seekers can transfer up to 94 credits to complete the online bachelor's in information technology faster. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate for first-year students, and college transcripts for transfer students.
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $390 full time; $455 part time
Out of State | $390 full time; $455 part time
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Students earn Liberty's BS in information technology in 3.5 years on average. Enrollees receive general IT training for many different careers. They develop focused skills in one of four specializations. Learners choose from gaming design, data networking and security, web and mobile programming, or application and database development.
Undergraduates pay a flat tuition rate and receive free electronic textbooks. Degree-seekers save even more by transferring up to 90 credits into the bachelor's in information technology. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate and a minimum 2.0 GPA.
New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Las Cruces, NM - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $380
Out of State | $380
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
NMSU's information and communication technology bachelor's enrolls students with IT experience. The program offers a track for undergraduates with two years of an IT-related four-year degree already completed.
Learners with an associate degree from a two-year college choose the degree competition track. The bachelor's in information technology blends lectures, coursework, and hands-on learning. Participants use virtual machines and simulated networking equipment to complete projects.
Degree-seekers choose full-time or part-time enrollment. Admission requires a minimum cumulative 2.0 GPA.
Methodist University
Fayetteville, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $400
Out of State | $400
Credits to Graduate
124
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Located in North Carolina, MU offers a fully online BS in computer information technology. The degree prepares students for industry certification. The 124-credit program provides technical and business training that graduates apply in the workplace.
Enrollees choose one of two concentrations: business information systems or cybersecurity and information assurance. Learners add to their credentials with a minor, such as business administration. Participants complete a capstone project for their portfolio.
Students finish the online bachelor's in information technology in 3.5 years on average. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $321
Out of State | $321
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
SIU's online bachelor's in information technology emphasizes experiential learning. Students learn technical skills and best practices in areas such as programming, information security, and systems administration.
Many of the program's classes provide the hands-on training that employers value. Enrollees get the chance to deepen their knowledge through an internship. The BS offers a capstone option for students transferring from a community college.
All students pay the same affordable tuition rate no matter their state of residency. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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DePaul University
Chicago, IL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $688
Out of State | $688
Credits to Graduate
192 minimum
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
A private college in Chicago, DePaul offers a degree completion BS in information technology. Transfer students design a degree plan that fits their career goals. Degree-seekers transfer in the program's liberal studies requirements or take courses on campus at DePaul.
Enrollees develop technical skills in areas such as web development and systems analysis and design. A bachelor's in information technology course requires a team project using agile practices. Participants build hands-on experience by developing software for community clients. Admission requires at least 30 credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Tarleton State University
Stephenville, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes or Hybrid
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $231-$443
Out of State | $621
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges; Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
The online BAAS degree in information technology at Tarleton focuses on applied learning.
The 120-credit program enrolls nontraditional learners with some IT experience or college credit. The two-year curriculum trains IT professionals skilled in designing and managing telecommunications and computer systems.
Enrollees supplement lectures and coursework with research projects. Participants learn additional skills during an internship with a partnering organization. Students increase their skills and marketability with an optional cybersecurity certificate.
Degree-seekers may earn up to 33 credits for prior learning, such as technical certifications. Admission requires at least 30 transferable credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA.
Herzing University-Madison
Madison, WI - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $490
Out of State | $490
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Higher Learning Commission
Students complete Herzing's 120-credit bachelor's in information technology in 32 months on average. The program offers a well-rounded computer science and IT curriculum. Enrollees learn skills such as database design and network infrastructure administration.
The program's optional data analytics concentration provides training in Python and R programming for data management. Herzing notably pays for graduates' first attempt at certifications such as CompTIA A+.
Degree-seekers can transfer up to 90 credits into the bachelor's in information technology. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate.
Florida International University
Miami, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $105-$157
Out of State | $551
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | Yes
Program Accreditation | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
FIU operates a large virtual school with degrees such as the BA in information technology. The fully online program is designed as a second major for students completing another bachelor's degree. Learners who already hold a bachelor's degree from another accredited school can also apply.
The online bachelor's in information technology covers IT topics such as intermediate Java and applied computer networking. Enrollees use elective credit to learn network administration, mobile application development, and other in-demand skills. Admission requires prerequisite coursework.
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
100% Online | Self-Paced Classes
Avg. Cost per Credit
In State | $547
Out of State | $1,524
Credits to Graduate
120
Program Information
Degree Completion Program | No
Program Accreditation | Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
Mason administers a customizable ABET-accredited BS in information technology. The fully online curriculum provides foundational training in many areas. Students build on that knowledge with advanced courses, such as applied IT programming and multimedia and web design.
Learners choose a concentration, such as web development or cybersecurity. Some enrollees prepare for the healthcare field with the health information technology concentration.
Participants finish the bachelor's in information technology with a two-semester online project. Admission requires a high school diploma or GED certificate and SAT or ACT scores.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Information Technology Programs
Is a bachelor's in information technology worth it?
Like so much in life, whether an online degree is worth it depends on the student. Learners with a strong knack for STEM typically do the best with this degree. Highly flexible and in demand, a bachelor's in information technology prepares students for a variety of tech positions.
What can I do with a bachelor's in information technology?
A bachelor's in information technology offers students many different career opportunities.
Software developers create the latest cutting-edge games, business applications, and other programs. Information security analysts fight hackers by developing and implementing strong security protocols and performing penetration tests to identify and address weaknesses. Database administrators develop databases and other digital storage solutions to help companies organize and protect their data.
Thanks to high demand, bachelor's in information technology degree-holders can often land a job in their area of interest.
Are information technology majors in high demand?
Yes. Information technology majors remain in high demand across all areas of focus. In particular, the BLS projects that jobs for software developers will grow 22% between 2020 and 2030, far higher than most careers' projected growth.
How much money can I make with a bachelor's in information technology?
Salary depends on a variety of factors, including the area of specialization, the company, and even geographic location. However, many information technology degree-holders make upwards of $100,000 per year.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a bachelor's in information technology?
Software developers and information security analysts typically make the most money. According to the BLS, as of May 2020, software developers earned a median annual wage of $110,140, while information security analysts made a median annual salary of $103,590.
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