Best online degrees in information technology 2021: Top picks

An information technology degree prepares students to enter a field that touches virtually every aspect of modern life.

IT professionals develop and manage the computer networks and systems we use at work and home. IT graduates enter careers including database administration, information security, and web development.  

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports median salaries for computer and information technology workers of $91,250 per year. It also lists a 13{18fa003f91e59da06650ea58ab756635467abbb80a253ef708fe12b10efb8add} projected increase in employment between 2020 and 2030.

As technology evolves, opportunities for information technology degree-holders rise. Read on to discover the best information technology degrees available online.

The best online bachelor’s in information technology degrees

ZDNet’s ranking methodology centers on expertly curated and editorially reviewed data. Schools and programs cannot pay for inclusion on our lists, and we strive to present accurate and timely information.

Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System and College Scorecard.

Insights from an information technology graduate

Victoria Wildhorn is a skilled digital marketing professional with experience in link building, social media marketing, email newsletters, and content marketing. 

A graduate of Nova Southeastern University with a bachelor of science in information technology, Victoria worked at a law firm SEO agency for three years and has since dived into content marketing for a top mattress review site. 

Responses have been edited for length and clarity.

ZDNet: What are the advantages of pursuing an information technology degree specifically, among many other possible computer science degrees?

Victoria Wildhorn: IT gives you a wider breadth of knowledge than traditional CS programs. Both degrees have programming courses, but IT also has more human-based and technical courses, like network security, human-computer interaction, and legal aspects of technology. 

ZDNet: Was there anything about majoring in information technology that you didn’t expect or anticipate?

VW: I didn’t expect the mandatory education on coding and back-end website development, including database management. I am much more of a front-end/UX-centric person and would have preferred to learn more about those development aspects that can be leveraged in my marketing career. 

ZDNet: What was the most challenging course you took as an information technology major? What advice would you give to students who are about to start this course?

VW: My most challenging course was web programming and design. There were many new tools and programs introduced in this course and a short period to actually learn them prior to assignments being due. 

My advice is to download these programs early on (they should be listed in the course syllabus) and try to teach yourself as much as possible before the first few assignments. If your instructor offers office hours, definitely take advantage of that as well. Web development, with the design aspect, is much more than simple coding. 

ZDNet: What would you recommend that students do in addition to their information technology degree program, in order to stand out to employers?

VW: Experience is your greatest asset. Whether it’s a one-off job, side gig, or professional employment, your skills will be obtained through hands-on work. 

If you aren’t able to procure freelance or part-time employment while in school, seek out an internship, which will be extremely beneficial to gaining job skills and makes a highly necessary addition to your resume. 

Also, it’s never too early to start networking with individuals in your preferred field. A completed LinkedIn profile is a must! 

What to expect in an online bachelor’s in information technology degree program

Online IT programs build the knowledge and skills required for tech careers. Learners take online courses in computer programming, information systems, and computer networking. In online programs, self-motivated, proactive students tend to thrive. 

IT courses provide a theoretical foundation for computing technologies while also emphasizing practical applications.

These courses often build hands-on skills through project-based and experiential learning. Students may also take exams, make presentations, and complete an internship. 

In addition to analytical and problem-solving abilities, IT courses strengthen technical skills. Learners may complete a capstone project.

Online bachelor’s in information technology courses

Students on the path to learning about information technology often take similar core courses, which cover introductory topics in business applications, networking, server administration, and web development. 

The course descriptions listed below summarize four courses common among bachelor in information technology degrees.

Computer operating systems

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of operating systems, such as concurrency and deadlocks, memory and file management, multi-tasking, processes, threads, and virtualization.

Computer and network security

Students explore the principles and practices of cybersecurity, including network attack methods and impacts, security policies, and internet protocol vulnerabilities. Also discussed are defense techniques such as access control, authentication, and encryption.

Introduction to web design

This course presents web page design, development, and maintenance basics. Topics usually include programming, architectural elements, graphics, HTML, and interfaces.

Network management

Enrollees learn about managing networking technologies used in business settings. Covered topics typically include design and management of communication protocols, data communications, human interaction with networks, and reporting issues.

Information technology degree levels

An associate degree in information technology can land you an entry-level IT job with minimal time spent in school. Increasingly, many companies require a bachelor’s degree. 

Advanced degrees garner higher salaries and more opportunities for advancement. IT professionals may pursue graduate degrees to move into upper-level, academic, and management roles. 

Associate in information technology

Length: One to two years

Cost: $70-$540 per credit

Post-grad careers: Computer systems analyst; computer support specialist; computer programmer

An associate-level information technology degree introduces designing, supporting, and using IT within organizations. Graduates can qualify for entry-level computer support and programming positions. Most programs take two years to complete. Accelerated programs last 12-18 months. 

Curriculums of approximately 60 credits include core courses that cover the fundamentals of database systems, information security, project management, and web design. Many programs include internships and capstone projects. 

Bachelor’s in information technology

Length: Three to four years 

Cost: $186-$913 per credit

Post-grad careers: Database administrator; information security analyst; network architect

Bachelor’s degrees in information technology expand learning into general education and delve into computing’s mathematical and theoretical aspects. Topics may include algorithms, artificial intelligence, programming, hardware, and software. Specializations such as network management, security, and software application help define career goals.

Most programs comprise 120 credits that prepare graduates for industry certifications. Internships provide hands-on experience and future employment contacts. While four years is typical, students with transferable credits and accelerated program enrollees can finish in as soon as 16 months.

Master’s in information technology

Length: One to two years 

Cost: $255-$2,196 per credit

Post-grad careers: Biomedical engineer; computer and information research scientist, IT manager 

Experienced IT professionals pursue master’s degrees to specialize in fields like data science, information security, software development, and web design. Master’s programs feature internships and opportunities to strengthen industry connections. Graduates qualify for research and leadership roles.

Master’s level concentrations may include bioengineering, e-commerce, and software development management. Curriculums generally include 45 credits, and full-time students can finish in 18 months. 

Doctorate in information technology

Length: Three to five years 

Cost: $500-$1,000 per credit 

Post-grad careers: Computer or information research scientist; computer or information system manager; postsecondary computer science teacher

Doctoral information technology degree programs offer opportunities to customize curriculums and explore and specialize in such areas as advanced software development, enterprise database design, and healthcare information technology. Graduates earn either Ph.D.s in IT or doctor of information technology (DIT) degrees. 

A Ph.D. opens doors to careers as university professors and researchers. DITs tend to focus on industry practice. Programs sometimes include a capstone project, but most Ph.D. tracks require a research-based dissertation. Doctoral students also complete internships and fellowships.

In conclusion

An online bachelor’s degree in information technology sets you on the path to graduate study or an IT career in an ever-changing and continuously growing field.

Our school listings can help you identify the best programs for meeting your goals, and our guide to IT degree scholarships can offer ideas for funding your education.