Best Online Information Technology (IT) Degrees of 2024

Information technology (IT) is a growing field with many opportunities. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that jobs for computer and IT professionals will grow at a much faster rate than average between 2023 and 2033.

With this degree, you can become a computer network architect, programmer, systems analyst, software developer, or web developer. This guide covers the top online IT college degree programs, average tuition costs, and expected salaries.

An online IT program equips you with the same skills and competencies as a traditional in-person program. You’ll learn how to apply your technical knowledge of computing and mathematics to design business solutions.

You’ll also develop a solid foundation in programming, network architecture, and information security, setting you up for entry-level IT jobs or graduate studies. Flexibility is a major benefit of online degree programs. You can pursue your degree part time and continue to work and maintain other obligations.

You can also choose a program format that best suits your schedule. Online programs can be synchronous or asynchronous, with set class times or more flexible scheduling. Many online programs give you room to learn and advance at your own pace.

With an IT degree, you can find many high-paying, in-demand jobs. Possible careers include software engineer, network administrator, cybersecurity specialist, and data analyst.

According to the BLS, the median annual salary for computer and IT jobs was nearly $105,000 as of May 2023. The BLS projects these jobs to grow much faster than average from 2023-2033.

This variety of job opportunities, combined with the high demand for skilled IT professionals, makes IT an attractive field if you’re looking for a rewarding and challenging career.

An online IT degree program typically requires students to earn 120 credits. Full-time learners usually graduate in four years. Part-time study takes longer but may fit better with work or personal schedules. Accelerated study lets students finish faster by taking more courses per semester.

Courses cover topics like cross-platform technology, computing as a service, IT operations, and scripting at the bachelor’s level. Many IT programs allow you to choose a specialization in a particular area, such as web development or digital communications. IT specializations include:

Like all bachelor’s degrees, an IT degree usually requires general education courses in subjects like math, English, science, and history. Internships and capstone projects are also typically required.

While program costs vary significantly from school to school, earning an IT degree online costs less, on average, than earning a traditional IT degree in person. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), online IT degrees cost $7,654 each year on average in 2020, while in-person degrees cost an average of $11,339.

As an online student, you can also save money on housing and transportation fees; however, you may have online-specific fees, such as technology fees.

The broad category of information technology, or IT, comes from data processing. IT refers to information infrastructure and the practical application of technology to process, store, send, and receive information.

Information technology is a great career choice for many people. The industry offers many stable, versatile, and good-paying career options. Furthermore, the BLS projects that computer and information technology openings will grow much faster than average from 2023-2033.

For many, an IT degree is worth the time commitment and expense. An information technology degree offers a high return on investment. According to the BLS, jobs in computer and information technology paid a median annual salary of $104,420 as of May 2023.

Ultimately, whether this degree is worth it for you comes down to your professional interests and career goals.

Yes, majoring in information technology can be challenging. But it’s not as math heavy as other majors, such as engineering. If you have a love for technology and a knack for problem-solving, you should be able to succeed in an information technology program.

Yes, as long as the online IT degree comes from an accredited school. Generally, your school’s reputation matters more than the program format. In 2022, the NCES reported about 53% of students were enrolled in distance education courses in postsecondary institutions.