Best Online Associate in Information Technology

by TBS Staff

Updated September 27, 2022

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The growing field of information technology offers many exciting and lucrative job opportunities for candidates with an IT associate degree.

For example, web developers earn over $69,000 per year, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), and an associate degree represents the entry-level education requirement for the job. Graduates with an associate degree in information technology can also increase their earning potential by pursuing a bachelor's degree.

The Best Online Associate in Information Technology Programs

#1 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Volunteer State Community College

  • Gallatin, TN
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Volunteer State Community College, located in Gallatin, Tennessee, supports seven online associate degree programs, including an AAS in information technology. The online IT associate program prepares students for the information technology field through comprehensive coursework. Enrollees looking to advance in their studies can apply their associate credits towards further undergraduate study.

A leader in student success, the college connects students with career services, academic advising, and other resources. Distance learners can connect with virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Typically, enrollees receive $5,356 in financial aid awards. About 94% of incoming students receive financial aid awards and about 9% receive student loans.

Volunteer State Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Gallatin, Tennessee

Student-Faculty Ratio: 23-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,032

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $16,608

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,032
Out-of-state
$16,608
Retention Rate
49%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
9,144
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Seminole State College of Florida

  • Sanford, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Seminole State College of Florida, a public, four-year college, supports 20 online associate degree programs available to distance learners worldwide. Students in the associate in information technology program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Graduates can pursue further study, such as a bachelor's degree, and apply their college credits toward a four year program.

Throughout the associate program, students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. The online learning community connects students with virtual library resources and academic tutoring.

Online learners benefit from significant financial support, receiving an average of $4,949 in financial aid awards. The college reports that 66% of students are awarded financial aid, with 18% taking out student loans.

Seminole State College of Florida at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Location: Sanford, Florida

Student-Faculty Ratio: 27-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,393

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,494

Average Tuition
In-state
$2,393
Out-of-state
$9,494
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
17,754
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
51% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#3 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Campbell University

  • Buies Creek, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in online education, Campbell University supports eight online associate degree programs, including its AA in information technology. Students in the IT program complete courses relevant to the information technology field, preparing them for their future careers. Graduates can apply their course credits towards further study, such as a bachelor's degree.

The college connects information technology students with career services, academic advising, and other success-focused resources. Further resources available to online students including virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Typically, 99% of all degree-seekers receive financial aid, with 49% receiving loans.

Campbell University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Buies Creek, North Carolina

Admission Rate: 78%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $32,380

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $32,380

Average Tuition
In-state
$32,380
Out-of-state
$32,380
Retention Rate
76%
Admission Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
6,185
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
15% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#4 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Keiser University

  • Fort Lauderdale, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Keiser University's AS in information technology is one of 13 associate degree programs offered remotely. The program builds foundational knowledge in information technology, preparing graduates for entry-level careers in the field. Students seeking to advance their education can apply their credits towards a bachelor's degree.

The college connects students with resources such as academic advising and career resources. The school supports its online learning community through online-specific resources, such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 89% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 69% opting for student loans.

Keiser University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Fort Lauderdale, Florida

Student-Faculty Ratio: 14-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $19,808

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $19,808

Average Tuition
In-state
$19,808
Out-of-state
$19,808
Retention Rate
75%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
19,567
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
47% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

University of the Incarnate Word

  • San Antonio, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of the Incarnate Word hosts eight online associate programs, including an associate of arts in information systems. Students in the information technology program gain knowledge and industry-relevant skills through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students can transfer their course credits to a four-year program, in pursuit of a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.

While enrolled, information technology students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. As part of an online learning community, distance learners can benefit from virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The college notes that 99% of all students receive financial aid awards, with 52% receiving loans.

University of the Incarnate Word at a Glance:

Type of school: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: San Antonio, Texas

Admission Rate: 94%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 11-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $29,900

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $29,900

Average Tuition
In-state
$29,900
Out-of-state
$29,900
Retention Rate
73%
Admission Rate
94%
Students Enrolled
8,175
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
23% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#6 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

St. Petersburg College

  • Clearwater, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in online education, St. Petersburg College supports 15 online associate degree programs, including its AS in computer information technology. Students in the information technology program gain foundational and advanced knowledge relevant to the IT field. Upon graduating, students can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.

Students can access numerous college resources such as career services and academic advising. The online learning community connects students with virtual library resources and academic tutoring.

The institution reports the average financial aid award as $8,559. Students can expect to receive financial aid or loans, as 73% of enrollees are awarded aid and 25% receive loans.

St. Petersburg College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, four-year

Location: Clearwater, Florida

Student-Faculty Ratio: 22-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $1,943

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,774

Average Tuition
In-state
$1,943
Out-of-state
$7,774
Retention Rate
Not provided
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
28,853
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
59% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#7 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Jamestown Community College

  • Jamestown, NY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in online education, Jamestown Community College supports nine online associate degree programs, including its AAS in information technology. The information technology program prepares students for the IT field through comprehensive coursework. Upon completion, students can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.

Enrollees benefit from career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources throughout their studies. Distance learners can access other resources such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Typically, students are awarded $6,959 in financial aid. Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 91% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 19% opting for student loans.

Jamestown Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Jamestown, New York

Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,040

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,080

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,040
Out-of-state
$10,080
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
4,467
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
21% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#8 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Erie Community College

  • Buffalo, NY
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Students looking for a flexible online associate in information technology should consider Erie Community College. Students in the information technology program complete courses relevant to the IT field, preparing them for their future careers. Graduates can transfer their course credits to a four-year college in pursuit of a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.

While enrolled, students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. Online students can further access virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The average student is awarded $6,726 in financial aid, to offset the costs of education. Students can expect to receive financial aid or loans, as 82% of enrollees are awarded aid and 26% receive loans.

Erie Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Buffalo, New York

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $4,900

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $9,466

Average Tuition
In-state
$4,900
Out-of-state
$9,466
Retention Rate
56%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,031
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
29% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#9 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Saint Leo University

  • Saint Leo, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Distance learners seeking flexible study in information technology should consider Saint Leo University's online associate in information technology. The associate in information technology program prepares students for the information technology field through comprehensive coursework. Learners seeking to advance their studies can apply their credits toward a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, information technology students can access career services, academic advising, and other success-centered resources. They can also access virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Students benefit from financial aid, with 100% of enrollees receiving some form of funding.

Saint Leo University at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Saint Leo, Florida

Admission Rate: 72%

Student-Faculty Ratio: 18-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $23,100

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $23,100

Average Tuition
In-state
$23,100
Out-of-state
$23,100
Retention Rate
69%
Admission Rate
72%
Students Enrolled
10,912
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
72% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#10 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Lenoir Community College

  • Kinston, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Kinston, North Carolina, Lenoir Community College provides online education across 10 associate degree programs, including its AAS in information technology. The IT program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in an information technology-specific career. Graduates can apply their course credits toward further study, such as a bachelor's degree.

During their studies, enrollees can access career services, academic advising, and other resources. Additional institutional resources include virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Online students can expect to receive an average of $7,191 in financial aid awards. Students can speak with the financial aid office to determine their eligibility for scholarships, fellowships, and other forms of aid.

Lenoir Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Kinston, North Carolina

Student-Faculty Ratio: 15-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,432

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,576

Average Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Retention Rate
60%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
2,526
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
76% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#11 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Northern Virginia Community College

  • Annandale, VA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

A leader in online education, Northern Virginia Community College supports 10 online associate degree programs, including its associate degree in information technology. The AAS in information systems technology is an online program that prepares students for the IT field through comprehensive coursework. Upon graduating, students can apply their course credits toward a bachelor's degree.

Throughout the program, students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. Online students can further access virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Distance learners can benefit from scholarships, fellowships, and other funding opportunities, with the average award package being $5,750. The institution reports that 59% of all enrollees receive financial aid and 12% take out student loans.

Northern Virginia Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Annandale, Virginia

Student-Faculty Ratio: 25-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,412

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $10,790

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,412
Out-of-state
$10,790
Retention Rate
71%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
51,822
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
22% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#12 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

College of Southern Maryland

  • La Plata, MD
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

The College of Southern Maryland hosts eight online associate programs, including an AAS in information systems program. Students in the information technology program benefit from industry-relevant coursework, preparing them for future careers in the IT field. Graduates can apply their course credits toward further study, such as a bachelor's degree.

While enrolled, information technology students can access college resources geared toward student success. Distance learners can access other resources such as virtual library services and academic tutoring.

The college reports that the average financial aid award package is $4,167. Students can explore numerous funding opportunities, with 47% of enrollees receiving some form of financial aid and 8% opting for student loans.

College of Southern Maryland at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: La Plata, Maryland

Student-Faculty Ratio: 17-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $5,496

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $7,056

Average Tuition
In-state
$5,496
Out-of-state
$7,056
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
6,351
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
45% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#13 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Peirce College

  • Philadelphia, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

From its main campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, Peirce College supports five online associate degree programs, including an AS in information technology. Students in the information technology program gain industry-relevant knowledge and skills, preparing them for the demands of an IT career. Students seeking further education can apply their information technology credits toward a bachelor's degree.

Throughout the program, students can access career services, academic advising, and other institutional resources. They can also benefit from virtual library services and academic tutoring.

Approximately 100% of all incoming students receive financial aid, with 73% receiving student loans.

Peirce College at a Glance:

Type of School: Private, nonprofit, four-year

Location: Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Student-Faculty Ratio: 13-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $14,400

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $14,400

Average Tuition
In-state
$14,400
Out-of-state
$14,400
Retention Rate
50%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,178
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
89% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#14 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Central Piedmont Community College

  • Charlotte, NC
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Central Piedmont Community College, located in Charlotte, North Carolina, supports five online associate degree programs, including an associate in information technology. The program prepares students for the demands of the information technology field through foundational and advanced coursework. Students can also transfer their credits toward a bachelor's degree at a four-year college.

While enrolled, information technology students benefit from institutional resources, such as career services and academic advising. Further resources available to online students including virtual library services and academic tutoring.

On average, students receive $5,113 in financial aid. Students can meet with the Office of Financial Aid to determine their eligibility for funding.

Central Piedmont Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Charlotte, North Carolina

Student-Faculty Ratio: 19-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $2,432

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $8,576

Average Tuition
In-state
$2,432
Out-of-state
$8,576
Retention Rate
56%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
18,646
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
54% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#15 Best Online Associate in Information Technology

Montgomery County Community College

  • Blue Bell, PA
  • 2 years
  • Online + Campus

Montgomery County Community College hosts 19 online associate's programs, including an associate in information technology. Students can build their knowledge of the information technology field through coursework and experiential learning opportunities. Students can transfer their course credits to a four-year college, in pursuit of a bachelor's degree or other educational endeavors.

While enrolled, information technology students can access college resources geared toward student success. Distance learners can connect with virtual library services, academic tutoring, and other resources.

Typically, enrollees receive $5,037 in financial aid awards. The college notes that 60% of all students receive financial aid, with 24% obtaining loans.

Montgomery County Community College at a Glance:

Type of School: Public, two-year

Location: Blue Bell, Pennsylvania

Student-Faculty Ratio: 16-to-1

Undergrad Tuition In State: $8,640

Undergrad Tuition Out of State: $12,960

Average Tuition
In-state
$8,640
Out-of-state
$12,960
Retention Rate
65%
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
10,309
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
36% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Best Online Associate

Online Online Associate in Information Technology Programs Ranking Guidelines

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Our Methodology

Here at TheBestSchools.org, we take the trust and welfare of our readers very seriously. When making our school and program rankings, our top priority is ensuring that our readers get accurate, unbiased information that can help them make informed decisions about online education. That's why we've developed a rigorous ranking methodology that keeps the needs of our readers front and center.

Our proprietary, multi-criteria ranking algorithm analyzes key data indicators — as collected by the federal government — for each school or program. What data we use depends on the focus of each specific ranking, but in all cases, our ranking methodology is impartial: Schools cannot buy better rankings at TBS.

While specific criteria under consideration can vary by ranking, there are a few data points that we value most highly. They are affordability, academic quality, and online enrollment. Below, we break down our algorithm to help you understand what you're getting when you use one of our rankings.

  • Academics
  • Affordability
  • Online Enrollment

Data Sources

The data used in TBS rankings comes primarily from the federal government, and much of it is provided by the schools themselves. We aggregate and analyze this data to build our rankings.

The Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System (IPEDS) is our primary source. Its data comes from annual surveys conducted by the U.S. Department of Education's National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Every college, university, or technical school with access to federal financial aid must participate in these surveys, which include questions about enrollment, graduation rates, finances, and faculty qualifications. This is publicly available data, which you can access yourself through the College Navigator.

Additionally, because we value a personal touch and the professional experience of our staff and Academic Advisory Board, we vet all results and adjust rankings as necessary based on our collected knowledge of schools and degree programs. Depending on the ranking, we may obtain additional input from AcademicInfluence.com, subject matter experts, prior TBS ranking lists, or other sources we deem relevant to a particular ranking.

Breakdown of Our Rankings Methodology

About Our Ranking Factors

Here at TBS, we value what you value: quality education, affordability, and the accessibility of online education. These factors guide all of our program rankings.

Each of these factors are further broken down into weighted subfactors. For example, retention rates are weighted more heavily than availability of program options because they are a better indicator of student success.

We chose the following factors for our rankings because of their influence on learning experiences and graduate outcomes. However, students should always balance our rankings against their personal priorities. For instance, a learner who needs a fully online program may prioritize online flexibility more than our rankings do. Our rankings are designed to help you make a decision — not to make a decision for you.

Academics - 75%

Affordability - 15%

Online Enrollment - 10%

In all our school rankings and recommendations, we work for objectivity and balance. We carefully research and compile each ranking list, and as stated in our advertising disclosure, we do NOT permit financial incentives to influence rankings. Our articles never promote or disregard a school for financial gain.

If you have questions about our ranking methodology, please feel free to connect with our staff through contact page.

We thank you for your readership and trust.

Featured Online Associate in Information Technology Programs

What is an Associate Degree in Information Technology?

An associate degree in information technology provides foundational training for professionals seeking IT careers. Students complete coursework on topics like computer networks, computer systems security, and software development. Programs also incorporate general education requirements, which build critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Most programs require around 60 credits of coursework, which full-time students can usually complete in two years.

After earning an IT associate degree, graduates can pursue IT jobs or transfer into a bachelor's program to advance their education. At many colleges and universities, transfer students with an associate degree can earn a four-year bachelor's degree in two years.

How Long Does it Take to Complete an Online Associate Degree in Information Technology?

Earning an online information technology associate degree generally takes two years of full-time study to complete, but some schools offer accelerated programs that allow students to graduate in less time. Students can also pursue the degree part time, which lengthens the time to completion but allows learners to balance their studies with personal and professional responsibilities.

Information Technology Jobs

IT professionals work in nearly every industry, providing computer and IT support to customers and businesses. Many information technology jobs offer above-average salaries and strong growth potential. For example, computer support specialists earn over $53,000 per year, on average, and benefit from 10% projected job growth through 2028, according to the BLS. Several computer and information technology careers offer advancement opportunities for professionals who pursue a bachelor's degree.

Can You Get an IT Job With an Associate Degree?

An associate degree in information technology prepares graduates for many entry-level information technology jobs, including:

  • Computer Support Specialist
  • Data Center Operations Support
  • Desktop Support Technician
  • Help Desk Specialist
  • Information Manager
  • Media Technician
  • Network Support Specialist
  • Technical Support Specialist
  • Technologist
  • Test Engineer
  • Web Developer

How Much Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Information Technology?

The average information technology salary varies by industry and location, but professionals with an associate degree in information technology can earn above-average salaries. For instance, according to the BLS, computer support specialists make over $53,000 per year, on average, while web developers make an average salary of nearly $70,000 per year.

Information Technology Associations

Dating back to 1951, the AITP hosts thousands of members in chapters across the country. The association serves seasoned professionals, academics, and students through advocacy efforts and networking opportunities. Members benefit from access to educational and training services, professional publications and resources, events and conferences, and a large professional network. Formed in 1947, the ACM hosts nearly 200 chapters worldwide. The association is dedicated to advancing the IT field through research, information distribution, advocacy, and professional connections. Members benefit from access to a variety of professional resources, events, and networking opportunities.

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