The Best Online IT Bachelor Programs
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The information technology (IT) field offers many of the fastest growing and most lucrative careers, with assortment of satisfying employment opportunities for the tech–minded student. Earning your IT degree online is an important first step toward a rewarding career, and the widespread reliance on information technology in every industry ensures that well–trained professionals will always be in demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for software developers will grow by 25% from 2022–2032 — a rate more than three times the national average.
Earning your IT degree online prepares you for a variety of entry– and mid–level positions in the field, such as network administrator, information security analyst, programmer, and web developer. Many programs also offer professional concentration options enabling you to gain specialized knowledge and distinguish yourself to future employers. Because IT finds its way into nearly all professional fields, this training will enable you to pursue careers in industries as diverse as healthcare, education, business, and the nonprofit sector.
This ranking is a comprehensive introduction to online IT programs, providing an idea of what to expect in terms of curriculum, program requirements, and degree completion times. You will also find a general overview of career prospects, salary potential, and trade organizations for ITÂ professionals.
The Most Affordable Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs
Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,496
- Out-of-state$9,360
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled16,942
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment45%
- AccreditationYes
South Texas College
- McAllen, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,610
- Out-of-state$6,000
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled33,054
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment26%
- AccreditationYes
Florida State College at Jacksonville
- Jacksonville, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,095
- Out-of-state$7,947
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled24,605
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment74%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern Florida State College
- Cocoa, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$1,892
- Out-of-state$7,573
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled15,352
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment48%
- AccreditationYes
Daytona State College
- Daytona Beach, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,072
- Out-of-state$11,960
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled13,430
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment57%
- AccreditationYes
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 year
- Online
- In-State$6,380
- Out-of-state$6,380
- In-State$7,500
- Out-of-state$7,500
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled136,139
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Miami Dade College
- Miami, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$1,987
- Out-of-state$7,947
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled51,679
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment18%
- AccreditationYes
St. Petersburg College
- Clearwater, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$1,943
- Out-of-state$7,774
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled28,853
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
University of South Florida-Sarasota-Manatee
- Sarasota, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$4,206
- Out-of-state$15,121
- In-State$8,350
- Out-of-state$19,048
- Retention Rate81%
- Acceptance Rate24%
- Students Enrolled2,207
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment69%
- AccreditationYes
Indiana University-Kokomo
- Kokomo, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$6,895
- Out-of-state$19,346
- In-State$7,264
- Out-of-state$17,113
- Retention Rate64%
- Acceptance Rate74%
- Students Enrolled3,164
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment46%
- AccreditationYes
Seminole State College of Florida
- Sanford, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,393
- Out-of-state$9,494
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled17,754
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment51%
- AccreditationYes
Broward College
- Fort Lauderdale, FL
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$1,968
- Out-of-state$1,968
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled38,976
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment32%
- AccreditationYes
University of Houston-Downtown
- Houston, TX
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,460
- Out-of-state$15,408
- In-State$7,578
- Out-of-state$14,274
- Retention Rate73%
- Acceptance Rate89%
- Students Enrolled14,640
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment53%
- AccreditationYes
Peirce College
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$14,400
- Out-of-state$14,400
- In-State$13,896
- Out-of-state$13,896
- Retention Rate50%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled1,178
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online Enrollment89%
- AccreditationYes
Colorado State University-Global Campus
- Aurora, CO
- 4 year
- Online
- In-State$8,400
- Out-of-state$8,400
- In-State$9,000
- Out-of-state$9,000
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance Rate99%
- Students Enrolled12,670
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Middle Georgia State University
- Macon, GA
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$2,728
- Out-of-state$10,075
- In-State$3,582
- Out-of-state$12,492
- Retention Rate53%
- Acceptance Rate94%
- Students Enrolled8,066
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment59%
- AccreditationYes
New Mexico State University-Main Campus
- Las Cruces, NM
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,875
- Out-of-state$21,864
- In-State$4,844
- Out-of-state$16,834
- Retention Rate75%
- Acceptance Rate55%
- Students Enrolled14,296
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment44%
- AccreditationYes
Eastern New Mexico University-Main Campus
- Portales, NM
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$3,996
- Out-of-state$5,994
- In-State$7,044
- Out-of-state$9,342
- Retention Rate63%
- Acceptance Rate58%
- Students Enrolled5,685
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment69%
- AccreditationYes
Vincennes University
- Vincennes, IN
- 4 year
- Campus + Online
- In-State$5,581
- Out-of-state$13,871
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention Rate32%
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled17,239
- Institution TypePublic
- Percent Online Enrollment13%
- AccreditationYes
Excelsior College
- Albany, NY
- 4 year
- Online
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- In-StateN/A
- Out-of-stateN/A
- Retention RateN/A
- Acceptance RateN/A
- Students Enrolled25,245
- Institution TypePrivate
- Percent Online EnrollmentN/A
- AccreditationYes
Best Online Programs
Bachelor’s in Information Technology
2023
Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Degree Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
Rankings MethodologyThe Advantages of an Information Technology Education
While an associate degree offers an introduction to key IT concepts and tools, a bachelor’s degree serves as the minimum requirement for most positions in the field. A typical bachelor’s curriculum provides you with a well–rounded understanding of core IT principles, preparing you for most entry– and mid–level positions. Many bachelor’s degrees also offer specialization opportunities.
Advanced positions in the field — particularly management roles — may require a master’s degree. An IT graduate program builds highly specialized knowledge along with the management skills necessary to succeed at the highest levels. Regardless of your career aspirations, earning a bachelor’s degree represents a key step on your journey. In the following section, you’ll find information about career and salary prospects for an assortment of IT career paths.
Average Salary by Degree Level
| Degree Level | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Associate Degree in Information Technology | $70,000 |
| Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology | $74,000 |
Source: PayScale
Information Technology Degree Salary Information
Earning your information technology degree online prepares you for positions in information security, technical support, software development, and database management. While precise roles and responsibilities vary widely, these careers generally require strong analytical and critical thinking skills, as well as the ability to work in a fast–paced environment. Given the rapidly changing nature of the field, IT professionals should also stay up–to–date on technological advancements and engage in ongoing professional development activities.
- Entry Level: $53,000
- Mid–Career: $62,600
- Experienced: $78,000
- Late Career: $90,600
- Entry Level: $59,000
- Mid–Career: $66,000
- Experienced: $81,000
- Late Career: $92,000
- Entry Level: $49,000
- Mid–Career: $52,000
- Experienced: $59,000
- Late Career: $64,000
- Entry Level: $56,000
- Mid–Career: $60,000
- Experienced: $70,000
- Late Career: $77,000
- Entry Level: $61,000
- Mid–Career: $67,000
- Experienced: $80,000
- Late Career: $90,000
Sources: PayScale, Bureau of Labor Statistics
Choosing an Online Information Technology Degree Program
Several factors determine which online information technology degree is best for you, such as program format and tuition. Cost is a top concern for most students; as a general rule, public and in–state programs offer lower tuition rates than out–of–state or private schools. If you’re trying to narrow your list of schools, looking at tuition is an easy way to start. The following list outlines some of the factors to consider when researching online IT programs.
Program Cost:
Program costs can vary significantly, with private schools typically charging the highest tuition rates. While in–state schools typically offer lower rates, many online programs provide special tuition discounts for distance learners, sometimes allowing you to pay the in–state tuition rate — no matter where you live — if you only attend courses online.
Transfer Policies:
Some schools offer generous credit transfer policies, allowing you to transfer many previously earned college credits to complete your degree more quickly. Some online programs even allow you to earn credit for relevant professional experience and training.
School Size and Type:
Online programs generally offer similar experiences, but school size and type can make a difference. Public schools are typically much larger than their private counterparts, which can result in more course options but less individual attention from faculty. Private schools may offer fewer course options but more specialized degrees. Program Length: Many online technology degree programs feature variable enrollment options, offering the ability to complete your studies either full time or part time. A full–time program enables you to complete your degree more quickly, while a part–time program offers more freedom and flexibility.
On–Campus Requirements:
While many distance programs enable you to earn a degree without ever visiting campus, some do include varying amounts of classroom learning. Programs may require monthly or even weekly campus sessions to augment online work. Students may also need to complete intensive campus residency sessions, which typically take place once or twice a year.
Accreditation for Online Information Technology Degrees
A school’s accreditfation status is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing between online information technology degree programs. Accreditation indicates that a school meets national education standards and confers a professionally and academically appropriate degree. This becomes particularly important when selecting a distance education program — some schools may try to misrepresent themselves online.
Institutional accreditation comes in two types: national, which typically serves professional and vocational colleges, and regional, which serves more traditional academic institutions. When researching online technology degree programs, look for schools that hold regional accreditation from organizations like the Higher Learning Commission or the Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Administration work together to oversee accreditation standards, and both agencies keep a list of accredited schools and sanctioned accreditation agencies on their respective websites.
Some IT programs may also hold individual programmatic accreditation, which is typically awarded through the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) or its subsidiary the Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC). ABET or CAC accreditation shows that a program meets designated IT education standards, indicating professional reputability.
Information Technology Concentrations
While a bachelor’s offers a broad introduction to IT concepts, many programs also give you the option to specialize in one area, such as network security or software design. Choosing a specialization can help you stand out to employers and increase your career prospects. The table below describes a few common IT concentration areas.
Information Security
This concentration explores common practices for safeguarding digital information. Students receive an overview of threat assessment and detection strategies, security measures, and response procedures. Programs examine a variety of digital threats like hacking, viruses, and malware to build a varied skill set for defending against common intrusions.
Careers This Concentration Prepares For Security analyst, network security administrator
Web and Applications Development
This concentration functions similarly to software development, teaching students the tools to create applications and other programs. Courses typically cover common programming languages, such as Java and C++. Students can gain an understanding of all stages of the software development process, from initial concept to quality assurance testing.
Careers This Concentration Prepares For Software developer, web developer
Database Administration
Database administration students gain the skills needed to design and maintain databases for all types of information. Most programs explore performance management, disaster recovery, and data security, training learners to maximize information security and ensure organizational continuity.
Careers This Concentration Prepares For Database administrator, systems analyst
Digital Forensics
This specialization branches off from information security, training students to defend computer networks against cyberattacks and investigate unauthorized intrusions to improve network security. Most programs stress the collection, analysis, and preservation of digital evidence in the context of threat mitigation, fraud investigation, and law enforcement.
Careers This Concentration Prepares For Digital forensics analyst, cybercrime investigator
Network Administration
Network administration students explore standard practices for the design, implementation, management, and troubleshooting of complex computer networks. Courses commonly cover topics in data management, interconnecting network devices, leadership and management strategies, and security procedures. Many programs also explore specialized security topics, such as cloud security and specific operating systems.
Careers This Concentration Prepares For Network administrator, computer systems analyst, network support specialist
How Long Does It Take to Get a Degree in Information Technology?
Degree completion time can have a major impact on your online program choice, particularly if you’re currently employed full time or trying to enter the workforce quickly. Several factors affect the time it takes to earn an information tech degree online, including enrollment options, course requirements, and program format. A typical bachelor’s degree requires about 120 credits and takes full–time learners around four years to complete.
Many information technology degree programs emphasize flexibility, allowing you to enroll either full time or part time, depending on your availability. Some programs even let you to switch your enrollment status between semesters, taking extra courses when you have more free time. Some programs cater specifically to students who work full time, enabling participants to take a lighter course load each term to maintain a productive balance between work and school. Part–time enrollment can be more expensive overall, but it’s a viable option if you want to remain in your current job while studying.
Courses in an Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology Program
Cybersecurity/Information Assurance
This course explores the fundamentals of information security and introduces students to major models, mechanics, and protocols for safeguarding data. The curriculum typically offers an overview of topics such as cryptography, threat assessment, vulnerability scanning, data recovery, and software applications for security.
Cyberlaw and Ethics
Developments in information technology have created an assortment of legal concerns and ethical issues for modern IT professionals. This course examines IT in historical, social, and legal contexts, briefing students on major concepts such as privacy, data collection, and ethical relations for ITÂ management.
Business Systems Analysis/Design
IT holds many uses in business operations, and this course explores the major concepts and methodologies of business information systems. Coursework may emphasize the relationship between an organizational structure and its use of information technology, offering effective IT solutions to business problems.
Computer Platform Technologies
This introductory course covers major hardware and software components, briefing students on the relationship between these two key aspects of computing. Hardware topics commonly include CPU, memory, buses, and input/output devices. Software topics examine operating systems, file systems management, and process management.
Website Design
This course introduces students to key concepts for web design, covering topics such as network protocols and client–server communications. The curriculum also examines major tools and programming languages, including HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and the document object model.
