Best Online Master’s in Information Technology 2022
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Online Master's in IT
Earning a master's degree in information technology online prepares students for leadership roles in diverse industries such as computer networking, cybersecurity, IT management, software design and development, and system analysis.
Professionals who earn an information technology master's degree online can pursue lucrative, in-demand careers. For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for computer and information systems managers will grow 10% between 2019 and 2029. These professionals earn a median salary of $146,360 per year.
Featured Online Schools
The Best Online Master's in Information Technology Programs
#1 Online College in Florida
Florida State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Tallahassee, Florida |
| Admission Rate | 36% |
| Graduation Rate | 83% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
47%
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Concentrations Available: Large-scale data management; leadership and management; technology and networking; user-centered design; web design
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? No
FSU's master of science in information technology prepares students for management roles in information provision settings.
This 32-credit degree comprises four core courses and 20 credits of electives. Course options include digital libraries, advanced online searching, and social computing and collaboration technologies. FSU offers five concentration options — large-scale data management, leadership and management, technology and networking, user-centered design, and web design.
Admission requires prior academic and IT-related experience. For 2022, FSU is waiving its requirement that applicants send GRE, GMAT, MAT, or LSAT scores. Students can combine this online master's in information technology program with a Juris Doctorate.
Available Scholarships: Harold Goldstein Endowed Scholarship
#2 Online College in Pennsylvania
Carnegie Mellon University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania |
| Admission Rate | 15% |
| Graduation Rate | 90% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
6%
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Private
Concentrations Available: Information technology management; business intelligence and data analytics; information security and assurance
Located in Pittsburgh, CMU provides a master of science in information technology to help students upgrade their technology and management skills.
CMU's online master's in information technology degree requires a series of core courses complemented by concentration electives. Courses include database management, telecommunications management, e-business technology and management, and object-oriented programming in Java. Enrollees take courses through a part-time, asynchronous delivery model.
Applicants must submit transcripts showing a completed bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution. For the 2022 admission cycle, GRE or GMAT scores are optional. Prospective students may also submit an optional essay and take part in a video interview.
Available Scholarships: Pittsburgh Regional Leaders Scholarships
#3 Online College in Florida
University of South Florida-Main Campus
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Tampa, Florida |
| Admission Rate | 48% |
| Graduation Rate | 75% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
55%
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? No
FSU offers a non-thesis master of science in information technology to help students learn to deploy technology solutions to business problems. This 30-credit degree requires three core courses and seven electives. The program concludes with a comprehensive exam.
Core courses are advanced database management, penetration testing for IT, and advances in object oriented programming for IT. To graduate, students must hold a "B" or better in the core courses and a minimum comprehensive GPA of 3.0.
Applicants to FSU's master's in information technology online need a bachelor's degree in information technology. FSU also expects GRE scores of at least 161 on the quantitative section and 150 on the verbal.
Available Scholarships: USF Kosove Graduate Scholarship
#4 Online College in Florida
Florida International University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Miami, Florida |
| Admission Rate | 58% |
| Graduation Rate | 63% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
68%
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Concentrations Available: Software; systems administration; security
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? No
Located in Miami, FIU provides a master of science in information technology to help prepare students for IT-related careers. This 30-credit degree requires nine credits of core courses, six credits in the desired concentration, and 15 credits of electives.
Core courses include software and data modeling, fundamentals of computer security, and computer systems fundamentals. The program does not require a thesis or capstone project.
Applicants to FIU's online master's in information technology program need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited school. They must have a GPA of 2.0 or better in the last two years of their coursework.
Available Scholarships: The Café Bustelo® El Café Del Futuro Scholarship
#5 Online College in Indiana
Purdue University-Main Campus
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | West Lafayette, Indiana |
| Admission Rate | 60% |
| Graduation Rate | 82% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
22%
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Concentrations Available: Amazon Web Services (AWS) cloud technologies; business intelligence; cybersecurity; data analytics; project management; secure software development and quality assurance
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? No
Situated in West Lafayette, Indiana, Purdue provides an online master of science in information technology to help degree-seekers expand career options in IT-related fields. This degree requires 60 quarter credits or 40 semester credits. Studying 20 hours a week, students can complete Purdue's online master's in information technology degree in two years.
Courses include information systems project management, writing and critical thinking for the IT professional, and database design and data modeling. Upon graduation, some courses may apply to Purdue's Juris Doctor program.
Purdue may offer credit to prospective students for IT certifications. Applicants need a bachelor's degree for admission.
Available Scholarships: Returning Student Relief Grant
#6 Online College in Utah
Western Governors University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Salt Lake City, Utah |
| Graduation Rate | 21% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Private
Concentrations Available: Cybersecurity and information assurance; data analytics; information technology management; MBA in information technology management
Located in Salt Lake City, Utah, WGU offers four online master's in information technology programs. In these programs, students work through an individualized degree plan to meet all course requirements.
WGU includes third-party IT management certifications as part of its curriculum. For example, students may take the PMI certified associate in project management to demonstrate concept mastery and be covered by tuition.
Students can enjoy a flexible schedule with no class times and no assignment deadlines. To apply, prospective students should submit proof of a bachelor's degree from a recognized, accredited institution. WGU does not require the GRE or GMAT for admission.
Available Scholarships: Year of You Scholarship
#7 Online College in Oklahoma
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Stillwater, Oklahoma |
| Admission Rate | 70% |
| Graduation Rate | 65% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
42%
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Concentrations Available: Data science; application development
Accredited By: Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? No
Students in OSU's master's in management information systems learn to provide solutions to the security, data, and information systems needs of businesses.
This 33-credit program covers data warehousing, systems analysis, programming for data science, health analytics, visualization, and information assurance.
OSU's online master's in information technology degree requires 25 credits of core courses, including a business practicum. Courses look at the theoretical concepts of data science or application design, along with a strong hands-on learning component.
Applicants need an undergraduate degree with a 3.0 overall GPA and a 3.25 GPA in the major. OSU also expects a minimum GMAT score of 550 or GRE score of 305.
Available Scholarships: LeClaire Family Graduate Scholarship for Women in Technology
#8 Online College in Georgia
Kennesaw State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Kennesaw, Georgia |
| Admission Rate | 75% |
| Graduation Rate | 46% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
49%
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Concentrations Available: Data analytics and intelligent technology; IT security; health IT; enterprise IT management
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? No
Located in Kennesaw, Georgia, Kennesaw State offers a master of science in information technology to prepare IT professionals for a range of related careers. This degree includes flexible learning options, such as an online internship and capstone project.
Students take 15-18 credits of core courses, plus 12 credits (thesis option) or 15 credits (capstone option) in their concentration. New enrollees without the necessary IT background may need to take up to 12 credits in IT foundations. Kennesaw State's master's in information technology online requires either a thesis or a capstone.
Kennesaw State welcomes new enrollees in the spring, fall, and summer. Applicants must submit official transcripts from all previous colleges they've attended.
Available Scholarships: HOPE and Zell Miller Scholarships
#9 Online College in Virginia
Liberty University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lynchburg, Virginia |
| Admission Rate | 51% |
| Graduation Rate | 47% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
92%
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Private
Concentrations Available: Network design and security; software design and management
Located in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty offers a master of science in information technology to equip IT professionals with network security or software management skills. This online master's in information technology program requires 36 credit hours.
Students take courses in eight-week blocks and can finish their degree in 1.5 years. Courses include applied network security, network architecture and design, software design, and secure software engineering.
Prospective students can finish any incomplete prerequisite courses after admission to Liberty. Applicants need an undergraduate degree from a regionally or nationally accredited college with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Available Scholarships: First Responders Discount
#10 Online College in Ohio
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Cincinnati, Ohio |
| Admission Rate | 77% |
| Graduation Rate | 71% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
49%
|
Fast Facts
School Type: Public
Do Distance Learners Pay In-State Tuition? Yes
UC offers a master of science in information technology to help students learn to solve problems in manufacturing, education, healthcare, and other industries. Graduates can pursue careers as IT managers, computer forensics investigators, or chief information security officers.
This online master's in information technology degree requires 30 credits, which usually takes about two years. Courses include systems administration, human computer interaction and usability, and games for learning and simulation. Degree-seekers can take a thesis or non-thesis option.
Applicants need an undergraduate degree with a GPA of 3.0 or better. New students with a lower GPA may take bridge courses.
Available Scholarships: Point Foundation Scholarship
#11 Online College in New Jersey
Thomas Edison State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Trenton, New Jersey |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
100%
|
#12 Online College in Maryland
Towson University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Towson, Maryland |
| Admission Rate | 76% |
| Graduation Rate | 71% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
23%
|
#13 Online College in Arizona
University of Arizona
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Tucson, Arizona |
| Admission Rate | 85% |
| Graduation Rate | 65% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
42%
|
#14 Online College in Michigan
Walsh College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Troy, Michigan |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
96%
|
#15 Online College in New Jersey
Montclair State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Montclair, New Jersey |
| Admission Rate | 76% |
| Graduation Rate | 67% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
31%
|
#16 Online College in Kentucky
University of the Cumberlands
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Williamsburg, Kentucky |
| Admission Rate | 80% |
| Graduation Rate | 44% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
91%
|
#17 Online College in California
Northcentral University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | La Jolla, California |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
#18 Online College in Virginia
George Mason University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Fairfax, Virginia |
| Admission Rate | 87% |
| Graduation Rate | 71% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
33%
|
#19 Online College in Massachusetts
Endicott College
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Beverly, Massachusetts |
| Admission Rate | 69% |
| Graduation Rate | 74% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
41%
|
#20 Online College in Wisconsin
Concordia University-Wisconsin
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Mequon, Wisconsin |
| Admission Rate | 64% |
| Graduation Rate | 64% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
39%
|
#21 Online College in Massachusetts
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Lowell, Massachusetts |
| Admission Rate | 73% |
| Graduation Rate | 66% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
32%
|
#22 Online College in California
Golden Gate University-San Francisco
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | San Francisco, California |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
67%
|
#23 Online College in New Jersey
New Jersey Institute of Technology
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Newark, New Jersey |
| Admission Rate | 73% |
| Graduation Rate | 67% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
31%
|
#24 Online College in Georgia
Middle Georgia State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Macon, Georgia |
| Admission Rate | 94% |
| Graduation Rate | 23% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
59%
|
#25 Online College in Indiana
Purdue University Global-Indianapolis
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | West Lafayette, Indiana |
| Graduation Rate | 27% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
99%
|
#26 Online College in Texas
Abilene Christian University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Abilene, Texas |
| Admission Rate | 61% |
| Graduation Rate | 61% |
| Instituation Type | Private |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
37%
|
#27 Online College in Kentucky
Murray State University
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Murray, Kentucky |
| Admission Rate | 82% |
| Graduation Rate | 55% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
40%
|
#28 Online College in Maine
University of Maine
| School Information | |
|---|---|
| Location | Orono, Maine |
| Admission Rate | 90% |
| Graduation Rate | 57% |
| Accreditation |
Yes
|
| Percent Online Enrollment |
36%
|
Online Master's in Information Technology Programs Ranking Guidelines
We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.
The motto of TheBestSchools.org is Finding the best school for you. Here is how we do it:
The value of any ranking list of schools and/or degree programs depends on having a methodologically sound assessment of each school’s/program’s characteristics, especially insofar as these can be objectively measured. A college or university is a complex entity, with numerous factors to consider, and distilling these down to the place where meaningful comparisons can be made to form a defensible ranking list becomes part science and part art.
To meet this challenge—and thereby provide you with the most useful and insightful educational rankings on the Internet — TheBestSchools.org formulates our rankings based on five informational categories (six, when considering online schools). The major metrics and qualities for which we rank are these (with expanded, detailed considerations and weights listed):
1. Academic excellence based on a school’s curriculum generally or within the selected discipline [weight = 25%]
- Weighs school against known leading schools in that discipline
- Weighs number of core curricula listed as advanced courses within that discipline and compares against introductory courses
- Weighs school’s curriculum against known knowledge needs of major employers in that discipline
- Considers number and types of specializations offered within that discipline
- Considers faculty expertise in that discipline
- Considers range of electives within that discipline
- Considers quality of online environment offered to students (if applicable), particularly within that discipline
2. Strength of faculty scholarship [weight = 25%]
- Considers education background of the faculty
- Considers years of faculty experience both inside and outside of academia.
- Considers faculty membership and leadership within relevant, prominent associations
- Considers academic papers published by faculty in relevant, prominent periodicals
- Considers awards and recognitions given to faculty members from prominent organizations and from other sources
3. Reputation [weight = 20%]
- Considers a school’s reputation among academic peers and employers regarding the following:
- Faculty
- Curriculum
- “Freshness” of academic knowledge
- Adaptability to changes in employment sectors
- Suitability of graduates for the workplace
4. Financial aid [weight = 10%]
- Mandatory: Requires full accreditation from an agency endorsed by the U.S. Department of Education and listed on the federal register to accept student federal financial aid
- Considers range of school-sponsored financial aid such as scholarships and grants
5. Range of degree programs [weight = 20%]
- Considers range of degree levels: associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, and doctoral and professional
- Considers range of degree subjects offered, such as art & design, computers & technology, education & teaching, criminal justice, and business
6. Strength of online instruction methodology (if applicable) [weight = 25%; subtract 5% from each of the above for online schools/programs]
-
Considers the following of the online classes:
- Types of online technology used to deliver content
- Pedagogy style: asynchronous, synchronous, or both (depending on the degree)
- Extent and quality of the online, community learning environment, including options for communication, interactivity, and collaboration between students and also between students and instructors
- Variety, breadth, and depth of coursework, and its support, including project options and online tutoring
-
Considers the following of instructors:
- Extent of training for teaching within an online learning environment
- Amount of timely, consistent feedback to students
- Extent of collaboration with prospective employers to ensure suitability of instructional materials for achieving desired skills
- Ratio to number of students in a class
- Number and quality of internships in a student’s geographical area for applicable degrees
Because students tend to review a variety of information when choosing a school, the weight a student gives any one criterion will vary. For instance, it’s not enough to offer a carefully constructed ranking of great schools if many are too expensive or too difficult to get into.
To better serve the needs of prospective students, we are therefore increasingly offering filters that help you better use our rankings to find the schools that match your specific needs. These supplement our ranking criteria and include:
- Accreditation
- Public or private status
- Acceptance rate
- Retention rate
- Graduation rate
- ACT/SAT requirements
- Cost in-state / out of state
- Undergrad, grad, or both offered
- Region
- State
- City
Get the best rankings here AND get them to suit your personal needs. That’s TheBestSchools.org advantage!
If you have any questions about our ranking methodology, please contact us.
Citations: For a broader account of our ranking methodology, especially as it relates to TheBestSchools.org's underlying educational philosophy and, in other ranking articles, looks beyond academic excellence (as here) to such factors as return on investment or incidental benefit, see our article "Ranking Methodology: How We Rank Schools at TBS." Reputation of schools and degree programs can at least in part be gauged through the school or department's publishing activity, citations, and desirability. At TheBestSchools.org, we keep track of such social and peer validation: "Making Sense of College Rankings." For nuts-and-bolts information about colleges and universities, we look to the National Center for Education Statistics and especially its College Navigator. Insofar as salary and inflation data are relevant to a ranking, we look to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. Finally, nothing beats contacting schools and degree programs directly, which our researchers often do, with the result that all the entries in this article should be considered as belonging to this citation!
What Is a Master's in Information Technology Degree?
A master’s in information technology degree provides students with the advanced knowledge and skills necessary to pursue high–level careers in the IT field. Students also prepare to act as leaders in the field, overseeing other IT personnel.
Master’s in information technology degrees typically explore a variety of IT issues, including database management, IT project management, programming, software and hardware engineering, information systems design and architecture, and IT security. In addition, the degree combines theories of management and business administration.
With numerous specializations available among many different programs, students may focus their studies on areas like web design, network security, IT project management, IT governance, and more.
Online Master’s in Information Technology Programs
Online programs offer students flexibility and accessibility. Students arrange their coursework around work or family obligations, with many programs designing their degree for working IT professionals. Depending on the program, students may take classes synchronously or asynchronously.
Online IT programs incorporate lectures, homework, and tests through online learning technologies.
Synchronous classes meet at a set time, often in the evening to accommodate working students, and offer the benefits of a live classroom experience. Asynchronous classes let students complete lectures, projects, and tutorials on their own time. Online IT programs incorporate lectures, homework, and tests through online learning technologies. Graduate students also connect with members of their cohort through discussion boards and group projects.
Many students prefer the accessible nature of an online program. Established professionals can attend the top programs in the country without relocating or leaving their jobs. Online students complete their graduate coursework, choose a concentration area, and work with a faculty advisor to earn their degrees. Many continue working while enrolled in a graduate program. For some students, an online program provides a convenient path to career advancement. However, prospective online students must be self–motivated and driven. Admissions advisors can help prospective students decide whether an online program best fits their needs.
Earning a master’s degree in information technology helps professionals advance their careers and qualify for job titles like computer and information research scientist.
Earning a master’s degree in information technology helps professionals advance their careers and qualify for job titles like computer and information research scientist. With a master’s degree, IT professionals pursue opportunities as IT managers, senior computer systems analysts, and systems architects. A graduate degree also meets the qualifications for management–level positions within an IT department. After earning a bachelor’s degree, professionals qualify for entry–level positions in IT, but a graduate degree leads to advanced career opportunities.
Graduate degrees let IT professionals increase their salary potential. While professionals with a bachelor’s degree in IT earn $70,000 a year on average, a master’s degree allows them to seek high–paying, supervisory roles. According to Payscale, professionals with a master’s degree make $14,000 more a year than those with a bachelor’s degree. Many master’s–level IT jobs offer even higher salaries, with computer and research scientists earning nearly $115,000 in median annual salary.
The Advantages of a Master's Degree in Information Technology
Earning a master’s degree in information technology helps professionals advance their careers and qualify for job titles like computer and information research scientist. With a master’s degree, IT professionals pursue opportunities as IT managers, senior computer systems analysts, and systems architects. A graduate degree also meets the qualifications for management–level positions within an IT department. After earning a bachelor’s degree, professionals qualify for entry–level positions in IT, but a graduate degree leads to advanced career opportunities.
Graduate degrees let IT professionals increase their salary potential. While professionals with a bachelor’s degree in IT earn $70,000 a year on average, a master’s degree allows them to seek high–paying, supervisory roles. According to Payscale, professionals with a master’s degree make $14,000 more a year than those with a bachelor’s degree. Many master’s–level IT jobs offer even higher salaries, with computer and research scientists earning nearly $122,840 in median annual salary.
Average Salary by Degree Level
$70,000
$84,000
Source: Payscale
Choosing an Online IT Graduate Degree Program
A growing number of colleges and universities offer online master’s in information technology programs. Prospective students may feel overwhelmed by the number of choices. Choosing the right IT graduate program can shape your career prospects for decades, so make sure to research each program before submitting an application. Key considerations, including the program cost, the length of the degree, and on–campus requirements, can help certain programs stand out. Prospective students often choose in–state programs, for example, as the most affordable option. However, some public universities offer in–state tuition to all online students. By researching the options, students can find the best fit for their interests and career goals.
- Program Cost: The cost of a master’s degree varies widely. In general, public, in–state universities charge the lowest tuition rates, while private schools charge the highest rates. In addition to tuition, prospective students should research technology fees, the cost of books, and other expenses.
- Transfer Policies: Students with some graduate credits need to research transfer policies at their potential programs. Some graduate programs let students transfer in credits toward their degree, while others require students to complete their coursework at the degree–granting institution. A generous transfer policy can save money and help you earn a degree faster.
- School Size and Type: Some students prefer a large university with an expansive cohort of other information technology graduate students. Bigger institutions may also feature wider alumni networks. Other students prefer a smaller class size with more focused attention from their professors. Students can research class size, school size, and the type of institution — public versus private — to find a school that fits their needs.
- Program Length: While most master’s programs in IT require 30–36 credits of coursework, program length can vary from 1–3 years. Programs may also require an internship or practicum, which can add to the program’s length. Prospective students should research program length, including part–time or accelerated options.
- On–Campus Requirements: Many online master’s in IT programs offer the degree fully online with no on–campus requirements. Some programs, however, require mandatory on–campus experiences, including weekend residency requirements or an orientation. Students considering programs in other states may prefer a program with no on–campus requirements, while online students at local universities may prefer on–campus opportunities.
- Thesis, Fellowship, and Work Requirements: The program requirements for a master’s degree in information technology vary. Programs may include a master’s thesis or project at the end of the degree, while others include an internship or other work requirement to gain hands–on experience.
Accreditation for Online Information Technology Master’s Degrees
Prospective information technology graduate students should always choose an accredited college or university. Accreditation recognizes institutions that follow the best practices in education. Independent accrediting agencies grant accreditation after an extensive evaluation, which considers the school’s student learning outcomes, graduation requirements, and faculty qualifications. Accreditation also benefits graduate students. Students at accredited institutions qualify for federal financial aid and typically meet the requirements for professional certifications. Some employers only hire candidates with an accredited degree, meaning accreditation status affects job prospects after graduation.
Some employers only hire candidates with an accredited degree, meaning accreditation status affects job prospects after graduation.
At the institutional level, colleges and universities can hold regional or national accreditation. Generally, regional accreditation evaluates liberal arts and research institutions, while national accreditation reviews technical and vocational schools. Overall, regional accreditation remains the highest standard. Programs can also hold programmatic accreditation from specialized agencies. For example, business schools, teacher preparation programs, and social work programs typically hold programmatic accreditation. In information technology, graduate programs earn accreditation through the institution rather than a programmatic accrediting agency.
Prospective students should look for a regionally accredited institution. Both the Department of Education (ED) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) validate accrediting agencies and maintain lists of regionally accredited institutions. Students can check the ED website or CHEA website to see whether a college or university holds regional accreditation.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s Degree in Information Technology?
Earning a master’s degree in information technology usually takes two years for full–time students. Most IT master’s programs require 30–36 credits of coursework to complete the degree, which includes advanced courses in the student’s concentration area. Programs may offer a part–time option, which often takes three years, or an accelerated pathway to the degree, which can take as little as 15–18 months. These enrollment options can affect the cost of a master’s degree, depending on whether the university charges a per–credit rate or a flat fee per term.
Each program sets its own graduation requirements, potentially affecting the length of the degree, and includes an internship or a practicum to gain hands–on experience. Graduate students may need to complete a master’s thesis or final project at the end of their programs.
Courses in an Online Master’s in Information Technology Program
- Advanced Information Technology: Many graduate programs begin with a course providing advanced knowledge and skills in IT. The class may cover databases, web and software development, hardware management, and telecommunications. The course introduces graduate students to specialties within IT, preparing students for advanced work within their IT concentration.
- Systems Analysis: Classes on systems analysis train students to design efficient systems and evaluate systems for their effectiveness. Graduate students gain familiarity with system design, functional design, and system requirements while learning common software programs for systems analysis. Most systems analysis courses incorporate projects to measure student learning.
- Database Design: Database design courses prepare students for careers in database management or database architecture. Graduate students learn database design through diagramming tools, data modeling, and functional dependencies. The course also trains graduate students with database management skills, preparing graduates for leadership roles in the field.
- Network Security: Courses on network security teach graduate students to protect networks and computer systems. Students learn about cybersecurity methods, malicious software, and security systems like firewalls. The class may also cover encryption methods and file security. Graduates pursue careers in network security or information assurance.
- Data Analytics: A growing field, data analytics courses prepare students to work as data scientists or in any field of analytics. Students learn about data identification, analyzing data sets, and software for data analysis. Graduate students may also apply programming language skills to solve data analytics problems by designing their own programs.
Master's Degree in Information Technology Salary Information
A master’s degree in information technology prepares graduates for many in–demand career paths. With a master’s, IT professionals work as IT managers, computer network architects, and database administrators. Some careers, such as computer and information research scientist, require a master’s degree, while others like IT manager prefer candidates with a graduate degree. IT professionals work in several industries, including tech, healthcare, government, and business. These career opportunities provide above–average salaries with growth potential.
| Median Salary: $146,360 | Projected Job Growth: 10% |
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IT managers, also known as computer and information systems managers, oversee IT departments. They plan and direct an organization’s information technology strategy and needs, implementing plans to reach the organization’s goals.
| Median Salary: $122,840 | Projected Job Growth: 15% |
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Computer and information research scientists study complex problems in computing. They also invent and design solutions to computing challenges, including innovating uses for current technology.
| Median Salary: $112,690 | Projected Job Growth: 5% |
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Computer network architects design networks for organizations, including enterprise–level networks. They can specialize in cloud infrastructure or other emerging technologies. Network architects analyze an organization’s goals to create a network that advances its business plan
| Median Salary: $93,750 | Projected Job Growth: 10% |
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Database administrators manage an organization’s data and files, including medical records, financial information, or customer records. They maintain the security of the database and prevent unauthorized access
What is an IT Manager?
An IT Manager oversees a team or department of IT personnel with the purpose of ensuring the group operates efficiently and meets company goals. Working with network security professionals, web designers, and software engineers, IT managers organize and direct their teams through a combination of IT and administrative expertise.
Information Technology Manager Certifications
Information technology professionals can choose from numerous certifications to help advance their career, including:
Cisco offers the CCIE credential with several concentrations, including security, wireless, data center, and service provider. Candidates must take a written exam and a hands–on lab exam to earn the credential.
An entry–level certification, CAPM recognizes candidates with at least 23 credits in project management education. Candidates do not need professional experience in project management to take the exam.
Information security specialists qualify for the exam with a master’s in IT and three years of information security work experience. Candidates must pass the CISM examination, and scores remain valid for five years.
A credential for professionals in information system security, candidates must pass an examination to earn the CISSP designation, which remains valid for three years.
Specialists in risk management qualify for the CRISC credential with at least three years of work experience in two of the four CRISC domains. Candidates must also pass the certification exam.
IT architects qualify for the CITA credential depending on their education and experience. At the professional level, candidates demonstrate industry leadership in the skills taxonomy, a primary specialization, and a subspecialization.
A CompTIA credential for professionals with project management skills, the certification tests project management knowledge, management abilities, and project documentation abilities through a 90–minute exam.
At the expert level, candidates demonstrate advanced skills in information technology infrastructure library management. Candidates complete ITIL modules and demonstrate their knowledge through an examination.
Microsoft offers multiple MCSD specializations, including in cloud, mobility, core infrastructure, and data. Credentialled MCSD professionals maintain their certifications by taking the recertification exam every two years.
Database administrators can earn the OCP certification by passing an SQL exam and database administration exam. Oracle offers multiple levels for its OCP credentials.
The Project Management Institute offers this certification for candidates with experience as project managers. Candidates pass an examination on project management concepts and must complete continuing education requirements every three years to maintain the credential.
Six Sigma recognizes professionals with quality improvement, analytical, and problem–solving skills. Green belts must hold three years of work experience, while black belts must hold three years of experience plus complete a Six Sigma project.
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