University campus in Vermont
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Information Systems Degree Programs in Vermont, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top information systems colleges in Vermont. 5 accredited information systems schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from Vermont State University to Norwich University.

#1 ProgramNorwich
Avg Salary$98,760
Tuition From$9,984/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

4

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$98,760

Vermont median information systems salary

BLS OEWS 2024

77.5/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

16%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best information systems degree programs: Norwich, U of Vermont, Vermont State

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $9,984 to $47,640/year

Vermont State offers the most affordable option at $9,984/yr

IPEDS 2024

Information Systems degree programs available: 1 associate's, 1 master's in Vermont

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

Vermont community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

1 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer, Faraday

Tech hubs in Burlington and Montpelier

Hakia Research 2026

Information Systems degree programs near 17+ cities across Vermont

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked Vermont Information Systems programs

We rank 7 accredited information systems programs in Vermont using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.

Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology

Are Information Systems Degree Programs in Vermont Worth It?

Answer
$98,760
Yes. The best information systems degree programs in Vermont deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $98,760 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $33,173/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Information Systems Degree Rankings in Vermont

Compare the top-ranked Information Systems programs in Vermont by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Bachelor's Information Systems Programs in Vermont

3
Programs ranked
$47,737
Avg tuition/yr
66%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Vermont ranks among the nation's top destinations for information systems education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 2 public and 3 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Norwich, U of Vermont, Vermont State, recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from Vermont information systems programs earn a median salary of $83,946, 14% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $9,984 to $47,640 annually, with an average of $33,173/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 91%, with the highest reaching 91%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to Vermont's leading technology employers. For students seeking information systems degrees in Vermont, these top-ranked information systems schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

🥈
Norwich University
Northfield, VTPrivate nonprofit
$46,860
Tuition/yr
60%
Grad rate
77.5
Hakia Score

Best Master's Information Systems Programs in Vermont

1
Programs ranked
$46,860
Avg tuition/yr
60%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

Vermont offers 1 master's degree programs in information systems, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Norwich, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in Vermont earn a median salary of $98,760, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $46,860/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among Vermont's information systems schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

🥇
Norwich University
Northfield, VTPrivate nonprofit
$46,860
Tuition/yr
60%
Grad rate
74.0
Hakia Score

Information Systems Degree Costs & Tuition in Vermont

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$33,173/year
Average out-of-state tuition$82,933/year
Community college tuition$8,293/year
4-year savings for residents$199,040
2+2 transfer pathway savings$49,760

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Systems Students in Vermont

State Aid Programs

Vermont residents pursuing Information Systems degrees have access to several financial aid options designed to make higher education affordable. The Vermont Incentive Grant (Vermont Incentive Grant) provides need-based grants specifically for Vermont residents attending approved institutions, making it a valuable resource for students at schools like University of Vermont, Norwich University, and Vermont State University. Additionally, all students can access federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) via (Federal Student Aid), which determines eligibility for grants, loans, and work-study opportunities regardless of state residency.

Key Programs & Amounts

Beyond state and federal aid, Vermont's higher education system supports student affordability through strategic partnerships. The Vermont Transfer Agreements (Vermont Transfer Agreements) help smooth pathways from Community College of Vermont, where tuition is just $6,720, to four-year institutions within the Vermont State Colleges System, allowing students to reduce overall costs while earning degrees. Many institutions also offer institutional scholarships and merit-based aid packages. Students should explore options at all levels, from the most affordable programs like Vermont State University ($9,984 tuition) to comprehensive universities offering strong financial aid packages. For detailed information about federal aid eligibility and application processes, (College Scorecard) provides transparent data on costs and aid availability at individual institutions.

Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator, Vermont

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree in Vermont. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Information Systems Degree ROI Calculator

Estimate your return on investment for a information systems degree

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+907%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,677,254

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

5 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$133,333

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown

How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data

Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,712,662

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$140,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.9%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Information Systems Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in Vermont metro areas

Burlington$109K
Montpelier$104K
Rutland$99K
View data table
CategoryValue
Burlington$109K
Montpelier$104K
Rutland$99K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Information Systems Graduates in Vermont

Find information systems jobs in Vermont. These major employers across Vermont metro areas are actively hiring information systems degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Information Systems Jobs in Burlington

VT
GlobalFoundries
semiconductor
Dealer.com
tech
Green Mountain Power
energy
University of Vermont
education

Transfer Pathways for Information Systems Degrees in Vermont

State Transfer System

Vermont's structured transfer system facilitates seamless progression for Information Systems students. The Vermont Transfer Agreements establish clear articulation pathways from the state's 1 community college, the Community College of Vermont, to the Vermont State Colleges System institutions, including Vermont State University. These agreements guarantee that credits earned in IS coursework at the community college level transfer directly toward bachelor's degree completion, eliminating redundancy and reducing time-to-degree. The Community College of Vermont awards the 1 associate's degree completion in Information Systems reported in 2023, representing an entry point for working professionals and traditional students seeking affordable foundational education (IPEDS).

How Transfers Work

Students completing an associate's degree in IS at Community College of Vermont with tuition of $6,720 can transfer to four-year institutions like Vermont State University ($9,984 tuition), University of Vermont, or Norwich University with guaranteed credit recognition. The transfer agreements specify which courses satisfy general education and major requirements, enabling students to plan their academic pathway with confidence. This affordable 2+2 model (two years at community college, two years at university) serves students seeking cost-effective degree attainment while maintaining educational quality. Vermont's Vermont State Colleges System coordinates transfer policies across member institutions, ensuring consistency and transparency. For additional transfer information and financial aid resources, consult Federal Student Aid and the Vermont Incentive Grant, which support eligible Vermont residents throughout their transfer journey.

Why Pursue an Information Systems Degree in Vermont?

Industry & Workforce

Vermont offers a strong ecosystem for Information Systems education with 7 institutions delivering programs at multiple degree levels, including 5 bachelor's programs, 1 master's program, and 1 associate's program (IPEDS). In 2023, Vermont institutions awarded 69 bachelor's degrees in Information Systems, demonstrating strong student demand and institutional commitment to the field. The state's higher education landscape includes prestigious programs at University of Vermont, Norwich University, and Vermont State University, which collectively produce the majority of IS graduates in the region. These institutions rank among the best Information Systems programs nationally, offering students access to high-quality education without requiring relocation to major metropolitan areas.

Salary Outlook

Vermont's technology sector is anchored by major employers including GlobalFoundries and the University of Vermont Medical Center, creating abundant career opportunities for IS graduates. The state's major tech hubs in Burlington, South Burlington, and the Chittenden County region provide pathways to meaningful employment. Vermont's strategic location in the New England corridor positions graduates to access opportunities across Connecticut, Massachusetts, and New York (BLS State Data). For affordability-conscious students, Vermont State University offers tuition of just $9,984, making it the most affordable IS option in the state. Additionally, Vermont residents may qualify for the Vermont Incentive Grant, a need-based funding program supporting students at approved institutions (Vermont Incentive Grant), further reducing educational costs and making IS degrees more accessible.

Information Systems Program Availability in Vermont

5 Programs
Vermont offers 5 accredited information systems programs across public universities, private colleges, and community colleges. Top tech hubs include Burlington, Montpelier, Rutland.

Source: IPEDS 2024

Information Systems Job Market & Salary Data in Vermont

Employment Outlook

Vermont's information systems job market reflects strong demand across multiple sectors, particularly in healthcare, technology manufacturing, and higher education. The state's tech ecosystem centers around major metropolitan areas including Burlington-South Burlington and extends into Central Vermont and the Northeast Kingdom. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, Vermont continues to see steady growth in technology-related occupations, with employers actively recruiting information systems professionals. The Burlington-South Burlington metro area serves as the primary hub for technology careers, hosting multiple Fortune 500 and mid-sized technology employers seeking skilled professionals.

Salaries by Metro

Vermont's information systems graduates benefit from employment opportunities across diverse sectors. Major employers including University of Vermont Medical Center, GlobalFoundries, and Vermont Health Care actively recruit information systems professionals for roles ranging from systems administration to enterprise IT management. Cities including Rutland, Montpelier, and Bennington offer additional employment pathways in government and regional healthcare organizations. The state's public tuition average of $13,132 for in-state four-year institutions makes Vermont an affordable option for developing the workforce these employers require. Career pathways expand when graduates consider related fields like Information Technology in Vermont, Data Analytics in Vermont, and Cloud Computing in Vermont, which share overlapping skill sets with information systems roles.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in Vermont$64,194$143,202
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Information Systems Programs in Vermont

Online Programs

0 available in Vermont

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$29,856/yr$33,173/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Compare Information Systems Programs in Other States

Information Systems Degree Programs in Vermont: FAQ

What are the best information systems degree programs in Vermont?
The best information systems degree programs in Vermont based on our methodology are: 1) Norwich University (highly ranked), 2) University of Vermont, and 3) Vermont State University. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). Vermont offers 5 total accredited programs across 2 public and 3 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 5 bachelor's programs.
How much do information systems degree programs cost in Vermont?
Information Systems degree program costs in Vermont vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $33,173/year, while private institutions average $72,981/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $8,293/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $132,692 at public schools to $291,922 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information systems degree graduates earn in Vermont?
Information Systems professionals in Vermont earn a median salary of $98,760, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $64,194, while senior roles exceed $143,202. Salaries vary by metro area: Burlington ($108,636), Montpelier ($103,698) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information systems degree programs in Vermont?
Yes, Vermont offers 0 accredited online Information Systems programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information systems degree graduates in Vermont?
Major Information Systems employers in Vermont include GlobalFoundries, Dealer.com, MyWebGrocer, Faraday, Logic Supply. The Burlington and Montpelier metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from Vermont universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. Vermont's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information systems degree program worth it in Vermont?
An information systems degree program in Vermont offers strong ROI with a $98,760 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $33,173/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($111,599), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information systems degree programs take in Vermont?
Standard completion times for information systems degree programs in Vermont are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. Vermont community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a Vermont university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information systems degree students in Vermont?
Vermont information systems degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. Vermont state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by Vermont's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.

Data Sources

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

Vermont salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

Was this ranking helpful for your college search?
Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

Co-founder & Editor (B.S. Computer Science, Oregon State • B.A. Psychology, University of Washington)

Taylor combines technical expertise in computer science with a deep understanding of human behavior and learning. His dual background drives Hakia's mission: leveraging technology to build authoritative educational resources that help people make better decisions about their academic and career paths.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Information Systems program profiles in Vermont

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Bachelor's Information Systems programs

#1Champlain CollegeBurlington, VT

Hakia insight. Champlain's day-one major-specific coursework model eliminates the common first-year IT degree trap where students waste time in generic computer science lectures before discovering their specialization.

At the bachelor's level, champlain College offers career-focused education with major-specific classes from day one and real business experience at entrepreneurial companies. The college significantly outperforms national averages for employment outcomes with 86% career success rate within 6 months.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Information Systems · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Information Systems · 4 years · online

Career outcomes

Top employers: Burton Snowboards

#2Norwich UniversityNorthfield, VT

Why it stands out. 100% online with hands-on learning environment. National security principles embedded in curriculum

Hakia insight. Norwich's embedding of DoD Cyber Institute curriculum into an online bachelor's creates an accredited pathway to federal contracting work without requiring clearance sponsorship first—students graduate job-ready for roles that normally demand prior military or government experience.

Norwich University's Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Information Systems is a 100% online program designed for working professionals seeking expertise in programming, system design, software engineering, and networking. The 90-credit curriculum integrates national security principles throughout coursework, emphasizing hands-on learning with low- to high-level programming instruction from expert faculty. Students work alongside peers globally in an online classroom environment, applying fundamental computer science knowledge to real-world challenges. The program prepares graduates for high-level positions in government, military, and private sector technology roles, with flexible start dates (Spring, Summer sessions) and an average completion time of 18 months. Transfer credit up to 90 credits is available, and alumni benefit from Norwich's strong military and professional reputation.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Science & Information Systems · 4 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Center for Cybersecurity and Forensics Education and Research (CyFER) — Cybersecurity and digital forensics education and research
  • Department of Defense Cyber Institute — Cyber and AI leadership development for DoD professionals

Industry partners

Department of DefenseRaytheon TechnologiesNorthrop Grumman

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Michael Battig (Cybersecurity and cyber institute leadership)
  • Col. Sharon Hamilton, Ph.D., U.S. Army (Ret.) (Strategic partnerships and cyber leadership development)
  • Huw O. L. Read (Cybersecurity and forensics research)

Admissions

GPA 2.75. Deadline Application deadlines vary by session (e.g. February 27, 2026 for Spring B).

Accreditation & certifications

National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Cyber Defense (CAE-CD)New England Commission of Higher Education

Location advantage: Access to federal contracting opportunities in New England Proximity to defense and critical infrastructure employers

#3Saint Michael's CollegeColchester, VT

Hakia insight. Saint Michael's College offers a dual-degree pathway in Information Systems that emphasizes liberal arts integration, positioning graduates for leadership roles in mission-driven organizations where technical depth alone doesn't drive advancement.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Information Systems · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Information Systems · 4 years · online

Best Master's Information Systems programs

#1Norwich UniversityNorthfield, VT

Why it stands out. 100% online delivery for working professionals. Up to 12 semester credits transfer credit accepted from other institutions

Hakia insight. Norwich's 12-credit transfer acceptance policy for an online master's is unusually generous; combined with DoD Cyber Institute credentials, working professionals can compress a 36-credit degree to 24 months while building directly on prior certifications.

Norwich University's Master of Science in Information Systems is a fully online graduate program designed for working professionals seeking technical and managerial advancement in IT. The program prepares graduates for roles such as systems analyst, information architect, database administrator, chief information officer, and project manager. Students develop competencies in full development life cycle management, strategic IT alignment, resource management, and quantitative data analysis. The curriculum emphasizes both technical problem-solving and organizational leadership. The program accepts transfer credits (up to 12 semester credits from other institutions), making it accessible for professionals with prior graduate coursework. As an online format, the program accommodates full-time professionals balancing work and education.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Information Systems · 1-2 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • Center for Cybersecurity and Forensics Education and Research (CyFER) — Cybersecurity and digital forensics education and research
  • Department of Defense Cyber Institute — Cyber and AI leadership development for DoD professionals

Industry partners

Department of DefenseRaytheon TechnologiesNorthrop Grumman

Notable faculty

  • Dr. Michael Battig (Cybersecurity and cyber institute leadership)
  • Col. Sharon Hamilton, Ph.D., U.S. Army (Ret.) (Strategic partnerships and cyber leadership development)
  • Huw O. L. Read (Cybersecurity and forensics research)

Admissions

GPA 2.75. Deadline Application deadlines vary by session (e.g. February 27, 2026 for Spring B).

Accreditation & certifications

National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cybersecurity Cyber Defense (CAE-CD)New England Commission of Higher Education

Location advantage: Access to federal contracting opportunities in New England Proximity to defense and critical infrastructure employers