- 1.Hakia ranks the best information technology degree programs in 2026 — information Technology professionals earn a median salary of $104,600/year, with 15% job growth projected through 2032—much faster than average.
- 2.Our top-ranked information technology programs are Carnegie Mellon University, University of California-Berkeley, and University of Washington-Seattle Campus—selected based on graduation rates, program size, and career outcomes.
- 3.Best value: University of Central Florida offers information technology degrees at just $4,478/year with a 93% graduation rate.
- 4.556 accredited information technology programs available nationwide, with options at every degree level from associate's to doctoral.
- 5.Entry-level positions typically require a bachelor's degree; master's degrees unlock senior roles with 20-40% higher salaries and leadership opportunities.
Source: BLS OEWS 2024, IPEDS 2023
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 10
These are the best information technology programs in the United States based on our comprehensive methodology that considers graduation rates, program size, institutional reputation, and career outcomes. Rankings are updated annually using data from IPEDS and BLS.
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 10
Carnegie Mellon University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
CMU's IT programs uniquely leverage the university's position as birthplace of many transformational technologies—from artificial intelligence and robotics to machine learning and neural networks—providing students unparalleled access to the researchers and labs where tomorrow's digital innovations are created today.
Carnegie Mellon University Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks Carnegie Mellon University as the #1 in information technology degree program.
Carnegie Mellon University's Information Technology program graduates 847 students annually with a 98% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the CyLab Security and Privacy Institute and Language Technologies Institute. Access to Pittsburgh's growing tech corridor Graduates find positions at Oracle, Microsoft, Barclays.
Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon University leverages partnerships with Oracle and Microsoft to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Cutting-edge security and privacy research with experts from multiple disciplines collaborating on AI security, IoT devices, and blockchain
Natural language processing, computational linguistics, machine translation, speech processing, and multimodal computing
Political science and international relations with focus on technology strategy and governance
Location Advantages
- •Access to Pittsburgh's growing tech corridor
- •Strong connections to government contractors and consulting firms
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Oracle, Microsoft, Barclays, Deloitte, Apple
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-Berkeley
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Berkeley's School of Information is uniquely positioned as both a global bellwether in information science and a bridge between world-class laboratory research and Silicon Valley innovation, with deep connections to state policymakers and the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
University of California-Berkeley Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #2 in information technology degree program.
University of California-Berkeley's Information Technology program graduates 599 students annually with a 96% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Center for Long-Term Cybersecurity (CLTC) and Center for Technology, Society & Policy. Located in UC Berkeley's South Hall
Hakia Insight: Located in UC Berkeley's South Hall
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Long-term cybersecurity research and policy
Technology policy and societal impact research
Biosensing and health technology research
Location Advantages
- •Located in UC Berkeley's South Hall
- •Deep ties to Silicon Valley innovation ecosystem
- •Connections to state and national policymakers
- •Access to San Francisco Bay Area tech companies
Career Outcomes
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UW's Information School uniquely combines technical expertise with social science perspectives, offering one of the few undergraduate programs that equally emphasizes the human side of technology alongside technical skills, while UW Tacoma provides the only ABET-accredited IT program in the region with mandatory industry internships.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #3 in information technology degree program.
University of Washington-Seattle Campus's Information Technology program graduates 405 students annually with a 97% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Center for Materials and Devices for Information Technology Research and Clean Energy Institute. Access to Seattle's thriving tech ecosystem Graduates find positions at Amazon, Microsoft, Meta.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Washington-Seattle Campus benefit from active collaborations with Amazon and Microsoft, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Interdisciplinary research and education in information technology materials and devices
Next-generation solar energy, battery materials and devices, and grid integration
Transform conventional and quantum optoelectronics through atomically-precise semiconductor materials
Complex nanomaterials for information processing, sensing, energy, and research tools
Scalable software libraries for simulating molecular structures on extreme-scale computing systems
Data-intensive discovery and data science techniques for large, complex, and noisy data
Design, fabrication, and integration of scalable nano-engineered devices and systems
Location Advantages
- •Access to Seattle's thriving tech ecosystem
- •Proximity to major technology companies like Amazon and Microsoft
- •Connection to Pacific Northwest National Laboratory
- •Access to Boeing Advanced Research Center
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Salesforce, DocuSign
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Illinois operates one of the nation's premier information schools with a unique interdisciplinary approach that combines advanced technical skills with deep understanding of organizational and social challenges, producing graduates who work at major tech companies and organizations worldwide.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as the #4 in information technology degree program.
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's Information Technology program graduates 601 students annually with a 90% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Coordinated Science Laboratory and Illinois Quantum Information Science and Technology Center. Located in Champaign-Urbana tech corridor with strong industry connections Graduates find positions at JP Morgan Chase & Co., Walmart Global Tech, Boston Red Sox.
Hakia Insight: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's industry network — including United Airlines and Twitch — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Information technology at the crossroads of circuits, computing, control, and communications
Quantum computing and information science research
Location Advantages
- •Located in Champaign-Urbana tech corridor with strong industry connections
- •Access to major research facilities and quantum computing initiatives
- •140 miles south of Chicago providing access to major tech employers
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
JP Morgan Chase & Co., Walmart Global Tech, Boston Red Sox
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Maryland-College Park
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UMD is #1 in the USA for producing computer science and information science bachelor's degrees among non-online universities, with unique access to 400+ top industry partners and federal agencies in the National Capital Region including NSA, NIST, and the Laboratory for Physical Sciences.
University of Maryland-College Park Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Maryland-College Park as the #5 in information technology degree program.
University of Maryland-College Park's Information Technology program graduates 661 students annually with a 84% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Center for Digital Innovation, Technology & Strategy and Center for Advanced Transportation Technology Laboratory. Heart of National Capital Region with access to federal agencies Graduates find positions at IBM, Google, Library of Congress.
Hakia Insight: University of Maryland-College Park's direct partnerships with IBM and Google give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Digital innovation and technology strategy
Transportation big data and data analytics
Human-computer interaction research and teaching
Understanding human behavior in urban environments using crowdsourced data
Big data, computer vision, healthcare, and financial transactions
Individual and group behavior in economic environments
Computer vision and language and media processing
Survey methods, measurement, information management, and analytics
Artificial intelligence applications for industrial use
Location Advantages
- •Heart of National Capital Region with access to federal agencies
- •Proximity to NSA, NIST, NASA Goddard, and Department of Defense
- •Strong government contractor presence including Lockheed Martin, Booz Allen Hamilton
- •Access to major tech companies like Amazon Web Services and IBM
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
IBM, Google, Library of Congress, National Archives, Smithsonian
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Cornell University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Cornell pioneered the interdisciplinary study of information science with its unique approach of examining technology through social, cultural, and human lenses - combining technical mastery with critical thinking about technology's impact on society.
Cornell University Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks Cornell University as the #6 in information technology degree program.
Cornell University's Information Technology program graduates 184 students annually with a 95% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Artificial Intelligence and Business & Entrepreneurship. Dual-campus advantage with Ithaca's research environment and Cornell Tech's NYC innovation ecosystem
Hakia Insight: Students at Cornell University benefit from active collaborations with Google and Amazon, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
AI research
business applications
data science
human-computer interaction
technology law
design and prototyping
cybersecurity
ethical technology
Location Advantages
- •Dual-campus advantage with Ithaca's research environment and Cornell Tech's NYC innovation ecosystem
- •Access to New York City tech industry through Cornell Tech campus on Roosevelt Island
- •Strong connections to both academic research and startup communities
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Michigan's School of Information provides top-ranked IT education with exceptional industry connections and career placement rates.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Michigan-Ann Arbor as the #7 in information technology degree program.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's Information Technology program graduates 279 students annually with a 92% graduation rate. Students benefit from cutting-edge research at the Interaction Design Lab. Top-5 iSchool nationally
Hakia Insight: With a 18% acceptance rate, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's information technology program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
IT user experience
Location Advantages
- •Top-5 iSchool nationally
- •Strong tech recruitment
- •Automotive industry connections
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of California-San Diego
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UCSD's CSE program operates within the prestigious Jacobs School of Engineering at a top-10 public university, offering unique access to cutting-edge research facilities including the Qualcomm Institute Innovation Space where students can collaborate directly with industry startups and established companies in a 6,000-square-foot incubation facility.
University of California-San Diego Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #8 in information technology degree program.
University of California-San Diego's Information Technology program graduates 207 students annually with a 81% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Computer Vision and Graphics Lab and Systems and Networking Group. La Jolla campus proximity to major tech companies Graduates find positions at Google, Microsoft, Qualcomm.
Hakia Insight: University of California-San Diego graduates earn $95,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Computer vision and graphics
Computer systems and networking
Location Advantages
- •La Jolla campus proximity to major tech companies
- •Access to Qualcomm Institute's industry collaboration network
- •Integration with broader UC San Diego research ecosystem
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Qualcomm, Amazon, Facebook
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Central Florida
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
UCF's IT program uniquely positions students at America's Space University, where they contribute to groundbreaking space technologies and work alongside NASA partnerships, while being embedded in Central Florida Research Park with over 12,300 employees collaborating on cutting-edge projects.
University of Central Florida Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Central Florida as the #9 in information technology degree program.
University of Central Florida's Information Technology program graduates 299 students annually with a 93% graduation rate. Students benefit from cutting-edge research at the Center for Research in Computer Vision. Central Florida Research Park proximity with 12,300+ employees
Hakia Insight: University of Central Florida leverages partnerships with NASA and Siemens to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Computer vision and artificial intelligence research
Location Advantages
- •Central Florida Research Park proximity with 12,300+ employees
- •America's Space University designation with NASA partnerships
- •Orlando's growing tech corridor
- •Major defense contractors presence including Lockheed Martin and L3Harris
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Admissions
Syracuse University
Doctoral: Very High Research (R1)
Syracuse University's iSchool boasts the highest job placement rate (96%) and starting salaries of any school at the university, with graduates earning an average of $80,243 upon graduation - significantly above the national average for IT programs.
Syracuse University Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks Syracuse University as the #10 in information technology degree program.
Syracuse University's Information Technology program graduates 166 students annually with a 99% graduation rate. Research opportunities include the Building Energy and Environmental Systems Lab (BEESL) and Smart Grid & Power System Research Lab. Access to Syracuse Technology Garden downtown incubator Graduates find positions at Technology consulting firms, Healthcare organizations, Financial services.
Hakia Insight: Syracuse University's industry network — including Microsoft and Amazon — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Indoor environmental quality, building energy efficiency, and building protection technologies
Solar and wind integration into smart grid systems and emerging grid challenges
Computer vision, embedded systems, sensor networks, and wireless technologies
Location Advantages
- •Access to Syracuse Technology Garden downtown incubator
- •CNY Innovation Crossroads district proximity
- •Central New York's growing tech ecosystem
- •Strong regional employer network in healthcare, finance, and government
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Technology consulting firms, Healthcare organizations, Financial services, Government agencies, Sports and entertainment companies
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 10 — Complete Program Data
#1. Carnegie Mellon University Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks Carnegie Mellon University as the #1 in information technology degree program. Location: Pittsburgh, PA | Type: Private | Tuition: $62,260/year | Graduation Rate: 98% | Score: 100.0
What makes Carnegie Mellon University stand out: CMU's IT programs uniquely leverage the university's position as birthplace of many transformational technologies—from artificial intelligence and robotics to machine learning and neural networks—providing students unparalleled access to the researchers and labs where tomorrow's digital innovations are created today.
Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon University leverages partnerships with Oracle and Microsoft to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: Carnegie Mellon's Information Technology programs represent a convergence of the university's world-renowned computer science leadership with practical business applications and social impact. The flagship Information Systems (IS) undergraduate program, jointly offered between Heinz College and Dietrich College, combines rigorous technical training with humanities and social sciences to produce graduates who can envision and drive technological change in organizations. For graduate students, CMU offers the Master of Information Technology Strategy (MITS), a STEM-designated 12-16 month program that creates IT strategy leaders through four specialization tracks: Data Analytics, Information Security, Technology Strategy & Governance, and Software and Networked Systems. The Master of Science in Health Care Analytics & Information Technology (MSHCA) targets the rapidly growing healthcare informatics sector, while specialized programs through the Language Technologies Institute advance natural language processing and computational linguistics research. What sets CMU's IT programs apart is their integration across multiple top-tier colleges and institutes, allowing students unprecedented access to cutting-edge research in AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, and data science. The programs emphasize real-world application through required capstone projects where student teams partner with companies to solve strategic problems. With an average starting salary of nearly $120,000 for MITS graduates and strong placement rates across all programs, CMU's IT education combines academic rigor with immediate professional relevance in an increasingly digital world.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Information Systems (4 years); Master of Information Technology Strategy (MITS) (12-16 months); Master of Science in Health Care Analytics & Information Technology (MSHCA) (varies)
Research Labs: CyLab Security and Privacy Institute - Cutting-edge security and privacy research with experts from multiple disciplines collaborating on AI security, IoT devices, and blockchain; Language Technologies Institute - Natural language processing, computational linguistics, machine translation, speech processing, and multimodal computing; Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy & Technology - Political science and international relations with focus on technology strategy and governance
Industry Partners: Oracle, Microsoft, Apple, Google, ServiceNow, Barclays, Deloitte, DoorDash, Visa
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: Strong job market with high demand for IS students in recent years | Top Employers: Oracle, Microsoft, Barclays, Deloitte, Apple, Google, DoorDash, Visa | Common Roles: Data Scientists, Software Engineers, Military Cyber Operations Officers, AI and Machine Learning Engineers, Business Technology Analysts, Security Engineers
Notable Faculty: Joe Mertz (Faculty Director); Gary DiLisio (Director of Undergraduate Education); Dr. Mark Gardner (CMIST graduate program manager)
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum for MITS program
Accreditations: STEM-designated degree for MITS program
#2. University of California-Berkeley Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #2 in information technology degree program. Location: Berkeley, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 96% | Score: 100.0
What makes University of California-Berkeley stand out: Berkeley's School of Information is uniquely positioned as both a global bellwether in information science and a bridge between world-class laboratory research and Silicon Valley innovation, with deep connections to state policymakers and the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Hakia Insight: Located in UC Berkeley's South Hall
Program Overview: UC Berkeley's School of Information stands as a global bellwether in the information age, offering four graduate degrees that bridge technology with social impact. The Master of Information Management and Systems (MIMS) is a two-year full-time program based in the iconic South Hall, training interdisciplinary information professionals who combine computer science, cognitive science, psychology, economics, and policy. The Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) delivers a 20-month online program for working professionals, distinguished by its disciplinary breadth that goes beyond mathematics and modeling to include social science and policy research. The Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) is also a 20-month online program preparing cybersecurity leaders for complex challenges in both private and government sectors. The school also offers a Ph.D. in Information Science for next-generation scholars. What sets Berkeley's I School apart is its commitment to translating fundamental research into real-world solutions. The school houses several active research centers including the Center for Long-Term Cybersecurity (CLTC), the Center for Technology, Society & Policy, and the BioSENSE Lab. Faculty and doctoral students conduct cutting-edge research across areas from human-computer interaction to information policy, keeping the school at the vanguard of contemporary information needs. The school's location in the San Francisco Bay Area provides unparalleled access to Silicon Valley's innovation ecosystem while maintaining the rigorous academic standards of a top-tier research university.
Degree Programs: Master of Information Management and Systems (MIMS) (2 years); Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) (20 months); Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) (20 months); Ph.D. in Information Science (about 6 years)
Research Labs: Center for Long-Term Cybersecurity (CLTC) - Long-term cybersecurity research and policy; Center for Technology, Society & Policy - Technology policy and societal impact research; BioSENSE Lab - Biosensing and health technology research
Career Outcomes:
Notable Faculty: Dean Eric T. Meyer (information science leadership); Deirdre Mulligan (AI and tech governance); Joshua Blumenstock (AI for poverty reduction); David Bamman (digital humanities and AI)
Admissions:
#3. University of Washington-Seattle Campus Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #3 in information technology degree program. Location: Seattle, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,524/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 95.0
What makes University of Washington-Seattle Campus stand out: UW's Information School uniquely combines technical expertise with social science perspectives, offering one of the few undergraduate programs that equally emphasizes the human side of technology alongside technical skills, while UW Tacoma provides the only ABET-accredited IT program in the region with mandatory industry internships.
Hakia Insight: Students at University of Washington-Seattle Campus benefit from active collaborations with Amazon and Microsoft, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: The University of Washington's Information School offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Informatics, uniquely positioned at the intersection of people, information, and technology. Located in Mary Gates Hall, this program prepares students to design, build, manage, and secure information systems through an experiential learning approach emphasizing problem-solving, group work, and real-world applications. Students can choose from three specialized tracks: the standard Informatics degree, Biomedical and Health Informatics (developed in partnership with UW Medicine's BIME department), or Data Science. The curriculum combines technical skills with social science perspectives, requiring courses from computer science, statistics, and information architecture. Meanwhile, UW Tacoma offers an ABET-accredited Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, focusing on practical, application-based learning in system design, networking, security, and web development. This program emphasizes hands-on experience including mandatory internships and real-world problem-solving.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Information Technology; Master of Science in Information Systems; Master Supply Chain Management; PhD in Information Systems; PhD in Operations Management; Technology Management MBA; Full-time MBA
Research Labs: Center for Materials and Devices for Information Technology Research - Interdisciplinary research and education in information technology materials and devices; Clean Energy Institute - Next-generation solar energy, battery materials and devices, and grid integration; Center for Integration of Modern Optoelectronic Materials on Demand - Transform conventional and quantum optoelectronics through atomically-precise semiconductor materials; Molecular Engineering Materials Center - Complex nanomaterials for information processing, sensing, energy, and research tools; Center for Scalable Predictive Methods for Excitations and Correlated Phenomena - Scalable software libraries for simulating molecular structures on extreme-scale computing systems; eScience Institute - Data-intensive discovery and data science techniques for large, complex, and noisy data; Institute for Nano-Engineered Systems - Design, fabrication, and integration of scalable nano-engineered devices and systems
Industry Partners: Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, Google, Meta, Blue Origin, T-Mobile, lululemon, Costco, Expedia, Nintendo, Nordstrom, NVIDIA, PACCAR, Remitly, Starbucks, Zillow, Deloitte, Apple, EY, Nestlé USA, Salesforce
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 94% of MSIM alumni felt program prepared them for current role, 93% reported full-time employment after graduation | Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Meta, Salesforce, DocuSign, Epic Games, F5 Networks, Expedia, SAP, PwC | Common Roles: User Experience Designer, Business Analyst, Software Engineer, Data Analyst, Product Manager, Technical Program Manager, Information Security Analyst, Database Administrator
Notable Faculty: Dr. Yong Tan (Information Systems and Operations Management)
Admissions: GPA: 2.0 minimum cumulative GPA, 2.0 minimum in each prerequisite course | Acceptance Rate: Capacity constrained - competitive admission
Accreditations: ABET Accredited (UW Tacoma IT program)
#4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as the #4 in information technology degree program. Location: Champaign, IL | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,768/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 92.8
What makes University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign stand out: Illinois operates one of the nation's premier information schools with a unique interdisciplinary approach that combines advanced technical skills with deep understanding of organizational and social challenges, producing graduates who work at major tech companies and organizations worldwide.
Hakia Insight: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign's industry network — including United Airlines and Twitch — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Overview: The University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign offers a robust Information Sciences program through its highly regarded School of Information Sciences (iSchool), featuring both undergraduate and graduate pathways in information technology and data management. The flagship MS in Information Management (MSIM) is a flexible 40-credit hour program that can be completed in 18-24 months, emphasizing the intersection of people, information, and technology. Students can customize their degree through various pathways including Data Science and Analytics, and Knowledge Management and Information Consulting. The program boasts impressive outcomes with 96% of graduates receiving job offers within 3 months at an average starting salary of $109K. The iSchool also offers specialized programs like MS in Information Sciences, MS in Bioinformatics, and various certificate programs, all taught by nationally recognized faculty who are leaders in information science research.
Degree Programs: MS in Information Management (18-24 months); MS in Information Sciences (2 years); BS in Information Sciences (4 years); MS in Bioinformatics (2 years)
Research Labs: Coordinated Science Laboratory - Information technology at the crossroads of circuits, computing, control, and communications; Illinois Quantum Information Science and Technology Center - Quantum computing and information science research
Industry Partners: United Airlines, Twitch, JP Morgan Chase & Co, Boston Red Sox
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 96% within 3 months | Top Employers: JP Morgan Chase & Co., Walmart Global Tech, Boston Red Sox | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Data Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Software Engineer, Product Manager, Consultant
Notable Faculty: Dr. Jingrui He (AI, machine learning, information consulting)
Admissions:
Accreditations: STEM-designated programs
#5. University of Maryland-College Park Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of Maryland-College Park as the #5 in information technology degree program. Location: College Park, MD | Type: Public | Tuition: $9,889/year | Graduation Rate: 84% | Score: 84.9
What makes University of Maryland-College Park stand out: UMD is #1 in the USA for producing computer science and information science bachelor's degrees among non-online universities, with unique access to 400+ top industry partners and federal agencies in the National Capital Region including NSA, NIST, and the Laboratory for Physical Sciences.
Hakia Insight: University of Maryland-College Park's direct partnerships with IBM and Google give students a competitive edge through industry-embedded projects and recruiting pipelines.
Program Overview: The University of Maryland-College Park offers a comprehensive Information Technology ecosystem through its College of Information Studies (iSchool) and Robert H. Smith School of Business. The flagship program is the Bachelor of Science in Information Science (InfoSci), a 4-year degree requiring 120 credits that uniquely blends technical skills in database design, cybersecurity, and web development with social sciences and humanities. The program stands out for its hands-on learning approach with over 400 industry partners and access to world-renowned research centers. For graduate students, the Smith School offers both in-person and online Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) programs - a 3-semester, 30-credit STEM-designated degree that focuses on AI, data analytics, and business-technology leadership. What sets UMD apart is its strategic location in the National Capital Region, surrounded by federal agencies like NSA, NIST, and major tech firms. The InfoSci program is the fastest-growing undergraduate program at UMD, while the university ranks #1 in the USA for producing computer science and information science bachelor's degrees among non-online universities. Students benefit from partnerships with the Laboratory for Physical Sciences, quantum computing initiatives, and direct access to government and industry professionals who regularly engage in curriculum development and project collaboration.
Degree Programs: Bachelors in Information Technology; Information Systems Major (4 years); Operations Management & Business Analytics Major (4 years); MS in Information Systems; MS in Business Analytics; Online MS in Business Analytics; PhD Program
Research Labs: Center for Digital Innovation, Technology & Strategy - Digital innovation and technology strategy; Center for Advanced Transportation Technology Laboratory - Transportation big data and data analytics; Human Computer Interaction Lab - Human-computer interaction research and teaching; Urban Computing Lab - Understanding human behavior in urban environments using crowdsourced data; Center for Machine Learning - Big data, computer vision, healthcare, and financial transactions; Experimental Economics Laboratory - Individual and group behavior in economic environments; Center for Automation Research - Computer vision and language and media processing; Social Data Science Center - Survey methods, measurement, information management, and analytics; Industrial AI Center - Artificial intelligence applications for industrial use
Industry Partners: IBM, Google, CIA, National Archives, Smithsonian, Library of Congress, Laboratory for Physical Sciences, National Institute of Standards and Technology
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: IBM, Google, Library of Congress, National Archives, Smithsonian, CIA, IMF, Discovery Channel, New York Times, National Geographic, Amazon, Salesforce, Capital One, Deloitte | Common Roles: Data Scientist, Database Administrator, User Experience Designer, Cybersecurity Specialist, Web Developer, Systems Architect, Business Intelligence Analyst
Notable Faculty: Siva Viswanathan (Platform design, social media and network analytics, information economics and the sharing economy); Sujin Kim (Simulation methodology and stochastic simulation-based optimization in electric power and health service systems); Lauren Rhue (Economic and social implications of technology platforms in minority communities)
Admissions: GPA: 3.5 average GPA for MSIS program
Accreditations: #18 in USA as Public Research Institution (NSF HERD Survey), #7 in USA as University for Undergraduate Entrepreneurship (The Princeton Review), #7 in Management Information Systems, Public Universities (U.S. News and World Report)
#6. Cornell University Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks Cornell University as the #6 in information technology degree program. Location: Ithaca, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $65,204/year | Graduation Rate: 95% | Score: 84.3
What makes Cornell University stand out: Cornell pioneered the interdisciplinary study of information science with its unique approach of examining technology through social, cultural, and human lenses - combining technical mastery with critical thinking about technology's impact on society.
Hakia Insight: Students at Cornell University benefit from active collaborations with Google and Amazon, connecting classroom learning to the workforce.
Program Overview: Cornell's Information Technology program spans multiple innovative degree pathways within the Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science, offering both technical depth and interdisciplinary breadth. The flagship Bachelor of Science in Information Science, Systems, and Technology, housed in Cornell Engineering, uniquely combines information systems engineering with human-centered design principles. Students can also pursue Information Science degrees through the College of Arts & Sciences (BA) or College of Agriculture and Life Sciences (BS), each with distinct interdisciplinary focuses. Cornell Tech in NYC extends these opportunities with cutting-edge master's programs that blend technical rigor with entrepreneurial training through their innovative Studio curriculum. The program distinguishes itself through its emphasis on the intersection of technology and humanity, offering specialized concentrations from Data Science and Interactive Technologies to Information Ethics and UX Design. Students engage with world-class research initiatives spanning artificial intelligence, human-computer interaction, and digital policy through centers like the Cornell Center for Data Science and the Program of Computer Graphics. With strong industry partnerships and a 90% employment rate for 2024 graduates earning a mean starting salary of $94,000, Cornell's IT programs prepare students to tackle real-world challenges where technology meets human needs.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Information Science, Systems, and Technology (4 years); Bachelor of Science in Information Science (4 years); Bachelor of Arts in Information Science (4 years); Master of Professional Studies in Information Science (Variable); PhD in Information Science (Variable)
Research Labs: Artificial Intelligence - AI research; Business & Entrepreneurship - business applications; Data & Modeling - data science; Human-Centered Computing - human-computer interaction; Law & Policy - technology law; MakerLAB - design and prototyping; Security & Privacy - cybersecurity; Technology, Society, & Ethics - ethical technology
Industry Partners: Google, Amazon, Facebook, Microsoft, Bloomberg, Uber, The New York Times, Oscar Health, ZocDoc
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 90% employed or in graduate school within 6 months
Admissions:
#7. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of Michigan-Ann Arbor as the #7 in information technology degree program. Location: Ann Arbor, MI | Type: Public | Tuition: $17,977/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 83.0
What makes University of Michigan-Ann Arbor stand out: Michigan's School of Information provides top-ranked IT education with exceptional industry connections and career placement rates.
Hakia Insight: With a 18% acceptance rate, University of Michigan-Ann Arbor's information technology program is among the nation's most competitive, attracting top talent to its nationally recognized faculty.
Program Overview: University of Michigan offers comprehensive information technology education through its School of Information. The program emphasizes practical IT skills alongside theoretical foundations, preparing students for diverse technology careers. Michigan's reputation and industry connections provide strong career outcomes for graduates.
Degree Programs: BSI User Experience Design (4 years); MSI (2 years)
Research Labs: Interaction Design Lab - IT user experience
Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta
Career Outcomes:
Notable Faculty: Barzan Mozafari (Database systems, query optimization, and data management)
Admissions: | Acceptance Rate: 18%
Accreditations: ABET accredited
#8. University of California-San Diego Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #8 in information technology degree program. Location: La Jolla, CA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,834/year | Graduation Rate: 81% | Score: 79.9
What makes University of California-San Diego stand out: UCSD's CSE program operates within the prestigious Jacobs School of Engineering at a top-10 public university, offering unique access to cutting-edge research facilities including the Qualcomm Institute Innovation Space where students can collaborate directly with industry startups and established companies in a 6,000-square-foot incubation facility.
Hakia Insight: University of California-San Diego graduates earn $95,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
Program Overview: UC San Diego's Department of Computer Science and Engineering offers comprehensive Master of Science programs that reflect the university's position as one of the world's top 15 research institutions. Students can pursue either a Computer Science or Computer Engineering major through three distinct pathways: the traditional Thesis Plan for research-focused students, the Comprehensive Standard Plan for industry preparation, or the innovative Comprehensive Interdisciplinary Plan that integrates coursework from other departments. The program is structured around rigorous Breadth requirements spanning Theory, Systems, and Applications, plus specialized Depth requirements that ensure expertise in chosen research areas. What sets UCSD apart is its flexibility - these programs accommodate both full-time students and working professionals, with part-time options available for industry practitioners who want to advance their careers while maintaining employment.
Degree Programs: MS in Computer Science and Engineering - Thesis Plan (2 years); MS in Computer Science and Engineering - Comprehensive Standard (2 years); MS in Computer Science and Engineering - Comprehensive Interdisciplinary (2 years)
Research Labs: Computer Vision and Graphics Lab - Computer vision and graphics; Systems and Networking Group - Computer systems and networking
Industry Partners: Comhear, Inc., Technosylva, RAM Photonics LLC
Career Outcomes: | Top Employers: Google, Microsoft, Qualcomm, Amazon, Facebook | Common Roles: Software Engineer, Research Scientist, Data Scientist, Product Manager
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum for good academic standing
Accreditations: ABET accredited
#9. University of Central Florida Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of Central Florida as the #9 in information technology degree program. Location: Orlando, FL | Type: Public | Tuition: $4,478/year | Graduation Rate: 93% | Score: 78.9
What makes University of Central Florida stand out: UCF's IT program uniquely positions students at America's Space University, where they contribute to groundbreaking space technologies and work alongside NASA partnerships, while being embedded in Central Florida Research Park with over 12,300 employees collaborating on cutting-edge projects.
Hakia Insight: University of Central Florida leverages partnerships with NASA and Siemens to offer students real-world project experience valued by employers.
Program Overview: The University of Central Florida's Information Technology program is housed within the College of Engineering and Computer Science, ranking as the third most popular major by enrollment in that college. The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BS IT) combines technical depth with practical application, preparing students for the rapidly evolving tech landscape. Students gain hands-on experience through a structured internship program that allows junior and senior-level students to earn academic credit while working 10-20 hours per week with industry partners for one semester. The program requires foundational courses in database concepts, object-oriented programming, computer science fundamentals, and discrete mathematics, building a solid technical foundation that bridges theory and practice.
Degree Programs: Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (4 years)
Research Labs: Center for Research in Computer Vision - Computer vision and artificial intelligence research
Industry Partners: NASA, Siemens, Lockheed Martin, L3Harris Technologies
Career Outcomes: | Common Roles: Information Technology Specialist, Systems Analyst, Database Administrator, IT Project Manager
Admissions: GPA: 3.0 minimum for internship eligibility
#10. Syracuse University Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks Syracuse University as the #10 in information technology degree program. Location: Syracuse, NY | Type: Private | Tuition: $61,310/year | Graduation Rate: 99% | Score: 78.6
What makes Syracuse University stand out: Syracuse University's iSchool boasts the highest job placement rate (96%) and starting salaries of any school at the university, with graduates earning an average of $80,243 upon graduation - significantly above the national average for IT programs.
Hakia Insight: Syracuse University's industry network — including Microsoft and Amazon — provides students with internship and hiring pathways.
Program Overview: Syracuse University's Information Management and Technology program, housed within the renowned iSchool, offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science degree that bridges the critical gap between technical expertise and business acumen. This 4-year, 120-credit program prepares students to lead digital transformation across industries through hands-on experience with data-driven decision-making, secure information systems, and scalable cloud computing. The program stands out with its mandatory international experience requirement and six specialized concentrations including Data Science, Information Security Management, and Innovation, Design & Startups. Students benefit from real-world learning through partnerships with companies like EY, Synchrony, and Adobe, who collaborate directly on coursework involving actual ethical cases and industry challenges.
Degree Programs: B.S. in Information Management and Technology (4 years)
Research Labs: Building Energy and Environmental Systems Lab (BEESL) - Indoor environmental quality, building energy efficiency, and building protection technologies; Smart Grid & Power System Research Lab - Solar and wind integration into smart grid systems and emerging grid challenges; Smart Vision Systems Lab - Computer vision, embedded systems, sensor networks, and wireless technologies
Industry Partners: Microsoft, Amazon, Disney, KPMG, EY, Synchrony, Adobe
Career Outcomes: Placement Rate: 96% for 2024 graduates | Top Employers: Technology consulting firms, Healthcare organizations, Financial services, Government agencies, Sports and entertainment companies | Common Roles: Data Analyst, Technology Consultant, Cyber Security Advisory Associate, Project Manager, Data Engineer, Global Technology Analyst
Admissions:
Our rankings methodology weighs program strength (25%), graduation rate (20%), career outcomes (15%), institutional quality (12%), industry recognition (10%), selectivity (10%), and data transparency (8%). Learn more about our methodology →
Who Should Study Information Technology?
Information technology is ideal for students who enjoy hands-on work with technology, prefer practical problem-solving over theoretical concepts, and want to work directly with systems that support business operations. You don't need extensive programming background—IT focuses more on configuration, administration, and troubleshooting than software development.
- Hands-on learners who prefer configuring systems over writing code from scratch
- Problem solvers who enjoy troubleshooting and fixing technology issues
- Organized thinkers who can manage complex infrastructure and documentation
- People-focused technologists who want to support users and business operations
- Career-focused students seeking stable, well-paying jobs with clear advancement paths
IT is perfect for students who want technology careers without heavy mathematics requirements. While some programming is taught, the emphasis is on using and managing existing systems rather than building new software from scratch.
Information Technology Degree Levels Compared
IT degrees are available at multiple levels, each designed for different career goals and experience levels. Many programs integrate industry certifications into coursework.
Information Technology Programs by Degree Level
2-year programs for career entry or transfer to bachelor's programs
Top-ranked undergraduate programs nationwide
Top graduate programs for specialization and advancement
PhD programs for research and academic careers
Flexible online programs for working professionals
Best Information Technology Programs - Bachelor's
A bachelor's degree in information technology is the standard credential for entry-level positions. These 4-year programs provide comprehensive training and hands-on experience.
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 3 Bachelor's
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
319 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 92.5
Carnegie Mellon University
63 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 85.6
University of Maryland-College Park
661 graduates, 84% grad rate, Score: 84.9
4. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 84.3, Tuition: $65,204
5. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) - Score: 79.9, Tuition: $11,834
6. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 79.4, Tuition: $14,768
7. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI) - Score: 79.0, Tuition: $17,977
8. University of Central Florida (Orlando, FL) - Score: 78.9, Tuition: $4,478
9. Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY) - Score: 78.6, Tuition: $61,310
10. Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus (University Park, PA) - Score: 77.9, Tuition: $19,672
Best Information Technology Programs - Master's
A master's degree in information technology prepares students for senior and specialized roles. These 1-2 year programs offer advanced expertise and leadership training.
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 3 Master's
Carnegie Mellon University
847 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of California-Berkeley
599 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
405 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 95.0
4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 92.8, Tuition: $14,768
5. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 83.9, Tuition: $65,204
6. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI) - Score: 83.0, Tuition: $17,977
7. Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY) - Score: 77.7, Tuition: $61,310
8. The University of Texas at Dallas (Richardson, TX) - Score: 75.8, Tuition: $14,564
9. University of Maryland-College Park (College Park, MD) - Score: 74.4, Tuition: $9,889
10. University at Buffalo (Buffalo, NY) - Score: 73.4, Tuition: $7,070
Best Information Technology Programs - Online
Online information technology programs offer flexibility for working professionals. Top accredited programs provide the same curriculum quality as on-campus alternatives.
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 3 Online
University of California-Berkeley
599 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 100.0
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
319 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 92.5
Carnegie Mellon University
63 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 85.6
4. University of Maryland-College Park (College Park, MD) - Score: 84.9, Tuition: $9,889
5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 84.4, Tuition: $14,768
6. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 84.3, Tuition: $65,204
7. University of California-San Diego (La Jolla, CA) - Score: 79.9, Tuition: $11,834
8. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI) - Score: 79.0, Tuition: $17,977
9. University of Central Florida (Orlando, FL) - Score: 78.9, Tuition: $4,478
10. Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY) - Score: 78.6, Tuition: $61,310
Best Information Technology Programs - Associate's
An associate's degree in information technology provides a 2-year pathway into the field. These programs are ideal for career starters or those planning to transfer to a 4-year program.
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 3 Associate's
Keiser University-Ft Lauderdale
171 graduates, 84% grad rate, Score: 57.7
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
14 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 56.1
Utah State University
4 graduates, 100% grad rate, Score: 51.5
4. Columbia Basin College (Pasco, WA) - Score: 50.9, Tuition: $5,514
5. The University of Montana (Missoula, MT) - Score: 50.2, Tuition: $5,736
6. Florida State College at Jacksonville (Jacksonville, FL) - Score: 49.5, Tuition: $2,095
7. University of Cincinnati-Blue Ash College (Blue Ash, OH) - Score: 49.4, Tuition: $6,161
8. MiraCosta College (Oceanside, CA) - Score: 48.2, Tuition: $1,104
9. Valencia College (Orlando, FL) - Score: 48.1, Tuition: $1,984
10. Dakota State University (Madison, SD) - Score: 47.4, Tuition: $7,616
Best Information Technology Programs - Graduate
Graduate programs in information technology (PhD and doctoral degrees) prepare students for research, academic, and senior leadership positions.
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 3 Graduate
Carnegie Mellon University
12 graduates, 98% grad rate, Score: 85.4
University of California-Berkeley
3 graduates, 96% grad rate, Score: 82.8
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
13 graduates, 97% grad rate, Score: 81.5
4. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign (Champaign, IL) - Score: 75.7, Tuition: $14,768
5. Cornell University (Ithaca, NY) - Score: 75.7, Tuition: $65,204
6. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor (Ann Arbor, MI) - Score: 74.6, Tuition: $17,977
7. Syracuse University (Syracuse, NY) - Score: 71.2, Tuition: $61,310
8. University of Maryland-College Park (College Park, MD) - Score: 67.0, Tuition: $9,889
9. University of California-Los Angeles (Los Angeles, CA) - Score: 65.9, Tuition: $11,834
10. George Mason University (Fairfax, VA) - Score: 65.8, Tuition: $10,095
Most Affordable Information Technology Programs
Looking for quality information technology education without the hefty price tag? These programs offer the best value—balancing tuition costs with strong academic outcomes and career prospects. Our Value Score factors in graduation rates, program strength, and institutional quality relative to cost.
Top 5 Most Affordable Information Technology Programs
| Rank | Institution | Location | Tuition | Value Score | Grad Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | $4,478 | 157.8 | 93% |
| 2 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | $4,559 | 148.4 | 85% |
| 3 | Florida State University | Tallahassee, FL | $4,640 | 130.8 | — |
| 4 | University of North Carolina at Charlotte | Charlotte, NC | $3,812 | 125.8 | 76% |
| 5 | Kennesaw State University | Kennesaw, GA | $4,450 | 123.6 | 66% |
Information Technology Career Outcomes
IT graduates enter a diverse field with strong job security and growth prospects. The BLS projects 15% overall growth for computer and information technology occupations through 2032—much faster than average. IT careers span from hands-on technical roles to management positions overseeing technology strategy.
Career Paths
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Configure, manage, and maintain computer networks, ensuring reliable connectivity and performance.
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational information systems from security threats and cyber attacks.
Computer Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Install, configure, and maintain computer systems and servers for organizations.
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Design, implement, and maintain database systems to store and organize organizational data.
IT Manager
SOC 11-3021Plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization.
Computer Support Specialist
SOC 15-1232Provide technical assistance and support for computer systems, hardware, and software.
Information Technology Curriculum Overview
IT programs emphasize practical, hands-on learning with real-world technology systems. Coursework balances technical skills with business understanding and communication abilities essential for supporting organizational technology needs.
- Networking Fundamentals: TCP/IP, routing, switching, network design and troubleshooting
- Operating Systems: Windows Server, Linux administration, virtualization technologies
- Database Systems: SQL, database design, backup and recovery, data management
- Cybersecurity: Security principles, risk assessment, incident response, compliance
- Cloud Computing: AWS, Azure, Google Cloud platform administration and migration
- Project Management: IT project lifecycle, budgeting, vendor management, team leadership
- Help Desk & Support: Troubleshooting methodology, customer service, ticketing systems
Most programs integrate industry certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and vendor-specific credentials from Microsoft, Cisco, or Amazon. Many require capstone projects, internships, or practicum experiences. For detailed curriculum breakdown, see our IT curriculum guide.
Information Technology Programs by State
Information Technology vs Related Fields
IT focuses on managing and maintaining technology infrastructure rather than creating new software. IT professionals ensure systems run reliably, users can work productively, and organizations can leverage technology effectively.
The skill set emphasizes breadth over depth—IT professionals need working knowledge of networking, security, databases, operating systems, cloud services, and end-user support. This generalist approach suits people who enjoy variety and problem-solving across different technical domains.
IT career paths often lead to management earlier than development roles. IT managers, directors, and CIOs need to understand technology broadly, communicate with non-technical stakeholders, and align technology with business goals—skills IT programs emphasize.
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- You prefer managing and maintaining technology over creating it
- You want hands-on work with networks, servers, and infrastructure
- You enjoy troubleshooting and supporting business operations
- You prefer practical skills over theoretical computer science
- You want to develop software and create new technology
- You enjoy algorithms, programming, and mathematical problem-solving
- You want maximum career flexibility across tech roles
- You're comfortable with theoretical foundations and abstract thinking
- You're specifically interested in protecting systems from threats
- You want to specialize in security analysis and incident response
- You're detail-oriented and enjoy investigating security breaches
- You want to work in the fastest-growing area of IT
- You want to bridge technology and business strategy
- You're interested in data analysis and business intelligence
- You prefer business applications of technology over infrastructure
- You want management and consulting opportunities
Is an Information Technology Degree Worth It?
For most students interested in technology careers, yes. IT offers excellent job security, competitive salaries, and clear career progression paths. Unlike some tech fields, IT has consistent demand across all industries since every organization needs technology infrastructure and support.
When it's worth it: You enjoy hands-on technology work, prefer practical problem-solving, and want stable career prospects with advancement opportunities. IT degrees provide structured learning, industry connections, and credential recognition that self-taught paths often lack.
Consider alternatives if: You're primarily interested in software development (consider computer science or coding bootcamps), you have extensive IT experience and just need certifications, or you're certain about a specific specialization like cybersecurity.
The combination of steady 15% job growth, $101,510 median salary, and 377,500 annual job openings makes IT degrees one of the most reliable paths to middle-class technology careers.
Alternative Paths to IT Careers
While an IT degree provides comprehensive preparation, alternative paths exist for those with different goals, timelines, or experience levels
- Industry Certifications — CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and vendor-specific credentials
- CompTIA A+ Certification Guide — Entry-level hardware and software fundamentals
- CompTIA Network+ Guide — Networking skills for infrastructure roles
- CompTIA Security+ Guide — Security fundamentals for all IT roles
- AWS Certifications Roadmap — Cloud skills for modern infrastructure
- CISSP Certification Guide — Advanced security for senior roles
Many IT professionals combine formal education with certifications throughout their careers. Starting with certifications while pursuing a degree can accelerate career entry and provide practical experience employers value.
Coding Bootcamps: An Alternative Pathway
Coding bootcamps offer an accelerated pathway into information technology careers. For those considering alternatives to traditional degrees, here's what you need to know about this intensive learning format.
What is a Coding Bootcamp?
A coding bootcamp is an intensive, short-term training program (typically 12-24 weeks) that teaches practical programming skills through hands-on projects. Unlike traditional degrees, bootcamps focus exclusively on job-ready skills and often include career services to help graduates land their first tech role.
Who Bootcamps Are Best For
- Career changers looking to enter tech quickly
- Professionals wanting to upskill or transition roles
- Self-taught developers seeking structured training
- Those unable to commit to a 4-year degree timeline
What People Love
Based on discussions from r/codingbootcamp, r/cscareerquestions, and r/learnprogramming
- Fast-track to employment—many graduates land jobs within 3-6 months
- Hands-on, project-based learning builds real portfolio pieces
- Career services and interview prep included in most programs
- Strong alumni networks for job referrals and mentorship
- Structured curriculum keeps you accountable and on track
Common Concerns
Honest feedback from bootcamp graduates and industry professionals
- Intense pace can be overwhelming—expect 60-80 hour weeks
- Some employers still prefer traditional CS degrees for certain roles
- Quality varies widely between programs—research carefully
- Job placement stats can be misleading—ask for CIRR audited reports
- May lack depth in computer science fundamentals like algorithms
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Programs for Information Technology careers:
- Software Engineering Career Track
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More Bootcamp Resources
Information Technology Degree FAQ
Related Resources
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.