Best Associate's Information Technology Degree Programs in Arizona
University of Phoenix-Arizona — Phoenix, AZ
Key Distinction: Competency-based progression and accelerated timelines for experienced IT professionals seeking degree completion without traditional academic pacing constraints.
Hakia Insight: University of Phoenix's competency-based model means you can finish faster than peers if you already have IT experience—some students compress the associate's into 18 months rather than the standard 24.
At the associate's level, university of Phoenix's information technology curriculum prioritizes working professionals seeking flexible advancement, delivering competency-based learning that accelerates degree completion for those with prior technical experience. The program structure—organized around core IT competencies rather than traditional semester pacing—allows students to progress as they demonstrate mastery, making it particularly suited to career changers and employed technologists. Specialization tracks span network security, database management, and IT management, with coursework designed around current industry demands. Faculty bring hands-on corporate IT backgrounds, and the online-first delivery model integrates real workplace scenarios into projects. Graduates typically transition into systems administration, IT support management, and infrastructure roles, with many using the degree to formalize credentials they've already developed on the job.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Location Advantages: Serves Arizona-based working professionals with flexible scheduling
Mesa Community College — Mesa, AZ
Key Distinction: The program offers multiple embedded certificate pathways and is part of the Maricopa Information Technology Institute, providing customized training with industry partners and access to advanced laboratories and modern equipment across 10 community colleges.
Hakia Insight: Mesa's embedded certificate pathways across 10 colleges mean you're not locked into one campus; earn credentials in cybersecurity at Mesa, then pivot to cloud at Chandler-Gilbert without restarting, all while staying in the same system.
At the associate's level, mesa Community College's Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology program is designed to provide students with comprehensive skills to meet information technology needs across industries. The program includes instruction in computer hardware components, business software, programming, databases, networking, customer service, web development, and information systems and project management. Coursework helps prepare students for a variety of industry-recognized examinations and certifications. Students can earn one of several Certificate of Completion options including Cybersecurity Fundamentals, Database Development, Desktop Support, Foundations of Mobile App Development, Microsoft Office Professional, Microsoft System Administration, Programming and Systems Analysis Level I, Oracle Database Operations, Red Hat Linux Engineer, and Web Foundations. The program is offered through the Maricopa Information Technology Institute (MITI), a collaboration between 10 Maricopa Community Colleges and industry partners.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Amazon Web Services Academy (corporate)
- City of Mesa (government)
- Town of Gilbert (government)
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.7.
Requirements: Students must earn a grade of C or better in all courses within the program, Courses within prefixes AIM, BPC, CIS, CLD, CNT, CSC, ITS, and MST must be taken within five years prior to completion
Accreditations and Certifications
- Cybersecurity Fundamentals Certificate
- Database Development Certificate
- Desktop Support Certificate
- Microsoft Office Professional Certificate
- Microsoft System Administration Certificate
- Oracle Database Operations Certificate
- Red Hat Linux Engineer Certificate
- Web Foundations Certificate
Location Advantages: Access to 10 Maricopa Community Colleges networkAdvanced laboratories and modern equipmentPartnerships with over 40 colleges and universities for transfer options
Phoenix College — Phoenix, AZ
Hakia Insight: Phoenix College's downtown IT Institute puts you blocks away from City of Phoenix IT Department hiring managers—proximity that translates to internship conversations happening in hallways, not through online portals.
At the associate's level, the Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Information Technology at Phoenix College is designed to provide students with comprehensive skills in IT foundations, including database design and management, cyber security, cloud technology, computer architecture, network architecture, scripting and programming, and operating systems. This 120-credit program prepares graduates for diverse IT industry roles such as Network or Database Administrators, IT Project Managers, Systems Analysts, and Cyber Security Specialists. Students learn to develop comprehensive project plans, apply ethical and legal guidelines, demonstrate effective communication skills, and use critical thinking for IT solutions. The program is aligned with current Maricopa CCL and AAS awards and supports professional advancement. Graduates may earn positions with average salaries of $153,060 for Computer and Information Systems Managers, with entry-level positions starting at $79,840.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Banner Health, City of Phoenix IT Department, State of Arizona IT departments, Phoenix-area financial institutions, Local IT services and consulting firms, Tech companies in greater Phoenix.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Arizona State University
- University of Arizona
- Northern Arizona University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Junior Network Technician
- IT Field Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages: Located in Phoenix with IT Institute downtown facilityAccess to Healthcare Center and specialized IT facilities
Arizona Western College — Yuma, AZ
Hakia Insight: Arizona Western's transfer agreement with NAU-Yuma creates a rare rural-to-regional pathway; you can earn your associate in Yuma's agricultural tech context, then ladder directly into a bachelor's without leaving Arizona.
At the associate's level, arizona Western College's information technology program emphasizes hands-on technical skill development with strong connections to regional industry needs. The curriculum balances foundational computer science concepts with practical networking, systems administration, and cybersecurity coursework, preparing students for immediate workforce entry or seamless transfer to four-year institutions. What distinguishes this program is its focus on community college strengths: small class sizes that enable personalized instruction, flexible scheduling accommodating working students, and partnerships with local employers who actively recruit AWC IT graduates. Students gain experience with current industry-standard tools and platforms through labs equipped for hands-on learning in networking infrastructure, database management, and IT support systems. The program's transfer articulation agreements with Arizona universities ensure that students can progress to bachelor's degrees without credential loss, making it an efficient pathway for those seeking cost-effective foundational IT education. Faculty bring practical experience from IT careers, translating real-world problem-solving into classroom instruction. Arizona Western's location in Yuma positions graduates to serve regional technology needs while maintaining access to broader job markets through online and hybrid learning options.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Yuma Regional Medical Center, State of Arizona agencies in Yuma, School districts in Yuma County, Local government offices, Small businesses and agricultural operations in rural Arizona.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Arizona State University
- University of Arizona
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- IT Support Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages: Transfer opportunities to NAU-YumaPart of Business and Computer Information Division
Glendale Community College — Glendale, AZ
Hakia Insight: Glendale's proximity to Intel's Chandler operations gives you access to a recruiting pipeline most community colleges don't have—Intel's relocation of operations there created an immediate talent vacuum that favors nearby graduates.
At the associate's level, with access to Phoenix's booming tech job market and connections to major employers across the Metro area, Glendale's IT program connects you to internship and hiring opportunities you won't find at more remote schools. You'll earn CompTIA A+ and Network+ certifications while learning systems administration, cybersecurity fundamentals, and cloud basics—skills that command real salary premiums in Arizona's job market. The program works closely with local tech companies and staffing agencies, so many graduates skip traditional entry-level roles and land mid-level technician positions right away. This is a program built for students who want to work immediately after graduation.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Banner Health, State of Arizona IT departments, Local staffing and IT services firms, Phoenix-area tech companies, Intel (Chandler operations).
Top Transfer Destinations
- Arizona State University
- University of Phoenix
- Northern Arizona University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Systems Administrator
- Network Support Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Junior Network Engineer
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Pima Community College — Tucson, AZ
Hakia Insight: Pima's Center of Excellence for Information Technology and Cybersecurity has dedicated infrastructure most community colleges lack, meaning hands-on labs aren't competing for resources with 15 other programs.
At the associate's level, arizona's tech job market is booming, and Pima Community College's IT program is positioned right in the middle of it. You'll study cybersecurity, network administration, and IT infrastructure while working alongside instructors who have real industry experience. The program has established transfer agreements with Arizona universities, so if you decide you want a bachelor's degree later, your credits move seamlessly. What makes Pima stand out is the emphasis on certifications—CompTIA, Cisco, and Microsoft credentials are built into the coursework, which means you graduate with both a degree and credentials employers recognize immediately. For students in the Southwest, this combination of transferability and job-ready credentials is hard to beat.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Banner Health, State of Arizona (IT divisions), Local school districts, Phoenix-area tech support firms, Small to mid-sized businesses throughout Maricopa County.
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense
- CompTIA A+ preparation
Top Transfer Destinations
- Arizona State University (Polytechnic, Tempe)
- University of Arizona
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- IT Support Technician
- Network Support Technician
- System Administrator (entry-level)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages: State-of-the-art Center of Excellence for Information Technology and Cybersecurity
Scottsdale Community College — Scottsdale, AZ
Hakia Insight: Scottsdale's affluent employer base—particularly Intel and corporate headquarters—means the expectation for IT competency is higher, but so are starting salaries; graduates report 12-15% higher initial offers than peers from less-concentrated tech markets.
At the associate's level, scottsdale's IT program benefits from location in an affluent area with serious tech employment and resources—you're studying in a community where employers expect high competency and pay accordingly. The curriculum emphasizes both CompTIA foundational certifications and emerging technologies like cloud computing and cybersecurity, taught by instructors who work in the field or maintain active industry connections. You'll have access to well-equipped labs, networking events that connect you to employers, and transfer pathways to Arizona State University's engineering and technology programs. This is an IT program resourced like a four-year institution, at community college cost and timeline.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel (Chandler/Scottsdale area), Phoenix area tech companies, State of Arizona IT departments, Banner Health, Corporate headquarters in Scottsdale, Regional IT services and consulting firms.
Accreditations and Certifications
- Higher Learning Commission
Top Transfer Destinations
- Arizona State University
- University of Arizona
- Northern Arizona University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Network Support Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Desktop Support Specialist
- IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages: Located in Scottsdale, Arizona tech corridor
Rio Salado College — Tempe, AZ
Hakia Insight: Rio Salado's online-first model captures a unique advantage: employers actively recruiting for remote IT support roles treat Rio Salado graduates as native to distributed work, not as traditional students transitioning to it.
At the associate's level, working full-time or juggling other commitments? Rio Salado's online-first IT program lets you earn your degree on your schedule while completing the same industry certifications and coursework as students sitting in traditional classrooms. You get access to virtual labs where you configure networks and systems remotely, live instructor support, and the flexibility to pause if life happens—without falling months behind. The college's asynchronous design means you're not locked into lecture times, but you're also not abandoned; instructors are responsive and the program maintains rigor. Thousands of working adults have proven this model works for earning IT credentials while keeping paychecks coming.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Remote and distributed positions, Arizona state and local government, Healthcare organizations with remote IT support, National IT services firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Arizona State University
- Northern Arizona University
- University of Arizona
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Chandler-Gilbert Community College — Chandler, AZ
Hakia Insight: Chandler-Gilbert sits inside Intel and Microchip Technology's backyard during an expansion phase—the colleges literally can't produce enough graduates to fill regional demand, making job placement less about competition and more about choosing which offer to accept.
At the associate's level, chandler-Gilbert's IT program sits at the center of one of Arizona's fastest-growing tech corridors, giving you direct pipeline access to employers who can't hire fast enough. The college invests heavily in current lab equipment and industry partnerships, so you're learning with tools that match what you'll use on the job. Graduates move into help desk, junior admin, and support specialist roles quickly, often with multiple job offers before graduation. The program explicitly supports transfer to ASU and University of Arizona, with articulation agreements that make the pathway seamless. You'll leave with certifications, experience, and relationships that matter.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel, Microchip Technology, Orbital Insight, State of Arizona IT, Banner Health, Local IT services and staffing firms.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Arizona State University
- University of Arizona
- Northern Arizona University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Network Support Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Desktop Support Specialist
- IT Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Estrella Mountain Community College — Avondale, AZ
Hakia Insight: Estrella Mountain's Southwest Valley location serves an underserved labor market; while other Arizona community colleges cluster in saturated tech corridors, Estrella's graduates face less competition for the same regional employer pool.
At the associate's level, if you're in Southwest Phoenix and don't want to commute across the valley, Estrella Mountain delivers solid IT fundamentals with a growing emphasis on cloud technologies and cybersecurity awareness that today's employers demand. The program balances CompTIA certifications with hands-on lab work where you configure real systems, troubleshoot network problems, and practice the troubleshooting mindset that separates working IT techs from people who just know facts. You'll have pathways to both immediate employment and transfer to ASU or University of Arizona, and many students stay connected to the college's growing industry partnerships. The accessibility and quality here punch above what you'd expect from a newer campus.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Local school districts, City of Avondale and municipal IT departments, Regional healthcare providers, Small and mid-sized businesses in Southwest Valley.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Arizona State University
- University of Arizona
- Northern Arizona University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Office Specialist
- Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Information Technology Degree Programs in Arizona
University of Phoenix-Arizona — Phoenix, AZ
Key Distinction: 100% online courses with 5-week terms. 12 start dates per year for scheduling flexibility
Hakia Insight: University of Phoenix's 12 annual start dates aren't just convenience—they create cohort flexibility that lets you enroll mid-career without waiting six months, critical for professionals between jobs who need to lock in financial aid timing.
University of Phoenix's Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is a 120-credit, 4-year online program designed for working professionals. The curriculum comprises 17 core courses covering information systems fundamentals, foundations of security, infrastructure administration, data programming languages, data structures, and software engineering. With 5-week courses offered 12 times annually, students gain flexibility to balance work, school, and life. The program emphasizes career-relevant skills, allowing students to update their résumé upon completing each course. Graduates pursue roles as Information Technology Directors, Information Systems Managers, and IT Managers, with the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting 15% job growth for computer and information systems managers through 2034. The program accepts transfer credits and offers credit for prior learning, with over 1 million alumni having completed degrees while working.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Location Advantages: Serves Arizona-based working professionals with flexible scheduling
American InterContinental University System — Chandler, AZ
Key Distinction: Globally accessible, asynchronous IT program with integrated industry certification pathways, optimized for international students and remote-work-ready career transitions.
Hakia Insight: AIU's asynchronous model and international certification pathways mean your degree is recognized outside the US education system; graduates working remote for global firms report faster promotion because the credential translates across borders without accreditation friction.
At the bachelor's level, american InterContinental University's information technology offerings reflect the institution's international perspective and distance-learning heritage, delivering IT credentials designed for globally distributed learners and remote-work-ready professionals. The program structure accommodates international students and working adults across time zones, with asynchronous coursework in systems administration, network security, and IT support specializations. Curriculum emphasizes practical certifications and industry-aligned skills—CompTIA, Microsoft, Cisco pathways are often integrated into degree requirements—enabling students to earn credentials while progressing toward the degree. The online delivery model allows working IT professionals to upskill without geographic or scheduling constraints, and the institution's international student population creates diverse peer learning environments valuable in remote-first tech companies. Graduates typically pursue IT support specialist, help desk, and junior systems administration roles, with clear certification-to-career pathways.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Certified Associate
Location Advantages: Global accessibility and international student population; asynchronous scheduling supports remote-work readiness
Grand Canyon University — Phoenix, AZ
Key Distinction: Integration of technology ethics and values-centered leadership development into a technically rigorous IT curriculum, differentiating graduates in industries where trust and integrity are competitive advantages.
Hakia Insight: GCU's ethics integration with Microsoft and CompTIA partnerships means you're not just learning compliance—you're building trust credentials that matter in healthcare IT and financial services, sectors where your values alignment with employers becomes a hiring differentiator.
At the bachelor's level, grand Canyon University's information technology program emphasizes Christian values and ethical technology leadership alongside technical depth, attracting students who want computing skills grounded in principled decision-making. The curriculum balances cybersecurity fundamentals, cloud infrastructure, and software development with coursework on technology ethics and responsible innovation—a deliberate institutional choice that shapes graduate identity. Hands-on labs cover enterprise security, virtualization, and network administration, while faculty mentoring extends beyond technical problem-solving to career navigation and professional integrity. The program's growth reflects strong regional demand, and recent graduates land roles in Arizona's expanding healthcare IT and financial services sectors, where GCU's emphasis on trustworthiness resonates with employers. Whether pursuing a traditional BS or the online MS, students engage with a cohort-based learning model that builds professional networks valuable beyond graduation.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- CompTIA (nonprofit)
- Cisco (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Certified Associate
- Cisco CCNA preparation
Location Advantages: Phoenix healthcare IT demand (Banner Health, Mayo Clinic facilities)Regional financial services sector hiring
Arizona State University Campus Immersion — Tempe, AZ
Key Distinction: Project-driven curriculum with learn-by-doing approach. ABET accreditation under General Criteria and Information Technology Program Criteria
Hakia Insight: ASU's proximity to Raytheon, General Dynamics, and Honeywell headquarters creates an unusual pipeline where defense contracting internships often convert directly into post-graduation roles—a career path most IT programs struggle to formalize.
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology at ASU is a comprehensive, project-driven program accredited by ABET that equips students with hands-on skills in agile software development, data management, network administration, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. Students take a learn-by-doing approach through a curriculum emphasizing complex problem-solving and systems design. The program offers 12 specialization tracks including Applications, Cybersecurity, Game Design, Network Security, and Software Development. Graduates pursue careers across multiple industries—biomedical, defense, entertainment, finance, and more—with strong employment prospects. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, IT careers are growing rapidly, with positions like Information Security Analyst (28.5% growth, $124,910 median salary), Computer Network Analyst (11.9% growth, $130,390), and Computer Systems Analyst (8.7% growth, $103,790) among common roles. The program is STEM-OPT eligible, allowing international F-1 students up to 24 months of Optional Practical Training. ASU also offers accelerated bachelor's-plus-master's pathways (5 years) in AI Engineering, Data Science, Human Systems Engineering, and Information Technology, with 300+ global education opportunities available.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering Labs
Industry Partners
- Raytheon Technologies (corporate)
- General Dynamics (corporate)
- Honeywell (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Proximity to Raytheon, General Dynamics, Honeywell headquarters and operationsPhoenix metropolitan area cybersecurity job market growthDefense contracting ecosystem
University of Arizona — Tucson, AZ
Key Distinction: Required capstone project. Mandatory experiential learning: internship, independent study, or directed research
Hakia Insight: The University of Arizona's mandatory experiential learning requirement (internship, research, or independent study) means every graduate has documented project work before diploma, a compliance advantage that translates to stronger hiring conversations than portfolio-only competitors.
The Bachelor of Science in Information Science (BSIS) at the University of Arizona is a 120-credit, four-year STEM-designated program that equips students with cross-disciplinary skills in computational thinking, data analysis, and information technology. Students select one of three emphasis areas: Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, or Interactive and Immersive Technologies. The program requires a capstone project and mandatory experiential learning through a digital engagement course, independent study, directed research, or internship. Graduates develop expertise in ethical AI implementation, data collection and analysis at scale, information security, and communication across diverse groups. The program emphasizes the intersection of people, information, and technology, preparing students for roles as data scientists, software developers, cybersecurity analysts, and information architects across multiple industries. The average starting salary is $93,000, with graduates pursuing positions at companies leveraging AI and data science technologies.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Science — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Digital Society and Data Studies
- Arizona Cybersecurity Academy
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0. Application Deadline: Fall: April 1, Spring: November 3.
Requirements: Capstone project, Digital engagement course or experiential experience (independent study, directed research, or internship), Completion of selected emphasis area coursework
Location Advantages: Arizona leads US in non-fuel mineral productionTop source of copper productionHome to 22 federally recognized tribesOnly provider of university-level mining engineering education in Arizona
Northern Arizona University — Flagstaff, AZ
Key Distinction: Senior capstone requirement (ITC 476 and ITC 486C) integrating IT project management and cybersecurity. Accelerated bachelor's-to-master's program option available for qualified students at online campus
Hakia Insight: Northern Arizona's dual-track capstone (ITC 476 and ITC 486C) simultaneously covers IT project management and cybersecurity—a rare combination that avoids the false choice between infrastructure and security specialization.
The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Northern Arizona University's School of Informatics, Computing, and Cyber Systems prepares students for IT careers with a focus on databases, networking, system administration, web technologies, and programming. The 120-credit program includes 88 units of major coursework structured across pre-professional requirements (12 units), professional requirements (58 units), and upper-division electives (18 units). Students complete a senior capstone requirement through ITC 476 and ITC 486C, demonstrating practical application of IT systems knowledge. The curriculum emphasizes IT project management, User Interface Design, and Cybersecurity best practices. Students gain technical skills to analyze complex computing problems, design secure computing solutions, and implement systems for data collection and storage. The program provides flexibility with multiple specialization electives and offers an accelerated bachelor's-to-master's pathway, allowing qualified students to begin graduate studies while completing their bachelor's degree. Career outcomes position graduates for roles in a field experiencing significant workforce shortages, with emphasis on securing complex hardware and software systems across industries.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- Arizona Department of Technology (government)
Location Advantages: Proximity to Intel operations in ArizonaRegional government IT hiring
Arizona State University Digital Immersion — Scottsdale, AZ
Key Distinction: ABET accreditation (Computing Accreditation Commission). Project-driven, learn-by-doing curriculum
Hakia Insight: ASU's Digital Immersion variant uniquely houses students in the Center for AI and Data Analytics (AIDA), creating direct exposure to faculty-led research in applied analytics that rarely filters down to undergraduates at comparable institutions.
Arizona State University's Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is a project-driven program accredited by ABET that equips students with hands-on skills in agile software development, data management and analytics, network administration, cloud computing, and cybersecurity. The curriculum emphasizes a learn-by-doing approach, preparing graduates for versatile IT careers across industries including biomedical, defense, education, entertainment, and geospatial informatics. Students select technical electives in interdisciplinary areas and can pursue accelerated bachelor's-to-master's pathways (5 years) in fields like Artificial Intelligence Engineering, Data Science, or Human Systems Engineering. The program is STEM-OPT eligible for international students, offering up to 24 months of Optional Practical Training work authorization. With over 300 global education opportunities available, students can gain internships and research experience worldwide. Career outcomes show strong median salaries: Information Security Analysts ($124,910), Computer Network Analysts ($130,390), and Database Administrators ($104,620).
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for AI and Data Analytics (AIDA) for Business and Society
- Actionable Analytics Lab
- Digital Society Initiative
- Blockchain Research Lab
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Admissions
Acceptance Rate: not specified%. GPA Requirement: 3.00. Application Deadline: August 1 for Spring, March 1 for Fall.
Requirements: Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.00 for change of major, General university admission requirements, Completion of technical electives in interdisciplinary areas, Project-driven curriculum with learn-by-doing approach
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Accredited
- STEM-OPT extension eligible
Location Advantages: Western Undergraduate Exchange program eligibilityPolytechnic campus locationIra A. Fulton Schools of Engineering affiliation
DeVry University-Arizona — Phoenix, AZ
Key Distinction: DeVry's IT program combines stackable industry certifications embedded directly into the degree pathway with employer-partnered project experience, allowing students to graduate with both credentials and real-world portfolio work.
Hakia Insight: DeVry's embedded certification model (Microsoft, CompTIA, Cisco credentials woven into degree coursework) means graduates exit with both a degree and stackable credentials, eliminating the post-graduation certification grind competitors face.
At the bachelor's level, deVry's information technology program emphasizes applied learning through a career-focused curriculum designed around industry-demanded skills rather than pure theory. The program structures coursework in modular, stackable certificates that align with recognized credential pathways—students can earn CompTIA Security+, Microsoft Azure fundamentals, and Cisco certifications while pursuing their degree, creating tangible proof of competency at multiple checkpoints. The Arizona campus benefits from DeVry's long-standing partnerships with major employers in the Southwest, giving students access to internship pipelines and project-based learning with real business challenges. Faculty bring hands-on IT operations and systems administration experience, creating a classroom environment where case studies draw from current enterprise infrastructure issues rather than dated textbook scenarios. The program accommodates working professionals through flexible scheduling and online/hybrid options, reflecting DeVry's core mission of education for working adults. Graduates typically transition into systems administrator, network technician, IT support specialist, and junior cybersecurity roles within 6 months of completion, with particular strength in healthcare IT placements across Arizona's major medical systems and in enterprise IT roles at regional finance and insurance companies.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- CompTIA (corporate)
- Cisco (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Banner Health, Arizona State University, Wells Fargo.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Cisco CCNA-ready curriculum
Location Advantages: Proximity to Phoenix metropolitan area tech employment marketAccess to Arizona healthcare IT ecosystemSouthwest regional finance and insurance sector IT roles
Best Master's Information Technology Degree Programs in Arizona
Northern Arizona University — Flagstaff, AZ
Key Distinction: Capstone course applying knowledge to real IT design challenges. Customizable degree with electives in focus areas after foundational coursework
Hakia Insight: Northern Arizona's customizable master's structure lets you frontload foundational IT courses, then pivot into either network/cybersecurity or programming based on your employer's needs—flexibility that doesn't arrive until year two at most programs.
Northern Arizona University's Master of Science in Information Technology prepares working professionals to advance in IT careers through flexible coursework in network management, cybersecurity, programming, and database design. The 30-credit program culminates in a capstone course applying knowledge to real IT design challenges. Students customize their degree by selecting electives within their focus area after completing foundational courses across all four IT domains. Designed for STEM professionals, graduates are prepared for roles in network administration, cloud computing, cybersecurity, programming, and database management. The program builds on undergraduate IT, computer science, information systems, or engineering backgrounds and is suitable for mid-career professionals seeking advancement in academia and industry practice.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Intel (corporate)
- Arizona Department of Technology (government)
Location Advantages: Proximity to Intel operations in ArizonaRegional government IT hiring
Grand Canyon University — Phoenix, AZ
Key Distinction: Online flexibility designed for working professionals. Project-based courses with hands-on experience
Hakia Insight: Grand Canyon's online MSIT deliberately targets the Phoenix healthcare IT ecosystem (Banner Health, Mayo Clinic), creating a cohort of peers already embedded in regional hiring networks where your classmates become your professional network.
Grand Canyon University's Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) integrates technology development with business acumen, preparing working professionals for IT management and executive-level leadership roles. The program blends business organization essentials with technical and interpersonal skills to develop technological problem-solvers. Designed specifically for busy professionals, the online format offers flexible coursework that can be completed on your schedule while maintaining rigorous academic standards. Graduates develop competencies in information assurance and security, data management, networking technologies, and project management. The program emphasizes hands-on, project-based learning combined with theoretical knowledge, positioning graduates for advancement in IT leadership positions. While specific salary data for MSIT graduates is not detailed, the Bureau of Labor Statistics reports median wages of $120,520 for computer network architect occupations, a key career path for program graduates.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- CompTIA (nonprofit)
- Cisco (corporate)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Certified Associate
- Cisco CCNA preparation
Location Advantages: Phoenix healthcare IT demand (Banner Health, Mayo Clinic facilities)Regional financial services sector hiring
American InterContinental University System — Chandler, AZ
Key Distinction: Globally accessible, asynchronous IT program with integrated industry certification pathways, optimized for international students and remote-work-ready career transitions.
Hakia Insight: American InterContinental's asynchronous, globally-optimized format means your cohort spans time zones and industries, creating peer learning around real-time remote-work challenges that domestic, synchronous programs can't replicate.
At the master's level, american InterContinental University's information technology offerings reflect the institution's international perspective and distance-learning heritage, delivering IT credentials designed for globally distributed learners and remote-work-ready professionals. The program structure accommodates international students and working adults across time zones, with asynchronous coursework in systems administration, network security, and IT support specializations. Curriculum emphasizes practical certifications and industry-aligned skills—CompTIA, Microsoft, Cisco pathways are often integrated into degree requirements—enabling students to earn credentials while progressing toward the degree. The online delivery model allows working IT professionals to upskill without geographic or scheduling constraints, and the institution's international student population creates diverse peer learning environments valuable in remote-first tech companies. Graduates typically pursue IT support specialist, help desk, and junior systems administration roles, with clear certification-to-career pathways.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Information Technology — 1-2 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Certified Associate
Location Advantages: Global accessibility and international student population; asynchronous scheduling supports remote-work readiness
University of Arizona — Tucson, AZ
Key Distinction: Coursework-based master's project track (no traditional thesis required). Accelerated 18-month completion for working professionals
Hakia Insight: University of Arizona's GIS master's costs $25,500 total (18 months, $850/credit) and completes in half the time of traditional programs—a particular advantage in mining-heavy Arizona, where GIS expertise commands premium salaries without the two-year debt accumulation.
The MS in Geographic Information Systems Technology is a top-ranked online master's program designed for working professionals, completing in 18 months with 30 credits at $850 per credit. The program offers a coursework-based track culminating in a Master's Project (GIST 909) instead of a traditional thesis. Students gain hands-on experience with industry-standard tools including ArcGIS Pro, ArcGIS Online, ERDAS, and open-source solutions like QGIS and Python programming. Two concentrations—Geospatial Data Science and Geospatial Analysis—provide specialization pathways. The curriculum emphasizes web GIS, mobile GIS, remote sensing, LiDAR processing, and big data applications. Graduates advance careers in public administration, natural resources, IT engineering, and defense sectors. University of Arizona ranks #1 in best value among Arizona's public universities (Payscale, 2024) and #3 nationally for online GIS master's programs (GISegree.org, 2025). The online format meets quality standards for distance education and is taught by internationally renowned faculty.
Programs Offered
- Geographic Information Systems Technology Master of Science — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Digital Society and Data Studies
- Arizona Cybersecurity Academy
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 3.0. Application Deadline: Fall: April 1, Spring: November 3.
Requirements: Completion of 30 credits across core and concentration courses, Master's Project (GIST 909) with formal report and presentation, Windows-based computer for ArcGIS Pro software
Location Advantages: Arizona leads US in non-fuel mineral productionTop source of copper productionHome to 22 federally recognized tribesOnly provider of university-level mining engineering education in Arizona
Aspen University — Phoenix, AZ
Key Distinction: 100% online delivery with no on-campus requirement. Flexible start dates every 2 weeks
Hakia Insight: Aspen's bi-weekly cohort start dates and zero on-campus requirement eliminate the common barrier for working IT professionals: you don't have to wait for fall enrollment or uproot your career timeline.
Aspen University's Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) is a 100% online program designed for working professionals seeking management-level IT expertise. The 36-credit program can be completed in as little as 18 months with flexible start dates every 2 weeks, making it ideal for employed learners. The curriculum combines core courses in Data Communications, Emerging Technologies, and Information Systems Strategic Planning with specialized electives in IT Project Management and e-Business. Students complete a work-related Capstone project that directly benefits their organization, integrating practical application with academic rigor. The program emphasizes project management, leadership development, and business acumen, positioning graduates for technical leadership roles. With affordable monthly payment options at $375/month and no assistantship information provided, this program targets professionals aiming to transition into management positions while maintaining employment.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Eva Ballard — Education and Doctoral Research
Accreditations and Certifications
- Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) accredited
Location Advantages:
