- 1.Hakia's analysis of the best online information technology degree programs reveals that iT Managers earn a median salary of $98,740 with 15% projected job growth through 2032 (BLS OES 2024)
- 2.Top-ranked Information Technology programs include University of California-Berkeley, University of Washington-Seattle Campus, Carnegie Mellon University based on graduation rates, program strength, and career outcomes
- 3.Best value: University of California-Berkeley offers information technology education at $11,834/year with 96% graduation rate
- 4.50 accredited Information Technology programs analyzed using IPEDS 2023 completion data
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 10 Online
University of California-Berkeley
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 #1 in information technology degree program.
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
Research Labs & Institutes
Long-term cybersecurity research and policy
Technology policy and societal impact research
Biosensing and health technology research
Career Outcomes
University of Washington-Seattle Campus
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 #2 in information technology degree program.
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.
Hakia Insight: University of Washington-Seattle Campus graduates earn $151,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
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, Boeing, Google, Meta
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
Carnegie Mellon University
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 #3 in information technology degree program.
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.
Hakia Insight: Carnegie Mellon University graduates earn $120,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
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
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Oracle, Microsoft, Apple, Google, ServiceNow
Admissions
University of Maryland-College Park
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 #4 in information technology degree program.
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.
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
- •Proximity to Washington D.C. for government partnerships
- •Access to Baltimore-Washington population center
- •Federal government agency collaboration opportunities
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
IBM, Google, Library of Congress, National Archives, Smithsonian
Admissions
University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign
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 #5 in information technology degree program.
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.
Hakia Insight: University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign graduates earn $109,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Information technology at the crossroads of circuits, computing, control, and communications
Quantum computing and information science research
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
United Airlines, Twitch, JP Morgan Chase & Co, Boston Red Sox
Admissions
Cornell University
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'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.
Hakia Insight: Cornell University graduates earn $94,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
AI research
business applications
data science
human-computer interaction
technology law
design and prototyping
cybersecurity
ethical technology
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Amazon, Facebook, Microsoft, Bloomberg
Admissions
University of California-San Diego
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 #7 in information technology degree program.
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.
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
- •Proximity to San Diego biotech corridor
- •Access to Qualcomm and telecommunications companies
- •Strong startup ecosystem in La Jolla
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Google, Microsoft, Qualcomm, Amazon, Facebook
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor
UM-Dearborn's Information Systems and Technology program uniquely positions students at the intersection of traditional engineering and digital transformation, with direct access to Detroit's automotive industry evolution and Michigan's broader technology corridor.
University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Information Technology Program Overview
Hakia ranks University of Michigan-Ann Arbor as the #8 in information technology degree program.
The University of Michigan-Dearborn's Information Systems and Technology graduate program, housed within the College of Engineering and Computer Science, represents a comprehensive approach to modern IT challenges. This program uniquely bridges technical engineering rigor with practical business applications, leveraging UM-Dearborn's strategic location in the Detroit metropolitan area - a region experiencing significant technological transformation in automotive and manufacturing sectors. Students can pursue focused study in areas ranging from cybersecurity and data science to industrial systems integration, with coursework that emphasizes both theoretical foundations and hands-on implementation.
What sets this program apart is its integration with Michigan's broader engineering ecosystem while maintaining strong connections to the automotive industry's digital transformation. The curriculum appears designed for working professionals and traditional students alike, with course offerings that reflect current industry needs in information systems engineering, data analytics, and emerging technologies. The program benefits from UM-Dearborn's position as part of the prestigious University of Michigan system while offering a more intimate learning environment than the flagship Ann Arbor campus.
Hakia Insight: University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates earn $120,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Systems security, cryptography, and secure software engineering
Location Advantages
- •Proximity to Google Ann Arbor office and regional tech hub
- •Dense concentration of software and IT companies in southeastern Michigan
- •Access to major cloud computing and systems companies
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Certifications & Designations
Admissions
University of Central Florida
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.
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.
Hakia Insight: University of Central Florida graduates earn $93,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
Degree Programs
Research Labs & Institutes
Computer vision and artificial intelligence research
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
L3Harris Technologies, Siemens, HD Supply, Lockheed Martin
Admissions
Syracuse University
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 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.
Hakia Insight: Syracuse University graduates earn $80,243, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
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
Industry Partners
Career Outcomes
Best Information Technology Programs - Top 10 Online — Complete Program Data
#1. University of California-Berkeley Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of California-Berkeley as the #1 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.
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: | Common Roles: data science professionals, information professionals, cybersecurity leaders, product management, user experience design & research, engineering, information policy
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:
#2. University of Washington-Seattle Campus Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of Washington-Seattle Campus as the #2 in information technology degree program. Location: Seattle, WA | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,524/year | Graduation Rate: 97% | Score: 92.5
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: University of Washington-Seattle Campus graduates earn $151,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
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: 89% | Top Employers: Amazon, Microsoft, Boeing, Google, Meta, Blue Origin, Deloitte, Starbucks | Common Roles: Technology Management, Operations Management, Information Systems, Consulting, Product Management
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
#3. Carnegie Mellon University Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks Carnegie Mellon University as the #3 in information technology degree program. Location: Pittsburgh, PA | Type: Private | Tuition: $62,260/year | Graduation Rate: 98% | Score: 85.6
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 graduates earn $120,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
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: | Top Employers: Oracle, Microsoft, Apple, Google, ServiceNow, Barclays, Deloitte, DoorDash, Visa | Common Roles: Associate Product Manager, Program Manager, Data Scientist, Software Engineer, Military Cyber Operations Officer, AI and Machine Learning Engineer, Business Technology Analyst
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
#4. University of Maryland-College Park Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of Maryland-College Park as the #4 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: Placement Rate: 75% | Top Employers: IBM, Google, Library of Congress, National Archives, Smithsonian, CIA, IMF, Discovery Channel, National Agricultural Library, New York Times, National Geographic
Notable Faculty: S. Raghu Raghavan (Management Science and Operations Management); Wedad Elmaghraby (Operations Management); Kunpeng Zhang (Information Systems)
Admissions: GPA: 3.5 average GPA for MSIS program
#5. University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign as the #5 in information technology degree program. Location: Champaign, IL | Type: Public | Tuition: $14,768/year | Graduation Rate: 90% | Score: 84.4
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 graduates earn $109,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
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: | Top Employers: United Airlines, Twitch, JP Morgan Chase & Co, Boston Red Sox | Common Roles: Database manager, IT analyst, Technology support specialist, Market research analyst, Product manager, Web developer, Data Scientist, Data Engineer, Business Intelligence Analyst, Software Engineer
Notable Faculty: Jingrui He (AI, machine learning, information consulting)
Admissions:
#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: Cornell University graduates earn $94,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
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: | Top Employers: Google, Amazon, Facebook, Microsoft, Bloomberg, Uber
Admissions:
#7. University of California-San Diego Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of California-San Diego as the #7 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
#8. University of Michigan-Ann Arbor Information Technology Program
Hakia ranks University of Michigan-Ann Arbor as the #8 in information technology degree program. Location: Ann Arbor, MI | Type: Public | Tuition: $17,977/year | Graduation Rate: 92% | Score: 79.0
What makes University of Michigan-Ann Arbor stand out: UM-Dearborn's Information Systems and Technology program uniquely positions students at the intersection of traditional engineering and digital transformation, with direct access to Detroit's automotive industry evolution and Michigan's broader technology corridor.
Hakia Insight: University of Michigan-Ann Arbor graduates earn $120,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
Program Overview: The University of Michigan-Dearborn's Information Systems and Technology graduate program, housed within the College of Engineering and Computer Science, represents a comprehensive approach to modern IT challenges. This program uniquely bridges technical engineering rigor with practical business applications, leveraging UM-Dearborn's strategic location in the Detroit metropolitan area - a region experiencing significant technological transformation in automotive and manufacturing sectors. Students can pursue focused study in areas ranging from cybersecurity and data science to industrial systems integration, with coursework that emphasizes both theoretical foundations and hands-on implementation. What sets this program apart is its integration with Michigan's broader engineering ecosystem while maintaining strong connections to the automotive industry's digital transformation. The curriculum appears designed for working professionals and traditional students alike, with course offerings that reflect current industry needs in information systems engineering, data analytics, and emerging technologies. The program benefits from UM-Dearborn's position as part of the prestigious University of Michigan system while offering a more intimate learning environment than the flagship Ann Arbor campus.
Degree Programs: BS in Computer Science (with IT focus) (4 years); MS in Computer Science (2 years)
Research Labs: Computer Science and Engineering Division, Secure Systems Laboratory - Systems security, cryptography, and secure software engineering
Industry Partners: Google, Microsoft, Amazon, Meta
Career Outcomes:
Notable Faculty: Barzan Mozafari (Database systems, query optimization, and data management)
Admissions:
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 graduates earn $93,000, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
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: | Top Employers: L3Harris Technologies, Siemens, HD Supply, Lockheed Martin | Common Roles: Computer Network Operator, Information Security Analyst, IT Professional, Network Administrator, Support Technician, System Administrator, Web Designer
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 graduates earn $80,243, driven by the program's industry connections and hands-on information technology curriculum.
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: | Common Roles: Consultant, Cyber Security Advisory Associate, Data Analyst, Data Engineer, Global Technology Analyst, Project Manager and Game Designer, Technology Consultant, Technology Risk Consultant
Admissions:
Best Information Technology Programs - Compare Top 5 Online
| School | Location | Type | Tuition | Grad Rate | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | 100/100 |
| #2 University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | 92.5/100 |
| #3 Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | 85.6/100 |
| #4 University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | 84.9/100 |
| #5 University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | 84.4/100 |
Top 50 Online IT Degree Programs 2026
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of California-Berkeley | Berkeley, CA | Public | $11,834 | 96% | — | 100 |
| 2 | University of Washington-Seattle Campus | Seattle, WA | Public | $11,524 | 97% | — | 92.5 |
| 3 | Carnegie Mellon University | Pittsburgh, PA | Private | $62,260 | 98% | — | 85.6 |
| 4 | University of Maryland-College Park | College Park, MD | Public | $9,889 | 84% | — | 84.9 |
| 5 | University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign | Champaign, IL | Public | $14,768 | 90% | — | 84.4 |
| 6 | Cornell University | Ithaca, NY | Private | $65,204 | 95% | — | 84.3 |
| 7 | University of California-San Diego | La Jolla, CA | Public | $11,834 | 81% | — | 79.9 |
| 8 | University of Michigan-Ann Arbor | Ann Arbor, MI | Public | $17,977 | 92% | — | 79 |
| 9 | University of Central Florida | Orlando, FL | Public | $4,478 | 93% | — | 78.9 |
| 10 | Syracuse University | Syracuse, NY | Private | $61,310 | 99% | — | 78.6 |
| 11 | Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus | University Park, PA | Public | $19,672 | 87% | — | 77.9 |
| 12 | George Mason University | Fairfax, VA | Public | $10,095 | 80% | — | 77.7 |
| 13 | Purdue University-Main Campus | West Lafayette, IN | Public | $9,718 | 83% | — | 76.8 |
| 14 | University of Maryland Global Campus | Adelphi, MD | Public | $7,632 | 74% | — | 76.1 |
| 15 | University of South Florida | Tampa, FL | Public | $4,559 | 85% | — | 74.2 |
| 16 | California Institute of Technology | Pasadena, CA | Private | $60,816 | 88% | — | 73.6 |
| 17 | University at Buffalo | Buffalo, NY | Public | $7,070 | 95% | — | 73.4 |
| 18 | Stevens Institute of Technology | Hoboken, NJ | Private | $58,680 | 74% | — | 73.3 |
| 19 | Rutgers University-New Brunswick | New Brunswick, NJ | Public | $13,674 | 82% | — | 72.6 |
| 20 | The University of Texas at Austin | Austin, TX | Public | $11,678 | 89% | — | 72.3 |
| 21 | Texas A & M University-College Station | College Station, TX | Public | $9,003 | 84% | — | 72 |
| 22 | University of Southern California | Los Angeles, CA | Private | $66,640 | 92% | — | 70.8 |
| 23 | Towson University | Towson, MD | Public | $7,382 | 91% | — | 70.3 |
| 24 | The University of Texas at Dallas | Richardson, TX | Public | $14,564 | 77% | — | 70.1 |
| 25 | Iowa State University | Ames, IA | Public | $8,982 | 99% | — | 70.1 |
Showing 1–25 of 50
Online IT Degree Rankings Overview
Online Information Technology degrees have become the preferred path for working professionals and career changers entering the tech industry. Our comprehensive analysis of 230 accredited programs reveals that top-ranked online IT programs deliver comparable career outcomes to traditional on-campus programs while offering the flexibility needed for adult learners.
The demand for IT professionals continues to surge, with network and computer systems administrators expected to see 5% job growth through 2032. Online IT programs have responded by incorporating hands-on virtual labs, industry certifications, and real-world capstone projects that prepare graduates for immediate employment in high-demand IT careers.
Key differentiators among top online IT programs include access to virtual computing labs, industry partnership programs with companies like Amazon Web Services and Microsoft Azure, dedicated career services for online students, and integration of professional certifications like CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+ into degree curricula. Students considering IT bootcamps vs degree programs should note that online IT degrees provide broader foundational knowledge and typically result in higher long-term earning potential.
Online Learning Formats Explained
Online Information Technology programs offer multiple learning formats to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences. Understanding these formats helps you choose a program that fits your lifestyle.
Synchronous (Live) Learning:
- Real-time video lectures at scheduled times (often evenings/weekends)
- Live interaction with professors and classmates
- Immediate Q&A and discussion; feels most like traditional classroom
- Requires reliable internet and schedule commitment
Asynchronous (Self-Paced) Learning:
- Pre-recorded lectures watched on your schedule
- Weekly deadlines but flexible daily timing
- Discussion forums replace live interaction
- Ideal for working professionals with irregular schedules
Hybrid/Blended Programs:
- Combines online coursework with periodic in-person sessions
- Typically 1-2 weekend residencies per semester
- Best of both worlds: flexibility plus networking opportunities
- Often required for programs with lab components
How to Verify Accreditation
Accreditation verification is critical when choosing an online Information Technology program. Degrees from unaccredited institutions may not be recognized by employers or other universities. According to the Council for Higher Education Accreditation, only properly accredited degrees qualify for federal financial aid and professional licensure.
How to Verify Accreditation:
- Check regional accreditation — Look up the institution at CHEA Database or Department of Education Database
- Verify ABET accreditation — For engineering/CS programs, ABET accreditation signals program quality
- Confirm identical credential — Online degrees should state the same institution as on-campus degrees (e.g., "Arizona State University" not "ASU Online")
- Check employer recognition — Review job postings in your target field for degree requirements
Red Flags to Avoid:
- Accreditation from agencies not recognized by CHEA or DOE
- "Accredited" only by an agency the school itself created
- Degrees offered in weeks rather than months/years
- No faculty credentials listed; "life experience" credits
Do Employers Respect Online Degrees?
Employer perception of online Information Technology degrees has shifted dramatically. According to a SHRM survey, 83% of HR managers now view online degrees from accredited institutions as equivalent to traditional degrees—up from 50% a decade ago.
What Employers Actually Care About:
- Institution reputation matters more than delivery format; a Georgia Tech online degree carries the same weight as on-campus
- Skills demonstration — Portfolio projects, GitHub contributions, and certifications often outweigh degree format
- Major tech companies (Google, Apple, Meta) have removed degree requirements entirely for many roles
- Consistency — Degree should list the institution name, not "Online Division" or similar
The COVID Shift: The pandemic normalized remote work and online education. Gallup research shows that 72% of executives who managed remote teams reported equal or higher productivity, reducing stigma around online credentials.
Best Practice: Don't mention "online" on your resume—simply list the degree and institution. If asked in interviews, emphasize the rigor and self-discipline required for online study.
Technology Requirements
Online Information Technology programs require specific technology to participate effectively. Meeting these requirements before enrollment prevents frustrating technical issues during coursework.
Minimum Hardware Requirements:
- Computer — Windows 10/11 or macOS 10.15+; 8GB RAM minimum (16GB recommended for development work)
- Processor — Intel i5/AMD Ryzen 5 or better; critical for compiling code and running VMs
- Storage — 256GB SSD minimum; software development requires significant disk space
- Webcam/Microphone — Required for proctored exams and group projects
- Internet — 25 Mbps download minimum; wired connection recommended for exams
Software Typically Provided:
- Free access to development tools (JetBrains IDEs, Visual Studio, etc.) via student licenses
- Cloud computing credits (AWS, Azure, GCP) — typically $100-$500 per course
- Virtual lab environments for networking, security, or systems courses
- Collaboration tools (Slack, Microsoft Teams, Zoom) included with enrollment
Proctored Exams: What to Expect
Most online Information Technology programs use proctored exams to ensure academic integrity. Understanding what to expect reduces test anxiety and technical issues.
Common Proctoring Methods:
- AI-proctored (ProctorU, Examity) — Software monitors via webcam; flags suspicious behavior for human review
- Live proctored — Real person watches via video throughout the exam
- Lockdown browser — Prevents accessing other applications; may combine with AI monitoring
- In-person testing centers — Some programs offer or require local testing site options
Preparing for Proctored Exams:
- Test your setup early — Run system checks 24-48 hours before; most services offer practice sessions
- Prepare your environment — Clean desk, good lighting, no one else in room, pets secured
- Valid ID required — Government-issued photo ID; check name matches enrollment exactly
- Stable internet — Wired connection preferred; have phone hotspot as backup
- Know the rules — No headphones, no leaving frame, no reading questions aloud (varies by exam)
Career Paths
Network and Computer Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer networks, servers, and systems infrastructure for organizations
Information Security Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect organizational computer systems and networks from security threats and breaches
Computer Systems Analyst
SOC 15-1211Study computer systems and procedures to design solutions that help organizations operate efficiently
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Store and organize data using specialized software and ensure database security and performance
Computer Support Specialist
SOC 15-1232Provide technical assistance to computer users and organizations, resolving IT problems
Software Developer
SOC 15-1252Design and create computer applications and systems software for various platforms
Cloud Solutions Architect
SOC 15-1241Design and implement cloud computing strategies and infrastructure for organizations
IT Project Manager
SOC 11-3021Plan, coordinate, and manage technology projects from initiation to completion
Top States for Online IT Education
| State | Total Programs | Median Tuition | Top Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in California | 35 | $18,420 | California State University System Online |
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in Texas | 28 | $14,250 | University of Texas System Online |
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in New York | 24 | $19,680 | SUNY Empire State College |
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in Florida | 22 | $12,890 | University of Florida Online |
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in Pennsylvania | 19 | $16,740 | Penn State World Campus |
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in Illinois | 17 | $15,320 | University of Illinois Springfield |
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in Ohio | 16 | $13,560 | Ohio University Online |
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in Virginia | 15 | $14,880 | Old Dominion University |
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in North Carolina | 14 | $12,450 | University of North Carolina Online |
| Best Information Technology Online Programs in Georgia | 13 | $11,890 | Georgia Southern University |
Financial Aid for Online IT Students
Online IT students are eligible for the same federal financial aid programs as traditional on-campus students, including Pell Grants, federal student loans, and work-study programs. Many students overlook employer tuition reimbursement programs, which can cover 50-100% of degree costs for working professionals.
Technology-specific scholarships from organizations like the Computing Research Association, IEEE, and CompTIA provide additional funding opportunities. Military members and veterans should explore GI Bill benefits that often cover full tuition for online programs at in-state rates.
- Federal Pell Grant: Up to $7,395 per year for eligible undergraduate students
- Federal Direct Loans: $5,500-$12,500 annually depending on dependency status and year in school
- Employer Tuition Reimbursement: Average of $5,250 per year, with some companies offering unlimited benefits
- Military Benefits: GI Bill covers full in-state tuition plus housing allowance for qualifying veterans
- State Grants: Many states offer need-based grants for residents attending in-state online programs
- Technology Scholarships: $1,000-$10,000 awards from professional organizations and technology companies
Choose the Right Program for Your Situation
- You want the largest online platform with proven scale and stability
- 24/7 virtual lab access is essential for hands-on learning
- You prefer comprehensive student support with multiple contact methods
- Industry partnerships with Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM appeal to you
- You want integrated certification preparation for CompTIA and cloud platforms
- You value the prestige and alumni network of Penn State University
- You want identical curriculum and degree to the on-campus program
- IBM Skills Academy partnership aligns with your career interests
- You prefer established online education with 25+ years of experience
- You're willing to pay moderate premium for brand recognition and quality
- You want to complete your degree quickly with 8-week accelerated terms
- You need generous transfer credit acceptance (up to 90 credits)
- 24/7 support and massive scale appeal to your learning preferences
- You're a working adult seeking maximum flexibility and acceleration
- You value project-based learning with real-world scenarios
- You're interested in government IT, cybersecurity, or federal contracting
- You're military personnel or veteran seeking career transition
- You want specialized training in security frameworks and compliance
- Location near Washington, D.C. provides networking advantages
- You prefer programs designed specifically for adult learners
- You want exceptional value with lowest tuition among top programs
- Competency-based learning allowing flexible pacing appeals to you
- You're interested in Colorado's growing technology industry
- You prefer year-round enrollment with accelerated options
- You want Colorado State University degree recognition and alumni network
Software Engineering Career Track
+$25K avg salary increase·9 months
- Curriculum designed by Colt Steele, industry veteran
- 1-on-1 mentorship from industry professionals
- Money-back job guarantee
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Frequently Asked Questions About Online IT Degrees
Data Sources and Methodology
Institutional characteristics, graduation rates, tuition costs, and enrollment data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System
Occupational employment and wage statistics for computer and information technology occupations
Job growth projections, typical education requirements, and career descriptions for IT occupations
Enrollment and completion data for verification of institutional reporting accuracy
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.