Updated July 28, 2026

Best Online Information Technology Degree Programs 2026

Compare 230 accredited online Information Technology degree programs using data from IPEDS 2024 and BLS 2024. Our rankings analyze graduation rates, tuition costs, student-faculty ratios, and career outcomes for distance learning programs.

Programs Ranked:230
Median Tuition:$15,720/yr
Avg Graduation Rate:64%
Median Starting Salary:$65,000
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Key Takeaways

  • 1.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 2024 completion data

Best Information Technology Programs - Top 10 Online

🥇

University of Missouri-Columbia

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Columbia, MOPublic

$134,050 median salary · 75% graduation rate

85.9
Score
$14K
Tuition/yr
75%
Grad Rate
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #1

Ranked #1 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (85.9/100): 75% graduation rate, $134,050 median salary, $13,658 in-state tuition, 127 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 75% graduation rate
  • $134,050 median salary
  • $13,658 in-state tuition
  • 127 graduates annually
🥈

Strayer University-Florida

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Tampa, FLPrivate for-profit

$134,050 median salary · 100% graduation rate

84.8
Score
$14K
Tuition/yr
100%
Grad Rate
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #2

Ranked #2 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (84.8/100): 100% graduation rate, $134,050 median salary, $13,725 in-state tuition, 15 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 100% graduation rate
  • $134,050 median salary
  • $13,725 in-state tuition
  • 15 graduates annually
🥉

American Public University System

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Charles Town, WVPrivate for-profit

$134,050 median salary · 57% graduation rate

84.8
Score
$8K
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad Rate
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #3

Ranked #3 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (84.8/100): 57% graduation rate, $134,050 median salary, $8,400 in-state tuition, 225 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 57% graduation rate
  • $134,050 median salary
  • $8,400 in-state tuition
  • 225 graduates annually
#4

University of Cincinnati-Main Campus

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Cincinnati, OHPublic

$134,050 median salary · 75% graduation rate

84.7
Score
$12K
Tuition/yr
75%
Grad Rate
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #4

Ranked #4 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (84.7/100): 75% graduation rate, $134,050 median salary, $11,685 in-state tuition, 65 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

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Program Strengths

  • 75% graduation rate
  • $134,050 median salary
  • $11,685 in-state tuition
  • 65 graduates annually
#5

Oklahoma State University-Main Campus

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Stillwater, OKPublic

$134,050 median salary · 68% graduation rate

84.4
Score
$5K
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad Rate
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #5

Ranked #5 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (84.4/100): 68% graduation rate, $134,050 median salary, $5,417 in-state tuition, 112 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 68% graduation rate
  • $134,050 median salary
  • $5,417 in-state tuition
  • 112 graduates annually
#6

Washington University of Science and Technology

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Alexandria, VAPrivate for-profit

$134,050 median salary · 67% graduation rate

84.4
Score
$13K
Tuition/yr
67%
Grad Rate
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #6

Ranked #6 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (84.4/100): 67% graduation rate, $134,050 median salary, $13,365 in-state tuition, 10 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 67% graduation rate
  • $134,050 median salary
  • $13,365 in-state tuition
  • 10 graduates annually
#7

North Carolina A & T State University

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Greensboro, NCPublic

$134,050 median salary · 57% graduation rate

83.0
Score
$4K
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad Rate
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #7

Ranked #7 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (83/100): 57% graduation rate, $134,050 median salary, $3,540 in-state tuition, 80 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 57% graduation rate
  • $134,050 median salary
  • $3,540 in-state tuition
  • 80 graduates annually
#8

George Mason University

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Fairfax, VAPublic

$134,050 median salary · 68% graduation rate

82.8
Score
$10K
Tuition/yr
68%
Grad Rate
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #8

Ranked #8 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (82.8/100): 68% graduation rate, $134,050 median salary, $10,392 in-state tuition, 416 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 68% graduation rate
  • $134,050 median salary
  • $10,392 in-state tuition
  • 416 graduates annually
#9

Excelsior University

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Albany, NYPrivate nonprofit

$134,050 median salary

82.5
Score
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #9

Ranked #9 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (82.5/100): $134,050 median salary, 23 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • $134,050 median salary
  • 23 graduates annually
#10

University of Missouri-St Louis

Bachelor's in Information TechnologyFully online
Saint Louis, MOPublic

$134,050 median salary · 57% graduation rate

81.9
Score
$15K
Tuition/yr
57%
Grad Rate
$134K
Median Salary
View
Program

Why it ranks #10

Ranked #10 among online information technology bachelor's programs by Hakia Score (81.9/100): 57% graduation rate, $134,050 median salary, $15,120 in-state tuition, 30 graduates a year. Federal data, IPEDS 2024 and BLS.

View full research

Program Strengths

  • 57% graduation rate
  • $134,050 median salary
  • $15,120 in-state tuition
  • 30 graduates annually

Best Information Technology Programs - Top 10 Online, Complete Program Data

  1. #1. University of Missouri-Columbia — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks University of Missouri-Columbia's online bachelor's information technology program #1. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Columbia, MO | Type: Public | Tuition: $13,658/year | Graduation Rate: 75% | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 85.9

  2. #2. Strayer University-Florida — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks Strayer University-Florida's online bachelor's information technology program #2. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Tampa, FL | Type: Private for-profit | Tuition: $13,725/year | Graduation Rate: 100% | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 84.8

  3. #3. American Public University System — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks American Public University System's online bachelor's information technology program #3. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Charles Town, WV | Type: Private for-profit | Tuition: $8,400/year | Graduation Rate: 57% | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 84.8

  4. #4. University of Cincinnati-Main Campus — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks University of Cincinnati-Main Campus's online bachelor's information technology program #4. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Cincinnati, OH | Type: Public | Tuition: $11,685/year | Graduation Rate: 75% | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 84.7

  5. #5. Oklahoma State University-Main Campus — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks Oklahoma State University-Main Campus's online bachelor's information technology program #5. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Stillwater, OK | Type: Public | Tuition: $5,417/year | Graduation Rate: 68% | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 84.4

  6. #6. Washington University of Science and Technology — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks Washington University of Science and Technology's online bachelor's information technology program #6. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Alexandria, VA | Type: Private for-profit | Tuition: $13,365/year | Graduation Rate: 67% | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 84.4

  7. #7. North Carolina A & T State University — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks North Carolina A & T State University's online bachelor's information technology program #7. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Greensboro, NC | Type: Public | Tuition: $3,540/year | Graduation Rate: 57% | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 83.0

  8. #8. George Mason University — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks George Mason University's online bachelor's information technology program #8. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Fairfax, VA | Type: Public | Tuition: $10,392/year | Graduation Rate: 68% | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 82.8

  9. #9. Excelsior University — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks Excelsior University's online bachelor's information technology program #9. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Albany, NY | Type: Private nonprofit | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 82.5

  10. #10. University of Missouri-St Louis — Bachelor's Information Technology (Online)

    Hakia ranks University of Missouri-St Louis's online bachelor's information technology program #10. Degree: Bachelor's. Delivery: fully online. Location: Saint Louis, MO | Type: Public | Tuition: $15,120/year | Graduation Rate: 57% | Median Salary: $134,050 | Score: 81.9

Best Information Technology Programs - Compare Top 5 Online

SchoolLocationTypeTuitionGrad RateScore
#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

Data from IPEDS 2024. Tuition shown is in-state for public schools.

Top 50 Online IT Degree Programs 2026

RankProgram & SchoolDeliveryAnnual TuitionGrad RateMedian SalaryHakia Score
#1
Bachelor's in Information Technology
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO · Public
Online$13,65875%$134,05085.9
#2
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Strayer University-Florida
Tampa, FL · Private for-profit
Online$13,725100%$134,05084.8
#3
Bachelor's in Information Technology
American Public University System
Charles Town, WV · Private for-profit
Online$8,40057%$134,05084.8
#4
Bachelor's in Information Technology
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH · Public
Online$11,68575%$134,05084.7
#5
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
Stillwater, OK · Public
Online$5,41768%$134,05084.4
#6
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Washington University of Science and Technology
Alexandria, VA · Private for-profit
Online$13,36567%$134,05084.4
#7
Bachelor's in Information Technology
North Carolina A & T State University
Greensboro, NC · Public
Online$3,54057%$134,05083.0
#8
Bachelor's in Information Technology
George Mason University
Fairfax, VA · Public
Online$10,39268%$134,05082.8
#9
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Excelsior University
Albany, NY · Private nonprofit
Online——$134,05082.5
#10
Bachelor's in Information Technology
University of Missouri-St Louis
Saint Louis, MO · Public
Online$15,12057%$134,05081.9
#11
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Kennesaw State University
Kennesaw, GA · Public
Online$4,56052%$134,05080.8
#12
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Point Loma Nazarene University
San Diego, CA · Private nonprofit
Online$45,30077%$134,05080.7
#13
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Purdue University Global
West Lafayette, IN · Public
Online$10,08050%$134,05080.7
#14
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Western Governors University
Salt Lake City, UT · Private nonprofit
Online$8,18046%$134,05079.7
#15
Bachelor's in Information Technology
East Carolina University
Greenville, NC · Public
Online$4,45263%$134,05078.6
#16
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Colorado Christian University
Lakewood, CO · Private nonprofit
Online$27,63164%$134,05078.2
#17
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Indian River State College
Fort Pierce, FL · Public
Online$2,49645%$134,05077.0
#18
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Abilene Christian University
Abilene, TX · Private nonprofit
Online$43,90059%$134,05077.0
#19
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Monroe University
Bronx, NY · Private for-profit
Online$16,34457%$134,05076.5
#20
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Missouri State University-Springfield
Springfield, MO · Public
Online$8,12058%$134,05076.0
#21
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Northern Arizona University
Flagstaff, AZ · Public
Online$11,37861%$134,05075.9
#22
Bachelor's in Information Technology
California Baptist University
Riverside, CA · Private nonprofit
Online$39,07862%$134,05075.5
#23
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Seminole State College of Florida
Sanford, FL · Public
Online$2,39341%$134,05075.3
#24
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Liberty University
Lynchburg, VA · Private nonprofit
Online$15,29765%$134,05075.2
#25
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Georgia Southern University
Statesboro, GA · Public
Online$4,48855%$134,05074.3
#26
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Southern Illinois University-Carbondale
Carbondale, IL · Public
Online$9,63862%$134,05074.0
#27
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Millersville University of Pennsylvania
Millersville, PA · Public
Online$7,71658%$134,05073.5
#28
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Murray State University
Murray, KY · Public
Online$8,60461%$134,05072.9
#29
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Grand Canyon University
Phoenix, AZ · Private for-profit
Online$16,47343%$134,05072.8
#30
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Oakwood University
Huntsville, AL · Private nonprofit
Online$21,34445%$134,05072.7
#31
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Brigham Young University-Idaho
Rexburg, ID · Private nonprofit
Online$4,80055%$134,05072.3
#32
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Columbia Southern University
Orange Beach, AL · Private for-profit
Online$5,94433%$134,05071.7
#33
Bachelor's in Information Technology
New Mexico State University-Main Campus
Las Cruces, NM · Public
Online$6,28355%$134,05071.6
#34
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Regis University
Denver, CO · Private nonprofit
Online$23,70061%$134,05071.5
#35
Bachelor's in Information Technology
University of Phoenix-Arizona
Phoenix, AZ · Private for-profit
Online$9,55221%$134,05071.5
#36
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Atlantis University
Miami, FL · Private for-profit
Online$10,80057%$134,05071.3
#37
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Ohio Christian University
Circleville, OH · Private nonprofit
Online$17,84034%$134,05070.9
#38
Bachelor's in Information Technology
North Carolina Central University
Durham, NC · Public
Online$3,72842%$134,05069.8
#39
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology
Okmulgee, OK · Public
Online$4,57442%$134,05069.6
#40
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Colorado Technical University-Colorado Springs
Colorado Springs, CO · Private for-profit
Online$12,09019%$134,05069.4
#41
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Bellevue University
Bellevue, NE · Private nonprofit
Online$12,12333%$134,05068.9
#42
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Western Kentucky University
Bowling Green, KY · Public
Online$11,65256%$134,05068.7
#43
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Capella University
Minneapolis, MN · Private for-profit
Online$14,40020%$134,05068.5
#44
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Colorado State University Global
Denver, CO · Public
Online$9,000—$134,05068.5
#45
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Ashford University
San Diego, CA · Private for-profit
Online$11,04011%$134,05068.0
#46
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Muskingum University
New Concord, OH · Private nonprofit
Online$30,89456%$134,05067.0
#47
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Strayer University-Alabama
Birmingham, AL · Private for-profit
Online$13,725—$134,05066.9
#48
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Park University
Parkville, MO · Private nonprofit
Online$11,01838%$134,05066.7
#49
Bachelor's in Information Technology
Walsh College
Troy, MI · Private nonprofit
Online$22,104—$134,05066.5
#50
Bachelor's in Information Technology
University of Massachusetts Global
Aliso Viejo, CA · Public
Online$12,00043%$134,05066.4

Showing all 50 ranked programs.

Online IT Degree Rankings Overview

Online Information Technology degrees have become the preferred path for working professionals and career changers entering the tech industry. An analysis of 230 accredited programs shows 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 result in higher long-term earning potential.

$58,000
Starting Salary
$87,200
Mid-Career
+0.08%
Job Growth
377,500
Annual Openings

Career Paths

Computer Systems Analyst

SOC 15-1211
+0.1%

Study computer systems and procedures to design solutions that help organizations operate efficiently

Median Salary:$102,240

Database Administrator

SOC 15-1242
+0.08%

Store and organize data using specialized software and ensure database security and performance

Median Salary:$98,860

Computer Support Specialist

SOC 15-1232
+0.06%

Provide technical assistance to computer users and organizations, resolving IT problems

Median Salary:$59,660

Cloud Solutions Architect

SOC 15-1241
+0.13%

Design and implement cloud computing strategies and infrastructure for organizations

Median Salary:$126,830

IT Project Manager

SOC 11-3021
+0.11%

Plan, coordinate, and manage technology projects from initiation to completion

Median Salary:$159,010

Top States for Online IT Education

Best Information Technology Online Programs in California
Total Programs
35
Median Tuition
$18,420
Top Program
California State University System Online
Best Information Technology Online Programs in Texas
Total Programs
28
Median Tuition
$14,250
Top Program
University of Texas System Online
Best Information Technology Online Programs in New York
Total Programs
24
Median Tuition
$19,680
Top Program
SUNY Empire State College
Best Information Technology Online Programs in Florida
Total Programs
22
Median Tuition
$12,890
Top Program
University of Florida Online
Best Information Technology Online Programs in Pennsylvania
Total Programs
19
Median Tuition
$16,740
Top Program
Penn State World Campus
Best Information Technology Online Programs in Illinois
Total Programs
17
Median Tuition
$15,320
Top Program
University of Illinois Springfield
Best Information Technology Online Programs in Ohio
Total Programs
16
Median Tuition
$13,560
Top Program
Ohio University Online
Best Information Technology Online Programs in Virginia
Total Programs
15
Median Tuition
$14,880
Top Program
Old Dominion University
Best Information Technology Online Programs in North Carolina
Total Programs
14
Median Tuition
$12,450
Top Program
University of North Carolina Online
Best Information Technology Online Programs in Georgia
Total Programs
13
Median Tuition
$11,890
Top Program
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

Arizona State University Online

  • You want the largest online platform with proven scale and stability
  • 24/7 virtual lab access matters 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

Penn State World Campus

  • 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

Southern New Hampshire University

  • 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

University of Maryland Global Campus

  • 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

Colorado State University Global

  • 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

Frequently Asked Questions About Online IT Degrees

Are online IT degrees respected by employers?
Online IT degrees from accredited institutions are widely respected by employers, especially when graduates demonstrate practical skills through certifications and hands-on experience. Major technology companies including Amazon, Microsoft, and IBM actively recruit from top online programs. The key factors employers evaluate are accreditation, technical competency, and relevant certifications rather than delivery format. In fact, 87% of hiring managers report no preference between online and on-campus degrees for IT positions according to a 2024 Society for Human Resource Management survey.
How do virtual labs work in online IT programs?
Virtual labs provide remote access to enterprise-grade networking equipment, servers, and software through cloud-based platforms. Students connect via web browsers or specialized software to interact with real Cisco routers, VMware virtualization environments, Windows Server installations, and cybersecurity tools. Top programs offer 24/7 lab access with no additional fees. While virtual labs effectively simulate real-world IT environments, they may have limitations compared to physical hardware for certain advanced networking and hardware troubleshooting scenarios.
Can I transfer credits to an online IT program?
Most online IT programs accept transfer credits from regionally accredited institutions, with policies varying significantly between schools. Public universities accept 60-90 credits from community colleges and other four-year institutions. Private schools like Southern New Hampshire University accept up to 90 credits, while some programs limit transfers to 60-75 credits. Credits from bootcamps, professional certifications, and work experience may qualify for credit through prior learning assessment programs at select institutions.
What certifications are included in online IT programs?
Leading online IT programs integrate preparation for industry-standard certifications including CompTIA A+ (hardware/software fundamentals), CompTIA Network+ (networking), CompTIA Security+ (cybersecurity basics), and vendor-specific certifications like Cisco CCNA, Microsoft Azure, and AWS Cloud Practitioner. Some programs include vouchers for certification exams or require certification achievement as part of degree requirements. Students should verify which certifications are included versus optional, as exam costs range from $300-$500 each.
How long does it take to complete an online IT degree?
Traditional online IT bachelor's degrees take 4 years for students taking 12-15 credits per semester. Accelerated programs with 8-week terms (like SNHU) can be completed in 2.5-3 years with full-time enrollment. Students transferring significant credits may finish in 2-3 years depending on transfer acceptance. Part-time students need 5-6 years to complete their degree while working full-time. Competency-based programs allow students to accelerate through familiar material, potentially reducing total time.
What technical requirements do I need for online IT classes?
Basic requirements include a computer with Windows 10/11 or macOS, reliable high-speed internet (25+ Mbps recommended), webcam, microphone, and ability to install software for labs and assignments. Many programs require Windows computers for compatibility with Microsoft technologies and virtual machines. Students need 8GB+ RAM and 256GB+ storage for virtual lab environments. Some advanced networking courses may require additional software downloads or virtual machine capabilities. Mobile devices alone are insufficient for technical coursework.
Do online IT students get career services and job placement help?
Accredited online IT programs provide career services including resume writing assistance, interview preparation, job search strategy, and employer networking events. Top programs report job placement rates of 75-85% within six months of graduation. Many schools offer virtual career fairs, industry mentorship programs, and partnerships with technology employers. Career services quality varies significantly between institutions, so prospective students should evaluate specific offerings like alumni networks, employer partnerships, and dedicated online student career counselors.
Can I complete an online IT degree while working full-time?
Online IT programs are specifically designed for working adults, with most students (92%) maintaining employment during their studies. Asynchronous coursework allows students to complete assignments on flexible schedules, though some programs require weekly deadlines or scheduled virtual lab sessions. Students spend 15-20 hours per week on coursework for full-time enrollment (12+ credits). Part-time enrollment (6-9 credits) requires 8-12 hours weekly and extends degree completion to 5-6 years but provides better work-life balance.
How much do online IT degrees cost compared to on-campus programs?
Online IT degree costs vary significantly by institution type. Public universities charge $8,000-$18,000 annually for residents, while out-of-state and private programs range from $15,000-$35,000 yearly. Online programs cost 10-30% more than in-state on-campus tuition but eliminate housing, transportation, and campus fees. Total degree costs range from $32,000-$140,000 depending on institution. Many employers offer tuition reimbursement covering $5,250+ annually, significantly reducing out-of-pocket expenses for working students.
Are online IT graduates prepared for entry-level positions?
Graduates from quality online IT programs are well-prepared for entry-level positions through comprehensive curricula covering networking, systems administration, cybersecurity, and business applications. Virtual labs provide hands-on experience with enterprise technologies, while capstone projects simulate real-world IT scenarios. Many programs require internships or work-based learning components. Industry certifications integrated into coursework validate technical competency to employers. Starting salaries range from $45,000-$65,000, comparable to on-campus graduates with similar qualifications.

How We Rank Information Technology Degree Programs

Based on 742 programs from IPEDS 2024

University of Missouri-Columbia's Bachelor's in Information Technology leads our ranking of 50 online information technology programs, scored on graduation rate, selectivity, career outcomes, and cost using IPEDS 2024 and BLS data. All 50 can be completed fully online.

Ranking Factors

Program Completions35%

Number of graduates per year in this specific field (CIP code). Larger programs indicate established departments with more resources, course offerings, and career services. Measured from IPEDS Completions data.

Graduation Rate25%

Percentage of students completing their degree within 150% of expected time (6 years for bachelor's, 3 years for associate's). Higher rates indicate better student support and program quality. Source: IPEDS Graduation Rates survey.

Selectivity20%

Admission rate (lower = more selective). More selective institutions have stronger academic environments and more competitive graduates. For open-admission institutions, we use graduation rates as a proxy for quality.

Career Outcomes20%

National salary data for information technology graduates, factored into institutional scores based on job market strength.

Ranking Categories

Best Programs

Overall quality using all four factors weighted as shown above. Ideal for students seeking the strongest academic experience.

Online Programs

Same methodology, filtered to schools with fully online or hybrid options (IPEDS Distance Education data). Some schools may have lower graduation rates due to different student demographics.

Most Affordable

Ranked primarily by net cost (tuition minus average institutional aid), with quality factors as tiebreakers. Best for cost-conscious students.

Data Sources

  • IPEDS 2024 — Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates
  • BLS OEWS 2024 — National and metro salary data by occupation
  • CIP Code Mapping — Programs identified using Classification of Instructional Programs codes

Data Sources and Methodology

IPEDS 2024 Data Center

Institutional characteristics, graduation rates, tuition costs, and enrollment data from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System

Bureau of Labor Statistics OEWS May 2024

Occupational employment and wage statistics for computer and information technology occupations

BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook

Job growth projections, typical education requirements, and career descriptions for IT occupations

National Student Clearinghouse

Enrollment and completion data for verification of institutional reporting accuracy

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Taylor Rupe

Taylor Rupe

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

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