Top 3 Information Technology Programs in Massachusetts 2025
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
144 Information Technology graduates annually, 98% graduation rate
Boston College
70 Information Technology graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
University of Massachusetts-Boston
89 Information Technology graduates annually, 75% graduation rate
- 1.Massachusetts has 20+ accredited information technology bachelor's programs, with Boston emerging as the Hub of tech innovation
- 2.MIT ranks #1 in the state with 96% graduation rate and revolutionary technology research programs
- 3.IT professionals in Massachusetts earn median $112,480 annually—15% above the national average (BLS Massachusetts 2024)
- 4.Boston tech ecosystem includes over 7,500 technology companies from startups to Fortune 500 headquarters
- 5.Major employers include Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Wayfair, HubSpot, and Akamai Technologies
Information Technology Education in Massachusetts
Massachusetts stands as one of the most innovative technology education destinations in the United States, combining world-class research universities with a thriving tech ecosystem. From MIT's cutting-edge research laboratories to Northeastern's industry-focused co-op programs, the state offers diverse pathways for aspiring IT professionals.
Boston has emerged as a major technology hub, ranking among the top 5 tech cities nationally. The Greater Boston area hosts over 7,500 technology companies, creating abundant internship and career opportunities for IT graduates. For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national IT bachelor's rankings. Students interested in cost considerations should review our most affordable IT programs guide.
The state's technology sector spans multiple industries, from biotech and fintech to cybersecurity and artificial intelligence. This diversity provides IT graduates with varied career paths, whether in traditional enterprise IT, emerging technologies, or specialized sectors like healthcare informatics and financial technology.
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Massachusetts-Lowell | Lowell, MA | Public | $15,850 | 98% | — | 84.2 |
| 2 | Boston College | Chestnut Hill, MA | Private | $66,410 | — | — | 71.4 |
| 3 | University of Massachusetts-Boston | Boston, MA | Public | $14,905 | 75% | — | 67.2 |
| 4 | Northeastern University Professional Programs | Boston, MA | Private | $48,464 | — | — | 61 |
| 5 | Suffolk University | Boston, MA | Private | $44,812 | 88% | — | 59.6 |
| 6 | Wentworth Institute of Technology | Boston, MA | Private | $40,410 | 99% | — | 58.4 |
| 7 | Northeastern University | Boston, MA | Private | $62,000 | — | — | 54 |
| 8 | Merrimack College | North Andover, MA | Private | $47,636 | 80% | — | 49.9 |
| 9 | Westfield State University | Westfield, MA | Public | $970 | — | — | 46.7 |
| 10 | Simmons University | Boston, MA | Private | $44,208 | — | — | 42.8 |
| 11 | Salem State University | Salem, MA | Public | $910 | — | — | 39.2 |
| 12 | Lasell University | Newton, MA | Private | $26,000 | — | — | 38.8 |
Top 5 Information Technology Programs in Massachusetts: Side-by-Side
| School | Northeastern | Boston | Clark | Harvard | U of Massachusetts-Lowell |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $62,000 | $63,798 | $54,760 | $54,269 | $15,850 |
| Graduation Rate | N/A% | N/A% | 98% | N/A% | 98% |
| Annual Graduates | 561 | 257 | 98 | 90 | 144 |
| Acceptance Rate | 6% | 11% | 42% | 3% | 85% |
| Type | Private | Private | Private | Private | Public |
| Score | 88.1/100 | 75.2/100 | 71.7/100 | 66.7/100 | 66.0/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Information Technology in Massachusetts
Massachusetts offers 24 bachelor's-level information technology programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Northeastern University, University of Massachusetts-Lowell, Wellesley College. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $90,048 in the Massachusetts market.
A bachelor's in information technology typically requires 120-128 credit hours and takes 4 years to complete. For national rankings, see our Best Information Technology Bachelor's Programs guide.
Top 3 Information Technology Bachelor's Programs in Massachusetts
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Northeastern | $62,000 | N/A% | 561 | 88.1 |
| #2 U of Massachusetts-Lowell | $15,850 | 98% | 144 | 66.0 |
| #3 Wellesley College | $64,000 | N/A% | 67 | 62.4 |
Top Information Technology Schools for Master's Degrees in Massachusetts
For graduate study, Massachusetts offers 13 master's-level information technology programs. Leading institutions include Northeastern University, Boston University, Clark University. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Massachusetts reaching $167,232 or more.
Top 3 Information Technology Master's Programs in Massachusetts
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Northeastern | $62,000 | N/A% | 778 | 88.1 |
| #2 Boston | $63,798 | N/A% | 257 | 75.2 |
| #3 Clark | $54,760 | 98% | 98 | 71.7 |
Most Affordable Information Technology Colleges in Massachusetts
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable information technology programs in Massachusetts are at Salem State University ($910/year), Worcester State University ($970/year), Framingham State University ($970/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Massachusetts's competitive tech salaries.
At Salem State University, a 4-year degree costs approximately $3,640 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $90,048, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.1 years.
Most Affordable Information Technology Programs in Massachusetts (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Salem State | $910 | $3,640 | 0.1 years | Public |
| #2 Worcester State | $970 | $3,880 | 0.1 years | Public |
| #3 Framingham State | $970 | $3,880 | 0.1 years | Public |
Northeastern University
Boston, MA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $62,000 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 561 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 6%
- • Ranking Score: 88.1 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 561 information technology graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 88.1 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (561 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (6% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
The program offers STEM designation with challenge-based, experience-focused learning that builds industry-required skills for over 377,000 new IT jobs projected annually through 2029. Students can apply existing certifications (A+, network certifications, PMP) toward course credits and choose from four professional concentrations.
Admissions
- Min GPA: 2.000
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Boston University
Boston, MA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $63,798 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 257 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 11%
- • Ranking Score: 75.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 257 information technology graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 75.2 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (257 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (11% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
BU MET's MS in Computer Information Systems has been ranked as a Top 10 online program since 2014 and offers AI-integrated curriculum with diverse concentrations. The program prepares students for IT leadership positions with hands-on expertise in emerging technologies and strong business acumen integration.
Program Accreditations & Designations
Available Scholarships
Program Details
- Credits: 32 Units
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $130.1K median annual salary
- Top Employers: Amazon
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Clark University
Worcester, MA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $54,760 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 98 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 42%
- • Ranking Score: 71.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 98 information technology graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 71.7 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (98 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (42% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Harvard University
Cambridge, MA • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $54,269 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 90 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 3%
- • Ranking Score: 66.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 90 information technology graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 66.7 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (90 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (3% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
Lowell, MA • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $15,850 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 98% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 144 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 85%
- • Ranking Score: 66.0 / 100
Program Strengths
- 98% graduation rate
- 144 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 66.0 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (98%), program size (144 graduates), state salary outcomes ($128,640), and selectivity (85% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
This flexible online program allows students to complete in as little as 12-36 months while transferring up to 90 college credits, and offers specialized IT certificates that can be completed in tandem with the degree. The program prepares graduates for high-demand IT careers with a median salary of $134K annually.
Available Scholarships
Admissions
- Transfer Friendly
Program Details
- Credits: 120 credits
Career Outcomes
- Starting Salary: $134K/yr median earnings
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Career Paths
Design, develop, and maintain software applications across various industries including healthcare, finance, and biotech
Analyze complex data sets to drive business decisions in Massachusetts' thriving biotech and financial services sectors
Protect organizational systems and data with growing demand in healthcare, government, and financial services
Streamline development and operations processes for Boston's numerous SaaS companies and startups
Develop artificial intelligence solutions for industries ranging from autonomous vehicles to medical devices
Massachusetts University Systems and IT Education
Massachusetts offers diverse pathways for IT education through its world-class private universities and comprehensive public university system. The state's unique combination of research universities, liberal arts colleges, and state universities provides options for every student profile and budget.
Private Research Universities lead Massachusetts technology education, with institutions like MIT, Harvard, and Northeastern setting global standards for innovation and research. These universities offer access to cutting-edge facilities, renowned faculty, and extensive industry partnerships, though at premium tuition rates.
University of Massachusetts System provides high-quality public education across five campuses. UMass Amherst offers the flagship computer science and IT programs with strong research opportunities. UMass Boston serves the urban market with practical, career-focused programs, while UMass Lowell emphasizes engineering and technology applications.
State Universities including Bridgewater State, Framingham State, and Salem State offer affordable IT education with smaller class sizes and strong regional employer connections. These programs focus on practical skills and career preparation, making them excellent choices for students seeking immediate employment after graduation.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Massachusetts
IT Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Georgia
Which Should You Choose?
- Access to world-class research universities and cutting-edge technology programs
- Proximity to Boston's thriving tech ecosystem with 7,500+ technology companies
- Strong alumni networks at major technology companies and startups
- Opportunities in specialized sectors like biotech, fintech, and healthcare IT
- Access to venture capital and entrepreneurship opportunities
- Higher starting salaries that offset the higher cost of living
- Lower cost of living and more affordable tuition options
- Warmer climate and different lifestyle preferences
- Specific industry focuses like gaming (California) or aerospace (Texas)
- Different cultural environments or geographic preferences
- State residency benefits in your home state
- Specific program specializations not available in Massachusetts
Massachusetts IT Programs FAQ
Based on 20 programs from IPEDS 2023, BLS OES May 2024
Information Technology degree completions indicating program size, faculty, and resources
6-year completion rate from IPEDS 2023 (4-year institutions weighted higher)
Admission rate from IPEDS 2023 (lower = more selective)
State-specific information technology salaries from BLS OES 2024
Related IT Program Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional data
State-specific salary and employment data
State technology industry analysis and employment trends
University research expenditure data
Post-graduation earnings and institutional performance
Taylor Rupe
Full-Stack Developer (B.S. Computer Science, B.A. Psychology)
Taylor combines formal training in computer science with a background in human behavior to evaluate complex search, AI, and data-driven topics. His technical review ensures each article reflects current best practices in semantic search, AI systems, and web technology.