Best Associate's Information Technology Degree Programs in Minnesota
Minneapolis Community and Technical College — Minneapolis, MN
Hakia Insight: MCTC's employer network spanning Mayo Clinic, Target corporate, and 3M reflects Twin Cities economic density; graduates land roles with healthcare and retail IT operations that typically require bachelor's degrees elsewhere.
At the associate's level, if you want to work in a major metro tech scene immediately after graduation, MCTC's program is built for that outcome. The curriculum integrates cloud platforms and modern infrastructure alongside traditional IT support skills, and you'll work with instructors who have current industry experience. The Twin Cities job market is hungry for these graduates—most students land help desk or junior admin roles within months. Strong articulation agreements with Augsburg University and other nearby four-year schools mean your credits transfer cleanly if you want to continue later.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Mayo Clinic, Twin Cities health systems, Target corporate, Wells Fargo, 3M, Local government agencies, Tech startups in Minneapolis.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Augsburg University
- University of Minnesota Twin Cities
- Metropolitan State University
- St. Cloud State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Desktop Support Technician
- Technical Support Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Hennepin Technical College — Brooklyn Park, MN
Hakia Insight: Hennepal Tech's unapologetic certification-first model trades general education breadth for immediate employment velocity—students graduate employment-ready rather than transfer-ready, which works precisely for Twin Cities labor markets that value immediate productivity.
At the associate's level, trade-focused and unapologetic about it—Hennepin Tech's IT program prioritizes certifications and immediate employment outcomes over general education requirements. You'll earn industry credentials quickly and be job-ready fast. The program has direct relationships with major Twin Cities employers, meaning internship and job placement pipelines are already built in. If your goal is to work, not transfer, this program is designed exactly for that. Many graduates stay in the metro area and advance into specialized IT roles within 3-5 years.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Twin Cities healthcare organizations, Financial services firms, Manufacturing companies, Government agencies, Technology service providers.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Network Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft certifications
Location Advantages:
Lake Superior College — Duluth, MN
Hakia Insight: Lake Superior College is essentially the only accredited IT program serving northern Minnesota's Duluth-to-Canada IT labor market, meaning graduates face near-zero local competition for roles in healthcare systems and port operations.
At the associate's level, where Minnesota meets the shore, Lake Superior College trains IT professionals for the northern Minnesota and Wisconsin employment market. The program balances hands-on technical skills with regional job realities—you're learning what employers in the region actually hire for. Graduates work as support specialists and junior admins at hospitals, manufacturers, and government offices around Duluth and beyond. If you want to stay in northern Minnesota or the Upper Midwest, this program has the connections and curriculum tailored for that path.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Duluth-area healthcare systems, St. Luke's Hospital, Port of Duluth organizations, Regional manufacturing, School districts in northern Minnesota, Government agencies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota Duluth
- St. Cloud State University
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Desktop Support Technician
- Technical Support Analyst
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft certifications
Location Advantages:
Century College — White Bear Lake, MN
Hakia Insight: DCTC's south metro positioning directly captures Apple Valley and Eagan's corporate headquarters clustering; graduates enter an employment market with density of stable IT operations that smaller regional programs don't access.
At the associate's level, you'll get hands-on experience in a program designed around what employers actually need right now—networking, cybersecurity fundamentals, and systems administration. Century's IT program emphasizes lab work and real-world troubleshooting scenarios, so you're not just learning theory. Graduates commonly move into help desk and junior network administrator roles at Minnesota companies, or transfer to universities like St. Cloud State or Minnesota State University, Mankato to complete bachelor's degrees. The program's strength is its balance between breadth and depth—you get certified in foundational areas while developing specialization options.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Minnesota health systems, State government agencies, Regional financial institutions, Manufacturing firms in the Twin Cities area.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
- University of Minnesota
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
Location Advantages:
Dakota County Technical College — Rosemount, MN
Hakia Insight: MNSCTC in Fergus Falls serves the only significant IT employment market in northwest Minnesota—rural healthcare, manufacturing, and utilities can't recruit from the Twin Cities, making local graduates disproportionately valuable in an otherwise undersupplied region.
At the associate's level, connected directly to the booming south metro job market, DCTC's IT program is designed around what employers in Apple Valley, Eagan, and surrounding areas need right now. You'll learn systems support, networking, and help desk fundamentals with instructors who keep pace with actual industry demand. The south metro tech scene is expanding fast, and DCTC graduates have a geographic advantage—employers in the area know and trust the program. Many students complete their degree and move into support or junior admin roles within weeks of graduation.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: South metro healthcare organizations, Corporate headquarters in Apple Valley area, Technology service providers, Manufacturing firms, Financial services, School districts, Local government agencies.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Minnesota
- St. Cloud State University
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- Augsburg University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Desktop Support Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
Location Advantages:
Minnesota State Community and Technical College — Fergus Falls, MN
Hakia Insight: Century College's hands-on curriculum in networking, cybersecurity fundamentals, and systems administration reflects Twin Cities employer feedback in real time—not a generic IT associate degree, but a calibrated response to what regional health systems, state government, and manufacturers are actually hiring for.
At the associate's level, working in IT means staying ahead of technology, and MNSCTC's program in Fergus Falls builds that mindset into every course you take. The college emphasizes real-world scenarios through labs and projects that mirror what you'll face as a help desk technician or junior network admin on day one of employment. With strong ties to employers across northwest Minnesota and beyond, you'll find internship opportunities at manufacturing plants, healthcare facilities, and government offices that value the hands-on preparation this program delivers. Many students complete their AAS and move directly into regional tech roles, while others use the program as a springboard to four-year universities in the Minnesota State system.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Northwest Minnesota healthcare systems, Manufacturing facilities, Regional government IT departments, School districts, Local utilities and cooperatives.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Moorhead
- Bemidji State University
- St. Cloud State University
- University of Minnesota
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft certifications
Location Advantages:
St Cloud Technical and Community College — Saint Cloud, MN
Hakia Insight: St. Cloud Technical's dual-track degree structure (AS and AAS) lets students choose between transfer pathways to four-year programs or direct entry into regional IT roles—a flexibility that positions graduates to either pivot to bachelor's degrees or command immediate salaries at employers like CentraCare and Minnesota Department of Human Services.
At the associate's level, you'll get hands-on experience in St. Cloud's lab-intensive IT program where theory meets practice from day one. The college maintains strong partnerships with regional employers in central Minnesota, meaning internships and job placements happen while you're still in class. Students focus on network administration, cybersecurity fundamentals, and systems support—skills that translate immediately to entry-level roles at healthcare systems, manufacturers, and government agencies throughout the region. Many graduates stay local and build careers with organizations like St. Cloud State University's IT department or regional tech firms, while others transfer to four-year programs at Minnesota State University, Mankato or St. Cloud State.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: St. Cloud State University, CentraCare Health System, Minnesota Department of Human Services, Regional manufacturing companies, Local government IT departments.
Top Transfer Destinations
- St. Cloud State University
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- University of Minnesota
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
- Network Support Technician
- Systems Administrator (junior level)
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA
- Microsoft certifications (Azure, Windows Server)
Location Advantages:
Rasmussen University-Minnesota — St. Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers comprehensive Information Technology programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Rasmussen's private model trades institutional prestige for schedule flexibility and accelerated completion timelines, making it the faster entry point for working adults in the St. Cloud region seeking credential-based career advancement over theoretical breadth.
Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers Information Technology programs in St. Cloud, MN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Ridgewater College — Willmar, MN
Hakia Insight: Ridgewater's dual-campus infrastructure (Willmar and Hutchinson) creates unusual flexibility for rural students—you can complete coursework near home while tapping employer networks across south-central Minnesota's healthcare, agricultural, and manufacturing sectors without relocating.
At the associate's level, if you want an IT education that values both technical depth and career readiness, Ridgewater's program across its Willmar and Hutchinson campuses delivers exactly that through a curriculum built with input from employers who actually hire your peers. You'll master the fundamentals—network management, help desk support, systems administration—in an environment where instructors prioritize real projects over theory alone. Ridgewater's rural location gives you a cost advantage compared to Twin Cities schools, and the smaller class sizes mean you get genuine mentorship from faculty who remember your name and your career goals. Graduates move into tech roles throughout south-central Minnesota or transfer to universities across the state.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: South-central Minnesota healthcare systems, School districts, Local government IT departments, Agricultural cooperatives, Manufacturing companies, Regional businesses.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
- Southwest Minnesota State University
- University of Minnesota
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Desktop Support Technician
- Technical Support Specialist
- Junior Network Administrator
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Microsoft certifications
Location Advantages:
South Central College — North Mankato, MN
Hakia Insight: In rural southern Minnesota, South Central's isolation becomes an asset: manufacturers and agricultural cooperatives desperately need local IT talent, meaning graduates face virtually no regional competition for entry-level positions and strong wage leverage from employers with limited talent pools.
At the associate's level, in a more rural part of the state, South Central delivers solid IT training with strong connections to regional employers who desperately need tech talent. You won't find the flashiest labs, but you'll get practical, no-nonsense instruction that translates to jobs in the community. Graduates find work as support specialists, junior admins, and network technicians at healthcare facilities, manufacturers, and government offices throughout south-central Minnesota. The program also supports transfer to regional state universities if you want to continue your education later.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Regional healthcare systems, Manufacturing facilities, Local government offices, School districts, Agricultural cooperative businesses.
Top Transfer Destinations
- Minnesota State University, Mankato
- St. Cloud State University
- Minnesota State University, Winona
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- IT Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- Desktop Support Technician
- Network Support Technician
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- Microsoft certifications
Location Advantages:
Best Bachelor's Information Technology Degree Programs in Minnesota
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: University of Minnesota's IT programs distinguish themselves through integration with top-tier computer science research, enabling undergraduates and graduate students to contribute to federally-funded labs in AI, security, and systems.
Hakia Insight: University of Minnesota-Twin Cities's partnerships with Amazon and Google translate research into real-world experience — a key differentiator for hiring managers in Minnesota.
At the bachelor's level, the University of Minnesota's computer science and information technology programs benefit from the institution's status as a top-tier research university and land-grant anchor to the Minneapolis-St. Paul technology ecosystem. The School of Computer Science sits at the center of substantial federally-funded research programs spanning artificial intelligence, distributed systems, security, and data science—undergraduates can participate in these labs as early as sophomore year, and graduate students often define their thesis work within active research centers. What prospective IT students should understand is that Minnesota operates a tiered system: the flagship computer science degree emphasizes research training and theoretical depth, while specialized IT master's programs (including cybersecurity, data science, and enterprise systems) cater more directly to professional outcomes. The faculty includes prominent researchers with active NSF, DARPA, and industry grants, many of whom teach core graduate courses. Industry connections flow bidirectionally—companies like Amazon, Google, Microsoft, and local powerhouses like UnitedHealth and Best Buy actively recruit from Minnesota's pipeline, and many CS faculty consult for or maintain research partnerships with these firms. Graduates pursuing IT-focused careers often move into senior technical roles, research scientist positions in industry, or technology leadership tracks; the program's research emphasis produces technologists comfortable with both cutting-edge systems concepts and practical architecture decisions.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Computer Science and Engineering Department
- Minnesota Supercomputing Institute
Industry Partners
- Amazon (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
- Best Buy (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- null — Distributed systems and security
- null — Machine learning and artificial intelligence
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Minneapolis-St. Paul technology corridorProximity to Amazon, Microsoft regional officesUnitedHealth Group headquarters (Eden Prairie, MN)Best Buy headquarters (Richfield, MN)Vibrant startup ecosystem
Minnesota State University-Mankato — Mankato, MN
Key Distinction: Mandatory internship (CIS 497) with real-world business experience under faculty guidance. Team-oriented capstone projects using upper and lower CASE tools
Hakia Insight: Minnesota State Mankato's mandatory CIS 497 internship isn't optional padding—it's embedded into degree requirements with faculty oversight, ensuring every graduate has verified work experience before diploma conferral, a structural advantage over programs where internships compete with coursework.
The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology at Minnesota State University-Mankato focuses on meeting organizational technology needs through selection, creation, application, integration and administration of computing technologies. The program provides graduates with skills for successful information careers in industry, business, education, or government. The curriculum combines theoretical foundations with practical application, including required courses in programming, data structures, algorithms, computer architecture, database systems, networking, and information security. Students must complete a mandatory internship (CIS 497) providing real-world business experience under faculty guidance. The program requires a capstone systems analysis and design course with team-oriented projects using CASE tools. Students complete 12 credits of major restricted electives from advanced CIS courses (400-499 level) and must earn a minor outside of Computer Science. The structured 4-year plan ensures systematic progression through increasingly complex technical concepts, preparing graduates for diverse IT roles.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- EARTH Systems Lab
- GIS and Cartography Labs
- Minnesota Center for Automotive Research (MNCAR) Lab
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Sarah Kruse — Department Chair and Professor
- Dr. Rushit Dave — Computer Science Program Director and Associate Professor
- Krista Sheely — Software Engineering Program Director and Assistant Professor
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Regional presence in upper Midwest tech marketConnections to manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services employersAccess to growing technology initiatives in southern Minnesota
Macalester College — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Macalester's IT pathway uniquely combines rigorous computer science foundations with mandatory breadth across mathematics, science, and humanities, producing technology professionals with rare interdisciplinary perspective.
Hakia Insight: Macalester's forced interdisciplinary requirement—technical depth plus mandatory humanities, math, and science breadth—produces IT professionals who can speak design language with UX teams, regulatory compliance with legal departments, and business strategy with C-suite, a rare skill set at liberal arts colleges.
At the bachelor's level, macalester's computer science program (which forms the foundation for IT studies) takes a distinctly interdisciplinary approach, refusing the siloed "CS major in a bubble" model in favor of deep integration across science, mathematics, business, and humanities. Students pursuing technology-focused paths work through a curriculum that front-loads algorithmic thinking and discrete mathematics alongside philosophy-of-computing seminars and ethics modules, then branch into specializations spanning data science, cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, and systems. What sets this apart is the emphasis on breadth-first learning: a Macalester IT student might take courses in statistics and behavioral economics alongside systems design and networks, emerging with a holistic view of technology's organizational and social role rather than narrow technical expertise. The faculty are active researchers and educators deeply invested in mentoring undergraduates—this is not a research-first institution where undergraduates are secondary—and Macalester's small size (around 2,000 students) means close faculty-student relationships that often lead to directed research, consulting projects, or capstone work with regional partners. Internship placements lean heavily toward Minneapolis-St. Paul technology firms, healthcare IT departments at Mayo Clinic and UnitedHealth, and financial services companies seeking broadly-educated technologists. Graduates frequently pursue careers in data analysis, IT consulting, business systems roles, and technology leadership rather than pure software engineering.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Mayo Clinic (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
Location Advantages: Minneapolis-St. Paul tech corridorDirect access to Mayo Clinic and UnitedHealth GroupRegional startup ecosystem
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Hands-on computer lab time with microcomputer applications. Real-world business case analysis
Hakia Insight: Metropolitan State's Cybersecurity Teaching and Research Lab partnership with the Minnesota Institute for Cybersecurity and Forensics gives undergrads direct access to hands-on research infrastructure typically reserved for graduate programs, while evening/weekend scheduling captures working professionals competitors overlook.
The Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems at Metro State is a 120-credit program that balances theory with hands-on practice to prepare students for high-demand IT careers. Students develop working knowledge of applying technology to solve business problems through enterprise architecture, programming, database management, and systems development. The program includes extensive hands-on computer lab time and requires completion of core MIS courses with B- or higher grades. Students learn object-oriented programming, SQL queries, network architecture design, and project management. The curriculum covers the entire IT lifecycle from planning to implementation, with emphasis on real-world business case analysis. Students can enhance their degree with relevant minors including Computer Forensics, Project Management, or Technical Communication. The program follows a comprehensive foundation approach with College of Business prerequisites ensuring strong business acumen alongside technical skills.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Management Information Systems — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Teaching and Research Lab
- Minnesota Institute for Cybersecurity and Forensics
Industry Partners
- Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (government)
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD)
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (NCAE-CO)
Location Advantages: Serves the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan employment marketEvening and weekend course options support working professionalsStrong connections to Minnesota state government IT operations
Capella University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Capella's IT programs uniquely combine full asynchronous online delivery with competency-based progression options and industry-current curriculum, enabling professionals to upskill without sacrificing employment.
Hakia Insight: Capella's competency-based progression model means you can compress a degree by demonstrating mastery early rather than sitting through semesters—paired with full asynchronicity and a 2.3 GPA floor, it's explicitly designed for career-changers who can't afford the time cost of traditional IT degrees.
Capella's information technology programs are architected for working professionals who need flexibility without sacrificing rigor—the entire portfolio (bachelor's through doctorate) operates on asynchronous, fully online platforms where students engage with coursework on their own schedule while maintaining full-time employment. The curriculum structures around practical technology domains: cybersecurity specializations, data science tracks, and enterprise IT management concentrations, each designed with input from active industry advisory boards. What distinguishes Capella is its competency-based progression model in certain programs, where students can accelerate by demonstrating mastery rather than time-serving through semesters—a student who already understands network administration can test out and move forward. The faculty are predominantly practicing IT professionals and recent industry veterans rather than academic researchers, which shapes the content toward contemporary tools and methodologies. Capella's scale (tens of thousands of online students) and sophisticated learning platform enable peer collaboration across geographies, creating informal networks of IT professionals in similar career stages. Graduates report strong satisfaction with career advancement outcomes, often securing promotions or lateral moves into more technical or leadership-focused roles within 6-12 months of program completion.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Center for IT Professionals
Industry Partners
- Google (partner)
- CompTIA (partner)
- AWS (partner)
- Coursera (partner)
- Sophia Learning (partner)
- Project Management Institute (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Maja Zelihic — Academic leadership and business technology administration
- Dr. Bradly E. Roh — Management consulting and organizational leadership
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.3.
Requirements:
Location Advantages:
Minnesota State University Moorhead — Moorhead, MN
Key Distinction: Excellent internship opportunities with major employers. Three state-of-the-art computer labs with 110 lab hours weekly
Hakia Insight: Minnesota State Moorhead's 110 weekly lab hours across three state-of-the-art facilities dwarfs most regional competitors' lab access, translating to hands-on systems administration and networking practice that employers (including Microsoft) verify students actually possess before hiring.
The Computer Information Technology bachelor's program at Minnesota State University Moorhead focuses on creating, configuring, and maintaining computer systems. Students learn to manage servers, networks, routers, user accounts, and develop computer software. The program features three state-of-the-art computer labs (Windows lab with 32 computers, Linux lab with 21 workstations, and an advanced technologies research facility) providing 110 lab hours weekly. Students gain real-world experience through excellent internship opportunities at organizations like Microsoft, Myriad Mobile, and Clifton Labs in the Fargo-Moorhead area. The transfer-friendly program allows students to complete their degree after two years at another institution. Graduates achieve 89% related job placement and outstanding entry-level salaries. The program offers opportunities for undergraduate research with presentations at local, regional, and national conferences. Students can easily double or triple major with related programs like Computer Information Systems, Computer Science, and Cybersecurity due to overlapping coursework.
Programs Offered
- Computer Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Advanced Technologies Research Facility Lab
- Center for Geospatial Studies Lab
- Institute of Applied AI
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (employer)
- Myriad Mobile (employer)
- Clifton Labs (employer)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Microsoft.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Juan Cabanela — Computational techniques for analyzing large astronomical datasets and STEM education
- Dr. Andrew Chen — Computer Science and Information Systems
- Dr. Hanku Lee — Computer Science and Information Systems
- Dr. Adaeze Nwaigwe — Computer Science and Information Systems
- Pranay Prateek — Cybersecurity
Location Advantages: Access to tech employers across Minnesota and North DakotaGrowing regional demand for software developers in manufacturing and business sectors
Walden University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Walden's IT programs uniquely prioritize social impact and organizational mission alignment, embedding real projects from healthcare, education, and nonprofit organizations into every specialization.
Hakia Insight: Walden embeds live case studies from healthcare systems, nonprofits, and education organizations into every IT specialization—meaning your capstone isn't a hypothetical, it's a real problem for a real mission-driven client, creating portfolio work that nonprofit and social-impact employers immediately recognize.
At the bachelor's level, walden's information technology graduate programs deliberately center on social impact and organizational change, positioning technology not as an end in itself but as a lever for solving real-world problems in healthcare, education, nonprofit, and government sectors. The MS in Information Technology and related specializations (Health Informatics, Data Science, Cybersecurity) embed case studies and capstone projects drawn from actual social-mission organizations—a student might design a secure telemedicine platform for a rural health system or architect a data governance system for an education nonprofit. This mission-driven framing attracts a notably diverse cohort of students who view IT as a vehicle for broader impact, and the curriculum reflects that through modules on IT ethics, digital equity, and responsible innovation. Most programs operate fully online with asynchronous delivery, accommodating the working professionals who tend to populate Walden. The faculty integrate practitioner voices alongside academic expertise, and the school maintains active relationships with social enterprises and international development organizations that feed real-world project opportunities into coursework. Graduates frequently move into specialized roles combining technical depth with domain expertise—health IT directors, data analysts for nonprofits, compliance and security roles in regulated sectors—rather than pursuing pure software engineering paths.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
Winona State University — Winona, MN
Key Distinction: Uniquely combines rigorous computer science with business IT systems training, preparing graduates for IT leadership and enterprise technology roles.
Hakia Insight: Winona State's dual-track approach—rigorous CS theory plus enterprise IT systems—addresses the actual job market where IT leaders need both algorithmic thinking and SAP/Oracle fluency; graduates qualify for both software engineering AND enterprise infrastructure roles competitors must choose between.
At the bachelor's level, winona State's information technology and computer science programs excel at bridging traditional computer science theory with applied business IT skills, recognizing that many graduates enter roles requiring both technical depth and organizational awareness. The curriculum deliberately includes business systems, enterprise resource planning (ERP) software, and IT project management alongside core programming and networking courses—a structure that prepares students for mid-career advancement into IT leadership positions. Faculty bring industry experience from technology consulting and corporate IT departments, grounding instruction in practical workplace scenarios. The university invests in labs featuring enterprise systems and networking equipment that mirror real infrastructure students will encounter professionally. Winona's location along the Mississippi River may seem remote, but it's positioned between major regional job markets; students tap internship and career opportunities across the Upper Midwest. The program's career outcomes reflect strong placement in IT operations, systems administration, and business analysis roles at regional and national employers. What sets this program apart is its explicit focus on producing IT professionals ready to manage complexity—both technical systems and the human dynamics of technology deployment.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Regional position serving Upper Midwest tech job marketsConnection to Fortune 500 company operations across Minnesota and Wisconsin
Rasmussen University-Minnesota — St. Cloud, MN
Key Distinction: Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers comprehensive Information Technology programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Rasmussen's bachelor's program trades four-year pedigree for 24-36 month completion and employer partnerships in St. Cloud region, making it the fastest private pathway to IT employment for students who need income velocity over brand weight.
Rasmussen University-Minnesota offers Information Technology programs in St. Cloud, MN. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
University of St Thomas — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: St. Thomas integrates ethics and leadership development into technical IT training, differentiating itself through values-aligned career preparation in a regionally connected program.
Hakia Insight: St. Thomas embeds ethics and leadership modules into technical courses (not as separate electives), meaning graduates can articulate values-driven decision-making in technical interviews—a differentiation that Target, UnitedHealth, and 3M specifically screen for in leadership-track hiring.
At the bachelor's level, st. Thomas's information technology program emphasizes practical application and ethical leadership in technology careers, reflecting the university's values-driven mission. The curriculum balances foundational computer science principles with contemporary IT infrastructure, cybersecurity, and enterprise systems management—designed specifically for students who want hands-on experience before graduation. The program leverages Minneapolis's robust tech corridor, with faculty who maintain active connections to regional financial services, healthcare, and Fortune 500 companies. Internship placements are built directly into the program structure, giving students real-world exposure to enterprise environments at organizations like Target, UnitedHealth Group, and local financial institutions. The relatively intimate class sizes mean students work closely with professors who understand both theory and industry practice, rather than being one of hundreds in a lecture hall. Career outcomes emphasize not just technical competence but the communication and problem-solving skills employers say matter most—a distinction that appeals to employers seeking well-rounded IT professionals. St. Thomas graduates report strong placement rates in systems administration, IT support, network engineering, and business analysis roles, with alumni networks particularly strong in the Twin Cities tech and corporate sectors.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Applied AI
- START Center (St. Thomas Applied & Renewable Technologies)
- Center for Microgrid Research
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing
- Center for Engineering Education
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Kundan Nepal — Sustainable energy systems, IoT, embedded computing, power efficient testing
- Dr. Don Weinkauf — Engineering leadership, research administration
- Dr. John Wentz — Sustainable manufacturing processes, metalworking fluid purification, microfiltration
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.7.
Location Advantages: Direct access to Minneapolis tech corridorProximity to Target headquarters and regional financial services hubsStrong connections to Fortune 500 companies in the Twin Cities
Best Master's Information Technology Degree Programs in Minnesota
University of St Thomas — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Evening classes 5:30-8:30 PM Monday-Friday. Rolling enrollment - start fall, spring, or summer
Hakia Insight: St. Thomas's master's program schedules classes 5:30–8:30 PM with rolling semester entry, explicitly accommodating employed professionals; the non-cohort structure means no cohort-based timelines, allowing you to accelerate through summers or decelerate during project-heavy quarters without losing peer groups.
The Master of Science in Information Technology at University of St. Thomas is a 10-course, non-cohort program designed for working professionals with rolling enrollment for fall, spring, or summer start. Classes meet weeknights 5:30-8:30 PM Monday-Friday, offered both in-person and online. The program takes 2-2.5 years on average, allowing students to set their own pace for work-life balance. Graduates can advance careers in IT architecture, strategic software business analysis, and project portfolio management. The program welcomes career changers with gateway courses for those without STEM backgrounds, and serves experienced professionals looking to deepen skills. Students interact with peers from various industries, with over 40% from countries outside the US. The curriculum is updated ongoing in consultation with industry leaders, and graduates are sought by large, global employers. No thesis/coursework track distinction is specified.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for Applied AI
- START Center (St. Thomas Applied & Renewable Technologies)
- Center for Microgrid Research
- Center for Advanced Manufacturing
- Center for Engineering Education
Industry Partners
- Target (corporate)
- UnitedHealth Group (corporate)
- 3M (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Kundan Nepal — Sustainable energy systems, IoT, embedded computing, power efficient testing
- Dr. Don Weinkauf — Engineering leadership, research administration
- Dr. John Wentz — Sustainable manufacturing processes, metalworking fluid purification, microfiltration
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.7.
Location Advantages: Direct access to Minneapolis tech corridorProximity to Target headquarters and regional financial services hubsStrong connections to Fortune 500 companies in the Twin Cities
Walden University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Free Graduate Certificate in Information Systems after completing core courses. Five specialization tracks available
Hakia Insight: Walden's free Graduate Certificate in Information Systems acts as an early-exit credential—students who complete core courses can credential and enter the job market immediately, then continue the 30-credit degree part-time without losing momentum or income.
Walden's MS in Information Technology is a 30-credit program offering five high-demand specializations: Big Data Analytics, Health Informatics, Information Assurance and Cyber Security, Information Systems, and Software Engineering. Students complete four core courses covering networking, programming, and database management before specializing. A unique benefit is the free Graduate Certificate in Information Systems awarded after completing core courses. The program prepares graduates for senior IT specialist and management positions, focusing on creating, maintaining, and securing information systems. Students work in geographically dispersed teams, developing skills in software engineering principles and organizational IT solutions. The curriculum emphasizes practical application with training in confidentiality, integrity, and availability of IT systems, positioning graduates for career advancement in technology leadership roles.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages:
Minnesota State University-Mankato — Mankato, MN
Key Distinction: Fast-track combined BS/MS program option for current undergraduates. Graduate assistantships available
Hakia Insight: Minnesota State Mankato's fast-track BS/MS option collapses the traditional two-degree timeline for current undergraduates, while the department's active research labs (EARTH Systems, GIS, MNCAR) mean master's thesis work often feeds directly into regional manufacturing and automotive employer priorities.
Minnesota State University, Mankato's Master of Science in Information Technology is a 32-credit program designed for computing professionals seeking career advancement or preparation for doctoral studies. The program offers flexibility to design coursework suitable for individual career goals and specialization areas. A fast-track combined BS/MS option is available for current MSU undergraduates to begin graduate studies before completing their bachelor's degree. Graduate assistantships are available to help offset program costs. The program accepts students with backgrounds in Information Technology, Information Systems, Computer Science, Management Information Systems, or related fields. Rolling admissions for domestic students provides flexibility for working professionals to start in fall, spring, or summer terms.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- EARTH Systems Lab
- GIS and Cartography Labs
- Minnesota Center for Automotive Research (MNCAR) Lab
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Sarah Kruse — Department Chair and Professor
- Dr. Rushit Dave — Computer Science Program Director and Associate Professor
- Krista Sheely — Software Engineering Program Director and Assistant Professor
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Regional presence in upper Midwest tech marketConnections to manufacturing, healthcare, and financial services employersAccess to growing technology initiatives in southern Minnesota
Metropolitan State University — Saint Paul, MN
Key Distinction: Designed specifically for working professionals. Three-phase program structure
Hakia Insight: Metropolitan State's three-phase structure and evening/weekend scheduling deliberately compress the typical 2-year program for Minneapolis professionals—the Cybersecurity Lab and state employment agency partnerships mean cohort projects often become real contract work before graduation.
The Master of Science in Management Information Systems (MS in MIS) is designed specifically for working professionals, merging management and technology education. The program targets adults seeking applied MIS education with solid theory, preparing graduates for management and leadership roles in IT-related fields. Students can choose from six concentration areas: business analytics, database administration, information management, information assurance and security, systems analysis and design, and systems development. The program follows a three-phase structure with a capstone project requiring cohort collaboration and written report. Applications are processed through BusinessCAS with rolling deadlines (Fall: August 1, Spring: December 1, Summer: April 1). Students have up to 5 years to complete requirements. Career outcomes include roles like Business/Data Analyst, IT Project Manager, Information Security Analyst, Database Administrator, and executive positions like CIO/CTO. The program serves technical professionals upgrading skills and general managers needing IT management competencies.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Management Information Systems — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Teaching and Research Lab
- Minnesota Institute for Cybersecurity and Forensics
Industry Partners
- Minnesota Department of Employment and Economic Development (government)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Intel.
Accreditations and Certifications
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD)
- NSA National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Operations (NCAE-CO)
Location Advantages: Serves the Minneapolis-St. Paul metropolitan employment marketEvening and weekend course options support working professionalsStrong connections to Minnesota state government IT operations
Capella University — Minneapolis, MN
Key Distinction: Coursework-only track (no thesis). Free certification exam vouchers from CompTIA, Cisco, and SAS
Hakia Insight: Capella's 2.3 GPA floor and bundled CompTIA, Cisco, and SAS exam vouchers (worth ~$800) convert the 48-credit coursework-only track into a credentialing pipeline rather than a degree endpoint, allowing working professionals to stack certifications without thesis friction.
Capella's MS in Information Technology offers a flexible 48-credit program designed for working professionals seeking career advancement. The program features four specializations (Enterprise Networks and Cloud Computing, Analytics, Project Management, Cybersecurity) and two applied IT projects addressing real-world challenges. Students can earn embedded professional certifications through free exam vouchers from CompTIA, Cisco, and SAS. The program uses GuidedPath format with 10-week quarters, 1-3 courses per quarter, allowing 27-month completion. Credit for prior learning from ISC2, AWS, PMI certifications can reduce costs and time. The program integrates AI skills throughout curriculum and offers experiential learning opportunities. With only coursework-based curriculum and no thesis requirement, the program suits working professionals. Federal aid and employer tuition reimbursement are available, plus military discounts and progress scholarships up to $2,500.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology - General Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Cybersecurity Center for IT Professionals
Industry Partners
- Google (partner)
- CompTIA (partner)
- AWS (partner)
- Coursera (partner)
- Sophia Learning (partner)
- Project Management Institute (collaborator)
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Maja Zelihic — Academic leadership and business technology administration
- Dr. Bradly E. Roh — Management consulting and organizational leadership
Admissions
GPA Requirement: 2.3.
Requirements: 7 core courses, 5 specialization courses, 2 applied IT projects
Location Advantages:
