University campus in New Hampshire
Updated June 28, 2026

Best Information Technology Degree Programs in New Hampshire, 2026 Rankings

Compare the top information technology colleges in New Hampshire. 12 accredited information technology schools ranked by graduation rate, career outcomes, and value, from NHTI-Concord's Community College to Southern New Hampshire University.

#1 ProgramSouthern New Hampshire
Avg Salary$107,230
Tuition From$6,450/yr
Job Growth+22%
On this page
Reviewed by Taylor Rupe, Founder & EditorSee methodology

7

Programs ranked

IPEDS 2024

$107,230

New Hampshire median information technology salary

BLS OEWS 2024

79.9/100

Top program score

Hakia methodology

13%

U.S. job growth (2023–33)

BLS projections

Key Takeaways

Best information technology degree programs: Southern New Hampshire, U of New Hampshire, U of New Hampshire Colleg...

Ranked by graduation rates, program outcomes, and institutional quality

IPEDS 2024

Tuition ranges from $6,450 to $36,508/year

NHTI-Concord's Community ... offers the most affordable option at $6,450/yr

IPEDS 2024

Information Technology degree programs available: 6 associate's, 4 master's, 1 doctoral in New Hampshire

From community college pathways to advanced research degrees

IPEDS 2024

New Hampshire community college transfer can save 40-60% on total degree costs

6 associate's programs provide transfer pathways to bachelor's degrees

Education Commission of the States

Major employers: BAE Systems, Dyn, Bottomline Technologies, Autodesk

Tech hubs in Manchester and Nashua

Hakia Research 2026

Information Technology degree programs near 23+ cities across New Hampshire

Search by city to find programs within 200 miles of your location

IPEDS 2024

Updated June 28, 2026

How we ranked New Hampshire Information Technology programs

We rank 16 accredited information technology programs in New Hampshire using IPEDS 2024 institutional data, BLS OEWS 2024 state salary data, and College Scorecard outcomes. A 4-factor weighted composite is normalized to a 0–100 score. Schools cannot pay for placement; rankings are produced algorithmically.

Program completions (35%)Graduation rate (25%)Selectivity (20%)Career outcomes (20%)
See full methodology

Are Information Technology Degree Programs in New Hampshire Worth It?

Answer
$107,230
Yes. The best information technology degree programs in New Hampshire deliver strong ROI, graduates earn $107,230 median salary with +22% job growth through 2032. In-state tuition averages $13,050/year.

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Information Technology Degree Rankings in New Hampshire

Compare the top-ranked Information Technology programs in New Hampshire by degree level. Tuition, graduation rate, and Hakia Score for every accredited program.

Best Associate's Information Technology Programs in New Hampshire

2
Programs ranked
$6,450
Avg tuition/yr
46%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

New Hampshire offers 6 accredited associate's degree programs in information technology, providing an affordable entry point into the technology field. The top-ranked programs include Southern New Hampshire, NHTI-Concord's Community ..., Great Bay Community College, which combine rigorous technical curriculum with practical skills training.

Costs & Value

Community colleges in New Hampshire offer these two-year programs at an average cost of $7,950/yr, significantly less than four-year university tuition. Students completing associate's degrees can pursue entry-level technical positions and transfer opportunities, with entry-level salaries averaging $58,977 in New Hampshire.

Career Pathways

Many programs feature guaranteed transfer agreements with New Hampshire's public universities, allowing students to complete their first two years at reduced cost before transferring to complete a bachelor's degree. The Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth areas offer particularly strong job markets for associate's degree holders, with employers like BAE Systems, Dyn, Bottomline Technologies hiring for technical support, junior development, and IT specialist positions.

Curriculum & Specializations

Programs typically include coursework in programming fundamentals, database management, networking basics, and software development. Among information technology schools in New Hampshire, these associate's programs offer the best value for students beginning their information technology degrees in New Hampshire.

Best Bachelor's Information Technology Programs in New Hampshire

3
Programs ranked
$11,642
Avg tuition/yr
53%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

New Hampshire ranks among the nation's top destinations for information technology education, with 5 accredited bachelor's degree programs across 4 public and 1 private institutions. The highest-ranked programs are Southern New Hampshire, U of New Hampshire, U of New Hampshire Colleg..., recognized for academic excellence, research opportunities, and strong industry connections.

Career Outcomes

Graduates from New Hampshire information technology programs earn a median salary of $91,146, 7% below the national average. The state's robust technology sector, anchored by the Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth metropolitan areas, provides abundant internship and employment opportunities with companies including BAE Systems, Dyn, Bottomline Technologies.

Costs & Value

Tuition ranges from $7,536 to $15,520 annually, with an average of $12,426/yr. Top programs maintain graduation rates above 67%, with the highest reaching 67%. Many programs hold ABET accreditation, the gold standard for computing education, ensuring curriculum meets rigorous industry standards.

Curriculum & Specializations

Students can choose from specializations including software engineering, cybersecurity, artificial intelligence, data science, and systems architecture. Strong industry partnerships provide access to co-op programs, capstone projects with real companies, and direct recruiting pipelines to New Hampshire's leading technology employers. For students seeking information technology degrees in New Hampshire, these top-ranked information technology schools offer the strongest combination of academic rigor and career preparation.

Best Master's Information Technology Programs in New Hampshire

2
Programs ranked
$15,335
Avg tuition/yr
63%
Avg grad rate

Program Landscape

New Hampshire offers 4 master's degree programs in information technology, designed for professionals seeking to advance into senior engineering, technical leadership, and specialized roles. The top programs, Southern New Hampshire, New England College, Rivier, combine advanced technical training with research opportunities and leadership development.

Career Outcomes

Master's graduates in New Hampshire earn a median salary of $107,230, approximately 20-30% higher than bachelor's degree holders. The concentration of technology companies in Manchester, Nashua, Portsmouth creates strong demand for graduate-level talent, with BAE Systems, Dyn, Bottomline Technologies actively recruiting from these programs.

Costs & Value

Program formats include traditional full-time study (typically 2 years), part-time options for working professionals (2-3 years), and accelerated tracks. Tuition averages $23,298/yr, with many employers offering tuition reimbursement for graduate education. Some programs offer thesis and non-thesis tracks, allowing students to focus on research or professional development based on their career goals.

Curriculum & Specializations

Curriculum covers advanced topics including machine learning, distributed systems, software architecture, and technical management. Many programs include practicum experiences, industry capstone projects, or consulting engagements that provide real-world application of advanced concepts. Among New Hampshire's information technology schools at the graduate level, these programs stand out for both academic quality and career outcomes.

Information Technology Degree Costs & Tuition in New Hampshire

MetricValue
Average in-state tuition$13,050/year
Average out-of-state tuition$32,625/year
Community college tuition$3,263/year
4-year savings for residents$78,300
2+2 transfer pathway savings$19,574

Source: IPEDS 2024

Financial Aid & Scholarships for Information Technology Students in New Hampshire

State Aid Programs

New Hampshire residents pursuing Information Technology degrees have access to multiple funding sources designed to make higher education affordable. The state's flagship financial aid program, the Granite State Grant, provides need-based grants exclusively to New Hampshire residents attending in-state institutions (Granite State Grant). This program complements federal aid options available through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which opens the door to Pell Grants, federal loans, and work-study opportunities (Federal Student Aid). Additionally, New Hampshire's lack of state income tax provides residents with a significant financial advantage compared to neighboring states, allowing families to allocate more resources toward education costs.

Key Programs & Amounts

Most institutions offering Information Technology programs in New Hampshire provide institutional scholarships and merit-based aid packages tailored to IT students. Top-ranked programs like Southern New Hampshire University and the University of New Hampshire-Main Campus offer competitive financial aid packages that can substantially reduce out-of-pocket costs (College Scorecard). Students should explore the CCSNH Transfer Agreements through community colleges, which provide articulated pathways to four-year programs while maintaining lower initial costs (CCSNH Transfer Agreements). The combination of state grants, federal aid, and institutional support makes IT education in New Hampshire accessible to students across diverse financial backgrounds.

Information Technology Degree ROI Calculator, New Hampshire

Use our interactive ROI calculator to estimate your return on investment for a information technology degree in New Hampshire. Enter your expected tuition costs, financial aid, and career goals to see projected payback periods and lifetime earnings. The calculator uses current salary data from BLS and tuition data from IPEDS to provide accurate estimates.

Information Technology Degree ROI Calculator

Estimate your return on investment for a information technology degree

Leave blank to use average cost for selected program type

20 years
10 years20 years30 years
20-Year ROI

+692%

Net gain divided by total investment. ROI above 200% is considered excellent for education investments.

Net Gain

$1,279,487

Your additional lifetime earnings with this degree vs. working without one, minus the total investment.

Break-Even

6 years

Years until your cumulative earnings exceed total investment. Shorter programs often break even faster due to lower opportunity cost.

COL-Adjusted Salary

$114,286

Your starting salary adjusted for local cost of living. This shows real purchasing power compared to a $100K national baseline.

Why does break-even change with program type? Your "total investment" includes both tuition AND opportunity cost (foregone earnings while in school). A 4-year full-time public university (in-state) means 4 years of not earning a salary ($140,000 in opportunity cost). Shorter full-time programs may have higher tuition but lower total investment because you return to the workforce sooner.

Detailed Breakdown

How we calculate your degree ROI using real salary data

Total Investment$185,000

Tuition plus opportunity cost (earnings you miss while in school)

Program Cost (Tuition)$45,000

Direct cost of the degree program

Opportunity Cost$140,000

4 years × $35K/year foregone salary while studying full-time

20-Year Earnings (with degree)$2,314,895

Projected career earnings starting after graduation, with salary growth

20-Year Earnings (without degree)$850,408

What you'd earn working at $35K/year with 2% annual growth

Starting Salary (Austin, TX)$120,000

Median salary for this role in your selected location (BLS 2024)

Annualized Return4.1%

Your investment's compound annual growth rate (similar to stock market returns)

Data sources: BLS OEWS May 2024, IPEDS 2024. Calculations use median salaries, 3% discount rate, and assume salary growth declines from 6% to 2% over career. Individual results will vary. | Powered by Hakia.com

Information Technology Salaries by Metro Area

Median annual salary in New Hampshire metro areas

Manchester$118K
Nashua$113K
Portsmouth$107K
View data table
CategoryValue
Manchester$118K
Nashua$113K
Portsmouth$107K

Source: BLS OEWS May 2024

Hakia.com

Top Employers Hiring Information Technology Graduates in New Hampshire

Find information technology jobs in New Hampshire. These major employers across New Hampshire metro areas are actively hiring information technology degree holders. Click employer names to view current job openings.

Information Technology Jobs in Manchester-Nashua

NH
BAE Systems
defense
DEKA Research
robotics
Oracle/Dyn
tech
Fidelity Investments
finance

Transfer Pathways for Information Technology Degrees in New Hampshire

State Transfer System

New Hampshire's transfer system streamlines pathways from community colleges to bachelor's degree programs, enabling affordable and efficient degree completion. The 8 community colleges in New Hampshire, including NHTI-Concord's Community College and Great Bay Community College, offer associate's degrees in Information Technology that articulate seamlessly with four-year institutions. The CCSNH Transfer Agreements establish guaranteed credit recognition and articulated pathways, ensuring students don't lose academic progress when transferring. These agreements significantly reduce time-to-degree and total costs, allowing students to complete prerequisite coursework at lower community college tuition rates before pursuing bachelor's degrees. Associate's program completions reached 388 in 2023, demonstrating strong enrollment in this affordable pathway (IPEDS).

How Transfers Work

Students completing associate's degrees can transfer to bachelor's programs at Southern New Hampshire University, University of New Hampshire-Main Campus, Keene State College, or Plymouth State University. The University System of New Hampshire coordinates these transfer agreements, ensuring course equivalencies across institutions. Transfer students benefit from financial aid continuity and often qualify for the Granite State Grant, a need-based aid program supporting New Hampshire residents at in-state institutions. This structured approach reduces average total cost of attendance while maintaining program quality. Students interested in specialized IT pathways like cloud computing or cybersecurity can complete foundational coursework at community colleges before concentrating in upper-division specializations. The CCSNH Transfer Agreements represent a key advantage for students seeking affordable, flexible routes to IT credentials.

Why Pursue an Information Technology Degree in New Hampshire?

Industry & Workforce

New Hampshire offers a strong ecosystem for Information Technology education with 18 institutions offering IT programs across multiple degree levels (IPEDS). In 2023, the state produced 2,016 IT program completions, including 705 bachelor's degrees, 822 master's degrees, and 388 associate's degrees. Southern New Hampshire University leads the state with an impressive 1,336 completions, establishing itself as a powerhouse in IT education. The concentration of quality programs creates competitive advantages for students seeking comprehensive training in network systems, database management, and emerging technologies.

Salary Outlook

Beyond educational opportunities, New Hampshire's financial landscape offers distinct advantages for IT students. The state boasts no income tax, reducing the overall cost of living compared to neighboring states. Public in-state tuition averages $12,366 annually at four-year institutions, while top-ranked programs like Keene State College at $11,754 and Plymouth State University at $11,870 provide affordable pathways to degree completion (College Scorecard). Major employers including Fidelity Investments, BAE Systems, and Dartmouth-Hitchcock create internship and employment opportunities in Manchester, Nashua, and the Seacoast regions. Students can explore specializations like cybersecurity, cloud computing, and network administration while building connections with industry leaders.

New Hampshire Take-Home Pay Advantage

$0 State Income Tax
New Hampshire has no state income tax. At the median information technology salary of $107,230, that keeps roughly $5,362 more in your pocket annually compared to states with a 5% income tax rate.

Source: New Hampshire Department of Revenue

Information Technology Job Market & Salary Data in New Hampshire

Employment Outlook

New Hampshire's information technology job market is experiencing steady growth across multiple sectors and geographic regions. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the state's tech employment landscape includes opportunities in Manchester, Nashua, Concord, Dover, Portsmouth, and Derry. Major employers including Dartmouth-Hitchcock, Fidelity Investments, BAE Systems, and the University System of New Hampshire actively recruit IT professionals, creating diverse career pathways across healthcare, financial services, defense, and education sectors. The Manchester-Nashua and Dover-Durham metro areas represent the strongest job markets for IT professionals in the state, with strong hiring activity and competitive compensation packages.

Salaries by Metro

New Hampshire offers significant financial advantages for IT professionals compared to neighboring states. As a state with no income tax, professionals can maximize their earnings potential, a crucial factor when evaluating career opportunities. The state's IT education pipeline supports this job market: 18 institutions offer information technology programs, producing 705 bachelor's degree completions and 822 master's degree completions annually (IPEDS Program Data). For detailed salary information, occupational outlook, and employment projections specific to New Hampshire's IT sector, the Bureau of Labor Statistics occupational data provides comprehensive resources. Graduates from programs at University of New Hampshire-Main Campus and Southern New Hampshire University are well-positioned to enter this competitive market with strong regional connections.

Entry-Level (0-2 yrs)

New graduates and career changers

Senior (8+ yrs)

Technical leads and architects

Median Salary in New Hampshire$69,700$155,484
Typical RolesJunior Developer, AnalystStaff Engineer, Architect
Remote Work AccessLimitedCommon
Degree ExpectationBachelor's sufficientMaster's preferred

Online vs On-Campus Information Technology Programs in New Hampshire

Online Programs

0 available in New Hampshire

On-Campus Programs

Traditional classroom experience

Typical Tuition$11,745/yr$13,050/yr
Schedule FlexibilitySelf-paced or asyncFixed schedule
NetworkingVirtual cohortsIn-person, career fairs
Best ForWorking professionalsTraditional students
Completion Time2-4 years (flexible)4 years (standard)

Compare Information Technology Programs in Other States

Information Technology Degree Programs in New Hampshire: FAQ

What are the best information technology degree programs in New Hampshire?
The best information technology degree programs in New Hampshire based on our methodology are: 1) Southern New Hampshire University (67% graduation rate), 2) University of New Hampshire-Main Campus, and 3) University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies Online. Our rankings weight graduation rates (25%), program completions (35%), selectivity (20%), and career outcomes (20%). New Hampshire offers 12 total accredited programs across 9 public and 3 private institutions. See our complete rankings for all 5 bachelor's programs.
How much do information technology degree programs cost in New Hampshire?
Information Technology degree program costs in New Hampshire vary significantly by institution type. In-state public tuition averages $13,050/year, while private institutions average $28,710/year. Community colleges offer the most affordable path at approximately $3,263/year for associate's degrees. The total 4-year cost ranges from $52,200 at public schools to $114,840 at private institutions before financial aid. Most students don't pay full sticker price, federal grants, state aid, and institutional scholarships can reduce costs by 30-60%.
What salary can information technology degree graduates earn in New Hampshire?
Information Technology professionals in New Hampshire earn a median salary of $107,230, which is competitive with the national average of $115,500. Entry-level positions typically start around $69,700, while senior roles exceed $155,484. Salaries vary by metro area: Manchester ($117,953), Nashua ($112,592) offer the highest compensation. Specialized roles like AI/ML engineers and cloud architects command premiums of 15-30% above median.
Are there online information technology degree programs in New Hampshire?
Yes, New Hampshire offers 0 accredited online Information Technology programs from state institutions. These programs award the same degree as on-campus options and include synchronous and asynchronous formats. Top-ranked online programs include offerings from various state universities. Online programs typically cost the same as on-campus tuition for in-state students. Many programs offer flexible scheduling for working professionals, with some offering accelerated completion in 2-3 years. Ensure any online program holds regional accreditation and ideally ABET accreditation for engineering programs.
What companies hire information technology degree graduates in New Hampshire?
Major Information Technology employers in New Hampshire include BAE Systems, Dyn, Bottomline Technologies, Autodesk, Oracle. The Manchester and Nashua metro areas serve as primary tech hubs with thousands of open positions. Top employers maintain recruiting pipelines directly from New Hampshire universities, with many offering internship-to-hire programs. Beyond tech giants, opportunities exist in healthcare IT, financial services, defense contractors, and growing startups. New Hampshire's tech sector shows +22% projected job growth through 2033, outpacing most other industries.
Is an information technology degree program worth it in New Hampshire?
An information technology degree program in New Hampshire offers strong ROI with a $107,230 median salary and +22% projected job growth. At average in-state tuition of $13,050/year, graduates typically recoup their educational investment within 3-5 years. The degree opens doors to high-paying careers in software development ($121,170), data science, cybersecurity, and AI/ML. Beyond salary, benefits include job security, remote work flexibility, and clear advancement paths. Alternative paths like bootcamps exist for career changers, but bachelor's degrees provide broader career options and higher lifetime earnings.
How long do information technology degree programs take in New Hampshire?
Standard completion times for information technology degree programs in New Hampshire are: Associate's (2 years, 60 credits), Bachelor's (4 years, 120 credits), and Master's (1-2 years, 30-36 credits). However, actual timelines vary based on course load, transfer credits, and program format. Accelerated programs can compress a bachelor's to 3 years or a master's to 12 months. Part-time students typically need 5-6 years for a bachelor's degree. New Hampshire community colleges offer a cost-effective "2+2" path: complete your associate's in 2 years, then transfer to a New Hampshire university for the final 2 years of a bachelor's program.
What financial aid is available for information technology degree students in New Hampshire?
New Hampshire information technology degree students can access multiple financial aid sources. Federal aid includes Pell Grants (up to $7,395/year for qualifying students) and federal student loans. New Hampshire state grants provide additional support for residents attending in-state schools. Institutional scholarships from universities can significantly reduce costs, many schools offer merit-based awards for STEM students. Work-study programs and teaching/research assistantships (especially for graduate students) provide income while building experience. Complete the FAFSA by New Hampshire's priority deadline to maximize aid eligibility. Some employers also offer tuition reimbursement for employees pursuing CS degrees.

Data Sources

Institutional characteristics, completions, graduation rates

New Hampshire salary and employment data

Official University Websites

Program details and admissions information

Last Updated: June 26, 2026. Rankings based on IPEDS 2024 data. Salary data from BLS OEWS May 2024.

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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.

The research behind the rankings

In-depth Information Technology program profiles in New Hampshire

Hand-researched detail on the top-ranked programs: degree pathways, research labs, industry partners, career outcomes, and admissions. Tap any school to expand.

Best Associate's Information Technology programs

#1White Mountains Community CollegeBerlin, NH

Why it stands out. White Mountains Community College provides affordable Information Technology education with flexible scheduling and transfer pathways to four-year universities.

Hakia insight. White Mountains Community College's Berlin location and transfer pathways serve a labor market where four-year IT degree holders often leave the region; starting here builds local credibility while keeping doors open to out-migration if needed.

White Mountains Community College offers Information Technology programs in Berlin, NH. As a public institution and community college, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.

#2NHTI-Concord's Community CollegeConcord, NH

Hakia insight. NHTI's employer pipeline into New Hampshire state agencies and Capital Regional Healthcare bypasses the typical job-board competition entirely; HR departments actively budget for NHTI IT graduate hiring, a structural advantage that translates to faster placement.

At the associate's level, hands-on lab work in networking and systems administration gives you real-world skills before you graduate. NHTI's IT program emphasizes Cisco networking fundamentals and CompTIA certifications, with a strong pipeline to UNH and Plymouth State for four-year degrees. You'll work with actual enterprise-level equipment in their labs—not simulations—which makes a huge difference when employers interview you. Graduates commonly land help desk and junior network admin roles at state agencies, healthcare systems, and regional tech companies around the Capital Region. The program's flexibility with evening and hybrid options means you can work while studying.

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: New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services, State of New Hampshire (various agencies), Capital Regional Healthcare, Regional tech support companies

Best Bachelor's Information Technology programs

#1University of New Hampshire-Main CampusDurham, NH

Why it stands out. Optional integrative capstone internship. Hands-on experience with cutting-edge security tools

Hakia insight. UNH's InterOperability Lab access gives undergrads rare hands-on experience testing real networking equipment—the cybersecurity capstone internship option lets you convert that lab work into paid internship experience before graduation, a pipeline most bachelor's programs don't offer.

The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology with Cybersecurity option at UNH's College of Professional Studies is a 120-credit online program featuring a comprehensive curriculum covering programming, network systems, systems analysis, and cybersecurity-specific courses including ethical hacking, digital forensics, and cryptography. Students complete foundation courses in programming and cybersecurity fundamentals, followed by advanced coursework in cloud computing, database management, and security risk assessment. The program culminates in either an integrative capstone internship or a best practices capstone project. Key features include 8-week terms for accelerated progress, generous transfer credit policy allowing up to 90 credits, and instruction by experienced faculty who are practicing cybersecurity professionals. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience with cutting-edge security tools and prepares graduates for immediate entry into the high-demand cybersecurity workforce in roles such as cybersecurity analyst, network security engineer, and digital forensics analyst.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology: Cybersecurity · 4 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • UNH InterOperability Lab — Testing networking equipment and data technologies for major technology companies

Industry partners

MicrosoftCiscoAmazon Web Services

Notable faculty

  • Mike Gildersleeve (Information Technology Program Coordination)

Admissions

GPA 2.0. Deadline Fall: May 1, Spring: October 1.

Accreditation & certifications

ABET Computing Accreditation Commission

Location advantage: Proximity to Boston tech ecosystem and financial services sector Access to New England healthcare IT employers Regional manufacturing and utilities with strong IT infrastructure needs

#2Plymouth State UniversityPlymouth, NH

Why it stands out. Plymouth State combines liberal arts rigor with hands-on software engineering, producing IT graduates who can code effectively and communicate technical value to non-technical stakeholders.

Hakia insight. Plymouth State's liberal arts requirement creates an unusual advantage: their IT graduates consistently report higher salaries in management-track roles within three years, because they can actually articulate technical decisions to C-suite executives who studied humanities.

At the bachelor's level, plymouth State's computer science and information technology programs benefit from a strong liberal arts foundation combined with rigorous technical depth—an unusual combination that produces graduates comfortable both writing code and articulating its business impact. The curriculum emphasizes software engineering and systems design through capstone projects involving regional nonprofits and small businesses, giving students portfolio-building experience on real problems. Rather than siloing IT coursework, Plymouth integrates it with business, ethics, and communication courses, reflecting faculty conviction that technical professionals must understand organizational context. The faculty, drawn from both academic research backgrounds and industry consulting roles, maintain active connections to Boston-area tech companies and New Hampshire-based employers. Internship placements lean toward meaningful roles—not just help desk rotations—at companies valuing liberal arts graduates who combine coding ability with communication skills. The program's residential model fosters collaboration through student-led projects, hackathons, and tech clubs that extend learning beyond the classroom.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology · 4 years · online

Industry partners

Regional New Hampshire nonprofitsBoston-area technology consulting firms

Location advantage: Proximity to Boston tech corridor while maintaining lower cost of living Access to New Hampshire regional employers valuing liberal arts education

#3University of New Hampshire College of Professional Studies OnlineManchester, NH

Why it stands out. UNH's online IT programs marry research university credibility with practitioner focus, serving experienced technicians transitioning into leadership and specialized security roles.

Hakia insight. UNH's online IT program deliberately targets professionals with security clearances; the federal contractor partnerships and government employer relationships mean your degree immediately signals credibility for six-figure clearance-required roles most entry-level IT graduates can't access.

At the bachelor's level, UNH's online College of Professional Studies targets IT professionals seeking advanced credentials without interrupting careers—its graduate programs in information technology and cybersecurity serve the largest population: experienced technicians moving into leadership, specialists pivoting toward security-focused roles, and mid-career professionals closing skill gaps. The curriculum reflects UNH's research university pedigree; courses blend theoretical foundations (networking theory, security architecture) with applied labs using industry-standard tools. Cybersecurity specialization draws from UNH's reputation in network security research, though the online format emphasizes practitioner-focused rather than academic research angles. Faculty include university researchers alongside experienced industry practitioners, creating a hybrid perspective. The online format serves geographically dispersed students—many working for government contractors, financial firms, and healthcare systems requiring security clearances or specialized certifications. UNH's commitment to asynchronous, self-paced modules accommodates shift work and travel. Career outcomes typically involve lateral moves into higher-responsibility IT roles, management tracks, or specialized security positions; graduates cite the degree's credibility with Fortune 500 and government employers as a career accelerant.

Programs offered

  • Bachelor of Science in Information Technology · 4 years · on-campus
  • Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology · 4 years · online

Industry partners

Government contractorsFinancial services firms

Accreditation & certifications

New England Commission on Higher Education, Inc. (NECHE)

Location advantage: Online format serves geographically dispersed professionals with security clearance requirements Credibility with government and defense contractors in New England corridor

Best Master's Information Technology programs

#1University of New Hampshire-Main CampusDurham, NH

Why it stands out. Thesis vs non-thesis track options (Master's Thesis Option: 30 credits vs Master's Project Option: 33 credits). Part-time and full-time enrollment available

Hakia insight. UNH's thesis vs. non-thesis flexibility is strategically useful: the non-thesis track lets working professionals finish in 33 credits without research overhead, while thesis candidates can leverage the InterOperability Lab to publish research that actually strengthens their resume.

The Master of Science in Information Technology at UNH Manchester is designed for working professionals with flexible full- and part-time enrollment options, including evening classes offered in fall, spring, and summer terms. The program offers two completion tracks: a Master's Project Option (33 credits) or Master's Thesis Option (30 credits). Students benefit from project-based education using cutting-edge tools and required internship experiences with local business, technology, and non-profit organizations. The program emphasizes applied, real-world learning and is located in Manchester, the state's corporate and financial center, providing access to abundant internship and job opportunities. An accelerated 4+1 pathway is available for qualifying undergraduates to complete both bachelor's and master's degrees in five years by taking graduate courses during senior year.

Programs offered

  • Master of Science in Information Technology · 1-2 years · on-campus

Research labs & institutes

  • UNH InterOperability Lab — Testing networking equipment and data technologies for major technology companies

Industry partners

MicrosoftCiscoAmazon Web Services

Notable faculty

  • Mike Gildersleeve (Information Technology Program Coordination)

Admissions

GPA 2.0. Deadline Fall: May 1, Spring: October 1.

Accreditation & certifications

ABET Computing Accreditation Commission

Location advantage: Proximity to Boston tech ecosystem and financial services sector Access to New England healthcare IT employers Regional manufacturing and utilities with strong IT infrastructure needs