Top 3 Information Technology Programs in Ohio 2025
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
105 Information Technology graduates annually, 78% graduation rate
Franklin University
33 Information Technology graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
University of Toledo
65 Information Technology graduates annually, N/A% graduation rate
- 1.Ohio has 35+ accredited information technology bachelor's programs across public and private universities (IPEDS 2023)
- 2.Ohio State University leads state rankings with 84% graduation rate and comprehensive IT curriculum covering cybersecurity, networking, and systems administration
- 3.University of Cincinnati's co-op program provides students with paid work experience at major employers like P&G, GE, and Kroger
- 4.Ohio IT professionals earn median $85,420 annually—competitive with national average and supported by lower cost of living (BLS Ohio 2024)
- 5.Major employers include Nationwide Insurance, American Electric Power, Progressive, Cardinal Health, and growing fintech sector in Columbus
Information Technology Education in Ohio
Ohio offers a strong selection of information technology programs across its public university systems and private institutions. The state's IT education landscape is supported by major employers in insurance, healthcare, manufacturing, and emerging fintech sectors, particularly in Columbus, Cincinnati, and Cleveland.
For comparison with programs nationwide, see our national IT bachelor's rankings. Students focused on affordability should review our most affordable IT programs guide. Career-focused students can explore salary data in our comprehensive IT career guides.
Ohio's IT programs particularly excel in practical, industry-focused education. Universities like Cincinnati emphasize cooperative education, while others like Ohio State provide comprehensive curricula covering cybersecurity, data science, and traditional IT systems management. This practical approach aligns well with employer needs in Ohio's diverse economy.
Ohio Information Technology Programs Rankings 2025
| Rank | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | University of Cincinnati-Main Campus | Cincinnati, OH | Public | $11,228 | 78% | — | 74.3 |
| 2 | Franklin University | Columbus, OH | Private | $9,552 | — | — | 55.9 |
| 3 | University of Toledo | Toledo, OH | Public | $9,753 | — | — | 54.8 |
| 4 | Youngstown State University | Youngstown, OH | Public | $9,611 | — | — | 50.7 |
| 5 | Miami University-Hamilton | Hamilton, OH | Public | $6,210 | — | — | 50.7 |
| 6 | Bowling Green State University-Main Campus | Bowling Green, OH | Public | $11,010 | — | — | 50.3 |
| 7 | Ohio Christian University | Circleville, OH | Private | $16,640 | — | — | 44.2 |
| 8 | Cleveland State University | Cleveland, OH | Public | $12,503 | — | — | 44 |
| 9 | University of Akron Main Campus | Akron, OH | Public | $10,399 | — | — | 43.4 |
| 10 | Miami University-Middletown | Middletown, OH | Public | $6,210 | — | — | 42.2 |
| 11 | Wright State University-Main Campus | Dayton, OH | Public | $10,564 | — | — | 36.9 |
Top 5 Information Technology Programs in Ohio: Side-by-Side
| School | Ohio State | U of Cincinnati | Cleveland State | Oberlin College | Wright State |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rank | #1 | #2 | #3 | #4 | #5 |
| In-State Tuition | $11,826 | $11,228 | $12,503 | $63,700 | $10,564 |
| Graduation Rate | 90% | 78% | N/A% | 93% | N/A% |
| Annual Graduates | 145 | 202 | 302 | 34 | 225 |
| Acceptance Rate | 51% | 88% | 95% | 33% | 95% |
| Type | Public | Public | Public | Private | Public |
| Score | 73.7/100 | 67.6/100 | 65.4/100 | 62.2/100 | 60.3/100 |
Best Bachelor's Degree Programs in Information Technology in Ohio
Ohio offers 25 bachelor's-level information technology programs. The top schools for undergraduate study are Ohio State University-Main Campus, University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, Oberlin College. These programs prepare students for entry-level positions paying approximately $70,126 in the Ohio 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 Ohio
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Ohio State | $11,826 | 90% | 145 | 73.7 |
| #2 U of Cincinnati | $11,228 | 78% | 202 | 67.6 |
| #3 Oberlin College | $63,700 | 93% | 34 | 62.2 |
Top Information Technology Schools for Master's Degrees in Ohio
For graduate study, Ohio offers 7 master's-level information technology programs. Leading institutions include University of Cincinnati-Main Campus, Cleveland State University, Ohio State University-Main Campus. A master's degree can boost earning potential by 15-25%, with senior roles in Ohio reaching $130,234 or more.
Top 3 Information Technology Master's Programs in Ohio
| School | Tuition | Grad Rate | Graduates | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 U of Cincinnati | $11,228 | 78% | 625 | 74.3 |
| #2 Cleveland State | $12,503 | N/A% | 302 | 65.4 |
| #3 Ohio State | $11,826 | 90% | 14 | 51.2 |
Most Affordable Information Technology Colleges in Ohio
For budget-conscious students, the most affordable information technology programs in Ohio are at Miami University-Hamilton ($6,210/year), Miami University-Middletown ($6,210/year), Franklin University ($9,552/year). These programs offer strong ROI given Ohio's competitive tech salaries.
At Miami University-Hamilton, a 4-year degree costs approximately $24,840 in tuition alone. With entry-level salaries around $70,126, graduates can typically recoup their investment within 0.7 years.
Most Affordable Information Technology Programs in Ohio (with ROI)
| School | Annual Tuition | 4-Year Cost | Payback Period | Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 Miami University-Hamilton | $6,210 | $24,840 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #2 Miami University-Middletown | $6,210 | $24,840 | 0.7 years | Public |
| #3 Franklin | $9,552 | $38,208 | 1.1 years | Private |
Ohio State University-Main Campus
Columbus, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,826 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 90% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 145 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 51%
- • Ranking Score: 73.7 / 100
Program Strengths
- 90% graduation rate
- 145 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 73.7 / 100
Why Ranked #1
Ranked #1 based on graduation rate (90%), program size (145 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (51% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
University of Cincinnati-Main Campus
Cincinnati, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $11,228 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 78% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 202 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 88%
- • Ranking Score: 67.6 / 100
Program Strengths
- 78% graduation rate
- 202 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 67.6 / 100
Why Ranked #2
Ranked #2 based on graduation rate (78%), program size (202 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (88% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Cleveland State University
Cleveland, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $12,503 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 302 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 95%
- • Ranking Score: 65.4 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 302 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 65.4 / 100
Why Ranked #3
Ranked #3 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (302 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (95% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Why Choose This Program
Cleveland State's Master of Information Systems is a specialized STEM program that combines technology and management-oriented classes to prepare technology managers, with three flexible sub-tracks (thesis, non-thesis, internship) and rolling admissions throughout the year.
Available Specializations / Concentrations
Oberlin College
Oberlin, OH • Private
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $63,700 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: 93% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 34 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 33%
- • Ranking Score: 62.2 / 100
Program Strengths
- 93% graduation rate
- 34 information technology graduates annually
- Private institution
- Overall score: 62.2 / 100
Why Ranked #4
Ranked #4 based on graduation rate (93%), program size (34 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (33% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Wright State University-Main Campus
Dayton, OH • Public
Program Highlights
- • Annual Tuition: $10,564 (in-state)
- • Graduation Rate: N/A% (IPEDS 2023)
- • Information Technology Graduates: 225 annually
- • Acceptance Rate: 95%
- • Ranking Score: 60.3 / 100
Program Strengths
- N/A% graduation rate
- 225 information technology graduates annually
- Public institution
- Overall score: 60.3 / 100
Why Ranked #5
Ranked #5 based on graduation rate (N/A%), program size (225 graduates), state salary outcomes ($100,180), and selectivity (95% acceptance rate). Data from IPEDS 2023 and BLS OES 2024.
Career Paths
IT Systems Administrator
SOC 15-1244Manage and maintain computer networks and systems for Ohio's major corporations and healthcare systems
Network Administrator
SOC 15-1244Design and support computer networks for manufacturing, insurance, and financial services companies
Database Administrator
SOC 15-1242Manage database systems for healthcare organizations, retailers, and government agencies
Cybersecurity Analyst
SOC 15-1212Protect information systems for financial services, healthcare, and critical infrastructure
Help Desk Technician
SOC 15-1232Provide technical support for employees across Ohio's diverse business landscape
IT Project Manager
SOC 15-1299Lead technology implementation projects for major employers like Nationwide and Progressive
Ohio University Systems and IT Education
Ohio's public higher education system provides multiple pathways for IT education across different institutional types and specializations.
The Ohio State University system, anchored by the flagship Columbus campus, offers the most comprehensive IT programs in the state. Regional campuses in Lima, Mansfield, Marion, and Newark provide additional access points for students seeking quality IT education closer to home.
Ohio's state universities each bring unique strengths to IT education. Wright State University in Dayton excels in aerospace-related IT applications, benefiting from proximity to Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Kent State University offers strong programs in user experience and digital media technology. The University of Akron focuses on polymer and materials informatics, reflecting the region's industrial heritage.
Private institutions like Case Western Reserve University provide research-intensive programs, while smaller colleges like Cedarville University offer personalized education with strong Christian values integration. These diverse options ensure Ohio students can find IT programs matching their academic goals, career aspirations, and personal preferences.
Other Tech Degree Programs in Ohio
Information Technology Programs in Other States
California
Texas
New York
Florida
Washington
Illinois
Pennsylvania
Massachusetts
Which Should You Choose?
- Affordable, high-quality public education at universities like Ohio State and Cincinnati
- Strong industry connections with major employers like Nationwide, Progressive, and P&G
- Practical, career-focused education with co-op and internship opportunities
- Lower cost of living compared to coastal tech hubs while maintaining good salaries
- Diverse economy offering IT opportunities across multiple sectors including healthcare, manufacturing, and finance
- Higher starting salaries in major tech hubs like San Francisco or Seattle
- More venture capital and startup ecosystem exposure
- Warmer climate year-round
- Larger concentration of pure tech companies rather than traditional industries
- More prestigious computer science research programs
Frequently Asked Questions About Ohio IT Programs
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 Information Technology Resources
Data Sources and Methodology
Official graduation rates, enrollment, and institutional data for 2023
May 2024 state-specific employment and wage estimates for IT occupations
Federal data on program costs, completion rates, and post-graduation earnings
Official tuition and fee schedules from individual institutions for 2024-2025 academic year
Source: Including Nationwide Insurance, Progressive, Cardinal Health, American Electric Power, and Kroger headquarters
Next Steps: Applying to Ohio IT Programs
Research and Compare Programs
Use our rankings table to compare graduation rates, tuition costs, and program specializations. Visit university websites and attend virtual information sessions to learn about specific curricula and career services.
Check Application Requirements
Most Ohio IT programs require high school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores, and personal essays. Some competitive programs may require specific math and science prerequisites. International students need TOEFL or IELTS scores.
Apply for Financial Aid
Complete the FAFSA by March 1 for priority consideration for federal and state aid. Research Ohio-specific scholarships like Choose Ohio First and university merit scholarships. Apply early for the best financial aid packages.
Plan Campus Visits
Schedule visits to top-choice universities to tour IT facilities, meet faculty, and attend classes. Many universities offer special preview days for prospective STEM students with hands-on demonstrations and student panels.
Prepare for Success
Consider taking dual enrollment computer science courses, learning basic programming languages like Python or Java, and exploring [IT certifications](/skills/certifications/) to strengthen your application and prepare for college-level coursework.
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.