Best Associate's Information Technology Degree Programs in Utah
Salt Lake Community College — Salt Lake City, UT
Hakia Insight: SLCC's emphasis on real-world IT infrastructure troubleshooting rather than pure theory, combined with employer partnerships spanning state agencies and regional tech companies, produces graduates who can immediately contribute to operations—not junior roles—shortening the path to the $60K+ salary floor faster than academic-heavy programs.
At the associate's level, you'll get hands-on experience with real-world IT infrastructure at SLCC, where the program emphasizes both technical depth and practical troubleshooting skills. The college's proximity to Utah's growing tech corridor means strong connections with local employers—many graduates land help desk and systems support roles immediately after completing their associate degree. The program balances CompTIA certifications with cloud computing fundamentals, positioning you well for either workforce entry or a smooth transfer to University of Utah or Utah State University for a bachelor's degree. SLCC's lab environment lets you work with current networking and server hardware, so you're not just learning theory.
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: University of Utah, Salt Lake City School District, State of Utah agencies, Local healthcare systems, Regional technology companies in the Salt Lake Valley.
Top Transfer Destinations
- University of Utah
- Utah State University
- Brigham Young University
Entry-Level Career Paths
- Help Desk Technician
- Desktop Support Specialist
- Junior Systems Administrator
- IT Support Technician
- Field Service Technician
- Technical Support Representative
Included Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- AWS Cloud Practitioner
Location Advantages:
Utah Valley University — Orem, UT
Key Distinction: UVU's IT program prioritizes applied project-based learning with mandatory internships and industry certifications, creating a direct pipeline to regional tech employers.
Hakia Insight: UVU's mandatory internships with Microsoft and Cisco create a direct conversion pathway—many students transition from internship to full-time roles before graduation, effectively shortening the job search phase that plagues most associate's degree holders.
At the associate's level, UVU's Information Technology program distinguishes itself through a deliberate emphasis on applied, project-based learning that connects classroom concepts directly to industry demands. Rather than heavy theory, the curriculum prioritizes hands-on development across multiple technology stacks, with students building real applications from their first year. The program offers specialized tracks in cybersecurity, software development, and network administration, allowing students to concentrate on their career interests while maintaining broad technical foundations. Faculty maintain active industry connections and bring current workplace challenges into the classroom, often drawing from their own consulting and development work. A notable strength lies in the program's partnerships with regional employers in the Mountain West tech corridor—companies frequently hire UVU graduates for internships and full-time roles before graduation. The program also emphasizes professional development through mandatory internship requirements and certification preparation (CompTIA, Cisco), meaning graduates often enter the workforce with both degree credentials and industry-recognized certifications. For students seeking a practical, career-focused path with strong regional employment outcomes, this program delivers direct preparation without the research-heavy orientation of larger research universities.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Cisco (corporate)
- CompTIA (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Jan Bentley — Information Systems & Technology
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCENT
- Microsoft certifications
Location Advantages: Part of Utah's growing tech ecosystem in the Wasatch Valley regionProximity to Lehi and Provo tech corridor with companies like Qualtrics, Podium, and MX
Utah State University — Logan, UT
Key Distinction: USU's IT program uniquely balances systems architecture, cybersecurity, and organizational/business dimensions, preparing graduates for both technical mastery and IT management trajectories.
Hakia Insight: USU's pairing of faculty like Magno Queiroz (organizational agility) with Hawley (IT leadership) signals an unusual associate's-level focus on management readiness, positioning graduates for supervisor tracks rather than remaining stuck in individual contributor roles.
At the associate's level, utah State University's information technology program sits within a broader computing context that values both applied systems work and theoretical foundations, positioning graduates for sustainability across shifting technology landscapes. The program emphasizes systems thinking and architectural understanding—students learn not just how to deploy technologies, but why certain solutions fit particular organizational contexts. The curriculum integrates cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and systems administration within a framework that encourages critical evaluation of emerging technologies. What separates USU's approach is its emphasis on the business and organizational dimensions of IT decision-making; technical skills are paired with instruction in IT governance, project management, and strategic planning, preparing students for leadership trajectories beyond pure technical roles. The university's location in Logan, Utah provides a quieter, research-focused environment where students can develop depth without the constant disruption of major tech hubs, though proximity to Salt Lake City's growing tech sector remains accessible. Faculty maintain active industry consulting relationships, ensuring curriculum reflects current practice while research interests keep the program intellectually engaged. Graduates are particularly well-positioned for IT operations management, systems architecture, and infrastructure roles that require both technical mastery and organizational perspective.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for High Performance Computing
- Center for Active Sensing & Imaging
- Center for Space Engineering
- Synthetic Bio-Manufacturing Center
- Remote Sensing/GIS Lab
Industry Partners
- Salesforce (partner)
- ServiceNow (partner)
- Modern Campus (partner)
- Box (partner)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Microsoft, IBM, Google, HP.
Notable Faculty
- Magno Queiroz — Information technology and organizational agility
- Eric Hawley — Information technology leadership
- Allen Hill — Information security
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: Access to Salt Lake City metro tech ecosystemProximity to growing regional IT employers
Utah Tech University — Saint George, UT
Key Distinction: Utah Tech prioritizes hands-on lab work and cybersecurity fundamentals integrated throughout the curriculum, producing IT graduates ready for immediate technical productivity.
Hakia Insight: Utah Tech's partnerships with National Parks Service, BLM, and US Forest Service create a niche but stable employment pipeline in the southwestern region—ideal for students seeking government IT roles with predictable career progression and benefits.
At the associate's level, utah Tech's information technology program is engineered for hands-on competency from day one, with a curriculum structured around real infrastructure, cybersecurity fundamentals, and emerging technologies. Rather than abstract theory-heavy coursework, students work directly with networking equipment, server configurations, cloud platforms, and security tools in dedicated labs, building muscle memory and confidence alongside conceptual understanding. The program emphasizes cybersecurity as a core thread throughout all courses—recognizing that modern IT professionals must understand threat landscapes and defense strategies regardless of specialization. Faculty draw heavily from regional industry experience, and the program maintains active partnerships with local and national tech employers, creating clear pathways from classroom to employment. A distinctive feature is the program's flexibility in allowing students to pursue focused concentrations in cybersecurity, cloud computing, or systems administration while maintaining breadth across IT domains. Graduates emerge as immediately productive IT professionals, often stepping into junior systems administrator, network technician, or IT support roles with confidence in both troubleshooting and strategic thinking. The university's location in southwestern Utah and growing regional tech presence make internships and local employment readily accessible.
Programs Offered
- Associate of Science in Information Technology — 2 years, on-campus
- Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology — 2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Analytics and Modeling Center
- DataPark Center
- Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center
- Digital Forensics Crime Laboratory
- Precision Medicine & Functional Genomics Center
- Center for Teaching and Learning
Industry Partners
- National Parks Service (employer)
- Bureau of Land Management (employer)
- US Forest Service (employer)
- State Parks (employer)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Erin O'Brien — Biological Sciences and research coordination
- Wendy Schatzberg — Educational technology and teaching innovation
Location Advantages: Growing southwestern Utah tech sector
Ensign College — Salt Lake City, UT
Key Distinction: Ensign College offers comprehensive Information Technology programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Ensign College's data is too sparse to generate a meaningful insight.
Ensign College offers Information Technology programs in Salt Lake City, UT. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Best Bachelor's Information Technology Degree Programs in Utah
Western Governors University — Salt Lake City, UT
Key Distinction: WGU's competency-based online IT program enables working professionals to earn credentials at their own pace while building demonstrated mastery in infrastructure and cloud specializations.
Hakia Insight: WGU's competency-based model means a working professional who already manages cloud infrastructure can test out of those modules entirely and compress a two-year degree into 12-18 months—eliminating the financial drag of redundant coursework.
At the bachelor's level, western Governors University's information technology program is architected for working professionals and career-changers who need flexibility without sacrificing technical rigor. The competency-based online model allows students to progress at their own pace, completing courses when they demonstrate mastery rather than sitting through fixed timelines—a profound advantage for those balancing IT education with current employment or life responsibilities. The curriculum spans infrastructure, cloud computing, cybersecurity, and systems administration, with students building real skills through hands-on labs accessible from anywhere with internet connectivity. WGU's IT programs attract candidates with diverse backgrounds, many already in tech-adjacent roles seeking formal credentials and expanded expertise. The university maintains partnerships with major employers like Google and Amazon, often resulting in direct career transitions for completing graduates. A key strength is the program's alignment with industry certifications—students often complete CompTIA, Cisco, and cloud certifications alongside their degree, multiplying their credibility in the job market. The online format has proven especially effective for IT professionals seeking upward mobility without geographic relocation, and the competency-focused structure means graduates demonstrably know their material rather than merely meeting attendance requirements.
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
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA partnership
Location Advantages: Online accessibility enables geographic independencePartner connections to national and global tech employers
Utah State University — Logan, UT
Key Distinction: USU's IT program uniquely balances systems architecture, cybersecurity, and organizational/business dimensions, preparing graduates for both technical mastery and IT management trajectories.
Hakia Insight: USU's dual emphasis on systems architecture and organizational agility (via Queiroz's research) creates rare optionality: graduates can pivot toward either deep technical infrastructure roles or IT management without needing a separate MBA.
At the bachelor's level, utah State University's information technology program sits within a broader computing context that values both applied systems work and theoretical foundations, positioning graduates for sustainability across shifting technology landscapes. The program emphasizes systems thinking and architectural understanding—students learn not just how to deploy technologies, but why certain solutions fit particular organizational contexts. The curriculum integrates cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and systems administration within a framework that encourages critical evaluation of emerging technologies. What separates USU's approach is its emphasis on the business and organizational dimensions of IT decision-making; technical skills are paired with instruction in IT governance, project management, and strategic planning, preparing students for leadership trajectories beyond pure technical roles. The university's location in Logan, Utah provides a quieter, research-focused environment where students can develop depth without the constant disruption of major tech hubs, though proximity to Salt Lake City's growing tech sector remains accessible. Faculty maintain active industry consulting relationships, ensuring curriculum reflects current practice while research interests keep the program intellectually engaged. Graduates are particularly well-positioned for IT operations management, systems architecture, and infrastructure roles that require both technical mastery and organizational perspective.
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 High Performance Computing
- Center for Active Sensing & Imaging
- Center for Space Engineering
- Synthetic Bio-Manufacturing Center
- Remote Sensing/GIS Lab
Industry Partners
- Salesforce (partner)
- ServiceNow (partner)
- Modern Campus (partner)
- Box (partner)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Microsoft, IBM, Google, HP.
Notable Faculty
- Magno Queiroz — Information technology and organizational agility
- Eric Hawley — Information technology leadership
- Allen Hill — Information security
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: Access to Salt Lake City metro tech ecosystemProximity to growing regional IT employers
Utah Valley University — Orem, UT
Key Distinction: UVU's IT program prioritizes applied project-based learning with mandatory internships and industry certifications, creating a direct pipeline to regional tech employers.
Hakia Insight: UVU's location in the Lehi-Provo corridor adjacent to Qualtrics and Podium creates a reverse recruitment advantage—these mid-market SaaS companies actively recruit UVU seniors into roles that Silicon Valley firms require 3+ years experience to fill.
At the bachelor's level, UVU's Information Technology program distinguishes itself through a deliberate emphasis on applied, project-based learning that connects classroom concepts directly to industry demands. Rather than heavy theory, the curriculum prioritizes hands-on development across multiple technology stacks, with students building real applications from their first year. The program offers specialized tracks in cybersecurity, software development, and network administration, allowing students to concentrate on their career interests while maintaining broad technical foundations. Faculty maintain active industry connections and bring current workplace challenges into the classroom, often drawing from their own consulting and development work. A notable strength lies in the program's partnerships with regional employers in the Mountain West tech corridor—companies frequently hire UVU graduates for internships and full-time roles before graduation. The program also emphasizes professional development through mandatory internship requirements and certification preparation (CompTIA, Cisco), meaning graduates often enter the workforce with both degree credentials and industry-recognized certifications. For students seeking a practical, career-focused path with strong regional employment outcomes, this program delivers direct preparation without the research-heavy orientation of larger research universities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Cisco (corporate)
- CompTIA (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Jan Bentley — Information Systems & Technology
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCENT
- Microsoft certifications
Location Advantages: Part of Utah's growing tech ecosystem in the Wasatch Valley regionProximity to Lehi and Provo tech corridor with companies like Qualtrics, Podium, and MX
University of Utah — Salt Lake City, UT
Key Distinction: University of Utah's computing program combines research intensity with direct industry proximity, offering students engagement with funded research projects and a robust pipeline to major tech employers.
Hakia Insight: University of Utah's Flux Lab and Security & Privacy Lab give undergrads direct access to funded research that feeds Fortune 500 hiring pipelines; students who co-author papers in cybersecurity emerge with publication records that bypass traditional internship gatekeeping.
At the bachelor's level, the School of Computing at the University of Utah operates a research-intensive information technology and computer science ecosystem where students engage with cutting-edge problems in security, systems, and human-computer interaction from day one. Graduate students and advanced undergraduates contribute to active research groups tackling real challenges in cryptography, network security, and software systems—work that frequently results in publications and industry applications. The university's location in Salt Lake City provides direct access to a thriving tech hub anchored by companies like Adobe, Goldman Sachs, and a robust startup scene, creating organic pathways for internships and employment. Faculty expertise spans both theoretical foundations and practical systems work, with many researchers maintaining industry collaborations or founding startups themselves. The program's strength particularly shines for students pursuing graduate work or research-oriented careers; the PhD pipeline is especially well-developed with strong funding, mentorship, and placement into both academic and industry research positions. Undergraduates can opt for either a more traditional CS degree or an information technology track with applied systems focus. The resources available—lab access, computing infrastructure, and faculty mentorship—rival top-tier programs, making this an exceptional choice for students who want to engage with research-level work while maintaining access to immediate industry opportunities.
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
- Flux Laboratory
- Security and Privacy Lab
Industry Partners
- Adobe (corporate)
- Goldman Sachs (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- David Barrera — Cybersecurity and privacy
- Rajeev Balasubramonian — Computer architecture and systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Direct access to Salt Lake City's tech ecosystem with major presence from Adobe, Goldman Sachs, and hundreds of startupsStrong connections to Silicon Slopes region
Weber State University — Ogden, UT
Key Distinction: Weber State's IT program prioritizes workforce readiness through employer-responsive curriculum and hands-on lab work in networking and systems administration.
Hakia Insight: Weber State's proximity to Hill Air Force Base unlocks a hidden employment advantage—government IT contracting roles often pay 15-20% above commercial sector equivalents and offer security clearance sponsorship that becomes portable across agencies.
At the bachelor's level, weber State's Computer Science and Information Systems program is architected around workforce readiness, with curriculum design that mirrors the actual skill progression employers expect from entry-level through mid-career technicians. The program emphasizes practical systems administration, network management, and IT support fundamentals while incorporating emerging areas like cloud computing and security awareness. A distinguishing feature is the program's integration with community needs and regional employer feedback—the curriculum evolves directly in response to what local companies need, rather than lagging industry shifts. Students access hands-on labs for Cisco networking, Linux systems administration, and database management, building competency that translates immediately to job applications. The faculty blend teaching-focused instructors with industry practitioners who bring real-world context; courses often include case studies from actual company challenges. Internship placements are strong within northern Utah's industrial and tech sectors, with many students transitioning directly into full-time roles at regional employers. For students prioritizing employability, practical technical depth, and a clear line from classroom to first job, Weber State delivers an efficient, regionally-tuned pathway without the research overhead or theoretical emphasis of larger research universities.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Industry Partners
- Cisco (corporate)
- CompTIA (nonprofit)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Microsoft, Google.
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA preparation
Location Advantages: Proximity to Hill Air Force Base and government IT contracting opportunitiesStrong connections to northern Utah's manufacturing and industrial technology sectors
Brigham Young University — Provo, UT
Key Distinction: Top-10 nationally ranked program. Curriculum continuously updated based on industry needs
Hakia Insight: BYU's top-10 national ranking combined with its industry-responsive curriculum updates means the program self-corrects faster than most—when cloud architecture or zero-trust security trends emerge, BYU's course revisions track within 1-2 semesters rather than 2-3 years.
The Bachelor of Science in Information Systems at BYU prepares students to bridge technical and business functions through a comprehensive 64-credit major curriculum. The program combines core business courses with technical IS courses covering database systems, programming, machine learning, security, and project management. Students complete prerequisite courses including accounting and computer programming before formal admission. The curriculum includes 16 elective options for specialization in areas like data science, cybersecurity, web development, or mobile platforms. Faculty continuously update curriculum based on industry needs. The program is top-10 ranked nationally with exceptional placement rates - nearly 100% of graduates secure positions with starting salaries around $75,000. Many graduates advance to management roles or pursue graduate studies including the MISM program. The business core ensures graduates understand organizational effectiveness, supply chain management, ethics, and strategy alongside technical skills.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Systems — 4 years, on-campus. BS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Software Training Lab
- Geospatial Services and Training
- University Accessibility Lab
- Digital Audio Recorders Lab
- Video Production Studio
Industry Partners
- Microsoft (corporate)
- Cisco (corporate)
- Global Industrial (employer)
- Volkswagen Group of America (employer)
- Waters Corporation (employer)
- National Rural Electric Cooperative Association (NRECA) (employer)
- Nokia (employer)
- Jabil (employer)
- Utah County Government (employer)
- State of Wyoming (employer)
- Washington State Patrol (employer)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Tom Meservy — Department Chair and Professor
- Bonnie Anderson — Professor of Information Systems
- Greg Anderson — Professor in Information Systems
- James Gaskin — Professor in Information Systems
- Jeff Jenkins — Professor in Information Systems
- Steve Liddle — Professor of Information Systems
- Clay Posey — Professor in Information Systems
Location Advantages: Access to Utah County tech corridorProximity to growing software and enterprise IT companies
Neumont College of Computer Science — Salt Lake City, UT
Key Distinction: Neumont's IT program delivers intensive, accelerated training with singular focus on systems and infrastructure specializations, producing immediately deployable IT professionals.
Hakia Insight: Neumont's accelerated, infrastructure-focused model sacrifices breadth intentionally; graduates emerge as highly specialized systems administrators in 2-3 years rather than generalists in 4, a trade-off that pays off immediately in markets where hands-on lab certification carries more weight than degree length.
At the bachelor's level, neumont College has built a specialized information technology program laser-focused on delivering industry-ready professionals in accelerated timeframes. The curriculum eschews the traditional four-year structure, instead condensing IT fundamentals and applied specializations into a compressed, intensive format that emphasizes velocity and depth simultaneously. Students engage with current enterprise technologies—cloud platforms, virtualization, networking stacks, and security frameworks—within project-based learning environments where theory immediately connects to practical implementation. The program's real distinction lies in its singular focus: this isn't a general computer science school with IT as one option, but a dedicated institution built around technology education with strong emphasis on systems and infrastructure roles. Career outcomes reflect this specialization, with graduates moving rapidly into IT operations, systems engineering, and infrastructure roles at companies actively seeking skilled practitioners. Faculty are selected primarily for hands-on industry expertise rather than academic credentials, ensuring the curriculum reflects current market demands rather than lagging behind technology shifts. The program's alumni network is concentrated in IT operations and systems roles, providing strong peer mentorship and placement visibility.
Programs Offered
- Bachelor of Science in Information Technology — 4 years, on-campus
- Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology — 4 years, online
Location Advantages: Salt Lake City tech ecosystem access
Ensign College — Salt Lake City, UT
Key Distinction: Ensign College offers comprehensive Information Technology programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Ensign College's data is too sparse to generate a meaningful insight.
Ensign College offers Information Technology programs in Salt Lake City, UT. As a private institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Southern Utah University — Cedar City, UT
Key Distinction: Southern Utah University offers comprehensive Information Technology programs preparing students for careers in technology.
Hakia Insight: Southern Utah University's data is too sparse to generate a meaningful insight.
Southern Utah University offers Information Technology programs in Cedar City, UT. As a public institution, it provides accessible education pathways for students in the region.
Utah Tech University — Saint George, UT
Key Distinction: Utah Tech prioritizes hands-on lab work and cybersecurity fundamentals integrated throughout the curriculum, producing IT graduates ready for immediate technical productivity.
Hakia Insight: Utah Tech's curriculum structure embedding cybersecurity fundamentals across all courses (not siloed into one elective) produces graduates who think defensively by default—a mindset advantage in junior roles where security negligence is the leading cause of termination.
At the bachelor's level, utah Tech's information technology program is engineered for hands-on competency from day one, with a curriculum structured around real infrastructure, cybersecurity fundamentals, and emerging technologies. Rather than abstract theory-heavy coursework, students work directly with networking equipment, server configurations, cloud platforms, and security tools in dedicated labs, building muscle memory and confidence alongside conceptual understanding. The program emphasizes cybersecurity as a core thread throughout all courses—recognizing that modern IT professionals must understand threat landscapes and defense strategies regardless of specialization. Faculty draw heavily from regional industry experience, and the program maintains active partnerships with local and national tech employers, creating clear pathways from classroom to employment. A distinctive feature is the program's flexibility in allowing students to pursue focused concentrations in cybersecurity, cloud computing, or systems administration while maintaining breadth across IT domains. Graduates emerge as immediately productive IT professionals, often stepping into junior systems administrator, network technician, or IT support roles with confidence in both troubleshooting and strategic thinking. The university's location in southwestern Utah and growing regional tech presence make internships and local employment readily accessible.
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
- Analytics and Modeling Center
- DataPark Center
- Technology, Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center
- Digital Forensics Crime Laboratory
- Precision Medicine & Functional Genomics Center
- Center for Teaching and Learning
Industry Partners
- National Parks Service (employer)
- Bureau of Land Management (employer)
- US Forest Service (employer)
- State Parks (employer)
Career Outcomes
Median Salary: $NaN.
Notable Faculty
- Dr. Erin O'Brien — Biological Sciences and research coordination
- Wendy Schatzberg — Educational technology and teaching innovation
Location Advantages: Growing southwestern Utah tech sector
Best Master's Information Technology Degree Programs in Utah
Western Governors University — Salt Lake City, UT
Key Distinction: Embedded PMI CAPM and Scrum Alliance CAL 1 certifications at no extra cost. Competency-based learning allows acceleration through known material
Hakia Insight: WGU's included PMI CAPM and Scrum Alliance certifications eliminate the $1,200-$2,000 exam fees most IT professionals absorb independently; for working professionals paying out-of-pocket, this embedded credentialing saves time and money while accelerating promotion timelines.
WGU's Master of Science in Information Technology is designed for experienced IT professionals ready to advance into leadership roles. The fully online program allows students to earn while learning, with 67% of graduates finishing within 19 months at $4,090 per 6-month term. The program includes embedded professional certifications at no extra cost: PMI Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) and Scrum Alliance Certified Agile Leader 1 (CAL 1). The competency-based model enables working professionals to accelerate through material they already know while focusing on new skills in technology operations, project management, sourcing and planning, and solutions development. The program is developed in collaboration with top employers for industry-specific needs and is designed to help professionals secure leadership positions with increased salary and responsibility in IT management roles.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus. M.S.
Research Labs and Institutes
Industry Partners
- Google (corporate)
- Amazon (corporate)
Accreditations and Certifications
- CompTIA A+
- CompTIA Network+
- CompTIA Security+
- Cisco CCNA partnership
Location Advantages: Online accessibility enables geographic independencePartner connections to national and global tech employers
University of Utah — Salt Lake City, UT
Key Distinction: Coursework-only track (no thesis). Evening and online classes for working professionals
Hakia Insight: University of Utah's coursework-only master's lets working professionals earn a degree without dissertation overhead while accessing Adobe and Goldman Sachs projects through the Flux and Security & Privacy Labs—a rare combination of schedule flexibility and research engagement at the master's level.
The Master of Science in Information Systems is designed specifically for working professionals, offering flexible scheduling with evening and online classes to accommodate full-time employment. Students can complete the 30-credit program in as little as 12 months (3 semesters) or extend to 15 months (4 semesters). The program features both coursework-only tracks (no thesis mentioned) with industry-driven curriculum including AI for Business Processes, Python programming, and Cybersecurity Management. A signature capstone project partners students with real companies like Larry H. Miller Auto Group, UTA, and TwitchTV for hands-on consulting experience. The program offers complete flexibility between on-campus and online formats, with adjustments possible semester-to-semester. Students work with academic advisors to create personalized course plans and can start in fall or spring semesters. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills in data analytics, cybersecurity, and AI implementation to position graduates for leadership roles in information systems management.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Systems — 1-2 years, on-campus. MS
Research Labs and Institutes
- Flux Laboratory
- Security and Privacy Lab
Industry Partners
- Adobe (corporate)
- Goldman Sachs (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- David Barrera — Cybersecurity and privacy
- Rajeev Balasubramonian — Computer architecture and systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Direct access to Salt Lake City's tech ecosystem with major presence from Adobe, Goldman Sachs, and hundreds of startupsStrong connections to Silicon Slopes region
Utah State University — Logan, UT
Key Distinction: USU's IT program uniquely balances systems architecture, cybersecurity, and organizational/business dimensions, preparing graduates for both technical mastery and IT management trajectories.
Hakia Insight: Unlike most IT master's programs that lean purely technical, USU explicitly trains graduates for both systems architecture roles and IT leadership positions through faculty like Magno Queiroz who specialize in organizational agility—bridging the gap between engineer and manager that many students discover too late.
At the master's level, utah State University's information technology program sits within a broader computing context that values both applied systems work and theoretical foundations, positioning graduates for sustainability across shifting technology landscapes. The program emphasizes systems thinking and architectural understanding—students learn not just how to deploy technologies, but why certain solutions fit particular organizational contexts. The curriculum integrates cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and systems administration within a framework that encourages critical evaluation of emerging technologies. What separates USU's approach is its emphasis on the business and organizational dimensions of IT decision-making; technical skills are paired with instruction in IT governance, project management, and strategic planning, preparing students for leadership trajectories beyond pure technical roles. The university's location in Logan, Utah provides a quieter, research-focused environment where students can develop depth without the constant disruption of major tech hubs, though proximity to Salt Lake City's growing tech sector remains accessible. Faculty maintain active industry consulting relationships, ensuring curriculum reflects current practice while research interests keep the program intellectually engaged. Graduates are particularly well-positioned for IT operations management, systems architecture, and infrastructure roles that require both technical mastery and organizational perspective.
Programs Offered
- Master of Science in Information Technology — 1-2 years, on-campus
- Master of Arts in Information Technology — 1-2 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for High Performance Computing
- Center for Active Sensing & Imaging
- Center for Space Engineering
- Synthetic Bio-Manufacturing Center
- Remote Sensing/GIS Lab
Industry Partners
- Salesforce (partner)
- ServiceNow (partner)
- Modern Campus (partner)
- Box (partner)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Microsoft, IBM, Google, HP.
Notable Faculty
- Magno Queiroz — Information technology and organizational agility
- Eric Hawley — Information technology leadership
- Allen Hill — Information security
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: Access to Salt Lake City metro tech ecosystemProximity to growing regional IT employers
Best Doctoral Information Technology Degree Programs in Utah
University of Utah — Salt Lake City, UT
Key Distinction: Full funding package (annual stipend + full tuition waiver + student health insurance). Faculty ranked top 25 globally
Hakia Insight: University of Utah's Ph.D. in Information Systems guarantees full funding across all four years plus health insurance, a comprehensive package rare enough to eliminate financial risk—but the real edge is faculty ranked in the global top 25, meaning your dissertation advisor likely shapes industry standards rather than follows them.
The University of Utah's Ph.D. in Business Administration with Information Systems major is a full-time program requiring a minimum of four years. Students receive comprehensive financial support including an annual stipend, full tuition waiver, and student health insurance. The program requires 15 major field credits, 9 allied field credits, and 15 research competency credits, plus 14 hours of thesis research after advancing to candidacy. Research areas include data-driven business analytics, artificial intelligence, healthcare IT, social media and network analysis, and behavioral/economic impacts. The program features a collegial environment with faculty ranked in the top 25 globally, seminar series with world-renowned researchers, and networking opportunities through the Winter Finance Conference and Utah-BYU Winter Strategy Conference. Students complete comprehensive exams, first and second year research papers, and a dissertation. The program admits 2-3 students annually and emphasizes empirical research methods.
Programs Offered
- Ph.D. in Business Administration with Information Systems Major — 4-6 years, on-campus. PhD
Research Labs and Institutes
- Flux Laboratory
- Security and Privacy Lab
Industry Partners
- Adobe (corporate)
- Goldman Sachs (corporate)
- Google (corporate)
- Microsoft (corporate)
Notable Faculty
- David Barrera — Cybersecurity and privacy
- Rajeev Balasubramonian — Computer architecture and systems
Accreditations and Certifications
Location Advantages: Direct access to Salt Lake City's tech ecosystem with major presence from Adobe, Goldman Sachs, and hundreds of startupsStrong connections to Silicon Slopes region
Utah State University — Logan, UT
Key Distinction: USU's IT program uniquely balances systems architecture, cybersecurity, and organizational/business dimensions, preparing graduates for both technical mastery and IT management trajectories.
Hakia Insight: USU's doctoral program deliberately trains students to lead IT strategy, not just conduct research in isolation: faculty like Eric Hawley focus on information technology leadership, and partnerships with Salesforce and ServiceNow embed students in real organizational change—a distinction that shows in graduates moving into CIO tracks.
At the doctoral level, utah State University's information technology program sits within a broader computing context that values both applied systems work and theoretical foundations, positioning graduates for sustainability across shifting technology landscapes. The program emphasizes systems thinking and architectural understanding—students learn not just how to deploy technologies, but why certain solutions fit particular organizational contexts. The curriculum integrates cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and systems administration within a framework that encourages critical evaluation of emerging technologies. What separates USU's approach is its emphasis on the business and organizational dimensions of IT decision-making; technical skills are paired with instruction in IT governance, project management, and strategic planning, preparing students for leadership trajectories beyond pure technical roles. The university's location in Logan, Utah provides a quieter, research-focused environment where students can develop depth without the constant disruption of major tech hubs, though proximity to Salt Lake City's growing tech sector remains accessible. Faculty maintain active industry consulting relationships, ensuring curriculum reflects current practice while research interests keep the program intellectually engaged. Graduates are particularly well-positioned for IT operations management, systems architecture, and infrastructure roles that require both technical mastery and organizational perspective.
Programs Offered
- Doctor of Philosophy in Information Technology — 4-6 years, on-campus
- Doctor of Science in Information Technology — 4-6 years, online
Research Labs and Institutes
- Center for High Performance Computing
- Center for Active Sensing & Imaging
- Center for Space Engineering
- Synthetic Bio-Manufacturing Center
- Remote Sensing/GIS Lab
Industry Partners
- Salesforce (partner)
- ServiceNow (partner)
- Modern Campus (partner)
- Box (partner)
Career Outcomes
Top Employers: Microsoft, IBM, Google, HP.
Notable Faculty
- Magno Queiroz — Information technology and organizational agility
- Eric Hawley — Information technology leadership
- Allen Hill — Information security
Accreditations and Certifications
- ABET Computing Accreditation Commission
Location Advantages: Access to Salt Lake City metro tech ecosystemProximity to growing regional IT employers
