Are you wanting to begin your education in this fast-growing field from the comfort of your home and are looking for the best online information technology bachelor’s degrees? Much like the workforce, educational programs being conducted remotely have become much more popular in recent years, making information technology bachelor’s degree jobs accessible without ever stepping foot on campus. With that popularity comes a head-spinning number of programs, making it hard to determine which online information technology bachelor’s degrees are the best ones for you.
In our guide below, we’ll not only discuss the best places to get an online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, but we’ll also guide you further down the path, giving you a look into the jobs and salaries that await you once you get that diploma. Read below so you can enter this tech field with confidence.
Where Can I Get an Information Technology Degree Online?
You can get an information technology degree online from institutions such as South New Hampshire University (SNHU), Arizona State University (ASU), and Penn State World Campus. You can also get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology online by enrolling at Husson University, Regent University, or the University of Phoenix.
What Schools Offer the Best Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degrees?
- South New Hampshire University (SNHU)
- Arizona State University (ASU)
- Penn State World Campus
- Husson University
- Regent University
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
The admission requirements for an online information technology bachelor’s degree entail meeting each institution’s entry prerequisites, which include meeting the minimum GPA and minimum standardized test scores, either the SAT or ACT. Other requirements include filling out application forms, providing transcripts from your high school, and submitting any recommendation letters and essays required by the institution.
Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- Successful completion of the General Educational Development (GED) test
- Official high school transcripts or GED
- Standardized test scores, either the SAT or ACT
- Recommendation letters
- An essay or personal statement
How to Get an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Online
You can get an online information technology bachelor’s degree online by fulfilling the graduation requirements of each educational institution, which typically include a high GPA, 120 or so credits, and possibly a capstone project.
Information Technology Online Bachelor’s Degree Requirements
- Minimum grade point average (GPA), which is typically 2.0
- 120 to 140 credits, depending on the technology program
- Roughly one-third to one-half of earned credits should be in general education courses
- Lower-level courses covering topics such as programming logic, operating system architecture, internal networking, and web design
- Upper-level courses covering topics such as project development, database management, system security, and software engineering
- Certain institutions, such as Arizona State University, require capstone projects
Best Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Husson University | Bachelor of Science in Integrated Technology | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| Liberty University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Peirce College | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Penn State World Campus | Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology |
Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Regent University | Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Phoenix | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Western Governors University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Western Kentucky University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Schools for Information Technology: Top Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Some of the best schools for an online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology are Arizona State University, Husson University, Liberty University, Pierce College, and Penn State World Campus, as shown in the above list. Now, let’s take a deep dive into each institution so you can find the best fit for you.
Arizona State University has been recognized as the most innovative school in the country by US News & World Report. It was founded in 1985 and is one of the largest public universities by enrollment in the US, with 54,866 students enrolled at its Tempe campus, 57,848 online, and 135,729 across all campuses.
ASU offers more than 350 undergraduate majors and 450 graduate programs and is known for its fantastic research opportunities, famously working with NASA through its Space Grant program.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
The information technology bachelor’s program at ASU is designed to teach online students computer programming languages, information systems, networking, and security. The curriculum covers configuring and managing complex computer and database systems. You’ll also get lessons in creating network architectures in cyber security infrastructures and full stack development.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $561-$661/credit
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: Minimum of 3.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Application Fee: $70
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Four years of math, four years of English (non-ESL/ELL courses), three years of lab sciences, two years of social sciences, two years of the same second language, one year of fine arts or one year of career and technical education
Applying to Arizona State University
- Meet the minimum admission requirements
- Complete and submit the online application
- Pay the application fee
- File your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit it online
- Request your ACT or SAT scores be sent directly to ASU from ACT or from the College Board
- Request to have your high school transcripts sent to ASU
With a student population of only approximately 3,800 between undergraduate and graduate programs, this university, founded in 1898, is known for its close-knit community, both on-campus and online. Combining the undergraduate and graduate degrees with the professional and certificate programs, it covers more than 100 areas of study, with 14 online undergraduate programs specifically. The school prides itself on its flexible online education program, with round-the-clock access to classes, as well as six- or seven-week semester options.
Bachelor of Science in Integrated Technology
To get an online Bachelor of Science in Integrated Technology degree at Husson University, you will need to pick between either the web design and development or software development concentrations. In the web design concentration, you will take 122 to 123 credits, split among classes covering graphic and web design, marketing through search engines, user experience and interaction design, and IT security. For the software development concentration, you will take between 121 to 124 credits in classes covering workflow management, advanced mathematics, system analysis and database design, along with an internship in information systems.
With a degree in integrated technology, you can pursue careers in application or database development, web administration or design, user experience (UX) design, or software development.
Bachelor of Science in Integrated Technology Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $398/credit
- Required Credits: 121-124 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester. However, many students transfer with between 60-90 credits, making the program 12-24 months to complete
- Learning Format: 100% online
Bachelor of Science in Integrated Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum requirement
- Standardized Tests: Optional, but can send either the SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $40
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Letter of recommendation, 250-word essay about career ambitions
Applying to Husson
- Complete either the Common Application or Husson’s admission application
- Pay the $40 application fee
- Request to have your high school transcripts sent to Husson
- Send in a letter of recommendation
- Write a 250-word essay about your career ambitions
- File your FAFSA
- Send in optional SAT or ACT scores, if desired
This Evangelical Christian university was founded in 1971 and has a wide range of degrees of study and a large student body to match, with more than 700 programs for its 100,000-plus students. Of their 700 programs, 450 of them are online, with the liberal arts university’s most popular majors being business, management, engineering, and accounting.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Degree
At Liberty University, you can choose between four specializations for your online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, either Web and Mobile Programming, Data Networking and Security, Application and Database Development, or Gaming Design.
For aspiring web developers or user interface analysts, the first concentration is ideal, and you would take classes in those fields as well as client-side and server-side programming. The second specialization is for those who want to be either a security analyst or auditor, database administrator, or network security manager, and you would take classes in network or cyber security and communication systems.
You can choose the third concentration if you want to design apps, analyze databases, or program software once you graduate, and you’ll take classes covering programming, Oracle, and web enterprise tech. If you want to be a creative or graphics director, or design video games or mobile user interface systems, you can choose the fourth concentration and take classes in digital imaging, graphic design, game development, and 3D graphics.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Degree Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $390/credit
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Degree Admission Requirements
- GPA: Minimum of 2.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT
- Application Fee: No initial application fee, $50 deferred fee assessed during Financial Check-In
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Proof of English proficiency, if applicable. Requirement of reference letters or leadership verification determined on a case-by-case basis.
Applying to Liberty University
- Complete the application
- Write your application essay
- Send in your high school transcripts, or college transcripts if using transfer credits
- If native language is other than English, send proof of English proficiency
- Send in SAT or ACT scores
One of the oldest accredited colleges in the US, this nonprofit school is very small, with only 1,046 students and 15 bachelor’s degree programs. Since 1865 this institution has focused on helping working adults attain higher education to help them climb the career ladder. To accommodate them, the school allows students to apply years of work or other certificates as transferable credits as well as earn certifications during their undergraduate studies.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Through Peirce College’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program, you can choose between two specialties, either Programming and Application Development or Networking, Administration, and Information Security. In the former, you would take courses pertaining to JavaScript, PC fundamentals, Linux, HTML, and database management in preparation for a software or app development career.
In the latter concentration, you would take courses in ethical hacking, server administration, and network security to set you up for success as a security analyst or database manager. Peirce’s programs are unique because you can get certain IT certifications incorporated into your studies, making you certified even before graduation.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Overview
- Tuition: $600/credit
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Required Credits: 121 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester, however, you can transfer up to 90 credits from another college
- Learning Format: 100% online
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA required
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: If you haven’t previously earned a C or higher in college-level English and math classes, you’ll need to submit a writing sample, take a math evaluation, and take the Student Success Seminar
Applying to Peirce College
- Complete Peirce’s online application
- Turn in your transcripts, either from high school or another college
- Complete your FAFSA if you are seeking financial aid
One of the pioneers of online learning, having been established in 1998, Penn State World Campus sports 175 programs, including 35 bachelor’s degrees, for its 20,000 students. Taking a degree online through Penn State World Campus is indistinguishable from its on-campus counterpart, as you would be studying under the same professors as those on campus, and the degree you would receive in the end would not be differentiated as an online degree.
Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology
After completing your 45 general education credits and eight elective credits, the remaining 84 credits in this degree involve major-specific credits. This also includes choosing a specialization. You can choose from Integration and Application, which teaches you how to use IT in problem-solving for businesses, or Design and Development, which teaches you ways to be inventive in information technology.
After completing classes such as elementary statistics and data organization, you’ll either take IT project management and enterprise integration courses or object oriented application and software development classes. You’ll leave the school with the skills to work in growing sectors such as healthcare, education, financial services, or government as web designers, web administrators, network managers, or even system designers.
Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- Tuition: $590/credit if you take 11 credits or fewer, $7,169 per semester if you plan on taking more than 12 credits
- Required Credits: 125 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at about 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100%online
Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA required
- Standardized Tests: Optional SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $65 for domestic students or $75 for international students
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Need to have completed three different courses of math, either in algebra, geometry, or trigonometry.
Applying to Penn State World Campus
- Complete the online application
- Submit your Self-Reported Academic Record (SRAR) in place of high school transcripts
- You may submit your SAT or ACT scores, if desired
- File your FAFSA for financial assistance
Ranked as number one in the best online bachelor’s programs in Virginia by US News & World Report, this Christian university founded in 1978 boasts 60 programs of study for its online students. The 10,000 students at this liberal arts college are studying at an institution with nine different accreditations, including those from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Technology
If you are thinking of pursuing careers such as computer programing, software engineering, web development, information technology, or network and systems administration, studying at Regent University would give you one of the best online Bachelor’s of Science in Information Technology available. While completing the 120 credits in your undergraduate studies, you’ll take classes relating to accounting, marketing, computer science ethics, programming, data structures, and project management to help you design and manage technology in your future career.
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $450/credit for up to 11 credits, $395/credit for more than 12 credits per semester
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA required
- Standardized Tests: SAT or ACT
- Application Fee: $50
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Regent University requires prospective students to submit copies of their government identification
Applying to Regent University
- Turn-in your online application
- Complete the admissions questionnaire
- Submit your unofficial transcripts from your high school
- Though not specified, it is recommended to submit a SAT or ACT score
- File your FAFSA
- Send Regent a copy of your government-issued identification
While this circa-1932 private institution only has 3,000 students that walk its campus, it has a vast online population of 135,000 students. The school prides itself on staying on the cutting-edge of higher education, having rebranded itself from a secretarial science and accounting school into a university with more than 200 programs.
Bachelor of Arts/Science in Information Technology
What’s unique about a Bachelor’s in Information Technology from Southern New Hampshire University is that while they share the same 17 core classes, you can get your degree as either a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts. The Bachelor of Arts version of the degree is particularly helpful for those that are currently employed in IT and want to broaden their technical skills to help with future developments in electronics and the world-at-large. It involves classes discussing tech concerning natural resources, energy, and society, as well as introductions to scripting and mass communication. The Bachelor of Science version of the degree has five different concentrations, which include Software Development, Project Management for IT, Data Analytics, Cyber Security, and Business Management.
Bachelor of Arts/Science in Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education
- Tuition: $320/credit
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
Bachelor of Arts/Science in Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA requirement
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Graduate Attestation Form signifying you have a GED if you don’t have a diploma
Applying to Southern New Hampshire University
- Fill out the online application
- Reach out to SNHU’s admissions counselors who will help you through the application process
- Sign the Transcript Release form for the high schools or colleges you’ve attended
- Approve the Electronic Attestation Form that signifies you have completed a GED or high school
- File your FAFSA if you need financial assistance
While this institution has been around for 46 years, its professors have almost half that much work experience themselves, with an average of 26 years across the faculty. In 2019, more than 14,000 bachelor’s degrees were completed within its 89,000-strong student body across its 34 different bachelor’s programs.
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Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Those interested in everything from system analysis and information systems to business and cyber security will be able to learn from this online degree. It involves classes covering online networking, business communications, web design, scripting languages, software engineering, and cloud technologies. University of Phoenix has tailored its curriculum specifically around the labor market, so you can see how the skills taught in each class align with specific careers like computer services director or technical services manager.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission
- Tuition: $398/credit
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA required
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: None
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Need to be at least 16 years old and be a US Citizen or have a visa, and non-native English speakers need to complete an English proficiency test
Applying to University of Phoenix
- Fill out the admissions application
- File your FAFSA for financial assistance
- Send in your high school transcripts or GED paperwork
This online-only institution has built quite the learner base, with 147,866 current students and more than 250,000 graduates since its inception in 1997. Alumni who chose degrees in business, IT, healthcare, and teaching, have a 98 percent satisfaction rate with their employers, and the university cites a 2021 Harris Poll that showed in which alums got an average of $18,000 increase in their pay two years after entering the workforce.
Bachelor of Science Online Information Technology Degree
Western Governors University (WGU) uses a competency-based program, meaning that graduation is determined by demonstrating skills rather than solely a set number of credits or grades from courses taken. You’ll take 36 courses in total, classes in IT fundamentals, networking and security, data management, web development, technical writing, and scripting in addition to your general education requirements. Finally, you’ll need to complete a written capstone project devising a solution to a problem in the IT field.
Bachelor of Science Online Information Technology Degree Overview
- Accreditation: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
- Tuition: $3,625 per six-month term
- Required Credits: competency-based program, need to pass 36 courses
- Program Length: About 48 months
- Learning Format: 100% online
Bachelor of Science Online Information Technology Degree Admission Requirements
- GPA: No minimum GPA required
- Standardized Tests: Not required
- Application Fee: $65
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: If not a native English speaker, must complete English proficiency examination.
Applying to Western Governors University
- Submit your admission application
- Turn in your official high school transcripts
- Speak with an enrollment counselor
- File your FAFSA
Western Kentucky refers to itself as an applied research university, meaning that it gives students real-world experience in their majors before graduating. Founded in 1906, this public university of 17,517 students has more than 250 different academic undergraduate programs.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology
The computer information technology major at Western Kentucky University does not have specific concentration paths, nor second major or minor requirements. Rather, the core curriculum covers everything you need in the field, freeing students to choose electives they enjoy. The foundational courses within the major include concepts in web development, telecommunications, database administrations, and systems architecture, development, and administration.
Electives include classes about subjects such as systems administration, web system development, and security systems. These required and elective courses will prepare you to be anyone from a computer support specialist, web developer, and system administrator all the way to a software developer, computer network architect, or computer system analyst.
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology Overview
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
- Tuition: $458/credit (in state), $1,125/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 120 credits
- Program Length: 8 semesters at 15 credits per semester
- Learning Format: 100% online, with the option of hybrid learning
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology Admission Requirements
- GPA: Minimum of 2.0
- Standardized Tests: ACT or SAT, but neither are required for students over a 2.5 unweighted GPA
- Application Fee: $45
- Minimum Education: High school diploma or equivalent
- Other Requirements: Check if you fall within their Composite Admission Index (CAI)
Applying to Western Kentucky University
- If you have a 2.00-2.49 unweighted GPA, you’ll need to get a 60 on their Composite Admission Index (CAI)
- Submit your high school transcript
- If you have below a 2.5 GPA, submit your SAT or ACT scores
What Is an Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
An online information technology bachelor’s degree is a degree you earn when you learn the systems behind computers so that you can either assist businesses with tech support, or develop new technologies within the field. Many institutions, online and otherwise, offer specific concentrations within the information technology bachelor’s degrees, such as web design, software development, cyber security, and gaming design.
An online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology can be earned either fully remote or through a hybrid of online and in-person schooling on the university’s campus. An online IT degree obtained through an accredited college is just as legitimate as one earned through stepping foot on a college campus.
Online vs. In-Person Information Technology Degrees
For many educational institutions, the only difference between acquiring an online information technology degree vs earning the degree in person is the location of the schooling. In fact, many schools that offer both in-person and online degrees, such as those we’ve mentioned above, don’t even differentiate between the two on the official diplomas.
Whether you choose to obtain an online information technology degree or to attend classes in person, there are benefits to both. Below is a comparative list of the benefits of getting an online information technology degree versus the pros of getting an in-person information technology degree.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology
- Convenience. Being able to study online allows you the flexibility of learning on your own schedule instead of having a class structure set for you.
- School options. Because online programs only require a computer and an Internet connection, location is not a factor. This increases your options of schools immensely, enabling you to take classes from institutions all over the country.
- Finances. Online courses are often less costly than in-person courses. Not only that, but distance learners don’t have to factor in the cost of traveling to and from campus, nor worry about paying for costly housing near campus.
- Choice in learning environment. Being an online student and having the option to learn from anywhere allows you to study in an environment that works best for your personal needs and preferences.
- Course options. Online programs tend to offer a wider variety of course options for you to choose from, which gives you more choices in your studies.
Top 5 Benefits of an In-Person Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology
- More immersive. In-person classes offer more opportunities for interacting with others since you are surrounded by other students and professors. This can be beneficial as it provides you with more opportunities to ask for help when you need it.
- College experience. For many people, an important aspect of attending college is the social aspect of living in a close-knit community, making friends, and joining campus clubs.
- Fewer distractions. When you learn in a classroom environment, there are fewer opportunities to get distracted than when you are learning in your own home, and being around others who are also focusing makes it easier to mirror them and be more engaged and active in the material.
- Resources. Campuses offer a variety of resources that help with students’ learning, such as physical libraries, career centers, peer tutors, and professors who keep office hours.
- Immediate assistance. Unlike online learning with pre-recorded classes, which requires a you to wait for a professor to respond to your questions, in-person learning gives you direct and immediate access to professors and other students who can offer you help and guidance.
What Types of Online Bachelor’s Degrees Can You Get in Information Technology?
The types of online bachelor’s degrees you can get in information technology include a Bachelor’s of Science (BS) or Bachelor’s of Arts (BA) in Information Technology, or a Bachelor of Applied Science (BAS) in Information Technology.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science Degree or a Bachelor of Applied Science Degree in Information Technology?
Often, those who are first entering a career should opt for the Bachelor of Science degree, as it gives you better foundational knowledge into informational technology. In contrast, those that already have some training or an Associate Degree in Information Technology would do better with the Bachelor of Applied Science Degree, as they would be learning new technical skills to enhance their prior knowledge.
Whether you choose a Bachelor of Science degree or Bachelor of Applied Science Degree depends on whether you want your studies to focus more on critical thinking and acquiring knowledge or if you want your studies to focus on more hands-on career training.
How Much Does an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Cost?
According to the National Center for Education Statistics’ estimate on the cost of undergraduate degrees from public universities in general, an online information technology bachelor’s degree costs about $14,900. This is the net price of attendance (total cost minus grant and scholarship aid) for first-time, full-time undergraduate students attending four-year public institutions.
The type of institution that you attend can vastly change the price of tuition. The US News & World Report states that on average, in-state students pay $38,496 and out-of-students pay $54,183 at public universities, whereas at private colleges, most students pay approximately $60,593.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Online?
It takes four years to get an information technology bachelor’s degree online if you do not have any transfer credits from AP classes or other college institutions. You will be studying general education courses, information technology core courses, and your elective courses during this time. If you are transferring credits from another institution, you can take an accelerated program. An accelerated program will usually take about two years to complete.
The total number of classes you will take is 40, on average, depending on the institution at which you choose to study. This breaks down to about seven weeks per class and will earn you the 120 college credits you need to graduate with your online information technology degree.
Are Online Information Technology Degrees Respected?
Yes, online information technology degrees are respected. So long as they are from accredited universities, online or in-person degrees are indistinguishable from one another. Information technology at its core involves working with computers, so you would essentially be using the same tools in class whether you were working from home or on campus.
Is Information Technology Hard to Learn Online?
No, information technology is not hard to learn online. As mentioned previously, the tools used to learn information technology in person are the same tools used to learn it online, as everything is computer-based. While it may be more challenging to not have immediate access to professors and other students when learning online, this should not negatively affect you too much. Make sure you have the time and will to sit down and complete all classes. As long as you can do this, you’ll be well on your way to an online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology.
Information Technology Bootcamp vs Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A coding bootcamp is worth it for you if you are hoping to gain job-specific skills in a short period of time. Bootcamps are becoming more popular in recent years, partly because they’re less expensive than a university.
Trying to decide between a four-year online bachelor’s degree and an IT coding bootcamp can be tricky, but ultimately the right educational path for you depends on your resources, background knowledge, and career goals. Some companies place a higher value on bachelor’s degree holders, however, many employers prefer bootcamp graduates as they tend to have more hands-on experience.
The section below includes the benefits of bootcamps vs online bachelor’s degrees, so you can judge which is best for you.
Top 5 Benefits of an Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree
- Career diversity. A Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology allows you to explore different rewarding careers as you aren’t restricted to a specific skillset.
- High salary. Bachelor’s degrees are generally viewed as more valuable and have the advantage of negotiating higher salaries in the job market.
- Career growth. People with bachelor’s degrees can pursue promotions by going on to earn more advanced degrees that employers value.
- Networking. Attending college means you’ll be in contact with professors and experts in the field who could write you a letter of recommendation for that job you’ve got your eye on, or can even connect you directly to those hiring.
- Employability. If you can list a bachelor’s degree on your resume, you might find yourself ahead of the competition because traditional degrees are respected credentials.
Top 5 Benefits of an Information Technology Bootcamp
- Hands-on experience. Bootcamps teach students using a hands-on approach, which gives students the real-life experience they need to get a job.
- In-demand skills. Bootcamps on topics like cyber security focus specifically on the technical skills in high demand and build their curriculum based on what will get students hired.
- Fast-paced. IT bootcamps are fast-paced and can be completed in a short time, typically between three and nine months.
- Flexible. The online programs of IT bootcamps are generally more flexible than four-year colleges. They offer on-demand learning formats that still allow full-time students to work if they wish.
- Affordable. Coding bootcamps are more affordable than colleges, and they still offer financing options such as private loans. Prospective students can check out tuition discounts that are often available as well.
Why You Should Get an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Online
You should get an information technology bachelor’s degree online if you are looking for a more flexible schedule, a more convenient way of studying for your chosen career path, and a more affordable option for obtaining a degree.
The certifications awarded by most universities do not specify whether your degree was obtained online or in-person. This means that an online degree in information technology will afford you the same options as attending in-person classes would.
What Courses Do You Take in an Online Bachelor’s Degree Program in Information Technology?
The range of courses in an online bachelor’s degree program in information technology usually includes courses in subjects like computational theory, programming fundamentals, information systems security, web development, web design, artificial intelligence, and databases. The courses you take in an online bachelor’s degree program in information technology vary between different institutions, and can also vary within the institution if it offers multiple concentrations.
Computational Theory
This course introduces you to the concepts of computational complexity and teaches you the relationship between automata and formal languages. You will also learn how to determine which issues can be solved by computational means, such as decidability vs undecidability.
Programming Fundamentals
In this course, you will learn the basic concepts of computer programming. It aims to introduce students to programs that use high-level programming languages such as Python and JavaScript. You will also learn the concepts of coding, testing, and designing.
Information Systems Security
This course focuses on teaching students various network security concepts. You will learn about the intrusion systems and techniques that will help you to recognize hacking techniques and limit security attacks. The course aims to help you become familiar with various types of firewalls and their applications in online networks.
Web Development
A web development course teaches students the fundamentals of what is involved in the front end and backend of developing web pages both on the Internet and an intranet. In this course, you will learn to understand HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
Artificial Intelligence
This course introduces students to the application of modern AI tools and techniques. You will learn about the process of developing modern AI applications, as well as how to build and run Python in current technologies.
Continuing Education Paths for Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Upon completion of your bachelor’s degree, though it is not essential, you can opt to continue your education online by getting a Master’s Degree in Information Technology. If you want to develop further skills within your chosen field, then obtaining a Master of Science in Information Technology is a good option to pursue.
Related Online Information Technology Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The things to look for in the best information technology bachelor’s degree programs online are the relevancy of the curriculum to your desired career, flexibility, accreditation, cost, graduation rate, and employment outcomes. These factors will determine whether the technology program is the right fit for you.
Curricular Content
The curricular content refers to everything you can expect to be taught within the degree program. This is very important since the courses available will determine your career path going forward. Many universities have concentrations or specialties within their information technology majors, so look into schools that have a concentration related to your end-goal career.
Flexibility
Choosing an information technology program that fits well within your schedule and lifestyle is essential. Decide how much time you have to dedicate to your schooling, then choose a degree program that is in line with that. You are more likely to succeed if you set realistic academic goals upfront.
Cost
It is important to evaluate your financial situation and determine what degree program options are available to you based on that. Take the time to work out what you can feasibly afford before choosing a degree program.
Graduation Rate
The graduation rate of a university is measured by how many students who started in the same cohort will graduate in six years for four-year programs or three years for two-year programs. The graduation rate is a good indication of your chances of completing your degree within your desired timeframe.
Employment Outcomes
The employment outcome tells you how likely you are to achieve full-time or part-time competitive employment within your chosen field. This is an aspect to keep in mind when you’re trying to determine what your future will look like after you graduate.
What Is the Most Affordable Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable online information technology degree is Western Governors University’s information technology program, which costs $15,680 in total. Tuition rates are charged per six-month term at $3,625, instead of per credit.
Can I Get an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Online for Free?
No, you cannot get an information technology bachelor’s degree online for free. However, financial aid options are available, and you can apply for scholarship programs that will significantly decrease the amount you have to pay for your education.
Salary and Job Outlook for Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
Employment for information technology degree holders is projected to grow 13 percent from 2020 to 2030, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics. This projection is higher than any other average for all occupations, which means that your chances of finding a good job after graduation are quite high.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Information Technology Degree?
It is not hard to get a job with an information technology degree you obtained online. As mentioned, there is no differentiation on the degree if you earned it online or in person, so employers generally don’t take it into account. The rate at which information technology graduates are getting hired is steadily increasing, which is great news for anyone seeking a career path within the field.
What’s the Average Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an online information technology bachelor’s degree is $76,000 per year. This makes it one of the highest-paying jobs for people holding a bachelor’s degree in the US.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an online information technology bachelor’s degree include database administrator and architect, software developer, information security analyst, network and computer systems administrator, web developer, and computer programmer, to name a few. No matter your concentration, your degree would enable you to keep up to date on the latest developments in the field.
Information Technology Degree Jobs
- Software developer
- Web developer
- Computer programmer
- Computer and information systems manager
- Systems analyst
Potential Careers With an Online Information Technology Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
You can make between $131,300 and $163,500 per year with an online information technology bachelor’s degree according to Business Insider’s list of the top 10 highest-paying jobs within the field.
Of the top 10 jobs, Insider cites software engineering manager, data warehouse architect, and software development manager to be the top three. Let’s look at some other high-paying jobs in the field.
Highest-Paying Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer Network Architect | $120,520 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
Best Jobs for Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for online information technology bachelor’s degree grads, as listed above, are the highest-paying jobs that are also in demand. Knowing what skills are sought-after while completing your bachelor’s degree will lead to you finding better job opportunities and higher pay when you graduate.
Working with either local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and smaller intranets, architects construct ways for their networks to transmit information in the most efficient way possible.
- Median Salary: $120,520
- Job Outlook: 5% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 165,200
- Highest-Paying States: New Jersey, Rhode Island, Delaware, Virginia, Maryland
The job of a software developer is to design and manage the development of new computer programs and systems. The job entails overseeing coding, debugging, troubleshooting, testing, and deploying programs and applications in existing software, integrating software components and third-party programs.
- Median Salary: $110,140
- Job Outlook: 22% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 1,847,900
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington, Maryland, New York, Rhode Island
An information security analyst has a background in ethical hacking to anticipate threats to their security systems, and installs software to prevent those threats from breaching their systems and compromising their data.
- Median Salary: $102,600
- Job Outlook: 33% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 141,200
- Highest-Paying States: California, New York, Maryland, Iowa, Washington DC
A database administrator’s role focuses on the performance and integrity of databases to make sure that information is organized and easy to find. They plan and develop infrastructure, and troubleshoot any problems experienced by users.
- Median Salary: $98,860
- Job Outlook: 8% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 168,000
- Highest-Paying States: Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, Rhode Island, Washington
The role of a computer systems analyst within an organization is to assess the current network architecture in place, see its faults, and devise improvements to make the systems more efficient and effective.
- Median Salary: $99,270
- Job Outlook: 7% job growth from 2020 to 2030
- Number of Jobs: 42,800
- Highest-Paying States: California, Washington DC, Massachusetts, Washington, New Jersey
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Worth It?
Yes, an online information technology bachelor’s degree is worth it. Not only is the field growing both in job openings and career paths, but careers in information technology are some of the highest-paying jobs in the country.
An online information technology bachelor’s degree offers you the flexibility to study at your own pace, and is less costly than a degree acquired through in-class attendance. The convenience of online study combined with the high demand for people working in the tech industry makes it worth pursuing.
Additional Reading About Information Technology
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Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
The best online bachelor’s degree for information technology is a Bachelor of Science if you have no prior background in the field, and a Bachelor of Applied Science if you want to hone your prior skills.
Yes, information technology jobs are in demand, and the projected job growth outlook of 13 percent shows that the demand will continue to increase into 2030. This makes information technology a good career path to consider.
An online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology will affect your job opportunities in a positive way. Earning a degree is a surefire way to show employers that you are passionate and knowledgeable in this field. Most universities that have both in-person and online schooling don’t differentiate between the two on their diplomas, so there truly is no difference.
Yes, an online Associate Degree in Information Technology is a good option if you don’t have the time or money to earn a bachelor’s degree. If at any point you decide to pursue a bachelor’s degree, you can do so using the credits earned from your associate degree. Or, you can attend a bootcamp for information technology to supplement your associate degree to make yourself an even more viable candidate for prospective job opportunities.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
