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.
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.
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.
