Information technology associate degree programs are one of the most reliable pathways into fast-growing, well-paying tech careers.1 As the world continues its shift toward digital technologies, job opportunities are opening up in the tech sector. With the right education through information technology degree programs, you can get the information technology career that you have always wanted.
This guide will point you to curricula from various colleges and universities with strong information technology associate degrees. Learn more about IT and what makes the field stand out to aspiring technology professionals. You will also discover some of the top job titles you can apply for once you complete an associate degree in information technology.
Key takeaways
- An information technology associate degree is a fast, flexible way to start a tech career, often in two years or less.
- Community colleges and public institutions frequently offer the most affordable IT associate degree options, especially for in-state students.
- Many IT associate degree graduates move into roles like computer support specialist, help desk technician, junior network administrator, or web developer.
- Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data shows that median annual wages for many computer and information technology occupations are well above the overall US median wage, with strong demand in areas like web development and IT support.1
- You can stack an information technology associate degree with certifications and later transfer credits into a bachelor’s program to keep advancing your career.
What Is Information Technology?
Information technology (IT) is a discipline that encompasses computers, networks, databases, and computing processes. Businesses use IT to speed up processes and guarantee a stable exchange of data from one place to another. Information technology also makes it possible for organizations to meet their goals through the improvement of technological processes.
If you’re considering an information technology associate degree, understanding this broad IT foundation will help you connect what you learn in the classroom to real workplace problems.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
Popular colleges where you can get an associate degree in information technology include Austin Community College District, Monroe Community College, and Raritan Valley Community College.When researching where to get an information technology associate degree, check your local community college or a public college or university in your state. Tuition costs are much lower if you choose an in-state school when deciding where to get an associate degree in information technology. Many IT associate degree programs are available fully online or in hybrid formats, which can make it easier to balance school with work or family responsibilities.2
Who this guide is for and how to use it
This guide is designed for:
- Recent high school graduates who want an affordable way to break into tech
- Career changers who need a faster, skills-focused path than a four-year degree
- Working adults who plan to study part time or online while keeping a job
Use the school list and job sections as a starting point, then compare programs on cost, flexibility, and transfer options so you can build an education plan that matches your timeline and budget.
What schools offer information technology associate degrees?
- Austin Community College District
- Brunswick Community College
- Milwaukee Area Technical College
- Monroe Community College
- Raritan Valley Community College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
The admission requirements for an associate degree in information technology are a high school diploma or GED. Some programs also require a standardized college readiness test, like the ACT or SAT.
You can start an associate degree in information technology without any programming background because this is an entry-level degree. You do need to be comfortable with math at the high school level. Additionally, all the schools on this list teach courses in English, so you need to speak English fluently.
Test-optional and placement-based admissions
Many community and technical colleges have moved toward test-optional admissions or rely on placement tests and high school grades instead of ACT or SAT scores. That means you may qualify for an information technology associate degree program even if you never took a standardized test.
Information Technology Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Strong grades in school math courses
- ACT or SAT (not all schools)
- English language fluency
How to Get an Associate Degree in Information Technology
You can get an information technology associate degree by attending a two-year accredited associate program that specializes in information technology. You can enter an information technology associate degree program with a standard high school background, as long as you have taken core math, English, and science courses. You should also enjoy working with computers and have an interest in learning how to code.
Typical steps to enroll in an IT associate program
- Research accredited information technology associate degree programs in your state or online.
- Compare tuition, fees, and financial aid options for each program.
- Apply for admission and submit transcripts or placement test scores as required.
- Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what federal or state aid you qualify for.
- Meet with an academic advisor to choose your first-semester IT and general education courses.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
You need to take around 60 credits for most associate degrees in information technology. This typically takes about two years to complete. The exact number of credits you need for an associate degree in information technology varies by school and specialization.
Full-time vs. part-time credit loads
A typical full-time load is 12 to 15 credits per term. Part-time students often take six to nine credits at a time, which stretches the degree beyond two years but can make it easier to balance school with work or caregiving responsibilities.
Information Technology Degree Requirements
- Introductory computer science courses
- Specialized computer science courses in programming, hardware, databases, cyber security, networking, and operating systems
- Basic math courses
- Introductory English courses in writing and communication
- Social science or humanities electives
Best Information Technology Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Austin Community College District | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Technology |
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Brunswick Community College |
Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology, Information Systems Specialization |
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Colorado Christian University | Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| DeVry University | Associate Degree in Information Technology and Networking | Higher Learning Commission |
| Gateway Community and Technical College | Associate in Applied Science in Computer Information Technologies |
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Madison Area Technical College | Associate Degree in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College | Associate in Applied Science: IT Computer Support Specialist | Higher Learning Commission |
| Monroe Community College | Associate of Science in Information Technology |
Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Raritan Valley Community College | Associate of Science in Information Systems and Technology |
Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of the Potomac | Associate of Science in Information Technology |
Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Information technology associate degree schools and programs
Community colleges and technical schools often offer information technology associate degree programs, and many provide several specializations within information technology. When looking for information technology associate degree programs that fit your goals, look for schools that offer a variety of specializations and have high graduation rates.
Most community colleges and technical schools do offer an Associate Degree in Information Technology, so consider picking one that offers in-state tuition in your state of residence. Many of the best schools for an Associate Degree in Information Technology offer career services to help you get a job after graduation or have transfer agreements with four-year colleges so you can easily transition into a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology.
What Is an Information Technology Associate Degree?
An associate degree in information technology is an introductory program to help you develop your IT skills for career opportunities in the tech industry. The most common kind of associate degree in information technology is an Associate of Science or Associate of Applied Science degree.
An information technology associate degree takes two years to complete, and the curriculum typically tackles programming, network systems, information security, database development, and more. You will also gain hands-on experience working on practical projects.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
It is very important to have an associate degree in information technology because it is a common requirement for high-paying, entry-level jobs in tech. Overall, computer and information technology occupations have a much higher median wage than the national median for all occupations, and they are projected to grow much faster than average from 2024 to 2034.1
You can also transfer credits earned in an information technology associate degree to a bachelor’s degree in information technology when you are ready to advance your tech career.
The main reasons why an information technology associate degree is important are to learn the basics of computer systems, to understand common computer and network issues, and to solve technological problems to prepare you for a rewarding career in tech.
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Information Technology?
You can get the following types of associate degrees for information technology:
- Associate of Applied Science
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Arts
The most common types of information technology associate degrees are associate of applied science and associate of science. These information technology associate degree types are better because you want the degree to show that you have technical expertise in the field of information technology.
An information technology associate of arts degree will still prepare you for a job in information technology, but it will focus more on soft skills than technical skills.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or an Associate of Science (AS) in Information Technology?
It is better to get an AS degree in information technology because the credit hours you earn are usually more transferable if you decide to earn a bachelor’s degree. The difference between an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree is that a bachelor’s degree takes twice as long and covers more subjects in more depth.
The difference between an AS degree in information technology and an AAS degree in information technology is that an AAS degree is typically a terminal degree. An AAS degree in information technology is just as good as an AS for getting you a job because both are two-year, technical programs, but only an AS degree prepares you for further education such as a master’s degree in information technology.
What is the difference between an information technology associate degree and an information technology certificate?
The main difference between an information technology associate degree and a certificate in information technology is that an associate degree is a more in-depth training program than a certificate. You should get an information technology associate degree instead of a certificate because it covers more material and teaches you a broader range of skills.
If you do choose an information technology certificate instead of an associate degree, remember to look for certificate programs instead of certifications. The difference between a certificate and a certification is that a certificate proves you completed an educational program, while a certification is a type of professional exam you need to pass after you already have experience in your field.
How much does it cost to get an associate degree in information technology?
Information technology associate degree costs vary widely depending on where you study and whether you pay in-state or out-of-state tuition. According to College Board data, average estimated annual budgets for full-time in-district students at public two-year colleges (including tuition, fees, room and board, and other expenses) are about $19,230.23
Public community colleges usually offer the lowest tuition for in-state residents, while private institutions tend to be more expensive. Living at home, attending part time, or choosing an online program can significantly reduce your overall cost.
Typical cost drivers for IT associate programs
When considering and comparing IT associate programs, always think about the following factors that affect the overall cost:
- Published tuition and mandatory fees
- Textbooks, software, and lab fees for IT courses
- Transportation, whether you commute or study on campus
- Room and board
- Technology requirements such as a reliable laptop and internet access
Information technology associate degree financing options: How to pay for your information technology degree
You can get financial aid for an associate degree in information technology from different sources. Most colleges and universities offer scholarships, discounts, and installment plans to help ease expenses. You can also qualify for need-based federal grants and application fee waivers.
It is very common for students to use financial aid to pay for an associate degree in information technology. At two-year degree-granting institutions, about 82% of first-time, full-time degree/certificate-seeking undergraduate students received some type of financial aid in 2020–21. Meanwhile, many undergraduates receive grants that do not have to be repaid, and a smaller share take out student loans.24
Steps to making your IT associate degree more affordable
- Complete the FAFSA early.
- Search for community college foundation scholarships.
- Look for work-study roles (including help-desk jobs).
- Compare total cost of attendance, not just tuition.
How long does it take to get an information technology associate degree?
It takes two years to get an associate degree in information technology. Most information technology associate degrees require 60 credits, and a standard full-time student schedule has around 30 credits a year. There are also accelerated information technology degrees where you can complete an associate degree in a shorter period. Guides to accelerated associate programs note that some students complete a 60-credit degree in as little as 12 to 18 months by taking intensive, year-round courses or transferring in prior credits.2
Here, the internal link is added at the original anchor phrase:
Students can explore options like accelerated information technology degrees to finish faster without sacrificing curriculum quality.
Accelerated and online information technology associate degrees
Some online or hybrid IT associate programs:
- Offer short, accelerated terms
- Run year-round
- Allow transfer credits
- Provide flexible pacing for working adults
How hard is it to get an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
An Associate Degree in Information Technology is easy to get if you are motivated to finish the two-year program. Information technology associate degrees are easy because there are very few requirements to get in and the classes are designed for beginners. Getting an information technology degree is hard if you find it difficult to learn in a traditional school environment.
Many students find that:
- Intro programming and networking courses require consistent practice.
- Balancing labs, homework, and a job can be demanding.
- Group projects and ticket-based support classes mirror real-world pressure.
However, the same hands-on projects and labs that feel challenging are also what prepare you for help-desk, support, or junior admin roles after you graduate.
Why Should You Get an Information Technology Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Information Technology are:
- Tech career opportunities
- Higher average salary compared to a high school diploma or GED
- Options to use credits from an associate degree for a future bachelor’s degree
Pursuing a bachelor’s degree after your associate degree allows you to qualify for more advanced information technology roles with a higher salary and more benefits. With an Associate of Science degree, you can go on to earn a bachelor’s degree and even a master’s degree.
How employers view IT associate degrees in 2025
Many employers use an information technology associate degree as a signal that you:
- Understand core IT concepts like networking, operating systems, and basic security.
- Can troubleshoot user problems and communicate clearly.
- Are serious enough about the field to complete a structured academic program.
What courses do you need to take in an Associate Degree Program in Information Technology?
The required courses for information technology associate degrees include a range of computer science courses as well as basic math and English courses. Many Associate Degree in Information Technology course lists also include business courses and a class in academic skills.
Introduction to Programming
Introduction to programming courses will introduce you to the fundamentals of how to code. You’ll learn about logic, how to write code, and how to test and debug programs. Depending on the school, you will learn different programming languages, such as HTML, CSS, or Java.
Web Design Tools
A web design tools course will teach you best practices for setting up and maintaining websites to provide a smooth and safe user experience. Most courses will have students build functioning websites, so they can practice the tools and processes used to create websites.
Network Design
In a network design course, you’ll learn about how to set up and maintain a wireless or wired computer network. Network design courses include information about troubleshooting problems, routine maintenance, and how to use administrative controls.
Cyber Security
All information technology professions use cyber security principles on the job in some way. Cyber security courses will teach you how to use administrative controls to monitor cyber security threats to a computer network and how to store data securely.
Operating Systems
In an operating systems course, you’ll learn what an operating system is and how it functions. Key topics in operating systems courses include file systems, virtual memory, basic security, and multiprocessing.
Many IT associate degree curricula also include:
- Introductory business or project management coursework
- Professional communication or customer service classes
These courses help you explain technical issues in plain language and collaborate effectively with stakeholders.
Continuing Education Paths for Information Technology Associate Degree Graduates
There are a few different paths to take with an information technology associate degree. With an information technology AAS, you can take IT certifications after you have some professional experience. Once you have completed an information technology AS degree, you can get a Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Information Technology.
The highest degree you can earn is a PhD in Information Technology. This degree is for people who are fascinated by the field of information technology and want to research the societal and cultural aspects of information technology.
There are also information technology doctorate degrees. The difference between a doctorate degree and a PhD is that a doctorate degree covers practical applications while PhD candidates research theoretical principles.
Stackable credentials and popular IT certifications
Common stackable credentials include:
- CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+
- Amazon Web Services (AWS) Certified Cloud Practitioner
- Microsoft Azure Fundamentals
- Certificates in cyber security, cloud, or web development
Stacking certifications on top of an IT associate degree can make you competitive for mid-level roles in support, networking, or security.
What to Look For in the Best Information Technology Associate Degree Programs
The best information technology associate degree programs are invested in their students’ success. You can expect a high standard of academic instruction and student support from the best schools with an information technology associate degree.
Accreditation
Completing an Associate Degree in Information Technology takes time, money, and effort. Only apply to programs that are accredited by a certified accrediting agency.
Cost
An information technology associate degree will improve your earning potential, but it isn’t worth going into large amounts of debt. Look for public colleges with lower in-state tuition.
Graduation Rate
Look for programs with high graduation rates to ensure strong academic support.
Career Services
Career services help connect students with IT jobs and offer interview prep, résumé support, and job-search resources.
Student-Faculty Ratio
Smaller class sizes can lead to more personalized instruction and stronger recommendations from faculty.
Questions to ask before you enroll
Before selecting a program, ask:
- Does the curriculum align with certifications?
- Are there virtual labs, sandbox environments, or ticketing simulations?
- What percentage of graduates secure IT jobs or transfer to bachelor’s programs?
What Is the Most Affordable Information Technology Associate Degree?
Public institutions with in-state tuition typically offer the most affordable Associate Degrees in Information Technology. Look into local community colleges, state colleges, and regional universities.
Many online IT associate degree options also fall into lower tuition bands. Rankings show some accredited public colleges charge $5,000–$8,000 per year for in-state online IT programs.23Students comparing costs should review the programs offering the most affordable Associate Degrees in Information Technology.
Salary and Job Outlook for Information Technology Associate Degree Graduates
Information technology associate degree jobs are entry-level tech jobs with high salaries. An Associate Degree in Information Technology will help you earn a higher salary than a high school diploma because you have more specialized training with an associate degree.
Across computer occupations as a whole, the median annual wage was $105,990 in May 2024.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Information Technology Associate Degree?
It is easy to get a job with an information technology associate degree because there are many entry-level jobs available in certain information technology fields. However, there are some fields that have fewer jobs available, and it can be hard to get a job as a computer programmer even with an information technology associate degree.
Consult our list of jobs below to see which fields tend to have steady employer demand and which roles are more competitive for someone with an Associate Degree in Information Technology.
Students improve job prospects by:
- Building small projects and documenting troubleshooting
- Volunteering for IT support roles with nonprofits
- Creating a simple portfolio with class assignments and labs
What’s the Average Information Technology Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an Associate Degree in Information Technology can vary widely by job title and location. One analysis estimates the average information technology associate salary at around $75,790 per year, though entry-level roles often start lower.25
Salary ranges depend heavily on:
- Industry (finance, healthcare, education, government)
- Metro area vs. rural markets
- Experience and certifications
- Company size and technical environment
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Information Technology Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with an information technology associate degree are supportive positions that help other employees use technology effectively. These are good-paying jobs that combine computer science and customer service.
Information Technology Degree Jobs
- Computer Support Specialist
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Computer Technician
- Information Technology Specialist
- Network Support Specialist
Typical entry-level job titles
Additional job titles you may see in listings include:
- Help desk technician
- Desktop support specialist
- Junior systems administrator
- Junior network technician
- Technical support specialist
Many postings list a bachelor’s degree as “preferred,” but employers often hire associate degree graduates who bring certifications or strong hands-on experience.
The role of computer support specialist is popular among associate-degree graduates. Learn more in Career Karma’s guide on becoming a Computer Support Specialist.
How much money can you make with an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
You can make a wide range of salaries with an Associate Degree in Information Technology. Median annual wages for common computer occupations that IT associate degree graduates target often fall between the mid-$60,000s and upper-$90,000s, depending on role and location.1,27,28,29,30
You don’t need a second degree to improve your earning potential with an Associate Degree in Information Technology. With professional certifications, you can upskill and land higher-level positions.
Information technology associate degree jobs
Average salary
Computer systems analyst – $103,79026
Computer programmer – $98,67027
Network administrator – $96,80028
Web developer – $90,93029
Computer network support specialist – $73,34030
Highest-paying information technology associate degree jobs and salaries: Overview
Best jobs for information technology associate degree grads
The best jobs for information technology associate degree grads are technical support and programming positions. Best information technology jobs with an associate degree involve installing or building new computer systems and making sure that computer systems run smoothly.
Computer systems analyst | Median salary: $103,79026
A computer systems analyst works with managers and committees to find cost-effective IT solutions for businesses to meet their goals. You will help design systems for organizations and prepare cost analyses to present for every project needing approval. These positions sometimes require additional experience or a bachelor’s degree.
- Median annual wage: $103,790 (May 2024)
- Job outlook: Projected growth of 9% from 2024 to 2034
- Education note: Typical education is a bachelor’s degree; an associate degree may suffice in some cases when combined with experience or certifications.
Computer programmer | Median salary: $98,67027
A computer programmer designs and builds programs that will be useful for businesses or other types of enterprises. You must have the programming proficiency to quickly solve issues related to coding errors. While computer programmer jobs often require a bachelor’s degree, you can get one of these roles with an associate degree and a few years of programming experience.
- Median annual wage: $98,670 (May 2024)
- Job outlook: Projected decline of 6% from 2024 to 2034
- Education note: Bachelor’s degree is typical; an associate degree may open some positions but is less common.
Network administrator | Median salary: $96,80028
A network administrator makes sure that the network system of an organization is operational and able to keep up with its daily processes. In case of issues, you need to be ready to provide solutions as well as suggest upgrades or repairs for faulty connections. Some network administrator jobs might require a bachelor’s degree, but you can meet most job requirements with an associate degree and additional certifications or experience.
- Median annual wage: $96,800 (May 2024)
- Job outlook: Projected decline of 4% from 2024 to 2034
- Education note: Bachelor’s degree typical; some employers accept an associate degree plus strong skills/certifications.
Web developer | Median salary: $90,93029
A web developer builds and creates web or mobile applications and may be in charge of web design, server-side issues, or both front-end and back-end issues. You will need a multitude of skills to ensure that outcomes meet client needs and that websites and applications are functional at all times.
- Median annual wage: $90,930 (May 2024)
- Job outlook: Projected growth of 7% from 2024 to 2034
- Education note: Education requirements vary from high school up to bachelor’s degree; an associate degree plus a strong portfolio and technical skills may suffice.
Computer network support specialist | Median salary: $73,34030
A computer network support specialist helps an organization troubleshoot problems with its networks, including issues related to local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and other internet systems. You may need to conduct regular testing to ensure that your organization’s network is operating smoothly and its internet service remains uninterrupted.
- Median annual wage: $73,340 (May 2024)
- Job outlook: Projected decline of 3% from 2024 to 2034
Education note: Many roles accept an associate degree or certificate plus experience; this is among the more accessible IT jobs for those with two-year credentials.
Is an Associate Degree in Information Technology worth it?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Information Technology is worth it if you want a cost-effective education with strong job prospects. Community colleges often offer the best tuition value for this credential.
Strong employer demand, high median salaries, and flexible program formats make the IT associate degree a valuable stepping stone for new tech careers.
Additional reading about information technology
https://careerkarma.com/blog/information-technology-associate-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/accelerated-information-technology-degrees/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/online-it-degree/
Information technology associate degree FAQ
Can I get an IT job with an associate degree?
Yes. The curriculum gives you enough foundation to qualify for entry-level roles and certifications.
Can I get an information technology associate degree without going into debt?
Yes. Completing the FAFSA and applying for scholarships can significantly reduce or eliminate costs.
How many semesters does it take to get an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
Usually four semesters over two years, or less in accelerated programs. Students choosing online associate degree programs in information technology may complete requirements even more flexibly.
Are there online associate degree programs in information technology?
Yes. Many schools now offer fully online IT associate programs.
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