The best information technology bachelor’s degree programs will instill the IT skills you need to thrive in many industries. These careers come with impressive salaries and a strong job outlook. If you want to learn about cutting-edge technology, keep reading to learn about the best information technology bachelor’s degrees.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Information Technology cover some of the most in-demand skills and will prepare you for roles like software developer or network architect. In this comprehensive list of the best Bachelor’s Degrees in Information Technology, you will find information about tuition rates, program requirements, and descriptions of information technology careers.
What Is an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
An information technology bachelor’s degree is a degree program that prepares students for careers in information technology. This field concerns the use of computer technology, telecommunications, and other devices to create, process, store, and exchange electronic data. An IT bachelor’s degree typically takes three to five years depending on the school and the learning format. Required classes in this degree focus on software systems, databases, and networking systems.
Someone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology can work in business organizations, schools, healthcare facilities, government, and financial institutions. Some subjects covered in a typical IT bachelor’s degree curriculum include software engineering, software development, web design, programming, networking, and computer systems.
Best Schools for Information Technology Bachelor’s Degrees
The best colleges where you can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology have a comprehensive curriculum that covers the latest technologies and that is taught by faculty who have practical expertise in the field. The best schools for IT degrees are accredited by a respected third-party organization, such as ABET, and give students access to important resources like career services. Here are some of these schools:
- Cornell University
- Florida State University
- University of Michigan
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Kennesaw State University
Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology
The admission requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology usually include a high school GPA of at least 2.5, transcripts, essays, and standardized test scores. These will vary depending on the program you choose. All told, here are the most common requirements for admission into an IT bachelor’s degree program:
- High school diploma
- Official transcripts
- 1 – 3 letters of recommendation
- Completion of an essay question
- SAT or ACT scores
How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology
You can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology by earning at least 120 credits and meeting any other graduation requirements stated by your chosen school. You will usually have to complete a certain number of electives and general education courses in addition to core courses. Some programs also require a capstone project.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
You usually need around 120 credits for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. This takes most students four years to complete, assuming they take 15 credits per semester. Some universities offer accelerated options, allowing students to complete their degrees in less time.
Information Technology Degree Requirements
- GPA of at least 2.0
- 40 – 50 core credits
- 30 – 50 general education credits
- 40 – 50 elective credits
- Completion of a capstone project
Best Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Bellevue University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems |
Higher Learning Commission |
| Brigham Young University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Cyber Security | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) |
| Cornell University | Bachelor of Science in Information Science, Systems, and Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Florida State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Keiser University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Kennesaw State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET |
| New Jersey Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| New York University | Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Central Florida | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Michigan | Bachelor of Science in Information | Higher Learning Commission |
These top information technology bachelor’s degree programs can give you everything you need to start a successful career in tech. The list below expands on the information contained in the table by offering a detailed description of the best schools for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology and their admission processes.
Best Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Colorado State University Global | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| 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 |
| Purdue University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET |
| 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 |
Some people have jobs and busy schedules, but they still want to earn a degree. Getting an online degree is becoming a more popular option, so we’ve gathered some of the best schools and online IT programs to earn an online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. Below is a brief description of the schools and their programs.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Information Technology?
You can get the following types of bachelor’s degrees for information technology:
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Arts
A Bachelor of Science has a greater focus on math and science, so it is the better choice for most tech roles. However, both types of Bachelor’s degrees in Information Technology can set you up for a successful career.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology if you are hoping to work in the technology sector. A Bachelor of Arts has a greater focus on humanities, while a Bachelor of Science prioritizes math and science. As information technology is a highly technical field, you will need strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
What Is the Difference Between an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree and an Information Technology Certificate?
The main difference between an information technology bachelor’s degree and a certificate in information technology is that a certificate requires fewer credits and less of a time commitment to earn. Another main difference between a certificate and a bachelor’s degree is that a certificate program is much more affordable.
If you are wondering whether to get a bachelor’s degree or certificate in information technology, remember that a degree will be much more useful in helping you start a career. A certificate program can help you upskill or further your career prospects.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
An information technology bachelor’s degree costs an average of $28,775, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This cost includes tuition and room and board. The average annual cost of a public institution is $21,035, while private institutions are $45,932. You can often lower your Bachelor’s in Information Technology cost of tuition by attending an in-state school.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
Getting an information technology bachelor’s degree is hard and requires a long-term commitment. The courses can be very technical and require students to develop impressive critical-thinking skills. While bachelor’s degree programs are generally open to beginners, if you don’t have a computer science or mathematical background, you may find that getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology is hard.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Information Technology?
The required Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology courses cover subjects like programming, data structures, and computer systems. You may also take general education courses in a Bachelor’s in Information Technology program. Below are a few examples of some classes you might see in your degree program.
Information Systems Fundamentals
Most IT bachelor’s degree programs start off with introductory courses like this one. Students learn the basics of database management, systems development, and networking. You may also learn about the role of information systems in business practices.
Programming for Information Technology
Many roles in the IT field will require you to know at least one programming language. Students in this type of course learn about data structures and sorting and searching techniques as they familiarize themselves with at least one object oriented programming language.
Information Technology and Cyber Security
Developing strong cyber security skills is essential for anyone working with information systems. You will likely see at least one course dealing with cyber security on your Bachelor’s in Information Technology course list. You will learn how to locate vulnerabilities and protect data from cyber attacks.
Data and Information Management
This course provides students with hands-on experience developing database systems. You will learn about relational and dimensional modeling, SQL, NoSQL models, and application development.
Systems Integration
This course will cover common issues that occur when implementing and integrating computer systems. You will likely learn about Network Operating Systems (NOS), cross-servers, database integration, and communications security.
Continuing Education Paths for Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The best continuing education path to take with an information technology bachelor’s degree after you graduate is to go on to earn a Master’s Degree in Information Technology. This can help you land advanced roles in the field. You can also further your career by earning professional certificates like the Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect certificate.
Related Information Technology Degrees
[query_class_embed] *subject-bachelors-degrees
What to Look For in the Best Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best information technology bachelor’s degree programs cover all the technical skills you will need to get hired. With so many options, it can be difficult to identify the best program for your needs. If you’re wondering what to look for in a college for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, take a look at our list of important criteria to consider below.
Cost
Attending any bachelor’s degree program can be a costly decision. Keep in mind that more expensive programs aren’t necessarily better. You can save money by attending an in-state school or earning an associate degree first and transferring your credits to your four-year university.
Accelerated Options
If you are eager to graduate quickly and enter the job market, consider attending a school that can help you earn your degree in less time. Some online programs offer a self-paced method, which allows you to graduate as quickly as you can master the course content.
Curricular Content
During your school search, you might want to read through the required courses to make sure they cover all the skills you are looking to learn. You should also read through the available electives and choose a school with curricular content that interests you.
Concentration Options
If you already know what career path you want to follow, choosing a school with concentration options can help you better prepare for your chosen role. You might be able to concentrate in areas like data analytics, cyber security, or database administration.
Barriers to Admission
Some programs have extensive requirements for prospective students, including a high GPA, impressive SAT or ACT scores, and letters of recommendation. Before you apply for a school, make sure you fit its criteria.
What Is the Most Affordable Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology on our list is from Kennesaw State University. Credits at Kennesaw State University are only $185 for in-state students. Other affordable options include Florida State University and the University of Central Florida.
IT Bachelor’s Degree Salaries
On average, information technology bachelor’s degree jobs come with impressive salaries and benefits. IT professionals can work in a wide range of roles, including software developer, computer programmer, and network architect. Overall, the average salary of an information technology bachelor’s degree graduate is $74,000, according to PayScale.
Depending on your job title, location, and level of experience, you can make between $78,300 and $120,520 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. Information technology majors generally land well-paying jobs after graduation. You can always increase your annual wage by earning professional certifications and gaining a few years of relevant experience.
IT Bachelor’s Degree Job Outlook
An IT bachelor’s degree can open the doors to a plethora of occupations with bright job outlooks, such as computer network architect or systems analyst. Overall, employment in the computer and information technology industries is expected to rise by 15 percent in the coming decade according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not usually hard to get a job with an information technology bachelor’s degree. The technical skills and soft skills you will learn are extremely in-demand. They are also highly transferable, so you can make career changes in the future if you choose to.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an IT bachelor’s degree are typically well-paid and boast a positive job outlook. These jobs generally involve working with digital systems such as computer applications, databases, or cyber security tools, either researching, planning, developing, or managing them. Here are some such jobs:
- Information security analyst
- Database administrator
- Computer information systems manager
- Computer network architect
- Software developer
Potential Careers With an Information Technology Degree
[query_class_embed] how-to-become-a-*profession
Highest-Paying Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries
| Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $159,010 |
| Computer Network Architect | $120,520 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Computer Programmer | $93,000 |
| Forensic Computer Analyst | $74,798 |
| Information Technology Business Analyst | $70,661 |
| Data Analyst | $62,951 |
As an information technology major, you’ll have access to high-paying, in-demand jobs after graduation. The best jobs for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems graduate will help you gain real-world experience and practice your new skills.
* Figures taken from the BLS page for information security analysts
** Figures taken from the BLS page for computer systems analysts
Best Jobs According to Your Major
[query_class_embed] jobs-for-*subject-majors
Information Technology Bootcamp vs Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology is better than an IT bootcamp if you want to start a tech career. Ultimately the right educational path for you depends on your resources, background knowledge, and career goals. While some companies place a higher value on bachelor’s degree holders, many employers prefer bootcamp graduates with more hands-on experience.
A coding bootcamp may be 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. The section below includes the benefits of an information technology degree vs a bootcamp, so you can judge for yourself.
Benefits of an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree
- Career diversity. A Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology allows you to explore different career paths since you aren’t restricted to a specific skillset.
- High salary. Bachelor’s degrees are generally viewed as more valuable, and those with a degree have an advantage when negotiating higher salaries in the job market.
- Career growth. People with bachelor’s degrees can pursue promotions by going on to earn the 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 your dream entry-level job.
- 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.
Benefits of an Information Technology Bootcamp
- Hands-on experience. Coding 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 focus specifically on the technical skills that are 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 offer financing options like private loans. Prospective students can check out tuition discounts that are often available as well.
Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology is worth it if you want to start a career in one of the technology fields. You will acquire the background and foundational skills needed for an array of tech careers. An IT bachelor’s degree will also boost your employability, as most recruiters in the industry favor candidates with at least this level of education.
In addition, you’ll have the option to increase your salary and climb the corporate ladder by furthering your education with a master’s degree or acquiring the right certifications. All in all, an IT bachelor’s degree is the right option for you if you are technologically inclined and are looking for an educational path that gives you plenty of well-remunerated job options after graduation.
Additional Reading About Information Technology
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/top-careers-in-information-technology/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/information-technology-companies/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/types-of-information-technology-jobs/
Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
It takes an average of four years to get an information technology bachelor’s degree. Most programs will require you to complete around 120 credits. Your Bachelor’s in Information Technology length will depend on how many credits you take every semester and whether you attend a school that offers accelerated options.
Some of the best majors for a job in information technology include a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, or Information Systems. Other excellent IT major options are network and information security, data science, and database administration.
A degree in information technology is better if you want to work with hardware. A degree in computer science will place a larger emphasis on software. However, neither field offers better opportunities than the other, so the answer depends on your individual interests.
Some information technology occupations that are in high demand right now are software developer, data scientist, full stack developer, big data engineer, cloud architect, data analyst, and artificial intelligence engineer.
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.
