Technology forms the foundation of nearly everything we accomplish in our daily lives — from opening different lines of communication to online classes to paying bills and banking online. And an online bachelors in information technology forms the foundation for a career in IT.
Information technology (IT) is needed in today’s world to foster faster and continuous communication, sustain electronic storage and provide security and protection for databases. Professionals working in this field have highly rewarding salaries, with average wages of $91,250. Demand is continually increasing for these workers.
For example, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts that the employment rate for information security analysts will see a 33% growth rate between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the national average. Information technology specialists with a bachelor’s degree can earn high wages and advance their careers quickly. Read on to learn about ten of the best online IT degree programs and the educational requirements to enroll.
What is Information Technology?
Information technology uses computer or electronic devices and applications, including data storage and programs, to input, process, and send out the data. It also provides software and support for office automation systems, including word processing and spreadsheets. Information technology specialists help fellow employees troubleshoot problems with their devices and mobile computers. They also build communication tools and networks for a company, safeguarding data and information, as well as creating or administering databases.
Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Careers
There are many job opportunities available for those with degrees in information technology, including work as:
- Software developers
- Information technology consultants
- Computer forensic analysts
- Information technology business analysts
- Computer network architects, etc.
Let’s look at each of these roles and their responsibilities:
Software Developers
Software developers build, develop, and maintain software applications and systems that meet users’ needs. The primary duty of a software developer is to identify even the most minor problems, often referred to as “glitches.” As specially trained individuals, software developers deploy technical and analytical skills to solve problems in their daily jobs. Their annual salary can reach $102,280 plus bonuses. A Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) report predicts an increased employment rate for software developers up to 22% between 2020 and 2030.
Information Technology Consultant
An information technology consultant works as a mainstream contractor or employee in consulting firms. The role of an IT consultant is to help clients by finding solutions to issues within their technology. They strive to develop more efficient approaches to managing information technology systems. Traditional duties of an information technology consultant include:
- Training information technology staff
- Determining information technology requirements
- Analyzing and organizing data
- Compiling and presenting information
- Writing reports and documentation, etc.
Computer Forensic Analyst
A computer forensic analyst retrieves documents, emails, and pictures that have been erased or mutilated and deleted from computer hard drives and other file storage devices. The work of a computer forensics analyst is similar to an auditor job in an accounting firm. Analysts often work on crime cases, such as hacking, fraud, cybercrime, theft, and bullying. According to Payscale, a computer forensic analyst earns a salary of $65,352 annually.
Information Technology Business Analyst
Information technology business analysts perform system analysis and testing to decipher how information technology can meet different business and clients’ needs. They analyze the risks and the possible benefits of new information technology systems and test templates and prototypes before executing them. Business information technology analysts usually work in highly clustered environments compared to other information technology professionals. Companies can avoid risks and use their recommendations and infrastructure to improve their business processes.
Computer Network Architect
Computer network architects develop and design communication networks within an organization. They plan, design, and create a layout for data networks, establish security measures, and research new technologies that best support communication networks—the salary of these professionals averages around $117,414. Network architects who work for top technological companies like Cisco and Microsoft earn as much as $300,000. Increased usage of data networks and changes to new data systems serve as driving factors for employment.
Information Technology Program Courses
An online bachelor’s degree in information technology helps prepare students to venture into tech and earn high-paying jobs in the fast-growing computer and IT fields. Information technology attracts technology enthusiasts with strong analytical, problem-solving, and organizational skills.
Students take classes in foundational IT applications and learn communication, critical thinking, and analytical skills. An information technology program includes courses like Web Development, Data Management, The Business of IT, and Network Security. Quite often, information technology degrees include a practicum or capstone project.
Many of these programs offer concentrations or supplementary certificates in IT Management, Information Security and Assurance, and Advanced Cybersecurity.
Depending on your prior education, it usually takes 2-4 years or less to earn an Information Technology degree online. Those who already have an associate’s degree usually require two years to complete a bachelor’s degree. A bachelor’s program typically requires about 120 credits. Online programs typically offer more flexibility and accelerated options.
The cost for an online bachelor’s degree in information technology varies depending on the type of school (public or private) and residency status (in-state or out-of-state). Typically, students who pay in-state tuition at a public university pay far less than those at private schools.
Top Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degrees
Grand Canyon University — Bachelor of Science in Applied Technology
In this Bachelor of Science (BS) program, Grand Canyon University offers an education in technology that aligns with its Christian values. By the end of the program, students will have the knowledge and skills to design, develop, implement, and maintain relational database structures.
The professors cover courses on Fundamentals of Cybersecurity, Professionalism in Science and Technology Communications, Managing Business Communications and Change, IT Business Case Planning For Global Enterprise, Introduction to Database Structures, and Information Systems Design and Development. As requirements for graduation, students must complete 120-credit hours and submit a project. All projects are group efforts to reinforce teamwork and collaboration.
Western Governors University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Western Governors University offers a well-rounded Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree. The program is ideal for high school graduates who want to start a career in IT as well as professionals already working in the IT field. According to the university, 80% of its graduates complete this program within 48 months.
The tuition costs $3,625 per six-month term. As to flexibility, the program is self-paced, and there are no scheduled classes. The university has designed this program to focus on Systems and Servers, Networking and Security, Data Management and the Business of IT, and Scripting and Programming. While learning, students can earn certification from CompTIA and CIW at no added charge.
King University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
The university designed its Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program using the Association of Computing Machinery (ACM) curricular model. There are three learning tracks, and students are encouraged to choose one that aligns with their interests. These tracks are Cloud Computing and Systems Administration, Digital Business and Game Development, and Cybersecurity Management.
After students complete their chosen track, they can choose from a second set of learning tracks. The secondary learning track choices include General Business and Project Management. Some of the courses offered are Introduction to Cybersecurity Policy, Network Management, Cloud Computing, Introduction to Internet Programming, and Current Issues in Technology.
Lindenwood University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
At Lindenwood University, the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program takes 2-4 years. Students with an associate degree are already halfway through the program. Lindenwood University offers financial aid to students who qualify, and there are also military benefits.
For admission applications, candidates must submit official transcripts from universities or colleges they’ve attended in the past. If the credits are fewer than 24, the candidate will have to submit their official high school diploma transcript.
The university has a provision for candidates who have very low cumulative GPAs. For applicants with a GPA lower than 2.0, there’s a need to submit a resume to show work experience and a personal statement showing why they are interested in Lindenwood University.
Thomas Jefferson University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
The Information Technology degree online at Thomas Jefferson University is an accelerated program. To graduate, students have to complete a minimum of 120 credits. Students with prior learning experience from universities and colleges can transfer some of their credits towards this program.
The other credits have to come through the courses offered at the university. Out of all these credits, elective courses take up to 48 credits. The program incorporates creativity and leadership classes. Some of the courses in these categories are Creating Foundations and Applications, Creativity in The Digital Age, Project Management, Leading Diverse Organizations, and Creative Leadership.
Methodist University — Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology
Once enrolled in this program, students choose a concentration out of the three offered by the university. These concentrations are Business Information Systems, Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, and Interactive Multimedia Application Development. While the first two options are available online, the Interactive Multimedia Application Development concentration is only available on-campus. Students who choose the Business Information Systems track will enroll in the following courses:
- Principles of Financial Accounting
- Principles of Managerial Accounting
- Statistics for Business and Economics
- Management and Organization
- Managerial Finance
On the other hand, students in the Cybersecurity and Information Assurance track will study:
- Social Media and Cloud Access
- Database Disaster and Risk Management
- Storage Area Network Security and Policies
- Information Assurance and Network Security
Liberty University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology / Application and Database Development
Liberty University has frozen its tuition for about seven years and counting, so its fees are quite affordable. The university also offers free electronic textbooks, which helps save hundreds of dollars on books. Their BS program in Information Technology / Application and Database Development teaches students how to design IT systems, amongst other things. Students enrolled in this program also learn how to build databases and application development.
The degree program has 120 credits. Liberty University has a 75% transferable credits policy. During the eight-week sessions of the BS program, students will cover C# programming language, Oracle, Advanced Oracle, and Web Enterprise Technologies.
South College — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Graduates from South College’s Associate of Science in Information Technology program can seamlessly transition into this BS program. Others can transfer some of their credits to accelerate the program.
This BS program aims to teach students to plan, develop, implement, and manage information technology solutions. While enrolled, students learn about the project life cycle, project planning, risk identification, and when to outsource.
The program has five concentration options: Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, IT Management, Networking, and Web Design. Students take Cyber Law and Privacy courses, Incident Response and Intervention Techniques, Security Risks Management Principles, and System and Communication Security in the Cybersecurity track.
Southern New Hampshire University — Bachelor of Arts in Information Technologies
Southern New Hampshire University has both Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degree options for their Information Technology program. These two degrees have the same 17-core courses and 14 Information Technology courses. What differentiates them are the elective courses.
The university offers five concentration options, and each student has to select one. These concentration options are Business Management for IT, Cybersecurity, Data Analytics, Project Management for IT, and Software Development. The Cybersecurity track contains courses like Cybersecurity Foundations, Cybersecurity Defense, and Network Security. For the Data Analytics track, classes explore Data Analytics Techniques, Data Validation: Quality and Cleaning, and Data Analytics: Leveraging Data for Organizational Results.
Colorado Christian University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology / Database Management
The Colorado Christian University’s BS program in Information Technology has five concentration options. These options are Cybersecurity, Database Management, Data Engineering, Networking, and System Analyst.
Generally, this BS program has 120 credits, with a core curriculum of 36 credits. The courses are taken one at a time, usually within weeks-long blocks. Online students access the university’s resources and easily reach out to the professors. For those specializing in Database Management, coursework includes Data Warehousing, Project Management, Waterfall and Agile Methodologies, and Software and Database Development Life Cycle.
Grand Canyon University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology / Cybersecurity
Grand Canyon University offers various tracks in its Information Technology BS program, and the Cybersecurity track is one of them. With this selection, students learn cybersecurity and the basic concepts they should know.
The university has this track available for both on-campus and online students. Some of the courses in this program include Cloud Computing, Planning, and Implementation of IT Systems, Information Technology Project Management, Virtual Enterprise, and Data Center Infrastructure, Computer Security, and Cyber Forensics Investigations. Students also learn how to boost efficiency in an organization, use local and Cloud-based programs, and apply technology solutions in a firm.
Southern New Hampshire University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technologies / Project Management
Southern New Hampshire University’s BS program in Information Technologies / Project Management is ideal for students interested in both IT and Project Management. The program is for people who want to create a career as project managers in the IT space. Professionals who already work as project managers but want to improve their qualifications will benefit from this program.
After completing this online Information Technology degree with a Project Management concentration, students should be able to plan, design, develop and implement projects. They will know how to manage organizational workflow while adjusting to schedule changes.
National American University – Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
The National American University online IT degree prepares students for a career in different areas of information technology. Altogether, this program’s primary and support core courses have 64 credits, open electives have 18 credits, and general education courses have 57 credits.
There are three specialization options available — Network and Server, Web Development, and Information and Network Security. Students who choose the Web Development track will learn to use HTML, CSS, and JavaScript to develop a website. The professors cover basic network concepts in the Network and Server track.
George Mason University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET, this Bachelor of Science degree from George Mason University aims to prepare individuals for roles in the IT sector. The program’s curriculum involves writing courses, IT courses, and projects reinforcing communication and collaboration skills.
Depending on the student’s schedule, many complete this program in eight full-time semesters. The program has 120 credits and is designed for students to take an average of 15 credits each semester. Students can transfer some credits from prior learning experiences to the program. Still, graduates need at least 30 credits from George Mason University to graduate with a degree from this school.
Middle Georgia State University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
At the Middle Georgia State University, students can receive an IT education with concentrations in Cybersecurity, Cyber Forensics, Network Technology and Administration, Software Engineering, Integrated Digital Media and Gaming, Web Applications Development, Critical Infrastructure Management, and Design. This program offers more concentrations than most schools.
Accredited by ABET, the program is 100% online. With a total of 120 credits, the program costs under $19,000. Of course, students can transfer credits from former universities and colleges.
South Texas College — Bachelor of Applied Technology in Computer and Information Technologies
South Texas College uses a mixture of theoretical and practical methods to teach this program and prepare students and professionals for careers in ICT. Graduates of this program can pursue careers as software engineers, desktop publishers, computer system analysts, administrators, and information security analysts.
Applicants must have an ACT composite of 19 and above for admission to this program. Students applying with SAT results should have a score of 910 and above. Those with prior coursework from universities or colleges should have a 2.5 GPA and above.
Salem University — Bachelor of Science in Information Technology / Cybersecurity
With this degree program from Salem University, you have the opportunity to study Cybersecurity as a concentration. While enrolled in the program, students develop, test, and implement data security solutions and use the best practices in the field. They will also learn to monitor threats to cyber security and respond to them.
Salem University’s flexible online program enables students to gain skills that they can use to solve real-world problems in the workplace. Many use this degree as a stepping stone for graduate studies.
How to Enroll for a Bachelor’s IT Degree Online
The requirements for admission into IT degree programs vary depending on the institution. Traditionally, the admission prerequisites of IT programs include:
- A high school diploma or GED certificate
- Special Aptitude Test (SAT) score or ACT scores
- Letters of recommendation
A majority of the IT degree online programs do not demand previous IT experience. In some instances, students may complete a bachelor’s degree more quickly if they have:
- An associate’s degree
- Certificate(s) in information technology or computer science
- Job experience
However, this does not always apply to online programs. Other programs expect supplemental materials such as an application essay or resume. Students may also need to complete an interview during the application process.
Find the Best Online IT Degree For You!
There are many advantages of earning a bachelor’s degree in information technology. Chief among them is a highly sought-after and well-paying career.
You can check out more at GetEducated.com. Use our degree finder tool to see more online information technology programs and learn more about the different career paths in information technology and other related occupations.