The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects 13% job growth for 2020-30 and average salaries of $91,250 for computer and information technology occupations. That category includes database administrators and architecture, information security analysis, and network and computer systems administration. Explore our school rankings to learn more about online information technology master’s programs and opportunities in this dynamic sector.
Top 5 online schools for master’s in information technology
The best online master’s in information technology degrees
ZDNet’s ranking methodology employs expert curation and rigorous editorial review to ensure accuracy and timeliness. Schools and programs can’t pay for inclusion on our lists, which safeguards the integrity and impartiality of our data. Tallahassee, FL Application fee: $30 Tampa, FL Application fee: $30 West Lafayette, IN Application fee: $80 Stillwater, OK Application fee: $50 Pittsburgh, PA Application fee: $75 Unless otherwise indicated, data is drawn from the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System, College Scorecard, and each program’s website.
What to expect in an online information technology master’s degree program
Information technology master’s programs’ online curriculums target IT professionals with several years of experience who plan to work full-time while studying. Coursework delivery tends to be asynchronous and focused on practical skills, IT certification, and business aspects of IT.
Acceptance rate: 36%Graduation rate: 80%Annual net price: $9,789Years to degree: Two to three; part-time study availableGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 3.0Enrollment periods per year: Fall, spring, and summer termsCourse delivery methods: Online; asynchronous and synchronous
Acceptance rate: 48%Graduation rate: 72%Annual net price: $8,355Years to degree: Two to three; accelerated study availableGRE/GMAT: GRE quantitative 161; verbal 150Minimum GPA: 3.0Enrollment periods per year: Fall and spring semestersCourse delivery methods: Hybrid online and in-person learning
Acceptance rate: 60%Graduation rate: 73%Annual net price: $13,986Years to degree: Two to three; accelerated study availableGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 70%Graduation rate: 62%Annual net price: $14,648Years to degree: One to twoGRE/GMAT: GMAT 550 or GRE 305Minimum GPA: 3.0Enrollment periods per year: Fall semesterCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 15%Graduation rate: 90%Annual net price: $34,508Years to degree: Three to five; program is part-timeGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: Fall, spring, and summer semestersCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 85%Graduation rate: 63%Annual net price: $15,016Years to degree: One to two: accelerated study availableGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 3.0Enrollment periods per year: Rolling with six start datesCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 76%Graduation rate: 73%Annual net price: $18,233Years to degree: One to two yearsGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 3.0Enrollment periods per year: Fall, spring, and summer semestersCourse delivery methods: Online
Acceptance rate: 82%Graduation rate: 54%Annual net price: $11,390Years to degree: 1-1.5; program is acceleratedGRE/GMAT: GMAT 490 or GRE 288Minimum GPA: 2.75Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 49%Annual net price: $9,805Years to degree: Two; accelerated study availableGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 73%Graduation rate: 77%Annual net price: $19,706Years to degree: One to twoGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: Fall and spring termsCourse delivery methods: Online; asynchronous and synchronous
Acceptance rate: 87%Graduation rate: 74%Annual net price: $21,048Years to degree: One to two; accelerated option available for qualified Mason engineering alumniGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 3.0Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 46%Annual net price: $24,396-$26,400Years to degree: Two; program is part-timeGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 3.0 Enrollment periods per year: January, April, July, and October termsCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 94%Graduation rate: 24%Annual net price: $10,116Years to degree: 1; program is acceleratedGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 2.5-2.75 Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 76%Graduation rate: 69%Annual net price: $18,034Years to degree: Two; accelerated study availableGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: Fall, winter, spring, and summer sessionsCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 73%Graduation rate: 57%Annual net price: $19,119Years to degree: One to twoGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not required Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 75%Graduation rate: 48%Annual net price: $17,221Years to degree: One to twoGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 2.75Enrollment periods per year: Fall, spring, and summer termsCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: 90%Graduation rate: 59%Annual net price: $17,558Years to degree: One to twoGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 3.0Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery methods: Online; asynchronous and synchronous
Acceptance rate: 69%Graduation rate: 76%Annual net price: $35,642Years to degree: TwoGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: Not requiredEnrollment periods per year: Rolling with eight start datesCourse delivery methods: Hybrid and online
Acceptance rate: 64%Graduation rate: 54%Annual net price: $23,855Years to degree: Two; program is accelerated GRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 3.0Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery methods: Online and asynchronous
Acceptance rate: Not publicly availableGraduation rate: 67%Annual net price: Not publicly availableYears to degree: One to fiveGRE/GMAT: Not requiredMinimum GPA: 2.0-2.749(provisional admittance) or 2.75Enrollment periods per year: RollingCourse delivery methods: Online or hybrid
Learners hone skills in information technology leadership and management. They may specialize in cyber security, database architecture, network administration, or software development. Some programs culminate in a thesis and others in a capstone project. Information technology master’s programs require online students to be organized and internally motivated. Some schools offer accelerated learning for those who can handle the fast pace or part-time study for those with extensive work or family responsibilities.
Information technology master’s courses
The information technology master’s curriculum emphasizes advanced level skill development, leadership role preparation, and IT specialization areas like database management, health informatics, and systems administration. Most programs require 30-36 credits, and online students typically complete coursework on their own schedules. The list below includes courses that IT master’s students will likely encounter. Depending on the program, remote learners may develop their own projects or participate in experiential learning like online practicums or internships. Advanced information technology In this introductory graduate course, enrollees learn about databases, hardware management, telecommunications, and web software development. Data analytics This course covers data identification, data set analysis, and data analysis software. Participants often learn to use programming languages to solve data analytics problems. Database design Students preparing for careers in database management or architecture learn about data modeling, diagramming tools, and functional dependencies. This course may also cover database management and leadership roles. Network security Graduate students explore cyber security methods, encryption, and file security. They learn to protect networks and computer systems from threats using firewalls and other information assurance tools.
Information technology degree levels
Are you a high school student interested in an entry-level IT position, a seasoned professional looking for a next-level management role, or an industry veteran transitioning to an academic or research career? Different degrees suit different learners. Choose the IT degree level that best fits your goals, schedule, and budget.
Information technology certificate
Length: 12-18 months Cost: $160-$648 per credit Post-grad careers: Computer support specialist; computer systems analyst; network administrator IT certificates offer targeted opportunities for students at all levels, including those entering the industry, IT professionals expanding their skills, and career or specialization swappers. A certificate can quickly qualify new entrants to the field for entry-level jobs. Coursework covers topics in computer programming and analysis, cyber security, databases, network support, and business software. Tracks may include hardware and software support, routing and switching, and software development.
Associate in information technology
Length: Two years Cost: $70-$540 per credit Post-grad careers: Data center operations support; desktop support technician; web developer Associate in IT degree programs comprise approximately 60 credits that teach cyber security and defense, internet applications, networking, operating systems, and programming skills. Curriculums also include general education courses that foster critical thinking and problem-solving. Online class delivery tends to be asynchronous, and graduates emerge prepared for entry-level IT positions or to apply their credits toward IT bachelor’s degrees. Many schools offer accelerated or part-time learning options.
Bachelor’s in information technology
Length: Four years Cost: $186-$913 per credit Post-grad careers: Computer network architect, information systems manager, software developer Undergraduates interested in an information technology degree often pursue a bachelor of science in information technology. The 120- to 125-credit programs include IT courses and general education classes, capstone projects, and often internships. Core IT courses cover applied, managerial, and technical aspects, along with fundamentals of cybersecurity, human-computer interaction, programming, and web systems. Students graduate with the computer, math, and business skills required of the IT workforce.
Master’s in information technology
Length: One to two years Cost: $255-$2,196 per credit Post-grad careers: Database administrator; IT project manager; network security manager Information technology master’s programs emphasize specialization, with an eye toward IT careers in areas like data analytics, digital forensics, and healthcare informatics. Most require 30-36 credits and may culminate in a thesis, exam, or capstone project. Master’s students hone decision-making and management skills. Online programs typically tailor their curriculums for experienced IT professionals interested in career advancement and leadership roles. Course delivery is usually asynchronous, allowing for full-time work, internships, or parenting responsibilities.
Doctorate in information technology
Length: Three to five years Cost: $500-$1,000 per credit Post-grad careers: Data scientist; IT researcher; postsecondary professor Students often pursue a doctorate or Ph.D. to attain academic and research positions. This terminal degree program attracts industry professionals with on-the-ground experience. The curriculum involves coursework but also focuses on preparing and defending a dissertation, passing comprehensive examinations, and building on experience in a specialization. Graduates find employment at universities, government agencies, business organizations, and government agencies.
In conclusion
If you’re ready to research and select an information technology master’s program, our rankings list will help find the one that fits your academic and career goals. If one catches your eye, reach out to the school to learn more. If you’re not sure which path to take, the information and links included on this page can inform your decisions about degree options, concentration areas, and information technology scholarships.
