Of all the degrees available to undergraduates, a bachelor’s degree in information technology (IT) is among the most valuable in today’s economy. Laptops, smartphones and tablets are ubiquitous in modern life, and companies around the globe are pushing for increased technical integration through cloud software, apps and tech innovation. They need skilled workers to plan, implement and manage their databases, jobs requiring the kind of technical abilities that students can develop in a quality IT program.
As with most technical degrees, graduates qualify for a number of positions across industries. IT degree holders often become network managers, application developers, web designers, cloud architects or cybersecurity experts. IT jobs attract students because they offer challenging work, strong growth projections and excellent pay. Additionally, many IT professionals work from home, something that distance learners may find particularly appealing.
Below, you can browse our list of the top 25 online bachelor’s in information technology programs. Alongside our list, we’ve provided detailed profiles for the schools under consideration. You can find specific information about each college’s online platform, tuition, concentrations and more. If you’re interested in pursuing an IT degree, our list can help you compare the top online programs around the country.
Rank | School Name | School Logo | City | Cost | Address & Contact Info | School Links | Acclaim for Online Programs | School Description |
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1 | University of Florida - Online | Gainesville | $$$$$ | 341 Tigert Hall 300 SW 13th St Gainesville, FL 32611 (352) 392-1202 | School Website | Based in Gainesville, the University of Florida is a public institution serving over 50,000 students. The school's distance division -- UF Online -- offers undergraduate degrees and certificates across 20 fields, including telecommunication, business administration, and biology. UF Online's BS in computer science prepares students for careers in computer programming, database administration, information security, and web development. Required core courses explore topics including operating systems, software engineering, and computer organization. Students also take two fundamental programming classes. Through a capstone component, learners complete a significant senior project, produce an in-depth technical report, and present their findings. In addition to general education coursework, the computer science major requires 29 credits of foundational courses, 35 credits of core coursework, and six credits of electives. Foundational classes cover subjects like technical writing, physics, and calculus. UF delivers most online courses asynchronously, and students can progress through the program at their own pace. | ||
2 | Colorado State University Global | Aurora | $$$$$ | 585 Salida Way Aurora, CO 80011 (800) 920-6723 | School Website | Established in 2007, Colorado State University Global Campus is an online public university serving 18,000 students. The university offers bachelor's degrees spanning 12 majors, including management information systems, project management, and information technology. Distance learners can also earn numerous certificates and graduate degrees through CSU-Global. Students pursuing a bachelor's in information technology complete 120 credits, including 31 credits of general education courses. Through 30 credits of core information technology courses, students examine subjects like project management, accounting, and information security. Students also take up to 38 credits of open electives. Learners may customize their program through a 15-credit specialization. CSU-Global offers nearly 30 undergraduate specializations; information technology students might consider concentrations in computer programming, cybersecurity, or virtualization and cloud computing. Networking, programming, security, and project management courses in the curriculum prepare students for certifications offered by various organizations, including CompTIA, Microsoft, and Lean Six Sigma Institute. | ||
3 | University of South Florida | Tampa | $$$$$ | 4202 East Fowler Ave Tampa, FL 33620-9951 (813) 974-2011 | School Profile | Based in Tampa, the University of South Florida is a public research university that enrolls close to 50,000 students through 14 colleges. Undergraduates can pursue more than 180 majors and concentrations, including several that the school offers in an online format. USF delivers its BS in information technology as a degree-completion program, and students can complete all upper-division requirements online. This online IT program includes coursework in cloud computing, system administration, human-computer interfaces, and programming. During their senior year, students take an IT ethics course and produce a senior project. As a capstone experience, students work in teams to complete an IT project. To gain admission into the information technology major, students must complete courses in discrete mathematics, databases for information technology, programming fundamentals for IT, and object-oriented programming. They need to earn a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA across these four prerequisite classes. | ||
4 | Golden Gate University - San Francisco | San Francisco | $$$$$ | 536 Mission Street San Francisco, CA 94105-2968 (415) 442-7800 | School Profile | Founded in 1901, Golden Gate University is a private school focused on adult education. The university serves students through a main campus in San Francisco, learning sites in Seattle and Silicon Valley, and over 60 online programs. Undergraduates can choose from options in business, data analytics, and management, among other fields. Learners enrolled in the school's online BS in business program can pursue 11 concentrations, including a specialization in information technology. The information technology concentration comprises 18 units of required courses and 15 elective units. Required IT classes cover topics including social media in business, data administration, and relational databases. In addition to 33 information technology units, students take 30 units of business courses that explore areas such as marketing, operations management, international business, and human resource management. Students can complete the entire 123-unit program online through videos, discussion forums, and other activities and projects. | ||
5 | Brandman University | Irvine | $$$$$ | 16355 Laguna Canyon Road Irvine, CA 92618 (949) 341-9800 | School Profile | Based in Irvine, California, Brandman University is a private institution educating students through online programs and over 25 campus locations. The university boasts more than 80 academic programs, including dozens of online options at the undergraduate, graduate, and certificate levels. Students can earn an online BS in computing technology with an emphasis in information technology entirely online or through a hybrid structure. Brandman delivers online courses through Blackboard, which students use to communicate with instructors and classmates, take exams, and download course materials. Through core computing technology courses, students explore topics like statistics, computing systems organization, and IT security. Core courses also discuss business-related topics, such as team-building, macroeconomics, leadership, and management. Like many online information technology degree programs, the IT emphasis includes coursework related networks, database management, and data communications. Applicants need a minimum 2.0 GPA and least 12 transferable college credits for admission. | ||
6 | Florida International University | Miami | $$$$$ | 11200 S. W. 8 Street Miami, FL 33199 (305) 348-2000 | School Website | Florida International University, located in Miami, is a public university serving nearly 54,000 students. Through 11 schools and colleges, FIU offers over 200 programs at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral levels. Distance students can pursue more than 40 undergraduate majors along with many graduate and certificate programs. FIU's school of computing and information sciences offers a fully online BS in information technology. Students use Canvas to access course content, post on discussion boards, and interact with professors. Students must meet regular deadlines for assignments and exams. FIU recommends that distance learners dedicate 8-12 hours to each three-credit course per week. Participants must earn 120 credits, and students can join the program on one of three start dates each year. In addition to core courses, learners choose electives in two concentrations, such as application development, system administration, and database administration. | ||
7 | Regis University | Denver | $$$$$ | 3333 Regis Blvd Denver, CO 80221-1099 (800) 388-23662111 | School Profile | Regis University is a Jesuit institution based in Denver, Colorado, that offers over 130 degrees. Students can pursue 80 online degrees, including BS programs in computer information systems, computer science, cybersecurity, health information management, and information technology. Students can earn a BS in information technology entirely online through accelerated, asynchronous classes. Courses begin six times per year and last eight weeks. Learners who live near campus can also take advantage of accelerated, on-campus courses. This IT program comprises 120 credits, including 45 credits of general education coursework. Foundational IT courses cover cybersecurity, statistics, enterprise systems, and other key areas. Through upper-division courses, students explore more advanced topics such as risk management, cyber forensics, and human-computer interactions. Applicants need a high school diploma, prior college credit, and professional experience. | ||
8 | Western Governors University | Salt Lake City | $$$$$ | 4001 East 700 South, Suite 700 Salt Lake City, UT 84107 (801) 274-3280 | School Profile | Western Governors University is an online university operated out of Salt Lake City, Utah. Students pursue many program options, including bachelor's and master's degrees in business, education, information technology, and health. Learners interested in information technology can pursue several specialized options, including bachelor's degrees in IT management, computer science, and data management. Students can also pursue a more general BS in information technology that explores five key areas: systems and services, networking and security, scripting and programming, data management, and the business of IT. Graduate prepare for many certifications offered by CompTIA and other organizations. The program includes 36 courses that students complete asynchronously. The competency-based curriculum lets learners progress to the next course as soon as they demonstrate mastery of the material. | ||
9 | George Mason University | Fairfax | $$$$$ | 4400 University Dr Fairfax, VA 22030 (703) 993-1000 | School Website | Based in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Regent University is a Christian institution that was established in 1978. The school serves around 11,000 students through associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in over 135 fields. Learners can choose from dozens of web-based options, including several bachelor's programs in information technology. Students looking to build management and technical skills can consider Regent's BA in leadership studies in information technology. This program covers many technical areas, including programming and web development, as well as business topics like strategic decision-making. Alternatively, online students can pursue a BS in management information systems, BS in information systems technology, or BAS in information systems technology. Each bachelor's-level IT program requires at least 120 credits. In addition to technical coursework, students must complete classes related to the Old Testament, the New Testament, and Christian history and thought. Students can complete programming entirely online through eight-week courses. | ||
10 | University of Minnesota - Twin Cities | Minneapolis | $$$$$ | 100 Church Street SE Minneapolis, MN 55455 (612) 625-5000 | School Website | The University of Minnesota is a public institution that serves students through online programs and five campuses across the state. Undergraduates can pursue 16 online bachelor's programs and many minor and certificate options. UMN's online BS in information technology management develops students' business and management acumen alongside their technology skills. Learners complete 120 credits in total, including 54-55 credits in the IT management major. Some technical courses in the curriculum discuss microcomputer systems architecture, project management, messaging systems, and microcomputer operating systems. During their senior year, students complete a major IT design and development project under faculty supervision. Students can earn their information tech degree online through asynchronous courses. As they work through the curriculum, distance learners can take advantage of a technical help desk, digital library resources, and online tutorials and workshops. UMN charges all online learners the same tuition rate, regardless of where they live. | ||
11 | University of Illinois at Springfield | Springfield | $$$$$ | One University Plaza Springfield, IL 62703-5407 (217) 206-6600 | School Profile | The University of Illinois Springfield is a public university that offers 31 bachelor's degrees, including 14 online programs. Students looking to earn an online information technology degree program can consider two options at UIS: a bachelor's in management information systems and a bachelor's in information systems security. Both degrees require 120 credits, although the coursework and specific topics vary. The information systems security degree track teaches students about network security, computer ethics, and information assurance. Alternatively, the management information systems curriculum covers enterprise architecture, systems design, computer programming, and data management. Management information systems students also explore information systems project management and strategy. Applicants to the management information systems track, which UIS offers as a degree completion program, must hold at least 30 transferable credits. Applicants to either program need a minimum 2.0 GPA and experience with programming, calculus, and statistics. | ||
12 | Brigham Young University - Idaho | Rexburg | $$$$$ | 525 S Center Rexburg, ID 83460-1690 (208) 496-1411 | School Profile | Founded in 1888, Brigham Young University-Idaho is a private school affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The university enrolls more than 34,000 students, including over 15,000 online learners. Distance students can choose from seven associate degrees and 11 bachelor's degrees. Learners can earn an online BS in computer information technology by completing 40 credits of foundation courses, 51 credits of major courses, and 29 credits of free electives. Participants take classes during 14-week terms and seven-week summer sessions. Through core classes, learners study topics like operating systems, frontend web development, and database design. The curriculum also requires a two-credit communications class. To enter this computer information technology program, applicants must have earned at least 15 credits through BYU, BYU-Idaho, BYU-Hawaii, or LDS Business College. Alternatively, they can complete PathwayConnect -- a one-year online program that covers both religious and academic topics. | ||
13 | Athens State University | Athens | $$$$$ | 300 N Beaty St Athens, AL 35611 (256) 233-8100 | School Profile | Athens State University is a public institution based in Alabama. The school boasts three colleges, which offer more than 50 degrees and over 40 minors. Online students can choose from many programs, including bachelor's degrees in accounting, business, and information assurance. Distance learners can pursue a BS in management of technology program that covers business and technology. The program prepares students for managerial roles in IT and includes traditional business coursework across areas such as accounting, finance, management, global business, and marketing. Students also learn about information systems and technical risk management. As part of the 124-credit curriculum, management of technology students can choose from several minors, including aviation management, information systems management, and human resource management. Athens State offers undergraduate programs in a 2+2 format, and students must earn their lower-level credits at another institution. Applicants typically need at least 41 college-level credits and a minimum 2.0 GPA. | ||
14 | Concordia University - Saint Paul | Saint Paul | $$$$$ | 1282 Concordia Ave Saint Paul, MN 55104-5494 (651) 641-8278 | School Profile | Concordia University Saint Paul is a Lutheran institution that offers more than 40 online programs, including 16 web-based bachelor's degrees. Students can earn CSP's BA in information and technology management on campus, online, or in a hybrid format. Students work through the IT curriculum as part of a cohort and learn through seven-week, asynchronous courses. The program boasts an accelerated format that allows students to complete the major in as little as 18 months. CSP's bachelor's in information and technology management comprises 120 credits, including 40 credits of major coursework. Through core courses, students explore the fundamentals of business and information systems. Learners take business classes in global marketing, applied accounting, and ethical management, as well as coursework in analytics, IT project management, and data management. First-time college students must submit ACT or SAT scores, and all applicants need a 2.0 GPA or higher. | ||
15 | Excelsior College | Albany | $$$$$ | 7 Columbia Cir Albany, NY 12203-5159 (518) 464-8500 | School Profile | Founded in 1971, Excelsior College is a distance learning institution focused on educating adult learners. Students at Excelsior can pursue over 30 degrees across fields like business, health sciences, liberal arts, public service, and technology. Excelsior's BS in information technology, which holds accreditation from the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, requires students to complete 120 credits. Learners earn 33 major-related credits through 11 core classes that cover topics like computer systems architecture, computer security, and web design. During a required capstone class, students reflect on what they learned throughout the program and then complete an online final exam. Students can pursue a general track or a 15-credit focus in network operations or cybersecurity technology. Additionally, learners earn 12 credits through free electives. Excelsior boasts a generous transfer policy; students may apply up to 117 previously earned credits toward their bachelor's degree. | ||
16 | Central Methodist University | Fayette | $$$$$ | 411 Central Methodist Square Fayette, MO 65248-1198 (660) 248-3391 | School Profile | Founded in 1854, Central Methodist University is a private institution based in Fayette, Missouri. The university enrolls over 4,000 students through its college of graduate and extended studies, which delivers classes online and at remote learning sites. Undergraduates can pursue an online BA or BS in computer science. These online technology degree programs feature coursework in information security, networking, and database systems. Additionally, students can elect to take courses on topics like web page design, mobile application development, game programming, and Java. The BA and BS degrees differ in terms of general education requirements. For example, BA students must take foreign language courses, while BS learners complete analytical skills classes instead. First-year applicants to CMU's college of graduate and extended studies must submit ACT or SAT scores. Transfer students need a minimum 2.0 GPA and at least 60 applicable college credits. | ||
17 | Florida Institute of Technology | Melbourne | $$$$$ | 150 West University Blvd Melbourne, FL 32901 (321) 674-8000 | School Profile | Founded in 1958, the Florida Institute of Technology is a private institution based in the city of Melbourne. The university, which was established as an engineering college, emphasizes STEM fields and boasts dozens of programs in areas like computer engineering, cybersecurity, and software engineering. Students seeking an information technology degree online can pursue Florida Tech's BA in business with a specialization in computer information systems. Through core courses, students examine key business topics like economics, business research, organizational behavior, and strategic management. Computer information systems classes cover subjects such as electronic commerce, network theory, C++ programming, and Visual Basic. This BA in business comprises 41 eight-week courses, and students can complete the 121-credit curriculum in four years. Distance learners can also consider Florida Tech's online BS in computer information systems, which includes additional coursework related to information technology. Students with prior college-level experience may transfer in classes in which they earned a "C-" or better. | ||
18 | University of Mary | Bismarck | $$$$$ | 7500 University Dr Bismarck, ND 58504 (701) 255-7500 | School Profile | The University of Mary is a Catholic institution based in Bismarck, North Dakota. The school serves 3,800 students through several U.S. locations, international campuses, and online programs. Students can choose from over 60 undergraduate programs, including several fully online options. Students can earn Mary's bachelor's in information technology management online or through on-campus evening classes. Mary offers BA and BS degrees in information technology through accelerated classes, most of which begin every five weeks. The major curriculum includes business and IT classes and covers areas such as HR management, operations management, webpage development, and current issues in IT. First-year applicants must submit ACT or SAT scores along with high school transcripts or a copy of their GED certificate. Applicants need a minimum 2.5 GPA or an average GED score of 450. Additionally, applicants need an ACT composite score of at least 19 or a minimum 980 on the SAT. | ||
19 | Liberty University | Lynchburg | $$$$$ | 1971 University Blvd Lynchburg, VA 24515 (800) 434-9595 | School Profile | Liberty University is a conservative Christian school based in Lynchburg, Virginia. Among the largest private schools in the country, Liberty enrolls over 100,000 students and offers more than 600 academic programs. Students can earn a BS in information technology entirely online through eight-week courses. Learners study through asynchronous classes and typically graduate in 3.5 years. Faculty members use Blackboard to deliver online course materials. Liberty offers four specializations within its 120-credit information technology program. Students can concentrate in application and database development to learn about Oracle, C# programming, and web enterprise technologies. Alternatively, learners who pursue a gaming design track take courses on 3D graphics, digital imaging, and graphic design. Students can also focus on data networking and security or web and mobile programming. Applicants need a 2.0 GPA or higher for full admission. Individuals must submit an application and proof of English proficiency. | ||
20 | LeTourneau University | Longview | $$$$$ | 2100 S Mobberly Ave Longview, TX 75607-7001 (903) 233-3000 | School Profile | LeTourneau University -- based in Longview, Texas -- is a private school that offers over 140 academic programs. This interdenominational Christian institution boasts several fully online programs, including bachelor's degrees in cybersecurity and computer information systems. The school's BS in computer information systems consists of 129 credits. Learners earn 32 credits through general education classes that discuss English composition, algebra, and adult learning strategies, among other subjects. In addition to general education classes, students must take 12 credits of theology classes. The 51-credit information systems major includes required computer science and business courses along with business electives. Through core computer science courses, students explore areas including cryptography, software engineering, and web development. Business classes discuss topics like accounting, financial analysis, and project management. Students can earn their degree entirely online through asynchronous courses, which LETU delivers in an accelerated, five-week format. In most courses, students begin coursework each Monday and submit assignments by Sunday. | ||
21 | Thomas Edison State University | Trenton | $$$$$ | 111 W State St Trenton, NJ 08608 (888) 442-8372 | School Website | Thomas Edison State University is a public institution based in Trenton, New Jersey. Established in 1972, the university offers degrees and certificates in over 100 areas of study, including computer science, data analytics, and engineering. Online students can choose from more than 80 programs. The school's online BS in information technology consists of 120 credits from general education courses, major classes, and electives. Through 45 credits of core IT classes, students learn about topics like data structures, project management, C++ programming, and management information systems. TESU offers online classes in a variety of formats, allowing students to interact frequently with classmates or learn completely independently. Courses generally last 12 weeks, and standard online classes include discussion forums, exams, and assignments. TESU awards credit based on industry certifications, military training, professional training, and portfolio assessments. Transfer students from regionally accredited institutions can apply up to 80 previously earned credits toward a degree. | ||
22 | Oregon State University | Corvallis | $$$$$ | 1500 S.W. Jefferson Corvallis, OR 97331 (541) 737-0123 | School Profile | Oregon State University is a public institution that serves more than 32,000 students through 11 colleges and over 200 academic programs. Oregon State's more than 24,000 distance students can access over 1,300 online classes. Oregon State boasts a 60-credit postbaccalaureate computer science program for students who already earned a bachelor's degree in another field. The program, which mainly targets individuals looking to switch careers, only includes computer science classes. The curriculum covers topics like programming, software engineering, networking, and mobile application development. Applicants need a minimum 2.75 undergraduate GPA. They must also complete college-level algebra, precalculus, or calculus courses prior to entering the program. Admitted students can begin the program on one of four start dates each year and earn their degree entirely online. | ||
23 | East Carolina University | Greenville | $$$$$ | East 5th Street Greenville, NC 27858-4353 (252) 328-6131 | School Profile | Based in Greenville, North Carolina, East Carolina University is a public institution serving close to 28,000 undergraduate and graduate learners. Among the largest universities in the state, ECU offers 84 bachelor's programs, 71 master's degrees, 18 doctoral options, and numerous certificates. Distance learners at ECU can pursue 120 online degrees and certificates, including a BS in industrial technology (BSIT) with a concentration in information and computer technology. The program is accredited by the Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering. Students take industrial technology courses in technical writing, technology project management, capital project analysis, and statistical process control. They also choose IT classes that may discuss cloud infrastructure, information assurance, intrusion detection, and enterprise data storage technologies. ECU offers its BSIT as a degree-completion program, and applicants need to hold an approved associate degree to gain admission. Students also need a minimum 2.5 GPA in postsecondary coursework. | ||
24 | University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati | $$$$$ | 2624 Clifton Avenue Cincinnati, OH 45221-0063 (513) 556-6000 | School Profile | The University of Cincinnati is a public research institution serving nearly 46,000 students. The school boasts online bachelor's, master's, and certificate programs across many fields, including business, engineering, and information technology. Learners pursuing UC's online BS in information technology can choose from four concentrations. Students can pursue a game development and simulation concentration, which explores game programming and prepares graduates for careers in entertainment. A cybersecurity specialization teaches students to investigate cybercrimes, mitigate risk, and create effective security policies. Learners can also focus on software application development or networking/systems. Most concentrations let students complete their entire degree online, although the game development specialization requires some on-campus classes. Regardless of their concentration, students learn about the foundations of software development, systems administration, database management, digital media, and cybersecurity. During their final year of the program, students spend two semesters solving a practical IT problem. | ||
25 | Saint Leo University | Saint Leo | $$$$$ | 33701 State Road 52 Saint Leo, FL 33574-6665 (352) 588-8200 | School Profile | Saint Leo University is a private, Florida-based institution serving close to 15,000 students at over 35 locations and online. This Catholic university boasts 77 web-based programs, including 24 bachelor's tracks. Saint Leo's online BS in computer information systems prepares graduates for careers in fields like IT security, web development, programming, and network administration. The university developed its information technology curriculum according to recommendations from the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers and the Association for Computing Machinery. To earn this BS, students complete 120 credits, including 30 credits within the computer information systems major. Through required courses, students learn to program using Java and C++. They also build skills in areas like web design, network design, and systems analysis. Students who earned an AA degree from a regionally accredited institution may transfer in up to 64 credits. Learners can also earn credit based on professional and military training. |
In an increasingly connected world, every industry needs skilled workers to modernize and manage their technical operations. Businesses need IT professionals to connect networks and develop new software and applications. Even less technically inclined industries rely on IT staff to manage and administer their everyday technical operations.
When considering an IT degree, it’s important to identify your strengths and to consider which IT focus best matches your abilities. Creative types might enjoy app and game development, while those who like math may thrive in network and systems administration. Remember, an IT program is designed to help you build a knowledge base that you can channel into a rewarding career: as you pursue programs and schools, make sure the classes and concentrations offered match your professional ambitions.
In school, you’ll need to master a few different skills. First, your degree will require you to learn and absorb more technical information than you’ve ever encountered: you’ll need to learn coding languages, technical terms and other granular bits of information quickly to stay afloat in your classes. You’ll be much more efficient if you can memorize technical terms quickly.
Second, the level of detail required in an IT program exceeds what you’ll find in most disciplines. Whether you’re coding or brushing up on your analytical skills, your work will require precision with complex and minute details. You will have to focus intently on your work at all times to succeed in your classes, and troubleshooting problems with your work can take hours. If you tend to gloss over details, this might not be the field for you.
Students should begin looking for jobs before they graduate. There are more positions for IT professionals than qualified workers can fill, giving you an advantage in the job market. Salaries in the field start at around $45,000, and seasoned IT employees can earn upwards of $100,000 in various industries. Technological advancements are not bounded by borders or industries, ensuring that professionals who stay up-to-date with current technology will always be employable.
Ultimately, an online bachelor’s in information technology prepares graduates for a challenging career in a wide and growing field. There has never been a better time to earn an IT degree, and online learning’s flexibility ensures distance learners can find the right program to suit their interests and professional goals.
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Associate
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Bachelor’s
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Master’s