Online Master’s in Information Technology

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Source – Integrated Post Secondary Education Data System & University Data
*Tuition rates are for in-state and per year. Program specific rates may apply.
**NA – data not available

Online Master’s in Information Technology Programs provide a flexible and accessible avenue for professionals to deepen their expertise. These programs encompass a diverse curriculum covering advanced IT concepts, management strategies, and emerging technologies. With a focus on practical applications, graduates are equipped to tackle complex IT challenges and excel in leadership roles within the ever-evolving technology landscape. Before enrolling in a degree, it is crucial to have a comprehensive understanding of online Information Technology master’s programs. This section provides a breakdown of these programs, offering valuable insights for prospective students.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in Information Technology Programs

A Master’s in Information Technology degree expands one understanding of the information technology industry’s concepts and techniques. The program teaches the latest technologies and ways to resolve problems in various areas. Skills gained include project management, problem-solving, analytical, troubleshooting, research and writing, ethics, and computational skills, leading toward a better career path. While every program develops special skills in students, the curriculum is a prime factor in choosing a specialization or gaining required skills. Generally, a master’s in information technology curriculum is similar across universities, providing in-depth knowledge and training for managerial positions in an organization’s IT department. The curriculum consists of the following subjects:

Computer Programming and Software Development: This course focuses on building expertise in programming languages and software development. Students learn to design, code, and deploy applications, gaining essential skills for creating innovative software solutions. The curriculum covers programming fundamentals, algorithms, and industry-relevant software development practices.

Data Science: This course equips students with advanced skills in extracting meaningful insights from large datasets. Covering statistical analysis, machine learning, and data visualization, the program prepares students for data analytics, predictive modeling, and decision-making roles, addressing the growing demand for data-driven professionals in various industries.

Software Design: This course provides a comprehensive understanding of designing efficient and scalable software solutions. Covering principles of software architecture, coding practices, and system integration, the program prepares students for roles in software development, emphasizing creativity, problem-solving, and collaboration in the dynamic field of IT.

Internet Technologies: This course explores the dynamic world of web-based technologies and networking protocols. Students gain expertise in designing, implementing, and managing internet solutions. Covering topics such as web development, cybersecurity, and cloud computing, the program equips individuals for diverse roles in the ever-evolving IT landscape.

Project Management: This course focuses on essential skills for overseeing technology projects. Students learn to plan, execute, and control projects effectively, emphasizing resource management, risk assessment, and timely delivery. This program prepares individuals to lead IT initiatives, ensuring successful project outcomes in a rapidly evolving technological environment.

A student gains several abilities from this information technology degree, including the ability to:

• Acquire coding skills in various languages, enhancing one’s ability to develop and troubleshoot software applications for diverse needs.
• Master database systems, including design, implementation, and optimization, are crucial for efficient data storage and retrieval.
• Gain expertise in configuring and managing network infrastructures, ensuring seamless connectivity and communication in organizational settings.
• Develop skills to protect digital assets, detect and prevent cyber threats, and implement robust security measures to safeguard information systems.
• Learn to leverage cloud technologies for scalable and flexible computing solutions, optimizing resource utilization and enhancing accessibility.
• Acquire the ability to analyze large datasets, extract meaningful insights, and present findings through effective visualizations, supporting informed decision-making.
• Learn to design and implement scalable and efficient system architectures, considering performance, reliability, and scalability factors.
• Develop project management competencies to efficiently plan, execute, and monitor IT projects, ensuring successful outcomes within defined constraints.
• Hone communication skills for effective collaboration with diverse stakeholders, fostering teamwork and facilitating clear information exchange in professional settings.
• Understand IT practices’ ethical and legal implications, ensuring compliance and responsible use of technology in various organizational contexts.

Online Master’s in Information Technology Degree Types

Each individual can set their timeline to pursue an online master’s in information technology. Usually, the program can be completed in a two-year timeline. If opting for a fast track, universities offer shorter duration programs. Master’s in Information Technology for Non-Information Technology Graduates provides essential IT knowledge and skills for those with diverse academic backgrounds. Tailored programs bridge the gap, offering a comprehensive education to excel in IT roles and meet the evolving demands of the digital era.

There is no massive difference between Management Information Systems (MIT) and Master’s in Science in Information Technology (MSIT), as both prepare students to enter the workforce with communication, analytical skills, and other requirements. The part where MIT vs. MSIT happens is apparent in their curriculum and career paths. While one focuses on computer-driven, the other goes for management-related study and job opportunities.

Areas of Specialization for Information Technology Programs

Each Master’s program is associated with specific specializations, allowing students to choose an elective that aligns with their interests. Combining the master’s degree and specialization helps develop a strong skill set that can enhance job prospects. Here are some common specializations chosen by students pursuing advanced degrees:

Timeline for graduation from Information Technology Master’s Programs

Each individual can set their timeline to pursue an online master’s in information technology. Usually, the program can be completed in a two-year timeline. If opting for a fast track, universities offer shorter duration programs. Content quality is not a concern; regardless of the timeline, the entire subject will be thoroughly taught.

Accelerated Information Technology Programs

An accelerated Master’s in Information Technology offers a faster path to advanced knowledge and skills in the rapidly evolving IT landscape. This program allows students to complete their degree more quickly, often in less time than traditional programs. The benefits include reduced time to degree completion, cost savings, and accelerated entry into the workforce, making it an advantageous option for those seeking a swift and efficient route to IT expertise. Here are examples of colleges that offer accelerated master’s in information technology online programs:

• Carnegie Mellon University ¹
• University of South Florida²

Admission or application requirements for a Master’s in Information Technology are common among all universities and institutes. Prospective students must complete these requirements and submit the necessary documents to initiate enrollment. If applicants hold a bachelor’s or master’s degree in information technology, computer science, applied computing, or any closely related field from a regionally accredited college or university, they can apply for the Master’s in Information Technology. Apart from that, the general admission requirements for a master’s in information technology are:

• Admission application and application fee
• Official transcripts
• An undergraduate degree related to information technology
• Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose
• Graduate Résumé
• Proof of English language proficiency

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is a standardized test assessing verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills for graduate school admissions. An increasing number of colleges are opting to eliminate the GRE requirement. In response to the pandemic, certain institutions have made the GRE optional for the current and subsequent years. Some institutions that provide online information technology master’s no gre include:

The University of South Florida ³ – The GRE requirement is exempted for applicants pursuing an MS degree if they hold an undergraduate degree from a United States program accredited by ABET or possess at least three years of relevant and recent full-time professional experience in the U.S.

Carnegie Mellon University- Heinz College⁴  – The GRE is optional for the 2024 admission cycle (TBA for 2025).

As a future information technology graduate, one should choose to join an accredited college or university. Accreditation is a process where an institution is recognized for offering best practices in the study area. Two types of accreditation are granted to the universities or institutions – regionally and nationally. Accreditation plays a major role in student’s academics as they would be qualified for federal financial aid and are eligible for professional certifications. Every program is accredited by a specific accreditation agency/body. For online master’s in information technology, the following agency accredits the program:

Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology, Inc (ABET) ⁵: ABET is an agency that exclusively accredits engineering and information technology programs. The agency ensures that the institute adheres to the rules and curriculum suggested by the agency. It also provides that the institute’s quality of education is on par with the said standards.

Some colleges also gain regional accreditation by one of the following bodies:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) ⁶
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE) ⁷
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC) ⁸
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)⁹
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) ¹⁰
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)¹¹

There are many advantages to pursuing an online master’s in information technology that is accredited. Read about them in the Accreditation Guide.

In the dynamic realm of Information Technology (IT), staying updated with the latest skills and knowledge is essential. Free online courses on IT provide a valuable avenue for students to enhance their understanding of cutting-edge technologies, programming languages, and cybersecurity. Though often lacking formal accreditation, these courses offer a flexible and accessible way for learners to delve into the ever-evolving landscape of IT. By exploring these resources, students can gain practical insights and hands-on experience and bolster their proficiency in key IT domains without the financial commitment of traditional education. Explore some of these courses:

Career outcomes of a Master’s in Information Technology are numerous. A graduate with a Master’s degree in IT can search for a job in senior and leadership positions. Graduates can compete for roles focusing on varied fields like network architecture, modeling information systems, etc. Usually, graduates would go for roles in data analysis, security, and network management with decent pay scales and growth rates. Here are job titles, descriptions, and annual median salary to understand the current requirements and the IT graduate’s roles:

IT certifications are vital for students pursuing online master’s programs in Information Technology. These certifications validate specialized skills, enhancing marketability in a competitive industry. Each certification signifies expertise, boosting career prospects and demonstrating proficiency in specific IT domains. Some certifications that graduates of online master’s in information technology can pursue include:

• CompTIA Security+ ²⁴: CompTIA certifications align with career paths in IT infrastructure and cybersecurity, with each certification signifying a progression in expertise. Foundational certifications, such as CompTIA A+, set the foundation for specialized pathway certifications. Additional professional certifications encompass essential IT skills, including project management.
• Project Management Professional (PMP) ²⁵: The PMP credential recognizes individuals adept at overseeing people, processes, and business priorities in professional projects. PMI, a global authority on project management, established the PMP to acknowledge project managers demonstrating leadership experience and expertise across various work methodologies.
• Google Cloud Certification ²⁶: Google Cloud certifications validate expertise in cloud concepts, products, and services. The Foundational certification demonstrates a broad understanding, the Associate certification confirms fundamental skills for cloud projects, and the Professional certification signifies advanced capabilities in designing, implementing, and managing Google Cloud products.
• AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional ²⁷: This certification enables individuals to demonstrate advanced expertise in devising sophisticated solutions for complex issues, optimizing security, cost, and performance, and automating manual processes. It serves as a way for organizations to recognize and cultivate talent possessing essential skills for implementing cloud initiatives.

Professional organizations and associations help IT students and professionals benefit from the shared platform’s resources. These associations or organizations host events that create networking opportunities and offer scholarships and in-demand certifications for those seeking IT as their career field or started technology as their study area. These associations connect job seekers with opportunities and connections that help them in their professional journey. Here are some of the associations:

• Association of Information Technology Professionals ²⁸: AITP represents IT professionals and provides research on IT salaries, in-demand professional skills, and technical analysis. Members depend on AITP for training videos, networking opportunities, and local chapters. The association also conducts events related to technology and provides resources for members.
• The Association for Computing Machinery ²⁹: ACM provides a platform for computer professionals to meet educators and researchers. Members of ACM attend conferences with networking opportunities, join interest groups, and benefit from the association’s research publications. Students can enter student chapters, use the association’s resources to advance their careers and win awards at the International Science and Engineering Fair.
• CompTIA ³⁰: In addition to granting IT certifications, CompTIA also offers membership opportunities and resources for IT professionals. Members receive help in the IT industry and attend events to network with other IT professionals. CompTIA also provides training, webinars, and podcasts so IT professionals can stay current in their field.
• Network Professional Association ³¹: An association for IT professionals, NPA’s international membership adheres to a code of ethics, continually demonstrates professional development, adherence, and knowledge of the latest best-practice standards, and strives for continual growth.
• Association of Software Professionals ³²: The ASP is a professional trade association of software developers creating and marketing leading-edge applications. Join the ASP community now and learn from other successful developers of desktop and laptop programs, software as a service (SaaS) applications, cloud computing, and mobile apps.