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Online Masters in Information Technology
I.T. profession has long been a dream job of many, and still, it is ruling the roost because of the ever-changing technology and the requirements for its skills. There is a misconception about I.T. career and I.T. professionals. Most of you think that being an I.T. professional, all you do is troubleshoot computer issues. There is more diversity of career paths than thinking if you pursue an Online Masters in Information Technology. A master’s degree in Information technology provides you with numerous career advancements and opportunities, along with a stable career. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a projected growth of 10% from 2019 to 2029.
Featured Online Programs
Best Online Graduate Information Technology Programs
When we understand the career advancement you can gain with a Master’s in Information technology – most of you would first scout for some best online graduate information technology programs. This search for useful information technology programs can be done either by a professional seeking to go to the next level or change of careers or a student looking for a focus area. Since you are in the searching zone, you also need to know the factors behind the list of best online graduate information technology programs that are listed down. The plan is curated based on the faculty, academic standards, career opportunities, curriculum, alumni reviews, and more.
Link to this Page| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 University of The Potomac 7799 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, Virginia 22043 | $8,100 | 100% |
| #2 Florida State University 222 S. Copeland Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32306 | $9,684 | 83% |
| #3 Virginia Tech 210 Burruss Hall, 800 Drillfield Dr., Blacksburg, Virginia 24061 | $13,701 | 90% |
| #4 Indiana University 107 South Indiana Ave., Bloomington, Indiana 47405 | $9,501 | 79% |
| #5 Carnegie Mellon University 5000 Forbes Avenue, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15213 | $45,037 | 90% |
| #6 Tulane University 6823 St. Charles Avenue, New Orleans, Louisiana 70118 | $54,918 | 86% |
| #7 University of Cincinnati 2624 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221 | $12,790 | 71% |
| #8 California State University, Fullerton 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, California 92831 | $7,176 | 69% |
| #9 University of Texas, Dallas 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, Texas 75080 | $13,874 | 70% |
| #10 Illinois Institute of Technology 10 West 35th Street, Chicago, Illinois 60616 | $29,487 | 70% |
| #11 Montclair State University 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, New Jersey 07043 | $12,600 | 67% |
| #12 University of Massachusetts, Lowell 1 University Ave, Lowell, Massachusetts 01854 | $14,590 | 66% |
| #13 Arizona State University University Drive and Mill Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85287 | $11,720 | 63% |
| #14 Robert Morris University 6001 University Boulevard, Moon Township, Pennsylvania 15108 | $32,272 | 65% |
| #15 Missouri University of Science and Technology 300 W.13th Street, Rolla, Missouri 65409 | $10,452 | 60% |
| #16 Lawrence Technological University 21000 West Ten Mile Road, Southfield, Michigan 48075 | $21,366 | 60% |
| #17 Pace University 1 Pace Plaza, New York, New York 10038 | $31,320 | 57% |
| #18 University of North Carolina, Greensboro 1400 Spring Garden St, Greensboro, North Carolina 27402 | $5,219 | 50% |
| #19 Liberty University 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24515 | $7,980 | 47% |
| #20 Kennesaw State University 1000 Chastain Rd, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144 | $5,328 | 46% |
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
Most Affordable Online Masters in Information Technology Programs
Suppose you have completed your bachelor’s degree in computer science, management information system, or any other area of study. In that case, you can take up a Masters in Information Technology to scale up your skills. But, if you think this is not an affordable choice, then you got it wrong. Many universities have redefined their structure to create affordable programs. Following are the most affordable online master’s degree in information technology that are affordable and available for each of you. These programs are available as part-time and full-time formats.
Link to this Page
| College Name & Address | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| #1 Aspen University 1660 South Albion Street, Suite 525, Denver, Colorado 80222 | $3,900 | NA |
| #2 Tarleton State University 1333 W. Washington Stephenville, TX 76402 | $4,137 | 49% |
| #3 Grantham University 16025 West 113th Street, Lenexa, Kansas 66219 | $4,200 | 22% |
| #4 University of North Carolina, Greensboro 1400 Spring Garden St, Greensboro, North Carolina 27402 | $5,219 | 50% |
| #5 Kennesaw State University 1000 Chastain Rd, Kennesaw, Georgia 30144 | $5,328 | 46% |
| #6 California State University, Fullerton 800 N State College Blvd, Fullerton, California 92831 | $7,176 | 69% |
| #7 Liberty University 1971 University Blvd, Lynchburg, Virginia 24515 | $7,980 | 47% |
| #8 University of The Potomac 7799 Leesburg Pike, Falls Church, Virginia 22043 | $8,100 | 100% |
| #9 University of South Florida 4202 East Fowler Ave, Tampa, Florida 33620 | $8,350 | 75% |
| #10 Indiana University 107 South Indiana Ave., Bloomington, Indiana 47405 | $9,501 | 79% |
| #11 Florida State University 222 S. Copeland Street, Tallahassee, Florida 32306 | $9,684 | 83% |
| #12 Missouri University of Science and Technology 300 W.13th Street, Rolla, Missouri 65409 | $10,452 | 60% |
| #13 Arizona State University University Drive and Mill Avenue, Tempe, Arizona 85287 | $11,720 | 63% |
| #14 Montclair State University 1 Normal Avenue, Montclair, New Jersey 07043 | $12,600 | 67% |
| #15 University of Cincinnati 2624 Clifton Avenue, Cincinnati, Ohio 45221 | $12,790 | 71% |
| #16 University of Maryland, Global Campus 3501 University Blvd East, Adelphi, Maryland 20783 | $13,158 | 87% |
| #17 Virginia Tech 210 Burruss Hall, 800 Drillfield Dr., Blacksburg, Virginia 24061 | $13,701 | 86% |
| #18 University of Texas, Dallas 800 West Campbell Road, Richardson, Texas 75080 | $13,874 | 70% |
| #19 University of Massachusetts, Lowell 1 University Ave, Lowell, Massachusetts 01854 | $14,590 | 66% |
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
Understanding Online Masters in Information Technology Programs
Online Master’s in Information Technology changes your outlook toward the I.T. profession. A master’s degree in this area of study enhances your ability to conceptualize, organize, and realize information technology projects for organizations and users. Online master’s in information technology coursework underlines core technologies and allows you to pick specializations as well.
Online Masters in Information Technology Degree Types
By now, you might have got an understanding of how the Information Technology field is evolving and how a master’s in information technology would help in leveraging your career prospects. As a Master’s graduate, you will have enhanced career opportunities and growth compared to your peers. During the degree program, you will develop a strong understanding of the technology field. Being a professional, you will gain new skills or transition to a new field, and as a student, you are making a good career advancement.
MS Information Technology Online
Organizations, public and private firms, government bodies – every industry, every sector adapt to technology and upcoming trends. While this is happening, you should be prepared with the skill that is high on demand in the job market. Masters of science in information technology meets the need. While pursuing this program, as a professional, you will learn the connection between I.T., communications, and businesses to develop marketable technical, creative, and managerial skills. Apart from that, the coursework prepares you for:
Analyzing information technology opportunities to regulate the required scope, schedule, resources, to render optimal solutions.
Development of systems solutions to secure digital assets and intellectual property.
Application of best practices to support implementation, modification, and review.
Gauge information systems’ legal, ethical, social, and global implications for validating decisions and enhance social outcomes.
Specializations for Information Technology Programs
Every Master’s program is tagged along with few specializations giving you a scope pick an elective of your choice. The Master’s degree and the specialization work together to greatly create a stronger skill set for you to help during your job search. Here are some of the common specializations chosen by students like you.
| Specialization | Description |
|---|---|
| Cybersecurity, Digital Forensics & Systems Security | Cybersecurity specialization is about the security of applications, data, network, and proper management of I.T. You are taught about information security, ethical hacking, information assurance, steganography, securing databases, and everything related to both I.T. and Cybersecurity. |
| Data Analytics | At the end of the course with Data Analytics as specialization, you will learn to design, develop, and manage data resources. With IT on the rise and data analytics knowledge, you would be able to secure a thriving career. |
| Information Technology Entrepreneurship | Not many want to explore entrepreneurial chances after taking up a Master’s degree in Information Technology. But I.T. Entrepreneurship is the best specialization to take up to launch and maintain new I.T. enterprise in the technology industry. |
| Network Administration and Management | This specialization’s primary focus is the management of network applications. Master’s in I.T. and a specialization in Network Administration and Management allow you to manage the entire information systems or information technology comfortably. |
Curriculum and Skills Gained in Information Technology Programs
A degree in Master’s in Information Technology enables you to expand your understanding of the information technology industry’s concepts and techniques. You will be taught the latest technologies and the ways to resolve problems using them in many areas. Apart from you, you will gain skills like project management, problem-solving skills, analytical skills, troubleshooting skills, research and writing skills, ethical skills, computational skills, and many more that lead you toward a better career path.
While we know every program by default develops special skills in you as a student. However, the curriculum is a prime factor in choosing a specialization or gaining the required skills. Usually, a master’s in information technology course details is the same across most of the universities. Each institute looks at providing in-depth knowledge on each topic and its application in the field. Some of the concepts also train you to take managerial positions in an organization’s I.T. department. The curriculum consists of the following subjects:
- Computer Programming and Software Development
- Data Science
- Software Design
- Internet Technologies
- Project Management
- Computer and Network Security
- Computer Systems
- Telecommunications
- Networking
- Database Systems and more
Accreditation for Online Masters in Information Technology Programs
You, as a future information technology graduate, should choose to join in an accredited college or university. Accreditation is a process where an institution is recognized for offering best practices in the area of study. Two types of accreditation are granted to the universities or institutions – regionally and nationally. Accreditation plays a major role in your academics as you would be qualified for federal financial aids and are eligible for professional certifications. There are too many advantages to pursuing an online masters in information technology that is accredited. Click here: https://www.onlinemasterscolleges.com/resources/accreditation/ for more information.
Every program is accredited by a specific accreditation agency/body. For online masters in information technology following are the agencies that accredit the program:
ABET: ABET is an agency that exclusively accredits engineering and information technology programs. The agency ensures that the institute is adhering 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.
Timeline for graduation from Information Technology Master’s Programs
Each one can set their timeline to pursue an online masters in information technology. Usually, the program can be completed in a two-year timeline. If you wish to go on a fast track, then universities offer programs for a shorter duration. You don’t have to worry about the content quality, irrespective of the timeline; you will be thoroughly taught the entire subject.
Admission Requirements for Masters in Information Technology
Admission or application requirements for masters in Information technology is common among all universities and institutes. You must complete these requirements and submit the necessary documents to initiate the enrolling process. If you are a student with a bachelor’s or master’s degree in information technology, computer science, applied computing, or any closely related field, is a regionally accredited college or university can apply for the masters in information technology.
Apart from that, the general admission requirements for masters in information technology are:
- Admission application and application fee.
- Official transcripts.
- Proof of English language proficiency.
- Personal statement.
- Statement of purpose
- Up-to-date curriculum vitae or resume.
- A minimum of cumulative 3.00 GPA is applicable Master’s program.
Masters in Information Technology for Non-Information Technology Graduates
It is never a must rule to learn technology or an area of study. You might be part of the I.T. industry without certification in that area and are now interested in taking up a course or program. Education is available for everyone without a barrier. That is the reason why even a Non-IT can also enroll for a masters in I.T. for non-IT graduates. One such program that is available:
- I.T. Fundamentals for Business Professionals: Cybersecurity and social implications: This course is for professionals who would like to learn the fundamentals of I.T. and advance in the career.
- Professional Certificate in I.T. Project Management: This program is also concentrated on Non-IT graduates planning for project management roles in the I.T. organization.
- Information Technology foundations: Having basic knowledge about I.T. is essential. If you are looking for a Masters in I.T. for Non-IT graduates, then this is where you can start.
Difference between Management Information Systems and Masters in Science in Information Technology
There is no massive difference between Management Information Systems (MIT) and Masters in Science in Information Technology (MSIT), as both prepare you 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. Where one focuses on computer-driven the other goes for management related study and job opportunities.
How to Pay for Online Master’s in Information Technology
Online masters in information technology graduates will be high in-demand skills in the job market. As it keeps trending the right skills requirement, the ever-green technology stream is there, paving a path can fetch you a thriving career. Being a professional or a student, if you have trouble paying for the program fee, then some institutes allow you to pay the fee in different formats like tuition reimbursement, FAFSA, student loans, fellowships, and more. These different kinds of financial aids will enable you to pursue your study area, that is, online masters in information technology without any hindrance. Find out more about financial aid on the best financial aid guide.
| Internships | Student loans | FAFSA |
|---|---|---|
| Internships help you to get college credits, payment, or both. | If you plan to seek financial help and look forward to repaying later, then a Student loan is suggested. You can pursue your academics without worrying about the monetary. | FAFSA is the federal agency’s financial assistance for students interested in pursuing their education in any stream. The U.S. Department of Education offers the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) form. |
Scholarships for Information Technology Student
Scholarships are a blessing in disguise for you if you are interested and dedicated to the selected program. This is a channel for you to learn and develop your technology skills without worrying about finances. Most of the programs encourage enthusiastic students like you to pursue their academics with the help of scholarships. Even online masters in information technology have that offering through different channels. Here are some of the scholarships granted to students in this area.
This scholarship for students pursuing a degree with a specialization in cybersecurity or information assurance.
This is a merit-based scholarship program for women who are inclined toward technology and are majoring in computer science, information systems, computer engineering, and other technology-related programs
This scholarship is supported by the National Science Foundation, grants for students who are doing their major in computer information technology and related fields.
Careers and Salary Outlook for Information Technology Masters Graduates
Career outcomes of masters in information technology are numerous. A graduate with a Master’s degree in I.T. can search for a job in senior and leadership positions. You can compete for roles that focus on varied fields like network architecture, modeling information systems, and more. Usually, graduates like you would go for roles in data analysis, security, and network management decent in the pay scale and growth rate. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, new jobs for this field would be more than 531,200 in the next few years. Similarly, there will be high demand for I.T. skills. Here are some job titles, descriptions, and annual median salary to understand the current requirement and the I.T. graduate’s roles.
| Job title | Job Description | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Research Scientists | The computer and Information Research and Scientists profile responsibilities are to invent new approaches and designs to computing technology. The responsibility of these scientists is to resolve issues using technology | $122,840 |
| Computer Network Architects | The responsibility of a Computer network architect is to design and build communication networks. These networks include LAN, WANs, and Intranets. | $112,690 |
| Computer Programmers | Writing and testing codes, which allow computer applications and programs to run correctly. | $86,550 |
| Information Security Analysts | Planning and carrying out an organization’s security and measure for the same. Information and Security analysts are also responsible for protecting computer networks and systems of an organization. | $99,730 |
| Database Administrators | Storage and organizing of data using special software is the responsibility of DBA. | $93,750 |
FAQs about Information Technology Education
| Frequently asked Questions |
|---|
| Q: Is a Master’s degree in Information Technology worth it? |
| A: There are many reasons tagged to the above question – Is a Master’s degree in Information Technology worth it? This degree is worth studying for the many career opportunities it gives and the skillset you can enhance either being a professional or a bachelor’s student. |
| Q: Why the Masters in Information Technology? |
| A: Information Technology is considered a booming industry because of the exponential rate technologies being introduced in the market, opening gates for every technology enthusiast to explore the area and grow. |
| Q: How to study IT? |
| A: Like any other Master’s degree program, you can enroll for a Master’s in Information Technology. You have to search before going for the specializations along with the degree. |
| Q: Where can I study Information Technology Masters? |
| A: There are many medium to study Information Technology Masters. You can either enroll for a regular graduate degree in a university/institute. Or, you can apply for Online Masters in Information Technology. |
| Q: What kind of education is needed for I.T. Engineering? |
| A: Any individual who has pursued a bachelor’s degree in computer engineering, computer science, applied computing, or the related fields can go for I.T. Engineering. |
Additional Resources for Information Technology Professionals
Professional organizations and associations help I.T. students and professionals benefit from the shared platform’s resources. These associations or organizations host events that create networking opportunities offer scholarships and in-demand certifications for all those who are seeking I.T. as their career field or started technology as their area of study. These associations connect job seekers with opportunities and connections that help them in the professional journey. Here are some of the associations
- Association of Information Technology Professionals: AITP represents I.T. professionals and provides research on I.T. 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.
- Association for Computing Machinery: ACM gives 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 publication. 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: In addition to granting I.T. certifications, CompTIA also offers membership opportunities and resources for I.T. professionals. Members receive help on the I.T. industry and attend events to network with other I.T. professionals. CompTIA also provides training, webinars, and podcasts so that I.T. professionals can stay current in their field.
- Network Professional Association: An association for I.T. professionals, NPA’s international membership adheres to a code-of-ethics, continual demonstrated professional development, adherence, and knowledge of the latest best-practice standards, and strives for continual growth.
- Association of Software Professionals: 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.
