Information technology professionals design, implement, and manage information systems for businesses and organizations in all industries. With professionals earning a median salary of $104,420 and the Bureau of Labor Statistics projecting a 10% growth between 2022 and 2032, careers in information technology offer numerous lucrative and rewarding opportunities.
An information technology degree program develops technical and analytical skills. It encompasses cybersecurity, programming, network administration, and many other concentrations to prepare graduates for careers as data analysts, network administrators, information security engineers, and more. Most undergraduate students graduate in about four years, averaging $14,688 yearly for tuition and fees. Graduate programs span about two years with an average yearly tuition of $20,513.
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How we rank schools
Our list features the best Information Technology degree programs at top colleges nationwide. Each school featured is a nonprofit, accredited institution — either public or private — with a high standard of academic quality for post-secondary institutions.
We evaluated each school’s program on tuition costs, admission, retention and graduation rates, faculty, reputation, and the student resources provided for online students. We collected data from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics, individual school and program websites, school admissions counselors, and other data sources. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score on a scale of 0 to 100 based on the following criterion:
Academic Quality:
- Admission rate versus enrollment rate
- Retention rate of students who return after year one
- Accreditation status (regional and programmatic)
- Nonprofit status, both private and public institutions
Graduation Rate
- Overall graduation rate
- Total number of currently enrolled students, including diversity metrics
- Student-to-faculty ratio
Cost and ROI
- In-state and out-of-state per-credit tuition rates and fees
- Required credits to graduate
- Earning potential after graduation
- Availability of federal student loans, scholarships, and other financial aid options
Student Resources
- Available student services for online-only and hybrid programs
- On-campus amenities like tutoring centers and the number of libraries
Read more about our ranking methodology.
Best 34 Accredited Information Technology Degree Programs
FiltersInstitution Type
Status
- Intelligent Score
- Alphabetically By University Name
- Acceptance Rate
- Enrollment
- In-state Graduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Graduate Tuition
- In-state Undergraduate Tuition
- Out-of-state Undergraduate Tuition
Florida State University
Intelligent Score: 99.19In-state: $4,640
Out-of-state: $19,084
In-state: $9,684
Out-of-state: $9,684
SAT: 1220-1350
ACT: 27-31
In-State: $215
Out-of-State: $721
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
University of Washington Tacoma
Intelligent Score: 97.7In-state: $10,629
Out-of-state: $37,998
In-state: $16,278
Out-of-state: $16,278
SAT: 1200-1453
ACT: 27-33
Resident: $237 - $427
Non-Resident: $780 - $1,405
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
120
Purdue University - Purdue Polytechnic Institute
Intelligent Score: 97.34In-state: $9,208
Out-of-state: $28,010
In-state: $9,208
Out-of-state: $9,208
SAT: 1170-1420
ACT: 25-33
Resident: $347
Non-Resident: $948
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
120
University of Central Florida
Intelligent Score: 96.89In-state: $4,478
Out-of-state: $19,810
In-state: $6,916
Out-of-state: $6,916
SAT: 1160-1340
ACT: 25-30
In-State: $212
Out-of-State: $748
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
129
Temple University
Intelligent Score: 96.59In-state: $16,080
Out-of-state: $28,992
In-state: $16,956
Out-of-state: $16,956
SAT: N/A
ACT: N/A
Resident: $617
Non-Resident: $1,017
On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
123
University of Cincinnati
Intelligent Score: 94.30In-state: $9,723
Out-of-state: $25,057
In-state: $13,224
Out-of-state: $13,224
SAT: 1120-1330
ACT: 23-29
Resident: $274 - $566
Non-Resident: $575 - $1,205
On-Campus, Online
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
120
Florida International University
Intelligent Score: 93.87In-state: $4,721
Out-of-state: $16,529
In-state: $8,912
Out-of-state: $8,912
SAT: 1110-1260
ACT: 23-29
Resident: $205
Non-Resident: $618
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
East Carolina University
Intelligent Score: 91.60In-state: $4,452
Out-of-state: $20,729
In-state: $4,749
Out-of-state: $4,749
SAT: 1020-1170
ACT: 19-24
Resident: $250
Non-Resident: $793
On-Campus
Association of Technology, Management, and Applied Engineering
120
University of South Florida
Intelligent Score: 90.77In-state: $4,559
Out-of-state: $15,473
In-state: $8,350
Out-of-state: $8,350
SAT: 1160-1320
ACT: 25-30
Resident: $105
Non-Resident: $211
On-Campus
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
120
New Jersey Institute of Technology
Intelligent Score: 90.59In-state: $14,448
Out-of-state: $30,160
In-state: $20,624
Out-of-state: $20,624
SAT: 1200-1390
ACT: 25-31
Resident: $410 - $650
Non-Resident: $856 - $1,355
On-Campus
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
129
University of Minnesota
Intelligent Score: 90.13In-state: $13,318
Out-of-state: $31,616
In-state: $17,580
Out-of-state: $17,580
SAT: 1240-1460
ACT: 25-31
Resident: $557
Non-Resident: $1,323
Hybrid
Higher Learning Commission
120
Arizona State University
Intelligent Score: 89.25In-state: $10,710
Out-of-state: $28,800
In-state: $11,720
Out-of-state: $11,720
SAT: 1100-1320
ACT: 21-28
Resident: $940
Non-Resident: $1,421
On-Campus, Online
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
120
George Mason University
Intelligent Score: 88.78In-state: $9,510
Out-of-state: $32,970
In-state: $12,594
Out-of-state: $12,594
SAT: 1100-1300
ACT: 24-30
Resident: $420
Non-Resident: $1,427
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
120
University of North Texas
Intelligent Score: 88.48In-state: $8,295
Out-of-state: $18,111
In-state: $6,350
Out-of-state: $6,350
SAT: 1050-1240
ACT: 20-27
Resident: $295
Non-Resident: $715
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
121
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Intelligent Score: 87.30In-state: $55,600
Out-of-state: $55,600
In-state: $55,600
Out-of-state: $55,600
SAT: 1300-1500
ACT: 29-34
$2,520
On-Campus, Online
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
128-130
Illinois Tech
Intelligent Score: 85.67In-state: $71,910
Out-of-state: $71,910
In-state: $56,350
Out-of-state: $56,350
SAT: 1220-1410
ACT: 28-32
$1,034 - $2,068
On-Campus
Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology
124
Brigham Young University-Hawaii
Intelligent Score: 84.06In-state: $5,970
Out-of-state: $5,970
In-state: $7,510
Out-of-state: $7,510
SAT: 1200-1410
ACT: 26-32
Member: $268 Non-Member: $536
On-Campus
Western Association of Schools and Colleges
120
University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee
Intelligent Score: 83.78In-state: $9,273
Out-of-state: $37,161
In-state: $10,728
Out-of-state: $10,728
SAT: 1260-1460
ACT: 27-32
Resident: $690
Non-Resident: $1,190
On-Campus, Online, Hybrid
Higher Learning Commission
120
How to Choose an Information Technology Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Choosing the right area of study for your career objectives is crucial for educational and professional success. Define your career goals as they align with your interests and strengths to inform your decisions about programs and schools.
A Bachelor of Science in information technology program covers various topics that intersect with computer science, cybersecurity, and business fundamentals. Students work with evolving technology to design, build, and operate information systems on which businesses and other organizations rely. Graduates can pursue careers in information technology and related fields, such as systems administration, information security analysis, and web development.
A Master of Science in information technology program offers opportunities for more advanced and specialized study. Students may also develop leadership and business skills that prepare them for management careers in information technology and related fields, such as project management, business design architecture, and IT management.
These programs typically provide several concentration options, such as:
- Computer network administration
- Mobile and web application development
- Data analytics
- Cybersecurity
Research schools and programs
During your research, verify each school’s accreditation through the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) and the Database of Accredited Postsecondary Institutions and Programs (DAPIP). Regional accreditation guarantees the quality of education per the Department of Education standards and generally is required for federal student aid.
Attending an accredited institution can offer time and cost savings should you decide to transfer to another school or pursue a graduate degree, as accredited schools typically only accept credits from other accredited institutions. Many employers also prefer candidates with accredited credentials.
Visit school websites and contact admissions counselors for more information about accredited programs. These resources can provide deeper insight into the student experience and direct you to in-person or virtual information sessions, campus tours, and other events.
Prepare for tests and applications
The admissions process may vary between programs and schools, but most conform to standard form, fee, and material requirements. These include:
- Application form and fees
- Transcripts
- Letter(s) of recommendation
- Personal essay or statement
- Resume or CV
- SAT or ACT scores for undergraduates
- GRE or GMAT scores for graduates
- TOEFL (for students educated in a non-English language)
Undergraduate information technology programs typically don’t have information technology or computer science background requirements, but they may require students to complete prerequisite courses before they can declare their major.
Graduate information technology programs typically require a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, preferably in a related field, but they may also consider professional experience. An admissions counselor can confirm specific requirements and deadlines and provide insight on strengthening your application.
Select your program
Programs are more than the concentrations and credentials they offer, and many other details can influence the quality and success of your education. Consider factors such as:
- Curriculum
- Work-study opportunities
- Faculty
- Campus amenities
- Course delivery and logistics options
- Location
- Tuition
Some factors may have more influence than others when it comes to decisions regarding individual circumstances. For instance, students with other professional or family obligations may benefit from programs that offer flexible course delivery options, such as remote or self-paced education. Other students may prefer those that offer high in-person engagement and exposure with work co-op or work-study opportunities.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Students should complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access need-based federal loans, grants, scholarships, and other funding assistance. Financial aid counselors at your chosen school can also provide information on expected tuition, fees, and other expenses to help inform your budget and funding needs.
Businesses, non-profit foundations, and even your school may offer additional need or merit-based assistance, and some employers offer tuition assistance benefits to their employees registered in school. Funding opportunities may be available as part of your education — students may supplement with income from work-study, internship, or co-op positions, and graduate students may access salary, stipend, or tuition benefits with assistantships or fellowships.
What Can You Expect From an Information Technology Degree Program?
An undergraduate information technology program focuses on operating and managing computers, software, systems, databases, networks, and other areas. Students develop abilities with programming languages, data administration, and network configuration, as well as critical thinking and problem-solving skills that allow them to integrate technology with workplaces.
Students usually complete a blend of lecture and lab credits, practical projects, and advanced capstone projects, along with opportunities to gain exposure to the professional field. Most four-year undergraduate programs require about 120 credits for graduation.
Graduate information technology programs delve more deeply into design, programming, architecture, and other topics covered in undergraduate degree coursework to develop innovation and leadership skills.
These programs may intersect more heavily with business topics, such as business analysis and project planning, to help graduates address industry needs in cybersecurity engineering, business intelligence, user experience design, and other areas. In addition to seminars, students may complete independent research and participate in experiential learning opportunities, such as internships and co-ops. Most graduate programs require between 30 and 45 credits and culminate with a capstone project or thesis.
Potential courses you’ll take in an information technology degree program
- Networking Fundamentals: Often aligning with the CompTIA Network+ certification requirements, this course focuses on the design, administration, and troubleshooting of computer networks. Topics typically include media and topologies, management, security, network technologies, OSI network models, and ethernet hardware and cabling.
- Computer Programming: This course covers programming fundamentals, including functions, arrays, control statements, and data types. Students often complete exercises in developing, debugging, and testing programs using the Python programming language.
- Information Security: By introducing security concepts, this course covers the tools and procedures for preventing and responding to security incidents and helps students build skills in risk management and network and physical security. Content may include compliance and operational security, vulnerabilities, access control and identity management, and cryptography.
- Computer Organization and Architecture: In this course, students learn the organization and architecture concepts for modern hardware, software, and operating systems. Topics may include computer instruction, memory hierarchy, pipelining, and performance enhancement.
Information Technology Degree Program Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an information technology degree program?
Most institutions offer a web-based application portal that guides students through the application process and helps them submit the appropriate information, transcripts, test scores, and fees. Admissions counselors can also provide application guidance and assist with a physical application if needed.
How much does an information technology degree cost?
The average undergraduate fees cost $14,688 annually, not including housing. With housing, the average amount increases to $27,673, but this offsets potential off-campus living costs for accommodation, food, and other expenses. Graduate tuition and fees average $20,513 per year.
Local cost of living, out-of-state student status, and private institutions can increase expenses. Speak to an admissions counselor to determine an appropriate budget, and factor in your personal education funds, grants, scholarships, loans, and other assistance to calculate your upfront costs.
How long does it take to earn an information technology degree?
Most undergraduate programs require about 120 credits, which most students complete over four years of full-time study. Graduate programs require between 30 and 45 credits and span about two years. Programs may offer part-time, self-paced, or accelerated options that can affect the total program duration.