The previous ten years have seen substantial growth in the information technology (IT) industry, which is expected to continue. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information technology opportunities will rise by 15% between 2021 and 2031, which is faster than the average for all occupations. A career in IT is exciting right now!
While some jobs accept applicants with certificates in IT, the BLS states that a bachelor’s degree is the most typical prerequisite for a career as an IT professional. If you want to gain competency in the field but don’t want to spend four years studying on campus, you can pursue accelerated online information technology degree programs.
In addition to considering the program’s length, we’ve also considered its accreditation, reputation, cost, financial aid, and student services. These factors will ensure you a smooth and top-notch online education experience. Rest assured that your degree will be highly valued in the job market.
Tuition + fees
$55K
Acceptance
64%
Graduation
76%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1265/28
University of Denver’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: $19K
Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology
The University of Denver offers an Accelerated Online BA in Information Technology as a degree completion program, meaning only those with prior college-level coursework are eligible for admission. Unlike the typical 16-week courses, online courses in this program are conducted in a 10-week format, allowing students to graduate faster. Full-time students can complete coursework in 1 year.
Students seeking a master’s degree can enroll in DU’s Combined Degree Programs. This option offers a distinctive dual experience and is designed for working individuals pursuing a bachelor’s and master’s degree simultaneously.
Online learners who want to gain more close interactions with peers and faculty can complete their programs in a hybrid learning format.
Admission Requirements:
Required Credit Hours: 22
Average Time-to-Degree: 2 years
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Tuition + fees
$23K
Acceptance
99%
Graduation
62%
Student body
79K
Median SAT/ACT
1145/25
Liberty University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: $23K
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
The Accelerated Online BS in Information Technology at Liberty University is among the fastest, most accelerated bachelor’s degrees in IT. Students without college experience can apply for admissions and complete 120 credit hours to earn the degree, which includes specializations.
This is a 100% online program with optional on-campus intensives, such as networking and collaboration opportunities, with online courses that have been accelerated into an 8-week length.
This online information technology degree program offers four specializations: Data Networking and Security, Application and Database Development, Gaming Design, and Web and Mobile Programming. Students can choose electives related to the concentration to help them focus on a curriculum that strictly aligns with their professional and personal goals.
Admission Requirements:
Required Credit Hours: 120
Average Time-to-Degree: 3.5 years
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Tuition + fees
$11K
Acceptance
98%
Graduation
54%
Student body
14K
Median SAT/ACT
1080/22
Western Kentucky University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: $11K
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology
Completed in a hybrid learning format, Western Kentucky’s online BS in Computer Information Technology allows students to enroll in fast-paced courses with flexibility. The average time-to-degree is four years; however, those who enroll full-time with no semester breaks can complete the program in 3 years.
Students who transferred previous credits can earn their BS degree with just 36 hours of CIT coursework. In just 21 more hours, exceptional CIT students can earn an online MS in Engineering Technology Management.
In addition to online classes, students must fulfill the program’s 400-level CIT courses, including supervised work experience in the industry. This component will require students to attend a supervised 6-hour intensive requiring written reports. The accelerated online program will conclude with a Capstone Project to allow students to use their prior degree program coursework and technical skills.
Admission Requirements:
Required Credit Hours: 120
Average Time-to-Degree: 4 years
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Tuition + fees
$6K
Acceptance
91%
Graduation
54%
Student body
24K
Median SAT/ACT
1081/21
Georgia Southern University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: $2K
Bachelor of Information Technology
Working in partnership between Georgia Southern University and the University System of Georgia’s eCampus, this online Bachelor of Information Technology can be completed in the comfort of your home in 3.5 years. The program’s curriculum trains students to fulfill employment as IT specialists and contribute positively to society.
Students can expect to study in a fun learning environment enriched with cutting-edge pedagogical strategies and practical computing activities that will equip graduates to have a significant impact on the world through their employment in IT.
This online BIT degree program offers three specializations: Data Science, Cyber Security, and Health Informatics. Students can choose which of the specializations best suits their professional interests.
Furthermore, each student will be required to fulfill an internship in information technology, a campus-approved IT-experience-based internship lasting 280 hours. There is also a senior capstone project requirement that demonstrates a student’s understanding of IT project planning and implementation, requiring them to perform projects relating to their area of specialization.
Admission Requirements:
Required Credit Hours: 124
Average Time-to-Degree: 3.5 years
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Tuition + fees
$40K
Acceptance
81%
Graduation
62%
Student body
5K
Median SAT/ACT
1110/24
Regis University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: $41K
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Regis University offers an online BS in Information Technology degree designed to help students earn a bachelor’s and master’s degree simultaneously to save time and cost through a FastForward program. The program allows students to work on a graduate degree before completing the required coursework at the bachelor’s level. Students can enroll in master’s degree courses that will count toward their graduate degree once they have junior standing (60 or more credits).
At the undergraduate level, students can pursue optional information technology tracks. Students can focus on Cybersecurity, Web Application Development, or General Information Technology, depending on their goals and interests.
Students can take advantage of one-on-one sessions with an admissions counselor to learn how to save time and money, assist them with their online application, and help them select the program that best suits their goals.
Admission Requirements:
Required Credit Hours: 120
Average Time-to-Degree: 3.5 years
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Tuition + fees
$19K
Acceptance
41%
Graduation
62%
Student body
7K
Median SAT/ACT
1080/25
Regent University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: $4K
Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Technology
Regent University’s BS in Information Systems Technology is delivered as a 100% online program or in a hybrid learning format. It is intended to give students the knowledge and abilities they need to seek employment in the information systems and technology industry. The program integrates technical expertise with a foundation in business principles to prepare students for roles that involve creating, implementing, and managing information systems inside enterprises.
Regent University is a Christian university dedicated to fusing faith and learning, and it infuses Christian values and principles throughout its curricula. The Regent University BSIT program seeks to cultivate technical proficiency in its graduates, a solid ethical foundation, and a Christian perspective.
Admission Requirements:
Required Credit Hours: 120
Average Time-to-Degree: 3.5 years
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Tuition + fees
$10K
Graduation
29%
Student body
49K
Purdue Global’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: N/A
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
A BS in Information Technology degree is offered by Purdue Global, a member of the Purdue University system, to educate students for professions in the quickly developing field of information technology. Purdue’s Information Technology program aims to give students a solid foundation in technical knowledge, problem-solving abilities, and critical thinking. Information technology-related subjects such as computer programming, database administration, networking, cybersecurity, systems analysis, and web development are all covered in the curriculum.
Students can gain practical skills throughout the curriculum by engaging in real-world projects and case studies. Students are more prepared for the needs of the IT business thanks to this experiential learning approach, which also enables them to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios. Furthermore, the curriculum offers a strong foundation for obtaining industry certifications, which helps students uncover more employment opportunities in the rapidly developing IT industry.
Admission Requirements:
Required Credit Hours: 180
Average Time-to-Degree: 4 years
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Tuition + fees
$7K
Graduation
64%
Student body
130K
Western Governors University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: $15K
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
The BS in Information Technology degree at Western Governors University is renowned for using a competency-based education methodology that allows online students to progress through the program at their own pace. Industry-recognized certifications are also part of the curriculum for WGU’s BSIT degree. These certificates can improve students’ resumes and prove their expertise in IT fields. CompTIA A+, Network+, Security+, and Project+ are a few examples of certifications that might be covered.
The mentorship program at WGU assigns a personal mentor to each student who offers direction and assistance throughout their academic career. Mentors aid students with goal-setting, developing unique study schedules, and assistance as required.
Graduates of the accelerated degree program in IT will have the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue employment in the information technology industry, including IT project management, system analysis, database administration, and software development.
Admission Requirements:
Required Courses: 36
Average Time-to-Degree: 2 years
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Tuition + fees
$37K
Acceptance
64%
Graduation
57%
Student body
11K
Median SAT/ACT
1055/21
California Baptist University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: $37K
Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology
California Baptist University offers a BS in Computer Information Technology curriculum designed to educate students about opportunities in the technology and information systems industries. The course material mixes theoretical ideas with real-world applications to give students a well-rounded education. The university wants to produce moral leaders who can use their technological expertise to be consistent with Christian values and ideals.
Through comprehensive, 100% online coursework, students gain a deep understanding of information technology methodologies. They develop strong communication skills, becoming adept at articulating and elucidating complex IT concepts. Furthermore, students are encouraged to become informed leaders contributing to sound organizational decision-making.
Admission Requirements:
Required Credit Hours: 120
Average Time-to-Degree: 16 months
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Tuition + fees
$8K
Graduation
23%
Student body
9K
Bellevue University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:
Tuition + fees: $12K
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
A practical and career-focused Online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology degree is available from Bellevue University. Bellevue University provides flexible learning alternatives, including both on-campus and online courses. Through real-world projects and internships, students can receive practical experience that will enable them to use their knowledge and abilities in the workplace.
This accelerated online program in information technology allows qualified students to complete their degree in as little as one year. The university accepts 90 transfer credits at most, providing a pathway for students to expedite their education. This program is particularly suitable for individuals already working as help desk or computer technicians who aspire to advance their careers in the IT field.
Admission Requirements:
Required Credit Hours: 127
Average Time-to-Degree: 1 year
Per Credit Hour Cost:
Featured Courses:
Accelerated programs in information technology move at a much quicker pace than typical IT programs, which enable students to finish their degree requirements faster. Although the general curriculum of accelerated online information technology bachelor’s degrees are the same as in an on-campus IT degree, the accelerated online format—typically through online courses—remains the fundamental distinction.
Traditional bachelor’s in information technology courses are 15 to 16 weeks long, while accelerated information technology degrees usually have courses that are 5 to 8 weeks long.
In fewer than four years, students can earn their bachelor’s in information technology degree from an accredited online college thanks to the more rigorous and compressed nature of accelerated undergraduate programs. Several universities offer the chance to finish the college degree requirements in just over a year for individuals looking for the quickest path.
Admission requirements for an accelerated program in information technology vary depending on the institution. The admissions process often starts with an online application and academic transcripts.
Successful candidates for online information technology degrees frequently have a strong background in mathematics, fundamental programming abilities, and a thorough understanding of core ideas in computer science.
Certain IT programs may expect students to take a sequence of preparatory courses to prepare them for success in four-year online programs. Their performance in these initial courses might determine their ability to enroll in the IT major.
Regardless of your specialization in accelerated degree programs in information technology, students will almost always encounter a technical support course since IT careers often begin in technical support. This course develops customer service skills, which are extremely important when addressing user concerns. Students will also learn to approach the troubleshooting process and recognize best practices in help desk support services.
Although Microsoft Windows may be the operating system that comes to most people’s minds, many other database management solutions are currently being used in business IT environments. By using applicable skills like workstation image deployment and creating centralized workstation maintenance plans, this course will allow you to compare and contrast various operating systems.
Many organizations are built on interconnected gadgets and systems, so IT professionals need to be experts in this field. Topics include the installation, deployment, and configuration of actual networking hardware. Additionally, by constructing a cost-effective network for a small office setting, students will practice using wireless networking technology.
This dual-subject course aims to increase familiarity with and comprehension of the typical hardware and software used in business IT operations. This subject teaches students how to deploy, configure, and connect devices while recording their progress and lessons acquired.
This course teaches students the business skills necessary for organizational planning and large-scale IT project management. Topics include developing leadership skills, analyzing procurement possibilities, defining the scope of projects, and effectively delivering your suggestions in a professional setting.
This IT course equips students to assess an organization’s present IT capabilities and create plans for efficiently fulfilling future requirements. Topics include identifying and evaluating risk factors for various action plans, building effective communication techniques when dealing with non-technical executives in your firm, and strategies for recognizing critical stakeholder demands.
Network security best practices allow students to understand security breaches and how they can cause significant harm to a business. Topics include the fundamentals of networking security, how to build a safe network environment, how to recognize typical security risks, and how to prevent security failures and minimize damage in the event of a failure.
This course prepares students to handle significant network changes. Topics include preparing for retiring outdated hardware, evaluating risk, and comprehending the benefits and drawbacks of fresh enterprise-level solutions.
Although it may appear straightforward in the abstract, creating an organization-wide policy structure requires significant thought. Students investigate the moral and legal ramifications of establishing IT policy, while also developing strategies for applying, evaluating, and enforcing organization-wide policy.
Information Technology offers a wide range of career opportunities for individuals with varying levels of education. Depending on your career goals, interests, and the resources you are willing to invest in, you may pursue either a bachelor’s or associate degree in IT.
Associate degree programs may be cheaper than bachelor’s programs for several reasons, including the shorter duration—two years rather than four years. In most cases, community colleges have cheaper tuition rates than four-year institutions.
Because of these reasons, earning an associate degree may be a better alternative for those seeking a quality education at a reasonable price in a particular sector, such as data management.
Conversely, bachelor’s degree programs have higher tuition fees and a longer program duration, and that usually correlates to a higher financial commitment. Nevertheless, students pursuing bachelor’s degrees may be eligible for more grants and tuition assistance.
For those who qualify, financial aid opportunities can drastically lower or even eliminate the cost of tuition. While some financial aid opportunities may be accessible to associate degree students as well, they are less common than those for a bachelor’s degree.
An associate’s degree in information technology might qualify people for entry-level positions in this industry. Many entry-level positions require an associate degree, even though companies may favor applicants with bachelor’s degrees.
Graduates with an associate degree in information technology may be qualified for entry-levels positions as:
A bachelor’s degree in IT opens up similar job opportunities to those available with an associate degree. However, individuals with a bachelor’s degree may also have access to more mid-level and management positions.
Typical jobs for those with a bachelor’s degree in IT include:
Bottom Line: Earning an associate in information technology degree can qualify graduates for numerous entry-level positions, the fastest online information technology bachelor’s programs open up management positions and jobs with higher pay and more responsibility.
An IT certification typically takes six months to complete, making it a shorter alternative for gaining competency in IT and IT-related careers. Moreover, they also call for less dedication than accelerated IT degree programs because of the shorter duration and lower cost.
The scope of information technology certification programs is limited to a specific area within the field of information technology and demonstrates your proficiency in that area. You must usually pass an exam assessing your knowledge of the concepts to obtain a certification.
Your career might profit from a certification in many ways. Certification is a great choice if you’re seeking an organized strategy to pick up new skills and obtain a credential.
Whether you’ve just graduated or are looking to change careers, here are a few popular IT certifications to help you start your career.
Pursuing a certification can be a practical first step if your high school GPA or standardized test results don’t fulfill the standards for admission into a bachelor’s program. You can start your career in the field of your choice by earning the essential experience and abilities through certifications.
Bottom Line: Those looking for a career boost can benefit from earning one of the many certifications available within the IT field. Certifications prove to employers that you have in-depth knowledge of a specific area.
Sign up for the College Level Examination Program and register for the subjects you want to take examinations in. If you pass these exams, you may receive up to 30 college credits toward your degree. Earning college credit for a job or military service through the Credit for Prior Learning program can save you a semester’s worth!
You can transfer previous college credits or continue to attend year-round by enrolling in the maximum number of 18 credits, which translates to 54 credits in a calendar year.