Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Information Technology 2025

Badge for FASTEST ONLINE MASTER'S IN INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

By Dr. James Barham
Reviewed By Dr. Jed Macosko

Published: Jul 26, 2023
Updated: Oct 2, 2024

Key Takeaways

An online master’s in information technology from an accelerated program can help you to reach your career goals much faster than a traditional master’s degree.
The field of IT is projected to have an extremely high job growth rate over the next decade.
An accelerated online master’s in information technology is a flexible and convenient way for busy working professionals to continue their education while maintaining their job and managing family life.

Table of Contents

Fastest Online Master's in Information Technology Degree Programs in 2025

Syracuse University
Florida State University
University of Cincinnati
Virginia Tech
Loyola University Chicago
University of South Florida
Pace University
University of Alabama in Huntsville
Ball State University
+1
New Jersey Institute of Technology
–1

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the top ten schools in our ranking of the fastest online master’s in information technology remained largely stable. Ball State University was able to gain a ranking position as the university enhanced its online learning platform with advanced tools like virtual labs and real-time collaboration spaces, allowing IT students to engage in hands-on learning remotely. Additionally, Ball State has expanded its cybersecurity and data analytics specializations, providing students with cutting-edge coursework on emerging technologies and security practices. The program also offers virtual networking events and partnerships with tech companies to help students connect with industry leaders and gain practical experience in the field. These updates ensure that online IT students receive a dynamic, career-focused education.

team of information technology professionals working in an office

Best Accelerated Online Master’s Programs in Information Technology

Career Outlook for Students with Information Technology Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Information Technology

Degree Level: Master's

Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
Avg. Cost of Degree*: $12,219
Avg. Expenses*: $18,255
Avg. Starting Salary*: $95,225
Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 4 years
Job Growth: 17.94%
Number of Jobs: 3,697,200
* denotes ‘annually’
** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

Career	Job Growth	Avg. Salary
Computer and Information Systems Managers	17.42%	$169,510
Computer and Information Research Scientists	25.68%	$145,080
Database Architects	10.75%	$134,700
Software Developers	17.94%	$132,270
Computer Network Architects	13.44%	$129,840
Information Security Analysts	32.71%	$120,360
Data Scientists	36.03%	$108,020
Computer Occupations, All Other	10.85%	$104,920
Computer Systems Analysts	10.72%	$103,800
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers	11.80%	$101,800

Top Industries

Industry	Avg. Salary
Computer and Information Systems Managers	$169,510
Computer and Information Research Scientists	$145,080
Database Architects	$134,700
Software Developers	$132,270
Computer Network Architects	$129,840
Information Security Analysts	$120,360
Data Scientists	$108,020
Computer Occupations, All Other	$104,920
Computer Systems Analysts	$103,800
Software Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers	$101,800

Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.

IT professional sitting in front of a computer

The best accelerated online master’s in information technology programs enable graduate students to gain advanced knowledge and skills in the information technology field within a shorter period. Instead of the two years or more to complete a traditional master’s degree program, these accelerated programs allow students to earn it in 12-18 months, on average.

But due to the shorter time-to-completion, online master’s in information technology accelerated programs have a faster pace in their coursework—and the faster the pace, the greater the demands on your time, energy, and effort to keep up with the online courses. Prospective students should consider the rigorous demands of accelerated programs before enrolling, particularly for working professionals who must balance personal and professional obligations.

Programs offered online usually have the same admission requirements as on-campus programs. The most common are a bachelor’s degree in computer science, information technology, or similar field with a minimum GPA; a professional resume; letters of recommendation; and official transcripts.

Standardized test scores (GRE/GMAT) may or may not be required—and if these are required, acceptable scores and dates of issuance are clearly stated. Waivers may also be offered.

Once admitted into an accelerated online master’s program in IT, students complete online courses in topics that include:

Introduction to Information Technology: Covers an overview of the information technology field, from its history and present trends to its future direction.
Database Management Systems: a course where students learn information technology concepts as it applies to storing and managing data.
Data Analytics and Business Intelligence: Tackles data analysis and data visualization as well as their uses in informed decision-making.
Software Development and Programming: Deals with the principles and practices related to software development and engineering.
Network Administration and Cloud Computing: Covers topics related to computer networks management, including cloud-based services and technologies.
Information Technology Project Management: covers topics in the project management cycle, including strategic planning and budgeting.

Aside from the required and core courses above, online master’s programs also offer their students the opportunity to tailor their learning experiences through electives and gain a specialized perspective through concentrations.

Depending on the online master’s program, students must complete a master’s thesis (a theoretical research-centric formal paper) or a capstone project (an application-based proposal).

Key Points: The best accelerated online master’s in IT offer the same quality as traditional degree programs. It goes without saying that it’s crucial to understand the specific degree requirements of every online information technology degree program you’re considering before applying.

All the time, energy, and money spent on earning a graduate degree is well worth it, too. Professionals with accelerated information technology degrees are highly sought-after by employers in diverse sectors, from the information technology industry to business, government, and nonprofits.

Methodology

The accelerated online master’s in information technology programs featured here were selected based on our methodology, which includes:

Accreditation. These programs are regionally accredited colleges and universities, meaning their degree programs meet academic standards set by the US Department of Education and the regional accreditation agencies. Examples of the latter include the NECHE-New England Commission of Higher Education and the SACSCOC-Southern Association of Colleges & Schools Commission on Colleges.
Curriculum. These programs have online courses and other academic requirements that ensure students gain technical skills in information technology and develop transferable skills that make them suitable for leadership positions.
Learning Format. These programs offer flexible schedules despite their full-time enrollment requirement, which fit in with the busy schedules of working professionals.
Learning Platform and Technology. These programs have user-friendly, interactive, and intuitive learning management systems.
Faculty Credentials. These programs feature professors with doctoral degrees, professional work experiences and certifications that make them suitable for teaching advanced topics in information technology.
Student Support Services. These programs offer online students library services, tech support and help desk, writing services, financial aid services, and career development services that contribute to their success in and out of the classroom.
Reasonable Tuition and Financial Aid. These programs make earning a graduate degree more accessible through scholarships, grants, and other financial aid forms.

Key Point: When choosing among these accelerated online master’s programs in information technology, you must consider your personal and professional goals. Then determine whether the program you’re considering aligns with your goals, such as the specific area you’re most interested in (e.g., data analytics or network administration).

It may be helpful to talk to current students, graduates, and admissions counselors.

Why should I get my master’s in information technology degree online?

Online accelerated master’s in information technology programs offer numerous benefits for traditional and non-traditional students, including working professionals. Here are some compelling reasons for pursuing a master’s degree in information technology via online programs.

Flexibility and Convenience

Students in online master’s programs can study in any location, whether from the comfort of their homes or the beach, thanks to Internet connectivity. For as long as there’s a fast and stable Internet connection, you can attend synchronous online classes, access learning materials in asynchronous courses, and participate in discussions, forums and threads on your computer. You can achieve a better work-life balance while still meeting your academic responsibilities!

There’s also no physical relocation required to be in or near the campus. This is of particular benefit for working professionals and out-of-state students, not to mention that it results in significant savings on travel and incidental expenses.

Diverse Program Options

Many accelerated master’s degree programs accept international and domestic degree students and, thus, allow them to choose from several specializations. Since online programs are offered to both in-state and out-of-state students, you can choose from several degree programs that align with your circumstances and professional goals.

Customized Learning Pace

Due to the asynchronous learning format, students can access their learning materials, including recorded lectures, assignments and discussions, at their own pace. You can speed up or slow down your pace depending on your level of understanding and completion of the requirements. But remember that with accelerated programs, students must exercise effective time management, as well as organizational and multitasking skills to keep up with the fast-paced coursework.

Personalized Student Support Services

Many online master’s degree programs offer their students personalized student support services from admission to graduation. These include admissions counselors, financial aid counselors, one-on-one mentorship, and virtual advising and writing services. Students can even access some of these student support services on a 24/7 basis!

Cost Effective and Efficient Education

The tuition and fees for many of the best programs offered online are similar to those of on-campus programs. Online students are also eligible for most if not all, financial aid options offered to their on-campus counterparts. Students can also save on room and board, campus fees, and travel expenses associated with attending on-campus programs. The bottom line: Earning an online information technology degree can be both cost-effective and efficient!

Key Points: Just like earning an on-campus master’s degree in information technology, an online information technology degree also results in these benefits:

Access to networking and career development opportunities
Career advancement opportunities, including competitiveness for leadership positions
Advanced skills development

Indeed, the benefits of being an online student in a master’s in information technology degree program start from admission and don’t end with graduation!

team of hardware specialists working in information technology

What can I do with a master’s in information technology degree?

IT professionals are in high demand across diverse industries—after all, nearly every organization hires information technology professionals in one capacity or another to achieve its organizational goals!

The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts a 15% growth rate in overall employment for computer and information technology occupations (2021-2031). That means that about 418,500 new job openings are expected each year. Professionals in these occupations earn more than twice the median annual wage for all occupations ($45,760).

Indeed, graduates of online accelerated master’s in information technology programs possess competitive credentials for leadership positions in computer and information technology occupations! Here are a few of the career paths that you may consider with a graduate information technology degree:

Chief Information Officers

When a master’s degree in information technology is complemented by extensive experience and leadership skills, it’s an excellent pathway toward C-suite positions, the highest in the industry being a chief information officer.

Information Technology Managers and Directors

These IT professionals are exceptionally adept at information technology management, including software development, cybersecurity, database management, and network administration.

Software Developers and Engineers

The design, development and management of software applications and systems for businesses and organizations are the primary duties of software developers and engineers.

Data Scientists and Analysts

Data scientists and analysts contribute to effective data-driven decision-making in businesses and other organizations by extracting valuable insights from large datasets.

Information Security Analysts and Managers

These information technology professionals protect information systems within an organization from cybersecurity threats and, thus, ensure their privacy compliance and data security.

Database Administrators

By ensuring data performance, integrity, and security, database administrators are among the most in-demand IT professionals in the 21st century.

Information Systems Auditors

These IT professionals evaluate and audit the information technology infrastructure of organizations to determine their compliance with regulatory requirements and industry standards.

Cloud Solutions Architects

The design, development, and management of cloud-based infrastructures that allow organizations to leverage a wide range of cloud services are among the responsibilities of cloud solutions architects.

Network Administrators and Engineers

These IT professionals manage the network infrastructures of organizations and ensure their smooth connectivity and communication.

Business Intelligence Analysts and Consultants

The analysis and visualization of data that result in actionable insights for data-driven business decisions make the work of business intelligence analysts and consultants exciting.

Key Point: Not only does an online master’s in IT lead to numerous career opportunities with a higher than average median salary, the projected job growth rate also means that more and more job openings will be available each year.

Is an accelerated online information technology masters degree worth it?

Whether an online master of information technology degree is worth it or not rests in your hands! When deciding whether to pursue a graduate degree, you must consider your unique personal circumstances and professional goals.

But considering these benefits that can make a master’s in information technology degree worth it, you will likely agree how valuable they are.

First, it will increase your professional credibility and marketability for leadership positions. With career advancement—think promotions and the like—you will enjoy higher compensation and better quality of life. The return on investment is fast and high, too.

Second, it’s a guaranteed pathway toward advanced skills development in a wide range of areas in information technology. You can specialize in data science, network administration, or cybersecurity, among other choices. Your niche expertise is an edge in a competitive industry.

Third, it’s a surefire way of being an in-demand professional in the IT industry. Think of the networking opportunities and the updated skill sets that you will acquire during and after you’ve completed a master’s degree program.

In conclusion, working professionals who want to take advantage of career advancement opportunities or want to switch careers should consider earning a master’s degree in information technology because of these reasons.

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Fastest Accelerated Online Master’s of Information Technology 2025

Key Takeaways

Fastest Online Master's in Information Technology Degree Programs in 2025

2025 Ranking Update

Best Accelerated Online Master’s Programs in Information Technology

Last Year’s Ranking:

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at Syracuse University

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at Florida State University

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at University of Cincinnati

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at Virginia Tech

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at Loyola University Chicago

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at University of South Florida

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at Pace University

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at University of Alabama in Huntsville

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at Ball State University

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Information Technology degree at New Jersey Institute of Technology

Most Influential Alumni

Career Outlook for Students with Information Technology Degree

Information Technology

Degree Level: Master's

Career Salaries

Top Industries

Methodology

Why should I get my master’s in information technology degree online?

Flexibility and Convenience

Diverse Program Options

Customized Learning Pace

Personalized Student Support Services

Cost Effective and Efficient Education

What can I do with a master’s in information technology degree?

Chief Information Officers

Information Technology Managers and Directors

Software Developers and Engineers

Data Scientists and Analysts

Information Security Analysts and Managers

Database Administrators

Information Systems Auditors

Cloud Solutions Architects

Network Administrators and Engineers

Business Intelligence Analysts and Consultants

Is an accelerated online information technology masters degree worth it?