As technology has experienced significant growth over the years, it is no surprise that more students are looking for the best schools for information technology. Getting a degree from the best information technology university can help you stand out from your peers and boost your job prospects.
In this article, we explore some of the best information technology schools and programs available, as well as the types of information technology jobs and their salaries. We dive into curriculum content and rankings to help you determine whether you should consider enrolling in the best information technology colleges.
Best Information Technology College and University Rankings: Top 10 Information Technology Schools at a Glance
| School | State | Formats Available | US News Ranking |
|---|---|---|---|
| Capella University | MN | Online | N/A |
| DeVry University | IL | Online, in-person, hybrid | #119-#157 |
| George Mason University | VA | In-person, online | #148 |
| Liberty University | VA | Online, in-person | #299-#391 |
| Oakland University | MI | In-person | #299-#391 |
| University of Phoenix | AZ | Online, in-person, hybrid | #299-#391 |
| University of the Cumberlands | KY | Online | #299-#391 |
| University of Toledo | OH | In-person | #299-#391 |
| University of Tulsa | OK | In-person | #136 |
| Western Governors University | UT | Online | N/A |
Information Technology School Rankings: Best Information Technology Colleges and Universities
The best information technology colleges and universities are the ones that challenge students, offer diverse courses, and have a great reputation. Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of the ten best schools for information technology, including their accreditation, school ranking, and best programs.
The Best Schools for Information Technology: Types of College Degrees and University Programs Offered
The best programs for information technology include community college certificates, undergraduate degrees, and graduate degrees. We highlight below the best information technology programs at every university and college level.
Comparing Popular Degree Options
[query_class_embed] *degree-vs-*degree
Best Information Technology Schools: Other Information Technology University Rankings
The best information technology schools offer programs in a variety of formats. Below are the top schools in information technology for various degree types and program formats, from distance learning to doctoral degrees. Our information technology university rankings will help you choose the right school for your specific needs.
Best Online Information Technology Schools
- Capella University. If flexibility is what you’re looking for, consider Capella University’s online bachelor’s and graduate programs. It gives students the option to schedule their classes at their own pace.
- University of the Cumberlands. This online information technology school allows students to develop their research skills and become more effective at communicating scientific knowledge.
- Western Governors University. This is an excellent online school for a well-rounded education in information technology with a global perspective on emerging technologies, methodologies, and practices.
Best Community Colleges for Information Technology
- Montgomery County Community College. This school offers a well-rounded education in information technology to help develop your technical, communication, and problem-solving skills. This school accommodates students with an associate degree by allowing them to transfer credits.
- Northern Virginia Community College. This is an excellent option for a solid foundation in essential information technology concepts before choosing between eight areas of focus.
- Tidewater Community College. The school offers a Certificate in Information Systems Technology for prospective students who are interested in network administration, network infrastructure, programming and mobile applications development, and web development.
Best Undergraduate Schools for Information Technology
- DeVry University. What makes DeVry undergraduate programs in information technology special is their relevance to the modern technological landscape.
- University of Toledo. The University of Toledo prepares you for in-demand business and information technology roles. Students are required to take courses in two of the school’s best colleges, namely business and engineering.
- University of Tulsa. An undergraduate information technology degree from the University of Tulsa is comprehensive and offers a strong foundation in IT, STEM, computer science, and cyber security topics.
Best Graduate Schools for Information Technology
- George Mason University. The academic rigor of George Mason University equips graduate students with strong research skills, preparing them for higher-responsibility, senior positions.
- Oakland University. A graduate-level education from Oakland University helps students develop handy skills and gain hands-on experience. Students learn to solve real-world IT challenges.
- Western Governors University. This is the go-to school for a solid MBA in Information Technology Management. The school also has the option to pursue a Master of Science degree if you’re seeking an in-depth approach to relevant IT topics.
Best Information Technology Schools With Dual Degree Programs
- Indiana University | MBA / Master of Science in IT Management. This program allows you to earn an MBA and an MS simultaneously. It combines management knowledge with specialized skills in predictive analytics, data intelligence and visualization, and enterprise systems. Students complete the dual degree in 66 credits instead of 81.
- Lawrence Technological University | Dual Master of Business Administration and Information Technology. This program is for people who have a strong foundation in information technology. It features interdisciplinary projects on topics that are not often covered in traditional programs to give you an edge in the job market.
- Marymount University | Dual Business Administration/Information Technology (MBA/MS). Prospective students will learn to identify and solve information technology challenges using integrative management and technical decision-making tools. The program takes 57 credits to graduate.
Best Schools With Accelerated Information Technology Programs
- Bellevue University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. Bellevue University allows prospective students to complete their information technology degree in 16 months by using military experience or credit transfer to accelerate their degrees.
- DeSales University | Bachelor’s Degree in Management of Information Technology. This accelerated information technology program allows undergraduate students, active-duty members, veterans, and adults to complete their education in 15 months. Students can transfer up to 75 college credits, or earn credit through non-traditional training, work experience, or military training.
- ECPI University | Bachelor’s Degree in Cyber and Information Security Technology. This is the best accelerated information technology program for people who want to gain in-depth cyber security knowledge. It is a full-time program that takes approximately 12 months to complete.
Easy Colleges to Get Into
[query_class_embed] colleges-that-don’t-require-*modifier
Is Graduate School for Information Technology Worth It?
Yes, it is worth going to graduate school for information technology. Earning a master’s or PhD can significantly boost your salary and open up new career opportunities. It prepares you to become an expert in the field and take on more responsible IT roles in organizations.
What Jobs Can You Do With an Information Technology Degree?
The jobs you can do with an information technology degree are network support specialist, network architect, network administrator, computer systems administrator, and database administrator. The best jobs for information technology get you the skills and knowledge needed to impress potential employers and earn high-paying jobs.
How Much Can I Earn With a Degree in Information Technology?
According to PayScale, you can earn between $64,000 and $130,000 annually with a degree in information technology. Your earning potential depends on your level of education, location, work experience, and position. Someone with a PhD in Information Technology and lots of work experience will have a higher salary than someone with a community college certificate.
Highest-Paying Information Technology Careers
| Profession | Minimum Education | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $159,010 |
| Computer Network Architect | Bachelor’s degree | $120,520 |
| Software Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $110,140 |
| Data Scientist | Bachelor’s degree | $108,660 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $99,270 |
| Database Administrator and Architect | Bachelor’s degree | $98,860 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $97,430 |
| Web Developer | Bachelor’s degree | $77,200 |
| Computer Network Support Specialist | Bachelor’s degree | $71,350 |
Best Jobs With an Information Technology Degree
The best jobs with an information technology degree are computer and information systems manager, computer network architect, and software developer. The jobs available to you may differ depending on whether you hold an associate’s, bachelor’s, master’s, or doctoral degree. Below, we have listed the best information technology jobs by degree level.
How Can I Pay for Information Technology School?
You can pay for information technology school through student loans, scholarships, grants, and work-study programs. The last thing you’ll need during your studies is the added stress of paying for school. Read our list below to discover how to pay for information technology school without any financial strain.
- Student Loans. Loans are college payment plans provided by private, federal, and other entities that you need to repay with some interest.
- Scholarships. This is a form of financial aid that covers part or all of your college tuition/fees based on academic merit, financial need, athletic skill, or diversity and inclusion. It might be renewable subject to specific requirements or offered once.
- Grants. These are programs offered by colleges, federal, or state governments to finance your college education. You generally don’t need to repay these.
- Work-study programs. These are federally funded programs that help you pay for college through part-time jobs.
How to Pay for Your Chosen School Education Path
[query_class_embed] how-to-pay-for-*modifier-school
Choosing the Best Information Technology School for You
To choose the best information technology school for you, you should consider its flexibility, tuition cost, and variety of disciplines. These considerations will help you have a less stressful time, allowing you to focus on developing relevant skills and gaining real-world experience for your long-term goals of success in the technology industry.
Flexibility/Format
It’s essential to consider the learning flexibility of your program before choosing an information technology school. Some schools offer in-person and/or online formats, while others offer hybrid formats. Depending on your availability, you should consider which of these options is right for you.
Cost
Attending the best schools for information technology can be pricey. Compare tuition rates with your budget to determine the right school for you. It is a smart idea to review each school’s financial aid options as well.
Specialization
The best Information technology universities offer a wide variety of specializations to cater to students with different career objectives. After deciding on your information technology field of interest, look for a private or public university that offers it. Common information technology specializations include network security, network administration, and database administration.
Accreditation
It is important to choose an accredited school if you do not want to waste your time and money. Employers almost always prefer candidates from accredited schools as it is proof that the skills and knowledge you have acquired are accurate and current.
Dual Degree Options
If you’re studying on a tight schedule or budget, it is wise to choose a school that offers dual degree options. Not only will you complete the programs in less time, but having two degrees enhances your resume and increases your earning potential.
How to Get Into the Right School for Your Profession
[query_class_embed] how-to-get-into-*subject-school
Does It Matter What College I Go to for Information Technology?
Yes, it does matter what college you go to for information technology. Different schools have different academic reputations, employer reputations, and learning formats. Employers are constantly on the lookout for skilled graduates from the best information technology colleges. Attending one of these schools places you at an advantage.
The best schools for information technology offer excellent career services including academic advising and career counseling for a well-rounded education. They also have partner programs with some of the top IT employers to help get a higher annual starting salary.
Information Technology University Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Schools for Information Technology
We ranked the best information technology schools by consulting the university rankings conducted by US News & World Report and Times Higher Education. To further refine our information technology university ranking methodology, we gave special consideration to things like reputation, graduation rate, student-to-faculty ratio, and breadth and depth of information technology degree program offerings.
Additional Reading About Information Technology
[query_class_embed] https://careerkarma.com/blog/types-of-information-technology-jobs/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/top-careers-in-information-technology/ https://careerkarma.com/blog/information-technology-companies/
Best Information Technology Schools FAQ
To apply for an online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, you must first review the application deadline and meet the admission requirements of your desired school. Most schools require you to fill out and submit an online application form, submit your official high school transcripts, and pay an application fee.
Associate and master’s degree programs in information technology usually take one-and-a-half to two years to complete. A bachelor’s takes about four years, while a PhD may take up to seven years to complete. How long it takes you to complete an information technology program depends on the number of credits required and the degree level.
It is not very hard to get an information technology degree. However, prospective students without a strong aptitude for math may find an information technology degree challenging because it relies on mathematical thinking for problem-solving and decision-making.
No, you don’t need a master’s degree to get a job in information technology. The minimum requirement for most IT-related positions is a bachelor’s degree. Many employers also hire technology professionals who have attended the best coding bootcamps. However, if you are considering a senior managerial role, a graduate program such as a master’s degree may boost your prospects.
About us: Career Karma is a platform designed to help job seekers find, research, and connect with job training programs to advance their careers. Learn about the CK publication.
