The cheapest information technology schools offer programs that allow students to earn a degree fast and without incurring too much debt. Having a college degree in information technology will help you get highly-paid jobs like information security analyst and database administrator.
To further ease your financial burden, the cheapest information technology degrees offer scholarships and let you apply for financial aid. In this article, we show you the most affordable information technology schools to get an associate, bachelor’s, or master’s degree.
What Are the Most Affordable Information Technology Schools in the US?
The most affordable information technology (IT) schools in the US are City College of San Francisco, Broward College, and Daytona State College. Yearly in-state tuition at these schools starts at $1,168.
How Much Do the Cheapest Information Technology Schools Cost?
The cheapest information technology schools cost between $1,168 and $27,891 per year. You can earn an associate degree in two years or a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology in four years. There are several other costs besides tuition that must be factored in when budgeting for college, such as housing, transportation, and books.
Cheapest Information Technology Schools Costs Breakdown
- Tuition and fees. The credit hours you must complete to earn the degree is the most expensive cost. Prices differ depending on whether you are in state or out of state, full time or part time.
- Books. Textbooks are expensive, even if you purchase digital editions. Consider buying used textbooks online.
- Student Health Fee. Not all schools require this fee but if they do it is often mandatory.
- Technology Fee. Schools charge this fee for courses that require computer labs, Internet connectivity, or access to the online learning environment.
- Student Activities Fee. Some schools charge access fees for cultural and athletic facilities.
Why You Should Attend an Information Technology School
You should attend an information technology school because a college degree is more highly regarded by employers. It can help you get jobs like network and computer systems administrator or information security analyst. While you work toward your degree, you can participate in an IT project with your peers and establish a professional network.
Best Information Technology School Career Options
By attending an information technology school, you can embark on very exciting and lucrative career paths. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), a graduate with a bachelor’s degree that works as an information security analyst makes $102,600 per year on average. They have a predicted job outlook of 33 percent.
The job outlook for computer and information systems managers from 2020 to 2030 is 11 percent, which is faster than average. It makes sense to launch a career in a booming field like information technology by getting a college degree or enrolling in an IT bootcamp program.
Information Technology Salary
The average annual salary for a network and computer systems administrator is $80,600, or $39 per hour. A computer and information systems manager with professional experience earns a yearly salary of around $159,010. Attending an information technology school opens you up to a myriad of lucrative opportunities.
Can You Attend Information Technology School for Free?
Yes, you can attend information technology school for free if you earn a scholarship that covers your tuition and expenses, like the Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship. These scholarships are available for prospective students who demonstrate high academic performance in their high school studies.
You can also get different types of financial aid from the federal or state government, such as grants and loans. Student loans from the government have to be paid back, often with interest. It is wise to start saving up for college as soon as possible.
Cheapest Information Technology Schools That Won’t Break the Bank
| School | In-State Tuition | Out-of-State Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|---|
| City College of San Francisco | $1,168 | $8,704 | 37% |
| Broward College | $2,830 | $8,952 | 33% |
| Daytona State College | $3,106 | $11,994 | 39% |
| Middle Georgia State University | $4,042 | $11,389 | 22% |
| Western Carolina University | $4,367 | $8,367 | 61% |
| South Texas College | $4,530 | $7,920 | 26% |
| University of Florida | $6,381 | $28,659 | 91% |
| University of North Carolina-Charlotte | $7,188 | $20,622 | 66% |
| California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | $7,439 | $19,319 | 70% |
| Liberty University | $22,713 | $22,713 | 62% |
What Are the Cheapest Information Technology Schools? A Deep Dive
Paying for Information Technology School With Financial Aid
There are several ways to pay for your IT education using financial aid. Federal, state, local, and tribal governments offer loans, grants, and scholarships. There are also private nonprofit institutions that sponsor students with remarkable academic performance and support students experiencing financial hardship.
US Military Scholarships
The US Military offers full scholarships for its active members, veterans, and their families. These scholarships do not have to be paid back. This is one of the best ways to pay for your entire undergraduate and graduate education.
Grants and Scholarships
Government organizations and schools often offer grants and scholarships. They are extremely useful as they do not have to be paid back. They are awarded to students experiencing financial hardship and students with remarkable performance. Nonprofit institutions also offer attractive grants and scholarships.
Federal Loans
Millions of students finance their college education through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) from the federal government. However, these loans have to be paid back in full plus interest. Many students struggle for years to pay back their debt after graduation, so it is wise to consider other options.
Private Loans
When considering private loans to finance your education, keep in mind that your finances can get compromised if you can’t meet your payment obligations after graduation. Be sure to have a sound plan to pay loans on time with the lowest interest rate possible.
Work Study
The Federal Work-Study Program provides part-time jobs for students to pay for their education expenses. Federal Work-Study jobs are available for full-time and part-time students. You can work as a teacher’s assistant or provide support at the athletic facilities.
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How to Apply for Federal Aid to Finance Your Information Technology School Program
To apply for federal aid to finance your information technology school program, you need to first verify for which type of aid you qualify. Here are five steps to apply for federal aid from the federal student aid office.
- Visit the official website of the federal student aid office. Visit StudentAid.gov and carefully read how financial aid works.
- Fill out the FAFSA form. The system will calculate your aid offer once you provide all the requested information.
- Review your aid offer. The offer includes the form of loans, scholarships, and grants available to you.
- Get your aid. Before accepting, carefully consider the consequences of defaulting on your loan.
- Repay your loans. Pay back your loan as soon as possible. Interest starts to accrue from the day your loan is disbursed.
Best Information Technology Scholarships
- (ISC)² Undergraduate Scholarship | Amount: $1,000 – $5,000. This scholarship is for aspiring IT professionals who need help to finance their undergraduate degrees. Twenty scholarships are awarded every term. You will need transcripts, a resume, and a letter of recommendation to apply.
- Generation Google Scholarship | Amount: $10,000. This scholarship is open to American or Canadian students who want to earn a degree in computer science. They must demonstrate a strong academic record as well as financial needs.
- Jack Kent Cooke Foundation College Scholarship | Amount: Up to $55,000 per year. This scholarship is for high-achieving high school graduates with financial needs who aspire to attend and graduate from leading four-year colleges and universities across the country. There are around 3,000 Cooke Scholars.
Cheapest Undergraduate Information Technology Schools
The cheapest undergraduate information technology schools offer very affordable college education for state residents. Ohlone College and the City College of San Francisco charge less than $50 per college credit. In this section, we show you the most affordable IT associate and bachelor’s degrees.
Most Affordable Information Technology Associate Degree Programs
- Ohlone College | Associate of Science in Information Technology | $46/unit (in state); $341/unit (out of state). This associate degree requires students to complete at least 35 to 41 units. Oracle Database Administration and Cloud Security Fundamentals are among the courses offered in its quality curriculum.
- City College of San Francisco | Associate of Science in Computer Networking and Information Technology | $46/unit (in state); $336/unit (out of state). This affordable program offers a cyber security emphasis and can be completed in four semesters. Graduates obtain positions as network administrators and security specialists.
- South Texas College | Cybersecurity Specialist Associate of Applied Science | $77/credit hour (in state); $250/credit hour (out of state). Students can receive this associate degree after completing 60 credits, 12 of which must be completed in residence. Graduates with this degree can work as cyber security specialists and information security analysts.
- Broward College | Associate of Science in Network Systems Technology | $122.90/credit (in state); $243.40/credit (out of state). The 60-credit program is ideal for students interested in learning the technical skills they’ll need to succeed as Microsoft network administrators or Cisco-certified networking professionals.
- Coastline Community College | Associate of Science in Cybersecurity | $210/credit hour (in state); $319/credit hour (out of state). Students can receive this associate degree after completing 60 credits. A minimum of 12 credits must be completed in residence. Graduates with this degree can work as cyber security specialists and information security analysts.
Most Affordable Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
- South Texas College | Bachelor of Applied Technology Degree in Computer and Information Technologies | $77/credit hour (in state); $250/credit hour (out of state). Students learn to solve real-world problems using relevant, technical knowledge of IT methods. They also provide technical support for computer-based information systems. A total of 120 credit hours are required for graduation.
- Broward College | Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology | $122.90/credit hour (in state); $243.40/credit hour (out of state). Students can obtain this 60-credit bachelor’s degree with a prior Associate Degree in IT. They will learn project management, networking with Windows servers, and Excel data analysis.
- Middle Georgia State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | $133/credit hour. This online program offers nine concentrations, including health informatics, data analysis, and financial technology. Students must complete 120 credit hours to graduate.
- Western Carolina University | Bachelor of Science in Business Administration in Computer Information Systems | $1,000/year (in state); $5,000/year (out of state). This curriculum provides students with real-world, hands-on instruction. Many graduates work for commercial and public enterprises and organizations, while others continue their education by attending graduate school.
- California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | $7,438/year (in state); $19,318/year (out of state). Students in this bachelor’s degree have the option of taking electives such as artificial intelligence, database systems, and parallel processing.
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Cheapest Graduate Schools for Information Technology
The cheapest graduate information technology schools allow you to earn a master’s degree or a PhD to deepen your career in IT without breaking the bank. Here we show you the five most affordable schools and graduate programs for information technology.
Most Affordable Schools for Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
- Middle Georgia State University | Master of Science in Information Technology | $113.67/credit hour. This graduate program requires 30 credit hours to complete. Students can pursue courses in cyber security and forensics, as well as critical infrastructure management.
- Liberty University | Master of Science in Information Technology | $565/credit hour. Students develop critical thinking skills to analyze data and learn the real-world application of networking and database management skills. Students can earn this online degree in one and a half years after covering 36 credit hours.
- University of North Carolina-Charlotte | Master of Science in Information Technology | $4,338/year (in state); $18,482/year (out of state). This curriculum provides students with advanced skills and expertise in the planning, design, and administration of information and communication systems. Students must complete 30 credits to graduate.
- California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | Masters of Science in Information Security | $12,112/year (in state); $16,864/year (out of state). This is a degree for those interested in working in IT audits, ethical hacking, or computer forensics. It can be completed in two years by taking 10 courses totaling 30 units.
- University of Florida | Master of Science in Information Systems and Operations Management | $12,744/year (in state); $30,138/year (out of state). The MS-ISOM program offers three tracks of focus that include Information Technology, Supply Chain Management, and Business Intelligence and Analytics. Students require 36 credits to graduate.
Most Affordable PhDs in Information Technology Universities
- Middle Georgia State University | Doctor of Science in Information Technology (DScIT) | $255/credit hour. Students can earn this doctoral degree in just two years after covering 54 credit hours. The broad approach of the core curriculum allows students to construct their own IT path.
- Liberty University | Doctor of Business Administration (DBA) in Information Systems | $565/credit hour. This online doctoral degree focuses on business administration as well as the development and implementation of technological strategies in the workplace. Students graduate after completing 60 credit hours over three years.
- University of North Carolina-Charlotte | Doctor of Philosophy in Computing and Information Systems | $4,338/year (in state); $18,482/year (out of state). With a concentration on computing and informatics, the program educates PhD students in cutting-edge transdisciplinary research with societal implications. Students are required to complete 72 graduate-level credits from upper-division courses to earn this doctoral degree.
- University of Florida | Doctor of Philosophy in Computer Science | $12,744/year (in state); $30,138/year (out of state). This doctoral degree gives students a solid engineering-oriented technical foundation. Its flexible multidisciplinary component helps students improve their communication skills. This hybrid program requires 30 of its 90 credits to be completed on campus.
- Walden University | PhD in Management with Specialization in Information Systems Management | $69,727 for the whole program. Students in this doctoral degree investigate the impact of information technology security and compliance on the management of information systems. Students earn this degree after three years.
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How to Choose a Good and Affordable Information Technology School
To choose a good and affordable information technology school, make sure to consider your career goals, tuition cost, time-to-degree, school reputation, and graduation rate. Calculate how you will allocate time for coursework, homework, and commuting, particularly if you’re also working a job. We highlight key factors to look out for below.
Career Goals
Choose an information technology school that offers an academic outcome that matches your career goals. If you are interested in getting employed as soon as possible, aim for programs geared toward hands-on problem-solving. If you are interested in research, choose a school that offers a smooth transition to earning a higher degree after graduation.
Tuition Cost
Even the most affordable IT degree from low-cost colleges can represent an important financial commitment. Make a plan to ensure you won’t be financially compromised before or after graduation. Online degrees from online colleges often offer the best value as you do not have to pay for transportation or physical books.
Time-to-Degree
When choosing a good and affordable information technology school, make sure the program indicates its time to degree. Some schools offer a guaranteed time-to-degree or an accelerated degree option. Online degrees can be often completed faster than on-campus programs.
School Reputation
Employers prefer graduates from schools with good reputations. However, in the case of information technology jobs, employers are even more concerned with work experience and technical skills. Make sure to participate in an IT project while you earn your degree.
Graduation Rate
Choosing an information technology school with a high graduation rate increases your chances of completing the program and earning your degree. Schools with a high graduation rate often also have a low acceptance rate, so make sure you fulfill the education requirements for admission.
Tips for Saving Money While Attending Information Technology School
- You need a budget. Creating a budget will give you peace of mind and inform you about your capacity for superfluous expenses.
- Don’t use credit cards. Credit cards have high interest rates. When possible, use a debit card or cash to pay your expenses. This also ensures that you will not spend money you do not have.
- Don’t purchase the meal plan. The meal plans from colleges can be more expensive than cooking your own food. Determine a budget for groceries and cook from home.
- Credit-hour bundle. Some schools offer a discount proportional to the number of credit hours you purchase at once.
- Avoid commuting. Keep in mind the cost of commuting when comparing on-campus versus offline courses. If you must commute, see if you can set up a carpool arrangement with a friend.
Cheapest Online Schools for Information Technology
In this section, we show you the cheapest online schools for IT to get a bachelor’s or a master’s degree. Some of these schools include Daytona State College and Broward College. The online degree programs from these schools are great for part-time students and students who will be working while studying.
| School | Tuition | Graduation Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Daytona State College | $91.79/credit hour (in state); $550.43/credit hour (out of state) | 37% |
| Broward College | $122.90/credit hour (in state); $243.40/credit hour (out of state) | 33% |
| University of Florida | $129.18/credit hour (in state); $552.60/credit hour (out of state). | 88% |
| Middle Georgia State University | $131/credit hour | 26% |
| Liberty University | $390/credit hour | 34% |
Most Affordable Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Programs
- Daytona State College | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | $91.79/credit (in state); $550.43/credit (out of state). Graduates from this online program are prepared for technical employment in information systems management and information technology. Students must complete 128 credits to graduate.
- Broward College | Bachelor of Applied Science in Information Technology | $122.90/credit hour (in state); $243.40/credit hour (out of state). Students who already have an Associate’s Degree in Information Technology can continue their education by pursuing this online bachelor’s degree. Graduation requires 60 credit hours.
- University of Florida | Bachelor of Science in Computer Science | $129.18/credit hour (in state); $552.60/credit hour (out of state). This technology program blends a liberal arts background with a computer science education. Students graduate from this online program with 120 credits.
- Middle Georgia State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | $131/credit hour. Students in this 120-credit, online program can choose from nine concentrations. They learn about application development, network essentials, and web development.
- Liberty University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | $390/credit hour. Students learn to recognize, address, and determine technology solutions while working on real-world technology project management. They can earn this online degree in three and a half years after covering 120 credit hours.
Most Affordable Online Information Technology Master’s Programs
- Middle Georgia State University | Master of Science in Information Technology | $255/credit hour. This online graduate program can be completed in two years. Students must complete 30 hours of coursework and can choose from six concentrations. They learn about advanced programming and data structures, digital forensics, and public health informatics.
- Liberty University | Master of Science in Information Systems | $565/credit hour. This online master’s degree can be completed in 36 credit hours. In one and a half years, students learn about data management systems, technology management, and the delivery of digital products.
- Stevenson University | Online Master’s in Digital Transformation and Innovation | $670/credit. In this 36-credit program, students get the management abilities required to innovate and lead teams. They are charged with transforming the information-based processes of organizations.
- Utica University | Master of Science in Cybersecurity | $895/credit. This 30-credit online degree offers specializations in cyber policy, ethical hacking, and malware analysis. Students participate in a two-day online virtual residence before graduating.
- California State Polytechnic University-Pomona | Master of Science in Information Security | $12,112/year (in state); $16,864/year (out of state). This online graduate degree is recommended for those who want to work in IT auditing, information security, or computer forensics. Students can complete the 30-credit program in two years.
Will Attending an Online Information Technology School Save Me Money?
Yes, attending an online information technology school will save you money as you won’t need to pay for transportation services. You can also avoid other campus-related fees like parking permits and access to the library and athletic facilities.
Benefits of Online Information Technology Programs
- No need to commute. You won’t spend time or money on transportation. You only need a computer with Internet access to attend an online information technology school.
- Travel the world. You can be on the go while completing an online information technology program. You do not have to be tied down to one location for the length of your studies.
- Asynchronous learning. Whether you’re an early bird or a night owl, you can study and complete your coursework when you find it most convenient.
- Hold a job. Pursuing a degree while working a job is easier with online programs since they are often designed for part-time students and busy professionals. Having a job also helps lessen the cost of the program.
- Learn online collaboration. The modern workplace requires employees to collaborate online. You will learn to do so while attending an online program.
Highest-Paying Information Technology Careers
| Information Technology Job | Information Technology Degree | Average Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | Bachelor’s degree | $159,010 |
| Software Quality Assurance Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | Bachelor’s degree | $102,600 |
| Database Administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $98,860 |
| Network and Computer Systems Administrator | Bachelor’s degree | $80,600 |
Best Information Technology Jobs Explained
The best information technology school jobs include computer and information systems manager and information security analyst. Entry-level jobs in IT are well paid and employers find candidates that have hands-on experience and technical skills extremely valuable. Below is a detailed breakdown of the best information technology jobs.
Information Technology Schools Ranking Methodology: How We Ranked the Most Affordable Information Technology Schools
We chose the most affordable information technology colleges based on tuition and general costs information from the schools’ official websites, the US Department of Education’s database of accredited schools, and the US Department of Education’s College Scorecard tool.
Additional Reading About Information Technology
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Cheapest Information Technology Schools FAQ
A degree in computer and information systems management is the best IT degree you can get. It will help you access positions like corporate systems manager, systems analyst, and database administrator.
You should get a degree in information technology because the overall job growth is way above the national average. With a degree in information technology, you can land the best tech jobs at information technology companies.
No, you do not need a degree in information technology to work in the field. You can find your path to the top careers in information technology with a bootcamp.
It’s not hard to get an information technology degree. Some of the best information technology bachelor’s degree programs are affordable and available online. You can earn your degree enrolled as a part-time student and obtain financial aid if needed.
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.
