Information technology (IT) is one of the fastest-growing industries, and earning an Associate Degree in Information Technology can put you on a path to success. As the world continues its shift toward digital technologies, job opportunities are opening up in the tech sector. With the right education through information technology degree programs, you can get the information technology career that you always wanted.
This guide will point you to curricula from various colleges and universities with some of the best information technology associate degrees. Learn more about IT and what makes the field stand out to aspiring technology professionals. You will also discover some of the top job titles you can apply for once you complete one of the best Associate Degrees in Information Technology.
What Is Information Technology?
Information technology (IT) is a discipline that encompasses computers, networks, databases, and computing processes. IT is utilized in business to speed up processes and guarantee a stable exchange of data from one place to another. Information technology also makes it possible for organizations to meet their goals through the improvement of technological processes.
Where Can I Get an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
The best colleges where you can get an Associate Degree in Information Technology are Austin Community College District, Monroe Community College, and Raritan Valley Community College.
When researching where to get an information technology associate degree, check your local community college or a public college or university in your state. Tuition costs are much lower if you choose an in-state school when deciding where to get an Associate Degree in Information Technology.
What Schools Offer the Best Information Technology Associate Degrees?
- Austin Community College District
- Brunswick Community College
- Milwaukee Area Technical College
- Monroe Community College
- Raritan Valley Community College
What Are the Admission Requirements for an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
The admission requirements for an Associate Degree in Information Technology are a high school diploma or GED. Some Associate Degree in Information Technology requirements include a standardized college readiness test, like the ACT or SAT.
There aren’t any required programming languages for an Associate Degree in Information Technology because this is an entry-level degree. You do need to be comfortable with high school-level math. Additionally, all the schools on this list teach courses in English, so you have to speak English fluently.
Information Technology Associate Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Strong grades in school math courses
- ACT or SAT (not all schools)
- English language fluency
How to Get an Associate Degree in Information Technology
You can get an information technology associate degree by attending a two-year accredited associate program that specializes in information technology. You don’t need any special knowledge going into college for an information technology associate degree, but you should have taken common core math, English, and science courses in high school. You should also enjoy working with computers and have an interest in learning how to code.
How Many Credits Do You Need for an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
You need to take around 60 credits for most Associate Degrees in Information Technology, which takes about two years to complete. The exact number of credits you need for an Associate Degree in Information Technology varies with the school and the specialization.
Information Technology Degree Requirements
- Introductory computer science courses
- Specialized computer science courses in programming, hardware, databases, cyber security, networking, and operating systems
- Basic math courses
- Introductory English courses in writing and communication
- Social science or humanities electives
Best Information Technology Associate Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Austin Community College District | Associate of Applied Science in Computer Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Brunswick Community College | Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology, Information Systems Specialization | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Colorado Christian University | Associate of Science in Computer Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| DeVry University | Associate Degree in Information Technology and Networking | Higher Learning Commission |
| Gateway Community and Technical College | Associate in Applied Science in Computer Information Technologies | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges |
| Madison Area Technical College | Associate Degree in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Milwaukee Area Technical College | Associate in Applied Science: IT Computer Support Specialist | Higher Learning Commission |
| Monroe Community College | Associate of Science in Information Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Raritan Valley Community College | Associate of Science in Information Systems and Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of the Potomac | Associate of Science in Information Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
Best Schools for Information Technology: Top Information Technology Associate Degree Programs
The best schools with the top information technology associate degree programs are community colleges and technical schools that offer several specializations within information technology. When looking for the best information technology associate degree programs, look for schools that offer a variety of specializations and have high graduation rates.
Most community colleges and technical schools do offer an Associate Degree in Information Technology, so consider picking one that offers in-state tuition in your state of residence. Many of the best schools for an Associate Degree in Information Technology offer career services to help you get a job after graduation or have transfer agreements with four-year colleges so you can easily transition into a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology.
What Is an Information Technology Associate Degree?
An Associate Degree in Information Technology is an introductory program to help you develop your IT skills for career opportunities in the tech industry. The most common kind of Associate Degree in Information Technology is an associate of science or associate of applied science degree.
An information technology associate degree takes two years to complete, and the curriculum typically tackles programming, network systems, information security, database development, and more. You will also gain hands-on experience working on practical projects.
How Important Is an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
It is very important to have an Associate Degree in Information Technology because it is a common requirement for high-paying, entry-level jobs in tech. You can also transfer credits earned in an information technology associate degree to an information technology bachelor’s degree program when you are ready to advance your tech career.
The main reasons why an information technology associate degree is important are to learn the basics of computer systems, common computer and network issues, and how to solve technological issues in order to prepare you for a rewarding career in tech.
What Types of Associate Degrees Can You Get in Information Technology?
You can get the following types of associate degrees for information technology:
- Associate of Applied Science
- Associate of Science
- Associate of Arts
The most common types of information technology associate degrees are associate of applied science and associate of science. These information technology associate degree types are better because you want the degree to show that you have technical expertise in the field of information technology.
An information technology associate of arts degree will still prepare you for a job in information technology, but it will focus more on soft skills than technical skills.
Is It Better to Get an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) or an Associate of Science (AS) in Information Technology?
It is better to get an AS degree in information technology because the credit hours you earn are usually more transferable if you decide to earn a bachelor’s degree. The difference between an associate degree and a bachelor’s degree is that a bachelor’s degree takes twice as long and covers more subjects in more depth.
The difference between an AS degree in information technology and an AAS degree in information technology is that an AAS degree is typically a terminal degree. An AAS degree in information technology is just as good as an AS for getting you a job because both are two-year, technical programs, but only an AS degree prepares you for further education such as an information technology master’s degree.
What Is the Difference Between an Information Technology Associate Degree and an Information Technology Certificate?
The main difference between an information technology associate degree and a certificate in information technology is that an associate degree is a more in-depth training program than a certificate. You should get an information technology associate degree instead of a certificate because it shows more commitment to your profession and will teach you more skills overall.
If you do choose an information technology certificate instead of an associate degree, remember to look for certificate programs instead of certifications. The difference between a certificate and a certification is that a certificate proves you completed an educational program, while a certification is a type of professional exam you need to pass after you already have experience in your field.
How Much Does It Cost to Get an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
An information technology associate degree costs an average of $16,488, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). A public institution normally costs $15,862, for in-state tuition. As for private schools, non-profit institutions cost $33,270 while for-profit institutions cost $27,246. These figures include living on-campus and miscellaneous expenses.
Information Technology Associate Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Information Technology Degree
You can get financial aid for an Associate Degree in Information Technology from different sources. Most colleges and universities offer scholarships, discounts, and installment plans to help ease expenses. You can also qualify for need-based federal grants and application fee waivers.
It is very common for students to use financial aid to pay for an Associate Degree in Information Technology. NCES reports that 72.2 percent of undergraduate students use some kind of aid to finance their education. Meanwhile, 63.1 percent utilize grants, and 38.7 percent use loans.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Information Technology Associate Degree?
It takes two years to get an Associate Degree in Information Technology. Most information technology associate degrees require 60 credits, and a standard full-time student schedule has around 30 credits a year. There are also accelerated information technology degrees where you can complete an associate degree in only 12 months.
How Hard Is It to Get an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
An Associate Degree in Information Technology is easy to get if you are motivated to finish the two-year program. Information technology associate degrees are easy because there are very few requirements to get in and the classes are designed for beginners. Getting an information technology degree is hard if you find it difficult to learn in a traditional school environment.
Why Should You Get an Information Technology Associate Degree?
The benefits of getting an Associate Degree in Information Technology are:
- Tech career opportunities
- Higher average salary compared to a high school diploma or GED
- Options to use credits from an associate degree for a future bachelor’s degree
The reason for getting a second degree in information technology is to get a more advanced information technology role with a higher salary and more benefits. With an associate of science degree, you can go on to earn a bachelor’s degree and even a master’s degree.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in an Associate Degree Program in Information Technology?
The required courses for information technology associate degrees include a range of computer sciences courses as well as basic math and English courses. Many Associate Degree in Information Technology course lists also include business courses and a class in academic skills.
Introduction to Programming
Introduction to programming courses will introduce you to the fundamentals of how to code. You’ll learn about logic, how to write code, and how to test and debug programs. Depending on the school you will learn different programming languages, such as HTML, CSS, or Java.
Web Design Tools
A web design tools course will teach you best practices for setting up and maintaining websites to provide a smooth and safe user experience. Most courses will have students build functioning websites, so they can practice the tools and processes used to create websites.
Network Design
In a network design course you’ll learn about how to set up and maintain a wireless or wired computer network. Network design courses include information about troubleshooting problems, routine maintenance, and how to use administrative controls.
Cyber Security
All information technology professions use cyber security principles on the job in some way. Cyber security courses will teach you how to use administrative controls to monitor cyber security threats to a computer network and how to store data securely.
Operating Systems
In an operating systems course, you’ll learn what an operating system is and how it functions. Key topics in operating systems courses include file systems, virtual memory, basic security, and multiprocessing.
Continuing Education Paths for Information Technology Associate Degree Graduates
There are a few different paths to take with an information technology associate degree. With an information technology AAS, you can take IT certifications after you have some professional experience. Once you have completed an information technology AS degree, you can get a Bachelor’s Degree or Master’s Degree in Information Technology.
The highest degree you can earn is a PhD in information technology. This degree is for people who are fascinated by the field of information technology and want to research the societal and cultural aspects of information technology.
There are also information technology doctorate degrees. The difference between a doctorate degree vs PhD is that a doctorate degree covers practical applications while PhD candidates research theoretical principles.
Related Information Technology Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Information Technology Associate Degree Programs
The best information technology associate degree programs are invested in their students’ success. You can expect a high standard of academic instruction and student support from the best schools with an information technology associate degree. An Associate Degree in Information Technology will prepare you for a rewarding career in technology, so make sure you choose your school wisely.
Accreditation
Completing an Associate Degree in Information Technology takes time, money, and effort. Only apply to programs that are accredited by a certified accrediting agency to make sure your degree will be considered valid by future employers.
Cost
An information technology associate degree will improve your earning potential, but it isn’t worth going into large amounts of debt for a specific information technology associate degree program.
Choose a school that meets your specifications and that you can afford. Look for public colleges and universities with lower in-state tuition for residents, and make sure you meet the residency requirements.
Graduation Rate
Look for programs with a high graduation rate to ensure you choose a school with good student support. The higher the graduation rate, the better your chances are of completing the program and earning your degree.
Career Services
One goal of earning an Associate Degree in Information Technology is to land a high-paying job after graduation. Schools with strong career services help connect students with jobs. Career services also provide resume and cover letter review services and can help prepare students for job interviews.
Student-Faculty Ratio
Schools with a lower student-faculty ratio have smaller class sizes, and you are more likely to get individualized help from your instructor in a smaller class. At a school with a lower student-faculty ratio, your professors can also get to know you better and will be able to write you a recommendation for a future job or your next degree program.
What Is the Most Affordable Information Technology Associate Degree?
The most affordable Associate Degrees in Information Technology are programs at public colleges and universities with in-state tuition for residents. Look into programs at your local community college, state college, or state university and compare the cost to an out-of-state program. Some states have reduced-tuition agreements with neighboring states, so research programs in neighboring states too.
Salary and Job Outlook for Information Technology Associate Degree Graduates
Information technology associate degree jobs are entry-level tech jobs with high salaries. An Associate Degree in Information Technology will help you earn a higher salary than a high school diploma because you have more skilled training with an associate degree vs a diploma.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Information Technology Associate Degree?
It is easy to get a job with an information technology associate degree because there are many entry-level jobs available in certain information technology fields. However, there are some fields of information technology that have fewer jobs available, and it can be hard to get a job as a computer programmer even with an information technology associate degree.
Consult our list of jobs below to see which fields have the highest projected job growth and the most available jobs for someone with an Associate Degree in Information Technology.
What’s the Average Information Technology Associate Degree Salary?
The average salary for someone with an Associate Degree in Information Technology is about $64,000 per year, according to PayScale. For a systems administrator with an information technology associate degree, the salary ranges from $46,000 to $89,000.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Information Technology Associate Degree?
The jobs you can get with an Information Technology Associate Degree are supportive positions that help other employees use technology effectively. These are good-paying jobs that combine computer science and customer service.
Information Technology Degree Jobs
- Computer Support Specialist
- Computer Systems Analyst
- Computer Technician
- Information Technology Specialist
- Network Support Specialist
Potential Careers With an Information Technology Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With an Associate Degree in Information Technology?
You can make between $55,510 and $99,270 per year with an Associate Degree in Information Technology. The average money that information technology majors make right out of college is on the lower end of the range.
You don’t need a second degree to improve your earning potential with an Associate Degree in Information Technology. With professional certifications, you can upskill and land higher-level positions.
Highest-Paying Information Technology Associate Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Information Technology Associate Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
| Computer Programmer | $93,000 |
| Network Administrator | $80,600 |
| Web Developer | $77,200 |
| Computer Network Support Specialist | $62,760 |
Best Jobs for Information Technology Associate Degree Grads
The best jobs for Information Technology Associate Degree grads are technical support and programming positions. Best information technology jobs with an associate degree involve installing or building new computer systems and making sure that computer systems run smoothly.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Is an Associate Degree in Information Technology Worth It?
Yes, an Associate Degree in Information Technology is worth it if you are looking for a cost-effective education to increase your earning potential. An information technology associate degree can be completed in two years or less and costs less than a bachelor’s degree. With an Associate Degree in Information Technology, you are prepared for most entry-level IT jobs.
The job outlook for information technology jobs is promising. With more job opportunities opening up in the field over the next decade, this is your chance to make sure you’re getting the right education and training to excel in information technology. Getting an information technology associate degree from a school that provides a strong curriculum is worth it to start a promising career in tech.
Additional Reading About Information Technology
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Information Technology Associate Degree FAQ
Yes, with the right training and credentials, you can secure an IT job after completing your associate degree program. The training provided by the curriculum is enough to help you get your foot in the door, setting you up for certifications, internship opportunities, and entry-level positions.
Yes, it is possible to get an information technology associate degree without going into debt. Whatever your financial circumstances, you should fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to see what federal financial aid you qualify for. After that, look for IT scholarships and grants offered by your school and local organizations.
It usually takes four semesters spread over two years to complete an Associate Degree in Information Technology. However, many programs are flexible enough that you can complete them more quickly or more slowly, depending on your circumstances.
Yes, there are many online associate degree programs in information technology. Many schools now offer the option of earning an Associate Degree in Information Technology online, and there are also entirely online colleges that only offer online programs.
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