The best information technology bachelor’s degree programs will instill the IT skills you need to thrive in many industries. These careers come with impressive salaries and a strong job outlook. If you want to learn about cutting-edge technology, keep reading to learn about the best information technology bachelor’s degrees.
Bachelor’s Degrees in Information Technology cover some of the most in-demand skills and will prepare you for roles like software developer or network architect. In this comprehensive list of the best Bachelor’s Degrees in Information Technology, you will find information about tuition rates, program requirements, and descriptions of information technology careers.
What Is Information Technology?
Information technology is the use of computer technology, telecommunications, and other devices to create, process, store, and exchange electronic data. It is used for day-to-day business operations and the processing and distribution of data. IT specialists design, develop, and maintain computer software, systems, and networks.
Where Can I Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
The best colleges where you can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology include Cornell University, Florida State University, University of Michigan, and New Jersey Institute of Technology.
What Schools Offer the Best Information Technology Bachelor’s Degrees?
- Cornell University
- Florida State University
- University of Michigan
- New Jersey Institute of Technology
- Kennesaw State University
What Are the Admission Requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
The most common Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology requirements include a high school GPA of at least 2.5, transcripts, essays, and standardized test scores. These will vary depending on the program you choose. The requirements for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology may also include a school report or a letter of recommendation.
Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Admission Requirements
- High school diploma
- Official transcripts
- 1 – 3 letters of recommendation
- Completion of an essay question
- SAT or ACT scores
How to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology
You can get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology by earning at least 120 credits and meeting any other graduation requirements stated by your chosen school. You will usually have to complete a certain number of electives and general education courses in addition to core courses. Some programs also require a capstone project.
How Many Credits Do You Need for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
You usually need around 120 credits for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. This takes most students four years to complete, assuming they take 15 credits per semester. Some universities offer accelerated options, allowing students to complete their degrees in less time.
Information Technology Degree Requirements
- GPA of at least 2.0
- Completion of a capstone project
- 40 – 50 core credits
- 30 – 50 general education credits
- 40 – 50 elective credits
Best Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Bellevue University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems |
Higher Learning Commission |
| Brigham Young University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Cyber Security | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU) |
| Cornell University | Bachelor of Science in Information Science, Systems, and Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Florida State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Keiser University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Kennesaw State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET |
| New Jersey Institute of Technology | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| New York University | Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| University of Central Florida | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| University of Michigan | Bachelor of Science in Information | Higher Learning Commission |
Best Schools for Information Technology: Top Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The top information technology bachelor’s degree programs can give you everything you need to start a successful career in tech. The list below contains a detailed description of the best schools for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology and how to get admitted.
Best Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview
| School | Program | Accreditation |
|---|---|---|
| Arizona State University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Colorado State University Global | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Liberty University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
| Peirce College | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Penn State World Campus | Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology |
Middle States Commission on Higher Education |
| Purdue University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Computing Accreditation Commission of ABET |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | New England Commission of Higher Education |
| University of Phoenix | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Higher Learning Commission |
| Western Governors University | Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities |
| Western Kentucky University | Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology | Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges |
Best Colleges for Information Technology: Top Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
Some people have jobs and busy schedules, but they still want to earn a degree. Getting an online degree is becoming a more popular option, so we’ve gathered some of the best schools and online IT programs to earn an online Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. Below is a brief description of the schools and their programs.
What Is an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
An information technology bachelor’s degree is a degree program that prepares students for a career as IT specialists. The program typically takes three to five years depending on the school and the learning format. Required classes in this degree focus on software systems, databases, and networking systems.
Someone with a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology can work in business organizations, schools, healthcare facilities, government, and financial institutions. Some subjects covered in a typical IT bachelor’s degree curriculum include software engineering, software development, web design, programming, networking, and computer systems.
How Important Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
Getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology is very important. The main reason why an information technology bachelor’s degree is important is the fact that most employers in the tech field prefer candidates with this qualification. A bachelor’s degree program will provide a comprehensive education in all the subjects you need to land entry-level and mid-level IT jobs.
What Types of Bachelor’s Degree Can You Get in Information Technology?
You can get the following types of bachelor’s degrees for information technology:
- Bachelor of Science
- Bachelor of Arts
A Bachelor of Science has a greater focus on math and science, so it is the better choice for most tech roles. However, both types of Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology can set you up for a successful career.
Is It Better to Get a Bachelor of Science or a Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology?
It is better to get a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology if you are hoping to work in the technology sector. A Bachelor of Arts has a greater focus on humanities, while a Bachelor of science prioritizes math and science. As information technology is a highly technical field, you will need strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
What Is the Difference Between an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree and an Information Technology Certificate?
The main difference between an information technology bachelor’s degree and a certificate in information technology is that a certificate requires fewer credits and less of a time commitment to earn. Another main difference between a certificate and a bachelor’s degree is that a certificate program will be much more affordable.
If you are wondering whether to get a bachelor’s degree or certificate in information technology, remember that a degree will be much more useful in helping you start a career. A certificate program can help you upskill or further your career prospects.
How Much Does It Cost to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
An information technology bachelor’s degree costs an average of $28,775, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. This cost includes tuition plus room and board. The average annual cost of a public institution is $21,035, while private institutions are $45,932. You can often lower your Bachelor’s in Information Technology cost of tuition by attending an in-state school.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
It takes an average of four years to get an information technology bachelor’s degree. Most programs will require you to complete around 120 credits. Your Bachelor’s in Information Technology length will depend on how many credits you take every semester and whether you attend a school that offers accelerated options.
How Hard Is It to Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
Getting an information technology bachelor’s degree is hard and requires a long-term commitment. The courses can be very technical and require students to develop impressive critical-thinking skills. While bachelor’s degree programs are generally open to beginners, if you don’t have a computer science or mathematical background, you may find that getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology is hard.
Why Should You Get an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
The benefits of a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology include access to well-paying tech careers and the chance to further your education with a master’s degree. Most employers in the IT field look for applicants with at least a bachelor’s degree. In addition, your in-demand skill will be applicable in several fields.
What Courses Do You Need to Take in a Bachelor’s Degree Program in Information Technology?
The required Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology courses cover subjects like programming, data structures, and computer systems. You may also take general education courses in a Bachelor’s in Information Technology program. Below are a few examples of some classes you might see in your degree program.
Information Systems Fundamentals
Most IT bachelor’s degree programs will start off with introductory courses like this one. Students will learn the basics of database management, systems development, and networking. You may also learn about the role of information systems in business practices.
Programming for Information Technology
Many roles in the IT field will require you to know at least one programming language. Students in this type of course will learn about data structures and sorting and searching techniques as they familiarize themselves with at least one object oriented programming language.
Information Technology and Cyber Security
Developing strong cyber security skills is essential for anyone working with information systems. You will likely see at least one course dealing with cyber security on your Bachelor’s in Information Technology course list. You will learn how to locate vulnerabilities and protect data from cyber attacks.
Data and Information Management
This course will provide students with hands-on experience developing database systems. You will learn about relational and dimensional modeling, SQL, NoSQL models, and application development.
Systems Integration
This course will cover common issues that occur when implementing and integrating computer systems. You will likely learn about Network Operating Systems (NOS), cross-servers, database integration, and communications security.
Continuing Education Paths for Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
The best continuing education path to take with an information technology bachelor’s degree after you graduate is to go on to earn a Master’s Degree in Information Technology. This can help you land advanced roles in the field. You can also further your career by earning professional certificates like the Google Certified Professional Cloud Architect certificate.
Related Information Technology Degrees
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What to Look For in the Best Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs
The best information technology bachelor’s degree programs cover all the technical skills you will need to get hired. With so many options, it can be difficult to identify the best program for your needs. If you’re wondering what to look for in a college for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology, take a look at our list of important criteria to consider below.
Cost
Attending any bachelor’s degree program can be a costly decision. Keep in mind that more expensive programs aren’t necessarily better. You can save money by attending an in-state school or earning an associate degree first and transferring your credits to your four-year university.
Accelerated Options
If you are eager to graduate quickly and enter the job market, consider attending a school that can help you earn your degree in less time. Some online programs offer a self-paced method, which allows you to graduate as quickly as you can master the course content.
Curricular Content
During your school search, you might want to read through the required courses to make sure they cover all the skills you are looking to learn. You should also read through the available electives and choose a school with curricular content that interests you.
Concentration Options
If you already know what career path you want to follow, choosing a school with concentration options can help you better prepare for your chosen role. You might be able to concentrate in areas like data analytics, cyber security, or database administration.
Barriers to Admission
Some programs have extensive requirements for prospective students, including a high GPA, impressive SAT or ACT scores, and letters of recommendation. Before you apply for a school, make sure you fit their criteria.
What Is the Most Affordable Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
The most affordable Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology on our list is Kennesaw State University. Credits at Kennesaw State University are only $185 for in-state students. Other affordable options include Florida State University and the University of Central Florida.
Salary and Job Outlook for Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Graduates
On average, information technology bachelor’s degree jobs come with impressive salaries and benefits. IT professionals can work in a wide range of roles, including software developer, computer programmer, and network architect. In this section, we will cover Bachelor’s in Information Technology salary information, job outlooks, and job descriptions.
How Hard Is It to Get a Job With an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
It is not usually hard to get a job with an information technology bachelor’s degree. The technical skills and soft skills you will learn are extremely in-demand. They are also highly transferable, so you can make career changes in the future if you choose to.
What’s the Average Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Salary?
The average salary of an information technology bachelor’s degree graduate is $73,000, according to PayScale. However, keep in mind that your salary will differ depending on your job title, location, and level of experience.
What Types of Jobs Can You Get With an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree?
The jobs you can get with an information technology bachelor’s degree include information security analyst and database administrator. Some of the highest-paying information security jobs for bachelor’s degree holders include information systems manager and computer network architect.
Information Technology Degree Jobs
- Information security analyst
- Database administrator
- Computer information systems manager
- Computer network architect
- Software developer
Potential Careers With an Information Technology Degree
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How Much Money Can You Make With a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
You can make between $62,000 and $159,000 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology. Information technology majors generally land well-paying jobs after graduation. You can always increase your annual wage by earning professional certifications and gaining a few years of relevant experience.
Highest-Paying Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview
| Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs | Average Salary |
|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Manager | $159,010 |
| Computer Network Architect | $120,520 |
| Software Developer | $110,140 |
| Information Security Analyst | $102,600 |
| Computer Systems Analyst | $99,270 |
| Database Administrator | $98,860 |
| Computer Programmer | $93,000 |
| Forensic Computer Analyst | $74,798 |
| Information Technology Business Analyst | $70,661 |
| Data Analyst | $62,951 |
Best Jobs for Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Grads
The best jobs for a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Systems graduate will help you gain real-world experience and practice your new skills. Keep reading for more information about some of the best jobs with an information technology bachelor’s degree.
Best Jobs According to Your Major
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Information Technology Bootcamp vs Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?
A Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology is better than an IT bootcamp if you want to start a tech career. Ultimately the right educational path for you depends on your resources, background knowledge, and career goals. Some companies place a higher value on bachelor’s degree holders, however, many employers prefer bootcamp graduates as they seem to have more hands-on experience.
A coding bootcamp may be worth it for you if you are hoping to gain job-specific skills in a short period of time. Bootcamps are becoming more popular in recent years, partly because they’re less expensive than a university. The section below includes the benefits of an information technology degree vs bootcamp, so you can judge for yourself.
Benefits of an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree
- Career diversity. A Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology allows you to explore different career paths as you aren’t restricted to a specific skillset.
- High salary. Bachelor’s degrees are generally viewed as more valuable and those with a degree have an advantage when negotiating higher salaries in the job market.
- Career growth. People with bachelor’s degrees can pursue promotions by going on to earn more advanced degrees that employers value.
- Networking. Attending college means you’ll be in contact with professors and experts in the field who could write you a letter of recommendation for your dream entry-level job.
- Employability. If you can list a bachelor’s degree on your resume, you might find yourself ahead of the competition because traditional degrees are respected credentials.
Benefits of an Information Technology Bootcamp
- Hands-on experience. Coding bootcamps teach students using a hands-on approach, which gives students the real-life experience they need to get a job.
- In-demand skills. Bootcamps focus specifically on the technical skills that are in high demand and build their curriculum based on what will get students hired.
- Fast-paced. IT bootcamps are fast-paced and can be completed in a short time, typically between three and nine months.
- Flexible. The online programs of IT bootcamps are generally more flexible than four-year colleges. They offer on-demand learning formats that still allow full-time students to work if they wish.
- Affordable. Coding bootcamps are more affordable than colleges, and they offer financing options like private loans. Prospective students can check out tuition discounts that are often available as well.
Is a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology Worth It?
Yes, a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology is worth it if you want to start a career in one of the technology fields. A degree in information technology encourages you to explore different careers in tech and increases your employability. Many employers place a high value on college degrees, which may be an advantage in the job market.
IT careers are in high demand, come with high salaries, and have high job growth rates, which makes getting a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology worth it. With the right certifications, work experience, or an advanced degree, you’ll be in a good spot to land high-profile jobs with a higher salary and better benefits.
Additional Reading About Information Technology
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Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree FAQ
Some of the best bachelor’s degrees for a job in information technology include a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Information Technology, or Information Systems.
A degree in information technology is better if you want to work with hardware. A degree in computer science will place a larger emphasis on software. However, neither field offers better opportunities than the other, so the answer depends on your individual interests.
Usually, there are no prerequisites or degrees needed for a Bachelor’s in Information Technology degree besides a high school diploma. However, some schools may ask that you have an information technology associate degree or transferable credits in IT or related fields to be accepted.
Some information technology occupations that are in high demand right now are software developer, data scientist, full stack developer, big data engineer, cloud architect, data analyst, and artificial intelligence engineer.
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.
