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2023 Best Online IT Degrees

By OnlineU Staff Writers | Updated 10/16/2023
2023 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Information Technology Badge

The speed at which technology moves creates a never-ending need for professionals adept at creating, managing, and protecting an organization’s valuable — and vulnerable — technological infrastructure. We’ve identified the best online bachelor’s degrees in information technology (IT) by Salary Score so students can compare the alumni salaries from different online programs. If you are most concerned about keeping costs low, check out our list of affordable online IT degrees instead.

View our methodology for more details about our list, or learn more about OnlineU. Those looking ahead toward graduate school may also want to explore our curated list of online master’s degrees in IT.  

2023 Best Online Bachelor's Degrees in Information Technology Badge
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#1 Capella University

  • Salary Score: 99
  • Median Starting Salary: $78,621
  • Locations: Minneapolis (MN)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Capella University is a private, for-profit institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. Program specializations include General IT, Data Analytics, Data Management, Information Assurance and Cybersecurity, Cisco Network Technology, Microsoft Network Technology, and Software Development. Graduation requires completing 180 quarter credit hours, which may take full-time students up to four years unless they transfer previously earned credits. Some specializations may be eligible for completion through Capella's self-paced Flex Path program. Since Capella has a 100% acceptance rate, the graduate rate is slightly low at 16%.

Capella uses Blackboard to deliver curricula to online students, including those in the information technology program. These students enroll in courses such as Network Architecture, Data Distribution and Virtualization, Data Quality Management, and Computer Forensics — depending on their specialty and career goals. They must also complete a capstone project in order to graduate.

#2 Drexel University

  • Salary Score: 98
  • Median Starting Salary: $75,431
  • Locations: Philadelphia (PA)
  • Accreditation: MSCHE

Drexel University is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Computing and Security Technology, with concentrations in Computing Security and Computing Technology. To graduate, students must complete 185 credit hours of coursework. Drexel schedules classes throughout four 10-week terms per year, enabling some to complete programs more quickly than others. Drexel accepts 77% of applicants, and 68% of students graduate with degrees.

Drexel's Blackboard learning management system (LMS) enables distance learners to access coursework and instruction virtually. Those enrolled in the bachelor's in IT program may choose from classes such as Social Aspects of Information Systems, Discrete Computational Structures, Database Management Systems, and Network Administration. Students must also complete a senior project to graduate. Alums often choose careers as information security analysts, web developers, and software developers.

#3 Pennsylvania State University

  • Salary Score: 87
  • Median Starting Salary: $65,214
  • Locations: State College (PA)
  • Accreditation: MSCHE

Pennsylvania State University (Penn State) is a public institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology through its World Campus, with two 24-credit degree options: (1) Design and Development and (2) Integration and Application. Graduating requires completing 125 semester credit hours, which takes full-time students at least four years. Penn State has a 78% acceptance rate and a 71% graduation rate.

Penn State's distance learners access online classes via the Canvas LMS. Courses within the IT program include Distributed-Object Computing, Usability Engineering, IT Project Management, and Fundamentals of Systems and Enterprise Integrations, depending on the option chosen. Alums often find career opportunities in various industries, such as healthcare, finance, education, and public service. Employers demand up-to-date IT skills to manage and protect systems and data.

#4 Champlain College

  • Salary Score: 87
  • Median Starting Salary: $65,066
  • Locations: Burlington (VT)
  • Accreditation: NECHE

Champlain College is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Computer and Information Systems, which includes concentrations in C++ Programming, Software Development, Web Design, and Web Programming. Students must complete 120 semester credit hours to graduate. Two seven-week terms per semester may enable faster completion than other four-year undergraduate programs, especially if attending full time. Champlain accepts 85% of applicants, and 64% of enrolled students graduate.

Champlain provides access to Canvas for distance learning. Those enrolled in this IT bachelor's program may choose from classes such as Foundations of Cybersecurity, Relational Database Design and SQL, Project Scheduling and Budgeting, and Linux Systems Administration. Additionally, they must complete a senior seminar project to graduate. Graduates may pursue careers as programming analysts, network administrators, business systems analysts, or application developers.

#5 Lindenwood University

  • Salary Score: 85
  • Median Starting Salary: $63,962
  • Locations: Saint Charles (MO)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Lindenwood University is a private, nonprofit institution offering an online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, with concentrations in Application Development and Networking. Full-time students generally complete this 120-credit program in four years. However, those eligible to transfer credits may complete the program as quickly as two years. Lindenwood has a 92% acceptance rate and a 54% graduation rate.

Lindenwood uses the Canvas LMS so that students can access the curriculum online. Distance learners in the IT program take classes — such as Hardware and Operating Systems, Agile Software Development, Fundamentals of User Interface Design, and Applications in Mult-Tiered Web Programming — depending on their areas of interest and career goals. Completing a capstone project is also required. Examples of careers alumni may choose from include database administration, computer programming, and computer network architecture.

#6 American Public University System

  • Salary Score: 84
  • Median Starting Salary: $63,468
  • Locations: Charles Town (WV)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Students at American Public University System (APUS), which is a private, for-profit college, can choose between two information technology online bachelor's programs. The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is the more technical program, featuring courses in programming, networking and computing, web development, data security, and systems development. Enrollees in this program must choose one of four concentrations: general IT, programming, multi-tier architecture, or project management. APUS students can also opt for the Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in information technology management. The curriculum combines common business courses with IT project management and internet courses. Both programs require 120 credit hours.

APUS online students access their courses through Brightspace. The school supports online students with academic advising, career coaching, and more.

#7 Kennesaw State University

  • Salary Score: 82
  • Median Starting Salary: $62,631
  • Locations: Kennesaw (GA)
  • Accreditation: SACS COC

At Kennesaw State University, a public school, students may enroll in an online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. Combining courses in computer science, information systems, and management, the program is focused on three core functions within the IT field — strategy, development, and administration — that support the processes needed to achieve any organization's objectives.

Online learners use the Brightspace learning management system to access their online courses. They can also take advantage of student services such as academic advising, tutoring, library resources, and technical help. Kennesaw State accepts 82% of applicants and graduates 49% of its students.

#8 Arizona State University

  • Salary Score: 71
  • Median Starting Salary: $58,893
  • Locations: Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others)
  • Accreditation: HLC

At Arizona State University (ASU), which is a public institution, students can select one of several online technology bachelor's degrees. The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology takes a multidisciplinary approach to exploring technology. The coursework is designed to help students build technical skills, such as developing viable information technology solutions, managing big data and computer networks, and securing technology assets. Students can also opt for an online Bachelor of Science in Graphic Information Technology with one of two optional concentrations — user experience or full-stack web development. This program focuses on the technical aspects of graphic design by covering topics such as web design and development, UX and UI, and digital media and advertising.

ASU students use the Canvas learning management system to access their online course materials. The school provides career development, counseling, and other services for online students.

#9 Bellevue University

  • Salary Score: 62
  • Median Starting Salary: $56,155
  • Locations: Bellevue (NE)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Bellevue University is a private, non-profit university that offers two online bachelor’s degrees in information technology. One option is a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology. The curriculum covers the installation, configuration, and maintenance of personal computers and operating systems. Additional topics include networks, servers, and cloud environments. The other option is a Bachelor of Science in IT Operations Management, which is better suited for students aspiring to a career in managing an organization's technology systems. Both degrees require the completion of 127 credit hours.

Bellevue delivers its online courses through the Canvas learning management system, and online students have full technical support.

#10 Ferris State University

  • Salary Score: 61
  • Median Starting Salary: $55,898
  • Locations: Big Rapids (MI)
  • Accreditation: HLC

Ferris State University, a publicly run school, offers an online Bachelor of Science in Information Security and Intelligence. This award-winning cybersecurity program was developed in conjunction with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the Pentagon, and other stakeholders. Students learn how to protect critical systems of all sizes and study topics such as digital forensics and ethical hacking. With this degree, graduates are prepared for careers in database administration, data analytics, project management, and more.

Ferris State students use the Canvas learning system to participate in their online classes. The school offers several support services, such as tutoring, a writing center, and academic advising.

2023 Best Online IT Degrees

RankSchool Salary Score Median Starting Salary
# 1 #1 Capella University 99 99 $78,621
# 2 #2 Drexel University 98 $75,431
# 3 #3 Pennsylvania State University 87 $65,214
# 4 #4 Champlain College 87 $65,066
# 5 #5 Lindenwood University 85 $63,962
# 6 #6 American Public University System 84 $63,468
# 7 #7 Kennesaw State University 82 $62,631
# 8 #8 Arizona State University 71 $58,893
# 9 #9 Bellevue University 62 $56,155
# 10 #10 Ferris State University 61 $55,898
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Overview of Online Information Technology Programs

IT includes aspects of data collection and analysis, and it involves working with the physical and digital components that make multiple computing activities possible. Students enrolled in an online IT bachelor's program blend computer science theory with practical technology management so they can learn how to address the multiple technical challenges that arise in the workplace. This highly flexible credential qualifies graduates for many entry-level positions in private industry, nonprofit, and public sectors. An online bachelor’s program also fosters transferable problem-solving, critical thinking, and communication skills.



Students enrolled in an online IT bachelor's program blend computer science theory with practical technology management.


With many colleges and universities offering distance education programs, it's possible to pursue a bachelor’s degree exclusively online. These programs require 120-124 credits, with full-time students completing roughly 40-50 courses over four years. Part-time students, who take fewer courses per semester, tend to take 5-6 years to complete their degree. Applicants typically need a high school diploma or GED, letters of reference, and personal essays to gain admission into an IT bachelor's program. Furthermore, some IT departments expect students to have a minimum B grade in math and science subjects.

What Will I Learn in an IT Degree Program?

An IT bachelor's degree includes classes in humanities and social science subjects, as well as core and elective coursework in computing and STEM areas. Individuals typically learn about different programming languages and may take courses on machine learning, web development, ethical hacking, database system administration, and cloud technologies, to name a few. Most information technology programs expect students to complete a capstone project in their final year in which they must apply their knowledge of IT. Depending on the program, they may need to complete a project, pass an exam, or write a research paper to meet this requirement.

The technical nature of the IT field can give students the opportunity to pick up skills in project management, data analysis, critical thinking, and problem-solving. Furthermore, given that their chosen field is primarily concerned with business computing, students may also spend time learning about various management theories.

Common Courses

Hardware and Operating Systems

Students learn the fundamentals of hardware operation, particularly as it relates to peripherals, such as monitors, printers, external keyboards, and similar items. They also study how operating systems — such as Linux and Windows — are made to work with various kinds of hardware.

Introduction to JavaScript

This course covers how to use JavaScript to build webpages. Students learn programming techniques to enhance the client experience, improve website flow, and develop on-screen animation. Some versions of this course also ground students in other web technologies, such as AJAX.

IT Policy and Law

In this elective class, students learn about the laws and policies regulating IT functions. Covered topics include trademarks, patents, and copyrights. At the end of the course, students should have a grasp of computer ethics, particularly as decisions about professional and social conduct relate to data sharing.

Programming Principles

IT professionals need a foundational understanding of programming. This course teaches students integral concepts in everyday programming activities. Most classes use a simple programming language in labs to convey concepts, which prepares students for more advanced coursework in this subdiscipline.

Software Acquisition and Project Management

Students taking this class gain experience in two essential areas of IT. Specifically, they learn the skills to initiate and implement a software project, including those needed to negotiate with vendors, manage a team, and monitor a project's progress.

Information Technology Concentrations

A vast discipline, IT has various areas of concentration. Many programs, therefore, offer students the chance to focus their core and elective coursework in one or more of these areas so that they can develop specialized knowledge. IT degree concentrations are generally useful for graduates who aim to land a job in a particular area or industry. Below is a list of common concentrations students can choose from at the bachelor's level.

Cybersecurity

The cybersecurity track trains students to respond to various online threats, such as data breaches, misinformation, and viruses. They learn how to use anti-virus software and other network security measures to shore up a business's network, as well as how to identify and preemptively respond to potential cybersecurity attacks. Students may also take classes in ethical hacking and learn about the kind of laws that regulate access to online information. 

Database Management

Students enrolled in the database management concentration gain an understanding of the technologies used to store, protect, and share business information. They learn how to maintain various kinds of hardware, such as servers, and spend time familiarizing themselves with different network administration methods. 

Game Development

The game development track is likely a suitable choice for individuals who wish to gain IT skills that are relevant in the entertainment industry. For instance, aside from learning how to build interactive gaming experiences, students also learn about role-playing, character design, and storytelling. 

Health Informatics

In the health informatics concentration, students focus on the unique informational needs of the healthcare industry. This is a multidisciplinary track in which individuals learn about various legal and medical topics pertaining to the informational rights of patients, while also gaining a foundational understanding of IT concepts in cybersecurity, network architecture, and database management. 

Software Development

Software development is a fundamental IT area that deals with how to design, maintain, and improve computer programs. This track therefore entails a heavy focus on programming languages such as such as C#, Java, or CSS, with students typically gaining experience in machine learning, artificial intelligence, and automation. 

Are you unsure about pursuing information technology? You may also be interested in exploring computer science programs, computer engineering degrees, or cybersecurity programs.

The Importance of Accreditation for Online Schools

Accredited schools have undergone a rigorous evaluation process to prove that they meet established academic standards. Attending an accredited school ensures that students receive a high quality education while enabling them to apply for different types of aid — which are typically only awarded to students who are enrolled at an accredited school or program — and transfer credits from schools accredited at a similar level.

Additionally, professional organizations may evaluate specific degree programs to determine whether they meet educational standards for a specific field. The Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology is the main organization assessing IT degrees. Students should check the U.S. Department of Education or Council of Higher Education websites to check the accreditation status of their prospective schools and IT programs.

Careers With a Degree in Information Technology

Since today's world is largely driven by technology and information, IT is a necessity for businesses and organizations of all sizes. As a result, IT professionals can be found working in nearly every sector of the economy, from business and services to government, healthcare, and education. A bachelor’s degree helps foster essential skills related to maintaining networks, managing databases, and using existing technologies to implement software solutions. Graduates are qualified to land entry-level positions in domains, such as cybersecurity, programming, and web development. After gaining some professional experience, bachelor’s graduates may even take on supervisory or managerial roles.

The following is a list of career options available to IT graduates along, with salary and job outlook data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS): 

Computer Systems Analysts

Median Annual Salary: $102,240
Job Growth: 10%

Computer systems analysts, also known as systems architects, design efficient computer networks. They work with business technology and IT, studying existing computer systems and identifying opportunities to improve functionality. In some cases, these professionals also write training manuals for new systems.

Database Administrators and Architects

Median Annual Salary: $112,120
Job Growth: 8%

Database administrators and architects are responsible for storing and cataloging types of data. They work for a range of organizations, troubleshooting, designing, building, and maintaining databases that hold massive amounts of information, from employee data to business operations. A large part of their job involves ensuring the security of these databases.

Information Security Analysts

Median Annual Salary: $112,000
Job Growth: 32%

Information security analysts protect computer networks by detecting threats from viruses and hackers. They typically predict potential threats by using software to analyze considerable amounts of data. With cyberattacks on the rise, this profession continues to be in high demand while also evolving to become increasingly sophisticated.

Network and Computer Systems Administrators

Median Annual Salary: $90,520
Job Growth: 2%

Network and computer systems administrators oversee the daily operation of computer systems in organizations of all types. They are responsible for installing and maintaining local networks, information systems, and other computing systems. They also regularly provide support to professionals using these systems.

Web Developers and Digital Designers

Median Annual Salary: $80,730
Job Growth: 16%

Web developers and digital designers create and maintain websites. Typically possessing skills in programming and user experience, these developers are responsible for a website’s visual representation as well as its technical aspects, such as performance and capacity. Many of these professionals work as freelancers, serving individual client or organizational needs on short-term projects.

Explore our career finder tool to see where other popular programs can lead you on your career path.

Certifications in Information Technology

IT certifications allow students to develop substantive knowledge and foster skills in disciplines, such as information science, web design, IT management, and software development. Given the fast-paced nature of the IT field, these credentials allow IT professionals to learn new skills and continue advancing their careers. They also help non-IT professionals or those with less experience develop new competencies. As such, certifications can also help demonstrate to employers that an individual has specific expertise and relevant training in IT.

Below is a list of common IT certifications available from Microsoft, Cisco, and CompTIA:

Azure Administrator Associate

The Azure Administration Associate certification is designed to prepare students to work with Azure, Microsoft's cloud computing service. They study how to manage virtual networks, develop storage capacities, and use Azure functions.

Azure Data Engineer Associate

Students gain the Azure Data Engineer Associate certification with the intention of developing critical skills in data management; gaining expertise with data processing, storage, and security; and learning how to optimize these functions in a work environment.

CCNP Security Certification

The CCNP Security Certification is designed to train students in how to become effective security professionals in an online environment. It covers basic concepts related to digital security while allowing students to develop their skills in a particular area of security technology.

CCNP Service Provider Certification

Receiving the CCNP Service Provider Certification illustrates that professionals have a solid understanding of networking and software. Specifically, it shows they have skills to help connect individuals through various digital infrastructures. It also allows students to gain in-depth knowledge of how such networks are built and maintained.

CompTIA A+ Certification

The CompTIA A+ Certification is a credential that covers a range of IT work areas, from managing industry-standard technologies to supporting everyday security needs. Students learn how to work with diverse hardware, such as desktop computers and mobile phones, to carry out basic and complex IT tasks.

Is an Online IT Degree Worth It?

Given that postsecondary education can be a substantial undertaking, you may wonder whether an online IT degree will help you achieve your career goals. Hiring managers typically view an online credential as a legitimate qualification, which may be because distance learning programs have become increasingly common over the last few years. Furthermore, enrolling in an accredited school or program will help ensure you receive an education that meets rigorous academic standards. However, a degree’s worth is partly based on your personal situation and financial circumstances, so it's important to consider these factors before deciding to enroll.



Hiring managers typically view an online credential as a legitimate qualification, which may be because distance learning programs have become increasingly common.


Below are some potential benefits and drawbacks that may help you decide whether an online degree in IT is right for you:

Potential Advantages

  • An IT degree helps foster transferable skills. Working with computers may give you experience with problem-solving, communication, and critical thinking. These soft skills are valuable in professions outside of IT. While certifications or bootcamps can help you land a job, some employers prefer degree holders for more demanding positions with varied responsibilities.

  • The online format is suited to learning IT. Unlike humanities or social science students, who engage in debates and discussions, individuals enrolled in an IT program spend most of their time gaining hands-on experience with different kinds of hardware and software.

  • The job outlook for IT professionals is favorable. For instance, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts computer and IT occupations will increase by much faster than the average for all occupations through 2032, with about 377,500 openings each year. An IT degree can therefore prepare graduates for employment in a growing field.

  • IT professionals report high levels of job satisfaction. According to CompTIA, 74% of workers in this field report being happy with their jobs, with 28% claiming they are extremely satisfied.

Potential Drawbacks

  • An IT bachelor's degree does not provide in-depth training in computer science theory. While they help maintain computer systems in a variety of settings, IT professionals are inexperienced in certain areas, such as software design or coding. Therefore, you shouldn't pursue this degree if your goal is to find work in these areas.

  • An online degree can be challenging to complete. While this format allows you to learn at your own pace, it requires self-motivation and discipline. You may find a distance education program difficult to complete if you prefer a structured learning environment.

  • There are faster ways to get a job in IT. For example, bootcamps take considerably less time to complete than a four-year degree and are specifically designed to develop in-demand computing skills. Many also provide students career placement support. An IT degree may therefore not be a suitable option for individuals interested in quickly securing employment in tech.

  • Advancing in this field may require certification. While a bachelor's degree can provide students with the knowledge necessary to embark on a computing career, the evolving nature of this field means graduates will have to commit time and financial resources in continuing education to remain competitive.

Bottom Line

Many schools offer online IT degrees. These programs allow individuals to complete courses based on their own schedule, and may therefore be suitable for prospective students who work full-time, have family commitments, or other obligations. In most cases, distance learners also pay lower tuition fees and save on campus living costs, making online programs more affordable than traditional ones.

An online IT degree can be a valuable asset for students who hope to enter a technology-driven business world. Aside from giving them the chance to gain in-depth knowledge of computing, this degree may also help graduates develop highly specialized skills in data analytics, cloud computing, and artificial intelligence — abilities that employers are likely to value in the future

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