Best Online Bachelor’s Degrees in Information Technology 2024

It’s difficult to name a single industry that hasn’t been transformed by computing. The age of big data has delivered exciting innovations, but it’s also made modern businesses heavily reliant on networked technologies. As a result, information technology (IT) has become one of computer science’s most critical fields.

If you’re looking for a reliable path to an IT career, an information technology degree is a great place to start. This degree guide profiles IT degrees and provides a ranked list of top online bachelor’s programs.

Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.

A bachelor’s degree in information technology is a four-year program that prepares you for in-demand, high-paying tech careers, such as software developer and information security analyst.

During an IT bachelor’s program, you’ll learn how to protect sensitive data, manage networks, and develop applications and websites.

Coursework blends advanced math and science with fundamental information technology knowledge, including programming languages and network security. You also learn web design, project management, and technology ethics.

Some courses feature a lab component, and many programs require an internship or capstone course. Common courses include:

The cost of a bachelor’s degree varies depending on the school. In general, public institutions charge lower tuition rates than private schools. An online format can also cost less. Some online colleges offer tuition discounts for fully online learners.

At the very least, online students are often exempt from campus-based fees, like athletics fees or parking passes

In addition to tuition costs, consider fees, textbooks, and other expenses. And make sure to research your financial aid options to lower your out-of-pocket costs.

Admission requirements vary by school, but they typically include:

Some schools have open admissions policies, while others are competitive and more selective. Elevated admission standards can benefit you, though: Employers tend to hold such colleges in high regard.

Data Analytics: This concentration prepares students to work with large amounts of data, primarily analyzing and extracting meaning from data sets. Graduates can use data to inform project-related and operational decision-making.

Information Security: Students in this concentration gain expertise in identifying and preventing cybersecurity breaches. They also implement security best practices and ensure that their companies adhere to IT standards.

IT Management: Many graduates with this concentration seek employment as chief information officers who manage IT budgets, network security compliance, and IT strategies, ensuring that everything aligns with the organization’s strategic plan.

Smart Technology: Smart technology refers to devices and systems that interact with and respond to human commands and behaviors. Smart technology professionals often design automated equipment that adapts through machine learning and carries out self-upgrades.

Web Design and Application: This specialization prepares graduates to design and build websites. Some web designers also monitor and find ways to increase traffic to websites.

Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed January 30, 2024.