Why Get a Master's Degree in Information Technology?
The need for qualified IT professionals continues to grow across industries. According to CompTIA, job postings for tech positions increased by more than 22,000 from Dec. 2022 to Jan. 2023. Industries with the most posted IT jobs include professional, scientific, and technical services; finance and insurance; and manufacturing.
A master's degree in information technology provides the knowledge and skills to set you on the path to high-level positions in this growing field. Numerous specializations can direct your education toward the subjects and industries that excite you. Available concentrations include database management systems, cybersecurity, and software engineering.
These programs typically take about two years to complete, with some offering accelerated self-paced options. The online format offers the flexibility to continue working in your current job or care for your family while pursuing your career goals.
Depending on your focus area, you may develop skills in project management, information security, data analytics, information systems design, and more.
Online Master's Programs in Information Technology
Our guide lists the top online master's programs in information technology. Read on for information on costs, common classes, and how to become an information technologist.
#1 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
Towson University
- Towson, MD
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $482
Out-of-State | $998
Credits to Graduate: 33
TU's online master's in applied information technology teaches skills in business analysis, IT project management, and systems development. Students can earn one of eight graduate certificate programs as they complete their master's degrees. Program options include computer forensics, database management systems, health information technology, and information security and assurance.
You can complete this program online or in a hybrid format, attending evening classes at TU's Baltimore campus. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA.
Percent Online Enrollment
100%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#2 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
George Mason University
- Fairfax, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $950
Out-of-State | $950
Credits to Graduate: 30
Mason's online master's in applied information technology offers three concentrations: cybersecurity, machine learning engineering, and data analytics and intelligence methods. This program prepares you for leadership roles with instruction on justifying, designing, developing, managing, and sustaining mega-systems.
Foundational courses include database management systems and data structures. Each applicant must possess a bachelor of science degree and several years of professional experience. Mason engineering alumni with minimum GPAs of 3.0 can qualify for the fast-track option.
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
Oklahoma State University-Main Campus
- Stillwater, OK
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $481
Out-of-State | $611
Credits to Graduate: 33
OSU's MS in management information systems offers a STEM-designated program that includes courses in programming for data science and analytics, predictive analytics, and information assurance management. Students also choose from nine optional electives, including information technology forensics, prescriptive analytics, and big data.
A practicum allows enrollees to apply learned skills to solve problems in real-world situations. Each applicant must possess a minimum 3.0 GPA and submit GRE scores. Admissions take a holistic approach and only accept enrollment for the fall semester.
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#4 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Worcester, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,050
Out-of-State | $1,050
Credits to Graduate: 33
WPI's online master's in information technology prepares students for leadership roles as they learn to leverage IT and analytics tools to create business opportunities. Each enrollee must complete two specialties from the following: information systems design, data analytics, digital transformation, and IT user experience.
You may enroll full time or part time. Admissions requirements include a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and a B or better in at least one college-level statistics course.
Percent Online Enrollment
12%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
Temple University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $925
Out-of-State | $925
Credits to Graduate: 30
TU's online master's in information science and technology offers a collaborative and interactive learning experience that allows for online and on-campus classes. The program's four concentrations are data analytics, DevOps, mobile computing, and software quality assurance.
The online program offers full-time and part-time enrollment options with weekly synchronous online classes. A complimentary nine-hour course on general concepts covers subject matter and teaching structure. Each candidate must possess a bachelor's degree in any field with a minimum 3.0 GPA, and TU offers rolling admissions.
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
Carnegie Mellon University
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $565
Out-of-State | $565
Credits to Graduate: 144
CMU's part-time online master's in information technology offers three tracks: information technology management, information security and assurance, and business intelligence and data analytics core. Instructors may incorporate live online classes. If you live near the greater Pittsburgh area, you may also combine online and on-campus courses.
Application requirements include a bachelor's degree and three or more years of relevant, post-graduate, full-time professional work experience. Each track also includes additional requirements or suggestions, such as completing a college-level object-oriented programming course.
Percent Online Enrollment
3%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
University of Massachusetts-Lowell
- Lowell, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $600
Out-of-State | $600
Credits to Graduate: 30
UMass Lowell's online master's in information technology focuses on emerging trends and technologies to prepare students for senior-level careers. The program covers 10 courses in system infrastructure, network infrastructure, and software management. You can also select from several electives, including data mining, intrusion detection systems, and advanced cloud computing.
Each applicant must hold a bachelor's degree and meet minimum mathematical and C programming requirements through education or experience. These prerequisites include pre-calculus, discrete math, statistics, and data structures.
Percent Online Enrollment
99%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
The University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $425
Out-of-State | $425
Credits to Graduate: 30
UWF's online master's in information technology includes the following key topics: programming languages, data visualization, data analytics, and network performance monitoring and security. Enrollees learn to analyze, develop, and administer IT systems and solutions. Elective courses include databases, data management, and cybersecurity.
The program ends with a project-based capstone or thesis class. Each candidate must possess a bachelor's degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA for the last 60 hours of coursework. If requirements are unmet, students must also gain provisional admittance by completing undergraduate courses in operating systems concepts and introduction to networks.
Percent Online Enrollment
97%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#9 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
National University
- San Diego, CA
- 4 years
- Online
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $442
Out-of-State | $442
Credits to Graduate: 30
NU's online master's in information technology incorporates project management, contingency planning, and IP law, preparing students for leadership roles. You can choose from four specializations: cloud and networking infrastructure management; general information management; information technology project management; and network risk management and control.
This flexible program starts every Monday and may be completed in 16 months. Each applicant must hold a bachelor's degree. A candidate may also transfer up to 12 credits from an accredited college with a grade of B or better.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
#10 Best Master’s in Information Technology Online
Golden Gate University-San Francisco
- San Francisco, CA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Avg. Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,090
Out-of-State | $1,090
Credits to Graduate: 33
GGU's online master's in information technology management offers classes taught by professionals who work at major companies in the Bay Area. Students develop real-world skills in business analytics, mobile, cloud services, and social media. The program prepares enrollees to pursue careers as chief information officers, chief technology officers, and IT managers.
You may choose between full-time and part-time enrollment and start this self-paced program any term. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree and at least 30 undergraduate credits in IT courses or three years of relevant full-time work experience.
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
67%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission
How Much Does a Master's Degree in Information Technology Cost?
Tuition costs vary significantly among schools due to several factors, such as in-person vs. online delivery and private or public status. For instance, the total tuition for the IT degree online programs in our rankings range from $12,750-$35,970. Additional costs may include registration and technology fees.
These programs typically require 30-33 credits and may take 16-24 months to complete, depending on enrollment status. Self-paced or part-time programs may take longer, letting you fit in your studies as your schedule allows.
Courses in Information Technology
Generally, IT master's students hone in on leadership and technical skills in the field. They may concentrate their studies in project management, business intelligence and data analytics, and information security. Courses may explore systems development life cycles, security management, and information systems innovation.
Most programs require foundational courses that you build upon. Examples of these courses include algorithms and data structures, fundamentals of computing platforms, and database management systems. While every school may not offer the following classes, this list represents common coursework in online master's in IT programs.
Computer Network Security
This course provides key concepts in computer network security and solutions to common network security threats. Topics include data encryption algorithms, data authentication, and network security protocols. You may also explore the art of intrusion detection, the latest firewall technology, and public-key cryptography.
Project Management
This course explores the skills, knowledge, and techniques project managers use to manage information technology projects. Enrollees learn best practices for managing budgets, time, risk, and people. This in-depth course often uses practical examples and hands-on case studies.
Data Analytics
This course addresses the growing field of big data. You'll learn about obtaining, cleaning, and analyzing data sets. Then, you'll discover how to use the information to extract value for businesses. Subjects include data mining, statistical methods, and the fundamentals of data visualization. You may explore the use of visualization tools like Tableau and Python Bokeh.
Featured Online Master's in Information Technology Degrees
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Career and Salary Outlook for Information Technology
Graduates with advanced degrees in IT can pursue many professional roles. Many employers value the specialized knowledge gained from master's programs. These degrees may also culminate with capstone projects to provide hands-on experience in real-world scenarios. Some offer internship opportunities.
The following positions offer a glimpse into careers available for students with master's degrees in IT. Some jobs may require further study or certifications.
IT Careers and Wages
Information Technology Career |
Median Annual Wage (2021) |
Information Technology Manager |
$159,010 |
Database Administrators and Architects |
$101,000 |
Information Security Analyst |
$102,600 |
Computer and Information Systems Manager |
$159,010 |
Computer Network Architects |
$120,520 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
As you can see, jobs in IT offer above-average wages and tremendous opportunities. Read on to explore commonly asked questions about the field.
Frequently Asked Questions About Educational Technology
What can you do with an information technology degree?
Earning an information technology degree can open up many possibilities. A specialized master's degree leads to greater options in fields like cybersecurity, data analysis, and information systems. Many computer and information system managers possess graduate degrees, indicating the professional value of completing these programs.
What are the benefits of getting a master's in information technology?
According to Payscale, the average salary for those earning a master's in IT is $96,000 as of July 2023. In addition to higher wages, many graduates also experience greater demand. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 15% job growth rate for computer and IT occupations from 2021-2031 — about three times the average rate for all occupations in this period.
How difficult is a master's in information technology major?
As with most pursuits, passion and interest make any subject easier to learn. A natural aptitude for technology and the ability to methodically tackle problems also helps information technology students.
What is the difference between information systems and information technology?
Information technology is a broad field focusing on computer hardware, software, databases, and networks, with common careers including cybersecurity specialists, network architects, and database administrators. Information systems collect, store, analyze, and process data. This field also offers many specialties, including in the growing fields of machine learning and data science.
Page last reviewed June 29, 2023. All rankings and school descriptions on this page were created and reviewed independently by the BCR Rankings Team.