Many positions allow for hybrid or fully-remote work environments that can be conducive for anyone’s schedule. As a prerequisite to many of these classes, general knowledge of computer science and hardware can help students prepare for masters-level coursework. WGU has an obligation to our graduates—and their current and future employers—to ensure WGU alumni have mastered the most up-to-date, current competencies MVP Hackathon for DevEducation Students and skills needed in the workplace. Recency of certifications helps us ensure that students have demonstrated competency in skills as they are needed in today’s working world. You can move through your courses as quickly as you master the material, meaning you can graduate faster. The capstone project should be presented and approved by the course instructor in relation to the graduate’s technical emphasis.
Learners will gain skills in applying network security concepts for business continuity, data access, and confidentiality, and in identifying solutions for compliance with security guidance. In this online IT degree, you’ll take a set of information technology-focused STEM and core, general education and focus area courses for a balanced, well-rounded curriculum. You’ll explore topics from information system security to advanced systems configuration.
IT Programs, 5 IT Concentration Options to Choose From
Graduates can pursue additional IT degrees to expand their field of knowledge and meet educational requirements for senior IT positions. Connect with an Advisor to explore program requirements, curriculum, credit for prior learning process, and financial aid options. Complete both your bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in less time and at a lower cost than completing both programs separately. IT employment is projected to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031 — much faster than average.
The school also offers study abroad opportunities in China, Germany, Taiwan, South Korea, and Italy. Some of the advantages of online IT degrees include scheduling flexibility, especially with asynchronous courses. This flexibility makes it easier for learners to balance work and school — especially valuable for learners who work full- or part-time as they pursue their degree. Online programs can also save students money by letting them avoid commuting or relocation costs. Most four-year undergraduate IT degrees culminate in a bachelor of science (BS) designation. BA programs, however, may also build creative skills in adjacent areas, such as web design or game development.
Is a Cybersecurity Degree Worth It?
“I changed my career from supply chain to cybersecurity,” which she had added as her degree concentration. Ken Girkin ’17, an Army veteran who also earned a master’s in cybersecurity in 2021, was able to advance in his company because of his education. A former massage therapist, she knew she needed more than a degree in her hand to break into the tech field. So she landed a 10-week paid internship with Snag, an organization that connects hourly workers with employers, where she built up her skill set, network and confidence. We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty. You’ll learn from instructors based around the country who have years of IT experience.
IT teams depend on a range of specialized information and technology skills and knowledge to support equipment, applications and activities. Third-party contractors and IT vendor support personnel augment the IT team. IT architectures have evolved to include virtualization and cloud computing, where physical resources are abstracted and pooled in different configurations to meet application requirements.
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It can also help to learn about programs that offer tutoring and other support systems. The difficulty level of an information technology degree will vary by person. That means you’ll need to understand and use technology while also considering its applications. Information technology degrees also have high cross-industry relevance, giving IT professionals access to a diversity of career choices and employment settings, such as healthcare administration. The curriculum emphasizes the current best practices in information technology and explores ethical and social issues in IT, along with the global impact of IT.
We aim to help students pick quality educational programs through our ranking methodology that considers each school’s academics, online enrollment, and affordability. The most recent National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) data reported 11,715 undergraduate and 5,458 graduate-level degrees in information technology were awarded. With so many online IT degrees now available, students must remember that not all are created equally. Choosing the best program means researching several different options, comparing the pros and cons of each, and making an informed decision. Computer Support Specialists help users with direct tech support for any problematic issues.
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Loans should be the last option, as other forms of financial aid do not require repayment. Some schools also offer accelerated online IT degrees for motivated degree seekers who want to get their careers started quickly. Timelines will vary based on the individual school, but many institutions now offer programs that can be completed in months.
Graduates of computer science are likely to pursue careers as full-stack developers. In addition to this IT concentration, we also offer a project management concentration as part of our bachelor’s in computer science degree online. Yes, if the online IT degree comes from accredited school and recognized program.
How Much Will a Master’s in Information Technology Cost?
The program concludes with a two-course capstone project experience that covers teaming and organizing for innovation as well as system design and development. Founded in 1865 and located in Worcester, Massachusetts, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a technology-focused university that emphasizes project-based learning. Our goal is to give you the skills and training you need to be marketable in the information technology field.
Information security analysts are responsible for planning and carrying out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems. This particular job is expected to grow at a staggering rate, as information security is a major priority for businesses across industries. Lydia Alonci ’18 said a pair of classes – leadership and project management – focused her interest in the field, a decision that led to her receiving a job at a Fortune 100 company right out of college.
The amount of time students spend completing their online IT courses will depend on the school they choose to attend and how it offers classes. Many schools stick to the traditional semester-based schedule that covers 16 weeks of studies. While some classes stretch across this entire time frame, other schools may provide shorter classes that allow for multiple sessions within a semester. Their work can involve studying the IT needs and requirements of users, running experiments, creating new languages, and designing or improving systems to incorporate data science and machine learning. As research scientists, they’re also responsible for publishing and presenting their results. Getting a degree in information technology is an excellent choice for students who already possess strong skills in reasoning and mathematics.
- Carnegie Mellon offers students small, intimate programs in the field of information technology.
- George Washington University offers 1 Information Technology degree programs.
- IT professionals regularly assist others with technical issues, which means communication in IT is crucial.
- The best programs hire faculty members with professional experience who understand what hiring managers want and design curricula to meet those needs.