Information Technology Bachelor’s Degrees: Best Programs, Jobs, and Salaries

Technology has come a long way and become a very important part of society. This has increased job opportunities for those with

information technology skills

in many industries. If you want to learn about cutting-edge technology, you might be interested in getting a bachelor’s in information technology.

Earning this degree in information technology will help you break into the industry. In this article, you will learn all about information technology bachelor’s degrees, the top schools to study these skills, 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.

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.

Graduates of an information technology bachelor’s degree program 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.

Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Requirements

The admission requirements for an IT bachelor’s degree may vary depending on the school. However, the most common requirements include a high school GPA of at least 2.5, transcripts, essays, a letter of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. The degree typically does not require prerequisites but some schools may request them.

How Much Does an Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Cost?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the

average annual cost of a full-time, four-year institution

is about $28,775. 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.

Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Financing Options: How to Pay for Your Information Technology Degree

The different financing options to help with the cost of earning a bachelor’s degree include scholarships, work-study, grants, financial aid, federal loans, and private loans. You can contact the admissions department of your chosen school to learn more about your options.

Best Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

Best Colleges for Information Technology: Top Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs

If you want to start a career in tech, gaining a bachelor’s degree in information technology is a good place to start. The list above contains some of the best schools to earn your bachelor’s degree and below is a brief description of the schools and their programs.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems | Bellevue University

Bellevue University is a nonprofit institution established in 1966. The computer information systems (CIS) program uses industry-standard technology to teach its students. Students can also choose a CIS track in applications development, business intelligence, cyber security, or networking.

The curriculum covers systems analysis and design, software design, information systems,  database systems, cybersecurity, business telecommunications, and applied statistics. Students will also get hands-on experience in Microsoft SQL Server, Microsoft Project, Office 365, industry-standard networking, and security software.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology and Cyber Security | Brigham Young University

Brigham Young University was founded by the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. The information technology program teaches students problem-solving through hands-on experience. The curriculum is said to be challenging to help students prepare for the demanding field of IT.

Students in the program also work on a one-year capstone project which is completed by teaming up with industry leaders and an instructor to build effective IT solutions. The IT department has also helped to establish a standard curriculum for undergraduate IT programs elsewhere in the country.

Bachelor of Science in Information Science, Systems, and Technology | Cornell University

Cornell University is a private research university founded in 1865. The information science, systems, and technology program is designed to help students study the creation, representation, organization, application, and analysis of information in digital form.

This program teaches students the design and management of complex

information systems

with a focus on engineering. The curriculum covers operations research modeling techniques, statistics, computer science, and economics.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Florida State University

Florida State University was founded in 1851. The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is designed to prepare students for a career in IT. The curriculum includes technical communication, information technology, database management, data science, application development, leadership and management, and data mining.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Kennesaw State University

Kennesaw State University offers undergraduate degrees to students on two campuses. The information technology program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills required to start a career in IT. The curriculum of the program changes regularly and includes courses central to information technology.

Bachelor of Science Information Technology | New Jersey Institute of Technology

The New Jersey Institute of Technology is popularly known as a STEM-based educational and research institution. The information technology undergraduate degree program is the most flexible program offered in the school and offers a balanced approach to the design, deployment, and management of software and hardware applications.

The curriculum includes subjects like information technology, computing, English composition, calculus, computer science, network technology, and internet applications. Students will also complete a capstone project.

Bachelor of Science in Information Systems Management | New York University (NYU)

The information systems management program at NYU teaches students to design, operate, and evaluate modern technology. It equips them with the knowledge of basic concepts of computer technology and how to properly apply their skills.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Purdue University

Purdue’s information technology program offers a wide range of specialized tracks to add to your information technology degree. A few of these include Info-tainment, Modern Manufacturing, Big Data, and even an “I Have My Own Ideas” concentration.

Through your courses, you’ll learn how to plan, analyze, and create databases and computer networks. The curriculum covers a broad range of topics, so you’ll have plenty of choices for careers after graduation.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | University of Central Florida

University of Central Florida (UCF) is a research institution founded in 1963 to provide talent for the US space program. The school presently has 13 colleges and over 230 programs. UCF’s information technology degree is designed to prepare students with the knowledge and skills required to maintain computer equipment and software.

Bachelor of Science in Information | University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

The University of Michigan School of Information was established in 1926. The Bachelor of Science in Information is an undergraduate degree that students can complete in their junior and senior years.

The program is designed to equip students with an understanding of data and technology by giving them hands-on experience. The curriculum includes data oriented-programming, web design, and courses in information analysis, and user experience design.

Best Online Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Programs and Schools: Overview

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.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Arizona State University

Arizona State University’s online school aims to make quality education available to everyone. The information technology bachelor’s program is designed to teach online students computer programming languages, information systems, networking, and security.

The curriculum covers configuring and managing complex computer and database systems. You’ll also get lessons in creating network architectures in cyber security infrastructures as well as full stack development.

Bachelor’s Degree In Information Technology | Colorado State University Global (CSU Global)

Established in 2007, Colorado State University Global is the first nonprofit online state university in the US. The IT program prepares students for a successful career in the IT field. These online courses will equip students with skills in software engineering, network analysis, and programming.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology Management | Keiser University

Keiser University was founded to fill the gap of hands-on education and is suitable for students who enjoy a personal learning environment. The information technology management program is a completion program for students with associate degrees in computer-related fields.

You have to have completed the prerequisites of microeconomics, English composition, mathematics, psychology, and statistics. It also requires a minimum of 24 semester credit hours of general education courses for students transferring credits from another school. The curriculum includes software development, systems analysis, and system design.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Liberty University

Liberty University is an evangelical liberal arts institution with 15 colleges and schools and offers over 450 online programs. The information technology program provides students with the skills needed to start a career in the IT field. The curriculum covers application and database development, data networking and security, game design, and web and mobile programming.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Peirce College

Peirce College is a private, nonprofit institution founded in 1865. The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills to get them the job they want. The program has a focus on networking, administration and information security, and programming and app development.

The curriculum includes technical subjects like application software fundamentals, programming concepts, database management systems, and information security. You’ll also have the chance to take some general education courses like speech communication, English composition, ethics, and algebra. You must also complete a capstone project.

Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology | Penn State World Campus

Penn State World Campus is a part of Pennsylvania State University and has over 20,000 students. The school offers online education to students from all parts of the world. The Bachelor of Science in Information Sciences and Technology program is best for people with previous experience in IT through a job or an associate degree.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University was founded in 1932. The online information technology program teaches students the principles of computing and how they relate to business operations. It covers courses in fundamentals of information technology, system design and implementation, cyber security, and data analytics.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | University of Phoenix

The University of Phoenix was founded in 1976 to provide higher education to students. The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program is designed to help students start their careers in tech. Students are allowed to transfer eligible credits from their associate degree or industry certifications.

The program can be customized with elective tracks and certificates in subjects like cyber network defense and advanced networking. The curriculum covers courses in business processes, cyber security, information systems, operations, and systems analysis.

Bachelor of Science in Information Technology | Western Governors University

Western Governors University is a nonprofit online institution founded in 1997. The information technology program allows students to take multiple industry-recognized certification exams and provides them with a solid foundation in the field. The certifications come with the program and have no additional cost.

Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology | Western Kentucky University

Western Kentucky University is a public institution that offers over 200 degrees and is one of the top public institutions for veterans. The Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Technology is a fully online program that offers courses in a self-paced format. All information is on-demand, so the format encourages flexible learning.

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.

Top Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs and Salaries: Overview

Best Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree Jobs Explained

Computer and Information Systems Manager

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $151,150
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  11%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  482,000
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey, Virginia, Colorado

Computer and information systems managers are also known as IT managers. They are responsible for the security and effective operations of an organization’s computer systems, applications, hardware, and software. Their daily duties may differ depending on the company size and use of technology.

Computer Network Architect

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $116,780
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  5%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  165,200
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Massachusetts, California, Virginia, Maryland, Washington DC

Computer network architects are professionals with in-depth knowledge of communication network systems like local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and intranets. They can build small networks between a few computers, all the way up to a large network that a whole corporation uses in their daily operations.

Software Developer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $110,140
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  22%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  1,847,900
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, California, New York, Massachusetts, Washington DC

If you’re interested in

becoming a software developer

, you’ll find yourself in charge of creating, designing, and launching software programs using programming languages. You’ll meet with clients to understand their software needs, then code and test software programs to ensure that everything works properly.

Information Security Analyst

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $103,590
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  33%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  141,200
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey, Washington DC, Virginia

Information security analysts are in charge of planning, designing, implementing, upgrading, and monitoring a company’s network security systems to prevent cyber attacks and to protect the company. They’ll do things like attempting to hack into their clients’ systems to see what the weaknesses are, then fixing them before data is compromised.

Database Administrator

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $98,860
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  8%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  168,000
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  New Jersey, Washington, Washington DC, California, Massachusetts

A database administrator or manager oversees the computer systems that companies use to store and organize data. They use specialized software to ensure that a company’s databases are accurate and secure.

Computer Systems Analyst

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $93,730
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  7%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  607,800
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Virginia, New York, Washington, Washington DC

Computer systems analysts are professionals who help organizations ensure the proper operation of their computer systems. They are in charge of initiating computer system upgrades, writing technical reports, and configuring hardware and software.

Computer programmer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $89,190
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  -10%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  185,700
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington, Washington DC, California, Virginia, Texas

Computer programmers write code to design, create, maintain, and update software programs on operating systems. They are also commonly known as software programmers or software engineers.

Forensic Computer Analyst

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $74,618
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  33%**
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  141,200
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey, Washington DC, Virginia

Computer forensic analysts investigate cybercrimes, like data breaches, with the use of forensic tools that find specific data that has been deleted, hidden, or lost. While investigating these crimes, they have to adhere to internal, federal, and local laws and procedures.

Information Technology Business Analyst

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $70,027
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  7%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  607,800
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, Virginia, New York, Washington, Washington DC

Information business analysts are responsible for identifying customer needs, developing technological solutions, and handling IT projects from start to finish. They collaborate with stakeholders to identify and resolve operational issues. They serve as a link between the IT department and the business to improve efficiency.

Data Analyst

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $61,881
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  
  25%
  
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  104,100
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  Washington DC, New Jersey, California, Virginia, New York

Data analysts collect, organize, interpret, and store data and use the information gathered to make well-informed decisions for business growth. Once they have examined the data, they’ll take their recommendation to the leaders of the company.

*Job data was taken from the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) listing for computer systems analysts.

**Job data was taken from the BLS listing for information security analysts.

Information Technology Bootcamp vs Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree: Which Is Better?

Trying to decide between a four-year degree and an IT bootcamp can be tricky, but 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 bootcamps and bachelor’s degrees, 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 have the advantage of 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 that job you’ve got your eye on.
• 
  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 still offer financing options like private loans. Prospective students can check out tuition discounts that are often available as well.

Should You Get a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?

Yes, you should get a bachelor’s degree in information technology 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.

Most importantly, IT careers are in high demand, come with high salaries, and have high job growth rates, which make the payoff of a degree in the field very high. Undergraduate programs will help you land entry-level jobs. 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.

Information Technology Bachelor’s Degree FAQ