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

Information technology is an important field that has changed how professionals communicate and store information in the workplace. This constantly growing field has impacted the way people work and interact with each other. IT is a broad and rewarding field with lots of potential career options.

While a

Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology

can usher you into this burgeoning field, a master’s degree can increase your earning potential and employability. This guide will highlight the top online and in-person master’s degree programs for information technology. Keep reading to uncover the right career path for you.

What Is Information Technology?

Information technology requires a comprehensive knowledge of computers and their programming languages for practical storage, networking, and infrastructure. Information technology is the process of creating, processing, and exchanging different forms of electronic data.

What Is an Information Technology Master’s Degree?

An information technology master’s degree is a graduate program that typically takes one to two years to complete. This discipline offers several concentration options. Students can explore various kinds of technology applications and programs related to IT. The programs may cover software applications, information security, coding, database organization, and systems design.

Information Technology Master’s Degree Requirements

Universities require students to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college. The program requirements for an IT master’s degree differ between institutions. Some universities may require students to interview after submitting their applications. Prospective students may also have to submit references or letters of recommendation from previous teachers and employers.

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

The National Center for Education Statistics reports that the

average tuition cost is $12,410

for a graduate program at a public institution. Students at private institutions pay an average of $26,597. The cost of an information technology master’s degree depends on the institution, length of the program, and whether you’ll be paying in-state or out-of-state tuition.

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

You can pay for your information technology degree with scholarships, private loans, and federal financial aid. In addition, some institutions provide on-campus jobs, like teaching assistantships, to help students pay for their programs.

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

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

If you’re interested in pursuing a Master’s Degree in IT but aren’t sure which program is best suited for your professional goals, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best colleges for this advanced degree.

Master of Information Technology Strategy | Carnegie Mellon University

This technical program at Carnegie Mellon University requires students to complete 30 credit hours before graduating. There are four main areas of study, branching from data analytics to information security. Additionally, students can select a concentration to gain a more comprehensive technical skillset.

Students study topics like social network analysis, machine learning, and cyber defense. Students obtain a thorough understanding of popular software and systems.

Master of Science in Information Technology | Florida International University

This master’s degree program can be completed in about two years and requires 30 credit hours of coursework to complete. Graduate students can choose a concentration in systems administration, software, or security.

Students with a Bachelor’s Degree in Computer Engineering, Computer Science, or Information Technology can apply. The admission requirements also include work experience in the information technology field.

Master of Science in Information Technology | Florida State University

Students can complete this program within two years. The coursework focuses on management information systems, IT governance, user experience design, and communication. The institution also offers a specialized combined program where students can simultaneously earn both a bachelor’s and master’s degree.

Master of Science in Information Technology | Kennesaw State University

This 30-credit program can be completed within two years. Students can select a specialization in health IT, data analytics, enterprise IT management, IT security, and IT foundation. Students learn essential IT skills in this program, like security, HIT, and enterprise IT management.

Master of Science in Information Technology | Montclair State University

This master’s program focuses on designing and implementing networks, app testing, and communication technologies. Students learn all the skills necessary for roles in the technology industry, business, and government organizations. It can be completed in two years or less and covers the legal aspects of computer software development.

Master of Science in Information Technology Administration and Security | New Jersey Institute of Technology

This master’s degree program requires students to complete 30 credit hours before graduation. The coursework focuses on essential managerial and technical skills and dives into programming, database management, and network security.

In addition, students take part in a capstone project to enhance their collaboration skills. The project often includes game programming, web development, application, web security, and virtual reality topics.

Master of Science in Information Technology | Princeton University

Princeton University is an Ivy League school. The master of science program provides core courses on programming systems and techniques, public policy, network integration, and foundational computer science topics. The program can be completed in one to two years and allows students to advance their education towards a doctorate in a related field after graduation.

Master of Information Management and Systems | University of California, Berkeley

This degree requires around 48 credits to complete. Most students graduate in two years. The coursework includes topics like organizing, storing, retrieving, and analyzing data in business settings. It also covers information technology economics, Python fundamentals, software prototyping, strategy and policy, information law, and policy and information management.

Master of Science in Information Systems and Technology | University of Michigan

The University of Michigan’s master of science program focuses on ERP software for business practices, sales manufacturing, and finance. Students learn to integrate technical and organizational knowledge of information systems upon completing this 30 credit hour program.

Additionally, the institution offers five specializations for students. These are supply chain and information systems design, information management applications, information systems engineering, information security and quality, and web information management.

Master of Science in Information Technology and Management | University of Texas at Austin

The technical coursework of this program focuses on app development, advanced programming, strategic IT, supply chain management in IT, user-generated content analytics, and change management. The program includes a capstone project. Applicants are encouraged to apply regardless of their bachelor’s degree major.

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

Best Colleges for Information Technology: Top Online Information Technology Master’s Degree Programs

If you are a working professional who wants to obtain a Master’s Degree in Information Technology, you can apply to various online programs. The table above includes some of the top online programs for a Master’s Degree in Information Technology.

Master of Science in Information Technology | Arizona State University

The online master of science program at Arizona State University is a two-year program. Students must complete 30 credit hours of online courses before graduating. Before applying, students must have a bachelor’s degree, preferably in information science, computer science, or a related discipline.

This program allows students to develop an advanced understanding of cyber security and networking technology. In addition, students can choose to specialize in computer architecture and information security or information systems management and systems development.

Master of Science in Information Technology | California State University, Fullerton

This program requires 30 credits to complete. Students can graduate within 20 months if they take two core courses each semester. The program uses a cohort approach to enable peer support amongst students. This graduate program offers two concentrations in IT management and data science. To be eligible for this program, applicants must have previous IT work experience.

Master of Science in Applied Information Technology | George Mason University

This online master of science program prepares students for leadership positions in any government, technology, or non-profit establishment. The courses focus on designing, developing, managing, and sustaining mega systems. The program totals 30 credit hours, with 12 credits for foundational courses and 18 credit hours for elective courses.

Some topics in the curriculum are applied machine learning, cloud security fundamentals, countermeasures, and emerging threats. Students in this program also have several concentrations to choose from and can decide to write a research-based thesis for their graduate project.

Master of Science in Information Technology Management | Indiana University

Students need to complete 30 credit hours before graduating. Most full-time students can meet this requirement within 21 months. The coursework teaches students to analyze, develop, and design IT systems. They also learn to use data to support managerial decisions. Students with a bachelor’s degree and programming knowledge can apply to this program.

Master of Information Technology | Lawrence Technological University

This online master’s degree requires 30 credit hours. Since it is an online program, the courses are asynchronous. This flexible education option allows students to complete the program on their own time within two years.

The program allows students to choose a cyber security or program management concentration. Some of the core courses in the curriculum include database administration, database modeling, information technology integration, and enterprise IT infrastructure.

Master of Science in Information Technology | Liberty University

Students can complete Liberty University’s online master’s program in around 18 months with 36 credit hours of classes. The technical program increases students’ knowledge of IT while gaining critical thinking and data analytics skills.

The university also offers two main concentrations in software design and management or network design and security. Additionally, students can transfer credit hours from other approved programs and institutions and have increased flexibility to personalize the program to suit their career goals.

Master of Science in Information Technology | North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University

This program combines theoretical concepts with real-world experiences within multiple areas of IT. The online degree requires 30 credit hours before graduating, including a thesis. The central focus of this degree lies in network security, big data analytics, and data mining. Students can customize their elective courses to broaden their skillset.

Master of Science in Information Technology | Purdue University

This online master of science program covers information systems. Courses discuss law and ethics, as well as how to develop effective system solutions. Students can choose from six concentrations: data analytics, business intelligence, cloud technologies (AWS), cyber security, quality assurance, and software development.

Master of Science in Information Technology Management | Tulane University

Tulane University’s online program focuses on merging evolving technology with business practices for a well-rounded, professional approach to IT. There are three different concentrations for students to choose from: emergency operations, homeland security, and cyber security.

The program does not require a thesis, but students must take a capstone course. Graduate students can complete the program in 18 months, but most students finish in two years.

Master of Science in Information Technology | University of Maryland Global Campus

This online program has seven concentrations. They include systems engineering, software engineering, information assurance, project management, informatics, database systems technology, informatics assurance, and homeland security management. Some of the concentrations may require a background in computer science, mathematics, and work experience.

What’s the Average Information Technology Master’s Degree Salary?

The average salary of professionals with a Master’s Degree in Information Technology is

$73,000 per year

. However, salary differs depending on job title, location, and experience. For instance, network engineers and information technology managers earn around $81,000 and $82,000, respectively.

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

Best Information Technology Master’s Degree Jobs Explained

Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

Chief technology officers are top executives responsible for a company’s technological needs. They oversee the development and implementation of technology for customers, vendors, and professionals within the company. In addition, they may take charge of particular research projects or actions in the organization.

Chief Information Officer

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $153,679
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  11%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  482,000*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey*

Chief information officers are responsible for managing, implementing, and using computer technologies and information. They analyze how different technologies enhance business processes and integrate the system to reduce costs and improve productivity.

Information Security Manager

Information security managers are responsible for preventing disasters as they identify vulnerable spots that make information systems weak. In addition, these experts are responsible for security measures of organizations such as firewalls, passwords, and anti-virus software.

Data Scientist

Data scientists gather, analyze and interpret large data sets. This role often includes a combination of mathematics, computer science, and statistics. They are responsible for analyzing, processing, and modeling the data to interpret the significant results to find solutions to organizational problems.

IT Director

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $106,655
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  11%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  482,000*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey*

IT directors are responsible for ensuring that technology operations within an organization run smoothly and effectively. They seek out modern technological options and effectively integrate these programs into the current company technology.

Project Manager

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $105,291
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  11%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  482,000*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey*

Project managers are responsible for overseeing the planning and execution of IT projects. They also delegate responsibilities to ensure that the organization meets its goals. These experts work in different industries as most industries require information technology.

IT Manager

• 
  Average Salary:
  
  $87,289
• 
  Job Outlook:
  
  11%*
• 
  Number of Jobs:
  
  482,000*
• 
  Highest-Paying States:
  
  California, New York, New Jersey*

IT managers are responsible for planning, directing, and overseeing information systems and computer activities in an organization. These information technology professionals coordinate hardware, software, and network tasks to ensure smooth business processes.

Database Administrator

Database administrators manage, back up data, and ensure that it is available when an organization needs it. They install and upgrade database servers and application tools and keep company information secure. They are responsible for allocating database system physical requirements like disk space and memory.

IT Consultants

IT consultants often work as external analysts and evaluate an organization’s IT system to meet its objectives. The main roles of an IT consultant include understanding the needs of business, analyzing the organization’s IT infrastructure, and designing practical tech solutions for the company.

Network Administrator

Network administrators are responsible for managing, designing, and maintaining technological networks. They are often useful in government agencies and organizations. They oversee wide area networks, local area networks, and network segments.

*Based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data for Computer and Information Systems Managers

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

Ultimately, your

personal career goals

and learning objectives will determine whether a bootcamp or Master’s Degree in Information Technology is the best option for you. However, there are a few things you can consider to make the best decision. Here are some of the benefits of both learning options.

Benefits of an Information Technology Master’s Degree

• 
  Career advancement.
  
  This degree shows that you are ready to take the next step in your career and become an authority figure in the field. In addition, you can build your professional network while at school and develop the technical skills to pursue a new, exciting career.
• 
  Build specialized skills.
  
  An information technology master’s degree helps you build new and advanced skills that can increase your employability.
• 
  Establish credibility.
  
  A master’s degree shows that you have higher specialized knowledge in the field, which can build your credibility in the long run.
• 
  Increased earnings.
  
  A master’s degree can improve your salary potential because it proves that you are skilled in the field and will be an asset to the organization.
• 
  Accreditations.
  
  An accredited degree from an institution, whether online or in-person, is impressive to future employers.

Benefits of an Information Technology Bootcamp

• 
  Short-term.
  
  Bootcamps are often short, which makes them ideal for working professionals. You can quickly learn the skills you need to enter the field within a few months.
• 
  Affordable.
  
  Bootcamps are far more affordable than traditional degrees. You can spend as little as $5,000 to learn an IT skill and most bootcamps offer payment methods to make it easier to afford.
• 
  Intensive.
  
  Bootcamp programs are intensive since they are shorter than usual degrees. They cover essential topics, starting from the basics to more complicated issues.
• 
  Job support.
  
  Most bootcamps guide their students on job searches and how to handle interviews. Some even help graduates negotiate their salaries.
• 
  Hands-on training.
  
  Bootcamp students mostly build their portfolios while learning, giving them some real-world experience in applications for future jobs.

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

A Master’s Degree in Information Technology will help you advance your career and achieve your professional goals. This advanced degree can open the door to senior-level and management positions, as well as private consultant work. However, getting a certificate or completing

an IT bootcamp

can stand out on your resume, too.

A graduate degree program can increase your earning potential considerably. Your employers and others in senior management will see the degree as an indication that you are ready to take another significant step in your career.

Information Technology Master’s Degree FAQ