This article profiles the top 30 most affordable online master’s in information technology programs.
According to recent information published by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information technology occupations are anticipated to grow 13 percent through the year 2026.
These fields are projected to add 557,100 new jobs, and IT jobs are some of the best-paying jobs in technology. The demand for IT specialists will stem from an industry push and demand from the private and public sectors on information security, storage, and cloud computing.
Featured Programs
To accommodate the expected growth, online master’s in information technology programs are offered from some of the nation’s most reputable institutions. A Master’s in Information Technology is a great way to build on a computer network degree.
We profiled the top 30 most affordable online master’s in information technology degree programs. To be considered for our list, the schools must be regionally or nationally accredited and offer at least one online master’s in information technology or closely related degree.
We looked at 105 colleges and universities and narrowed our search by choosing programs that had received recognition from a major publication like U.S. News and World Report. We then narrowed our search by ranking the schools in order of affordability with information published by NCES College Navigator.
Below is our list of the top 30 most affordable online master’s in information technology programs.
Reviewing the Cheapest Online Master’s Degree in Information Technology
#1 – West Texas A & M University
Online Master’s in Computer Information Systems and Business Analytics
Canyon, Texas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,456
West Texas A&M University’s online master’s in information technology combines the latest technology innovations and curriculum with business and management courses.
The result is an IT professional with adept technical skills and high-level decision-making and leadership ability. The 36-credit degree is designed to be completed in a two-year period, but some students are able to finish in one year.
The curriculum focuses on computer applications in the areas of quantitative analysis, data analytics, business integration, cybersecurity, technology planning and project management, and computing and data mining. U.S. News and World Report ranks West Texas A&M #81 in regional universities West.
#2 – Western Governors University
Online Master’s in Business Administration and IT Management
Salt Lake City, Utah
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,790
Western Governors University provides interested individuals with an online master’s in information technology as part of its master’s in business administration degree.
Students learn the technical skills needed to excel in advanced IT careers while simultaneously developing leadership and business acumen, enabling them to compete in today’s modern workforce where teamwork, innovation, and decision-making are of paramount importance.
98% of matriculated students finish the degree in just 6-18 months depending on course load, background, and transferable credits. Key subject areas taught include global economics for managers and strategic IT solutions.
Western Governors is recognized in U.S. News and World Report’s cohort of regional universities West.
#3 – Kennesaw State University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Kennesaw, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,857
Kennesaw State University offers top-ranked IT programs online for individuals seeking an upward career trajectory within the information technology space. The program’s curriculum has been entirely revamped and updated for the 2018-2019 academic year to include new best practices and skills that reflect the latest technology and innovations in the industry.
Courses may include business continuity planning and implementation, clinical processes and workflows, database design and applications, software design and development, and web technologies and application development.
Admission requirements include SOP, transcripts, resume, and two letters of recommendation. Kennesaw State is ranked #231 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#4 – North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Greensboro, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,731
The University of North Carolina A&T provides IT programs online combining theoretical knowledge with intensive hands-on experience. This combination of theory and praxis is designed to train effective practitioners who have the technical skills and decision-making ability to obtain top IT careers.
The degree offers specializations in computing networks and communications, computer security, database management, digital media technologies, and web technologies.
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with a 3.0 GPA. Students who do not meet this may be accepted unconditionally. University of North Carolina A&T is ranked #231 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#5 – University of Colorado
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Denver, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,839
Offered through the CU Business School, the University of Colorado delivers an online master’s in information technology with specialty areas in business intelligence, enterprise technology management, and web and mobile computing.
The entire degree consists of 30 credits and may include courses such as business intelligence in financial modeling, data warehousing and administration, IT governance and service management, information systems security and privacy, and text analytics and predictive modeling.
The program seeks to teach and train students to become proficient IT practitioners while also developing the strong business and leadership acumen needed to ascend to top IT positions. The University of Colorado is ranked #207 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#6 – University of Alabama
Online Master’s in IT
Birmingham, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,866
The University of Alabama Birmingham offers IT programs online through its Collat School of Business. The curriculum bridges together technical education with business and management courses to create dynamic IT leaders and managers within a variety of organizations and industries. The program is 100% online and designed for both current and aspiring technology professionals.
Those without an academic background in information technology or computer science can still matriculate to the program upon completion of the bridge program. The UAB business school is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS).
UAB is ranked #159 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#7 – University of North Carolina
Online Master’s in Information Technology and Management
Greensboro, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,047
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro offers a master’s in information technology online that prepares professionals with extensive IT knowledge and the management skills needed to effectively solve complex problems and manage teams of people within a variety of organizations. The program is delivered entirely online and features a concentration in business analytics.
The program is accredited to serve students from all 50 states and residents of Puerto Rico. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of North Carolina Greensboro #231 in national universities and #27 in best online graduate computer information technology programs for the 2018 cohort of schools.
#8 – University of Maryland University College
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Adelphi, Maryland
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,514
The University of Maryland University College offers an online master’s in information technology consisting of 36 credits. UMUC will allow up to six transfer credits from approved programs and institutions.
Students can choose from an extensive menu of degree specializations including database systems technology, homeland security management, informatics, information assurance, project management, software engineering, systems engineering, and telecommunications management.
The University of Maryland, University College program, is designed to prepare students with a comprehensive information technology program that includes technical expertise and leadership, resulting in graduates who can adeptly provide IT solutions to complex business situations and manage teams in a variety of organizational contexts.
#9 – University of Arkansas
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Fayetteville, Arkansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,571
The University of Arkansas offers IT programs online that prepare computer science students to assume high-level tech jobs in a variety of industries. The cohort-based program requires students to meet on campus once per month on the Fayetteville campus. The degree can be completed in 21 months and offers concentrations in enterprise resource planning or enterprise systems management.
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution and a satisfactory GPA on the last 60 credit hours.
GMAT and GRE scores are also required unless the candidate can show more than five years of post-bachelor degree work experience. Arkansas is ranked #133 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#10 – University of Maine
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Orono, Maine
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,884
The University of Maine offers one of the best online IT degree programs offered entirely via distance learning. The 30-credit degree includes five core classes and a minimum of five elective classes chosen from a range of content areas.
Required classes include the design of information systems, formal foundations for information science, human-computer interaction, information systems law, and information systems programming.
Students can choose electives from content areas such as business, computer science, education, electrical and computing engineering, interdisciplinary, intermedia, and spatial information science and engineering.
U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Maine #181 in national universities and #40 in best online graduate computer information technology programs.
#11 – University of South Florida
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Tampa, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,428
The University of South Florida provides IT programs online at the graduate level designed to teach and train students to assume top IT positions within a myriad of institutional contexts.
The non-thesis degree includes technical coursework in addition to leadership and business courses that assist students with leading teams and solving complex problems.
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree in IT or a closely related field or completion of prerequisite courses.
Other applications include GRE scores of 161 quantitative and 150 verbal, three letters of support, and a statement of purpose. GRE scores will be waived for those with a degree from an ABET-accredited university or those with three years of relevant full-time experience.
U.S. News and World Report ranks USF #23 in the best online graduate information technology programs.
#12 – Auburn University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Auburn, Alabama
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,974
Auburn University provides a master’s in information technology online for students seeking graduate education from a top institution with the flexibility to attend school while keeping their current obligations.
The Auburn program is unique in that it allows students to complete the program entirely online and design a distinctive course of study specific to their career trajectory and interests. The program includes 30 credits (10 courses). The typical timeframe to completion is 2-3 years.
The degree is open and only requires three core classes including database, systems, and the final course project. The remaining seven classes are chosen by the student with the assistance of faculty advisors.
Courses may include big data, communicating quantitative results in business, predictive modeling, and social media as a tool for business strategy. Auburn is ranked #103 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#13 – North Carolina State University
Online Master’s in Geospatial Information Science and Technology
Raleigh, North Carolina
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,027
North Carolina State University’s online IT degree emphasizes skill and knowledge acquisition to assist graduates in becoming high-end geospatial professionals. The NC State curriculum blends strengths in computer science and natural resources, resulting in a well-rounded yet deeply proficient graduate ready to take on challenging tasks and problems that require expertise and innovation.
Admission requirements include an undergraduate degree with a 3.0 GPA or higher and skills in the areas of basic GIS, cursory knowledge in any programming language, and introductory statistics. Admissions personnel may recommend a class in one or more areas if necessary.
Additional admission components include a resume, three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement. U.S. News and World Report ranks N.C. State #81 in national universities.
#14 – Missouri University of Science and Technology
Online Master’s in Information Science and Technology
Rolla, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,138
Missouri University of Science and Technology offers IT programs online for students seeking graduate-level education in information technology. The degree offers students specialized tracks in addition to the core curriculum.
Tracks include human-computer interaction, enterprise resource planning, psychology of leadership, and project management. Additional tracks include computer networks, communication systems, and e-commerce.
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and GRE scores of at least 144 verbal, 148 quantitative, and 3.5 writing. U.S. News and World Report ranks Missouri University of Science and Technology #165 in national universities and #19 in best online graduate computer information technology programs.
#15 – Florida State University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Tallahassee, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,553
Florida State University offers one of the best online IT degree programs accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. Students have seven years to complete the program, starting from the time they first register for classes.
Program advisors recommend students take two courses per semester, which allows for completion in six semesters (2 years).
Core courses include assessing information needs, information systems management, management of information organizations, and usability analysis.
Florida State University is ranked #81 in national universities and #6 in best online graduate computer information technology programs for U.S. News and World Report’s 2018 cohort of colleges and universities.
#16 – University of Wisconsin
Online Master’s in Information Science and Technology
Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,861
The University of Wisconsin Milwaukee online IT degree is a 36-credit hour program delivered primarily online. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or its international equivalent along with a 2.75 GPA.
Students with an undergraduate GPA of less than 2.75 must meet one of a series of requirements that indicate the potential for success at the graduate level (listed on the website).
Students can choose from a variety of tracks, including user interaction and human-computer interaction, data science, information security, and web and mobile application design. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee #231 in national universities.
#17 – Colorado State University
Online Master’s in Computer Information Systems
Fort Collins, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,035
Colorado State University offers a master’s in information technology online through its College of Business Department of Computer Information Systems. The program offers flexible scheduling with students able to enroll full-time or part-time as their schedule allows.
Matriculated students must complete the degree within five years and can finish in as little as three semesters. A minimum of 33 credits must be taken – nine of which can be completed before admission. Should the student be accepted to the program, the courses will count towards the degree.
Courses may include agile management and product development, applied data mining and analytics in business, application software infrastructure, and enterprise computing and systems integration. CSU is ranked #124 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#18 – University of Michigan
Online Master’s in Information Systems and Technology
Dearborn, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,466
The University of Michigan offers one of the best online IT degree programs that prepare graduates to assume IT leadership and managerial positions within various organizations.
Offered through the Rackham School of Graduate Studies, the 30-credit curriculum features courses such as database management systems, enterprise information systems, object-oriented systems design, and supply chain and information systems design.
Concentration areas include information management applications, information security and quality, information systems engineering, supply chain and information systems, and web information management.
The University of Michigan at Dearborn is ranked #38 in regional universities Midwest and #40 in best online graduate computer information technology programs.
#19 – Montclair State University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Montclair, New Jersey
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,481
Montclair State University’s online IT degree consists of 33 credits that can be completed entirely online. All skill-based courses are modeled after ACM and IEEE IT standards and best practices.
The program is appropriate for those with or without IT work or academic experience. Those with a limited IT background will be required to complete 1-4 courses covering computer science principles.
Courses include cyberlaw, information technology project management, software process management, and techniques in communication. Classes are offered in fall, spring, and summer semesters with students able to complete the degree in as little as two years. U.S. News and World Report ranks Montclair #187 in national universities.
#20 – University of Arizona
Online Master’s in Geographic Information System Technology
Tucson, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,748
The University of Arizona offers one of the best online IT degree programs specifically for students seeking education and career advancement in the geospatial industry. The program is available fully online and designed for people with experience (both extensive and limited) in the field of geographic information systems technology (GIST).
The program’s learning outcomes include remote sensing and LiDAR processing, geodata and big data analytics, and fundamentals of web-based GIS, mobile GIS, and GIS programming with Python.
The University of Arizona is ranked #124 in national universities and #8 in best online graduate computer information systems technology programs for the 2018 cohort.
#21 – Colorado Technical University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,803
Colorado Technical University’s master’s in information technology online provides students with a graduate-level curriculum designed to develop the technical and leadership skills needed to function in top information technology jobs in a global economy.
The program can be thought of as a mixture of computer science classes and business courses as they relate to information technology.
Students can choose from concentrations in network management, project management, security management, or a general track. Core classes include computer systems security foundations, enterprise data management, enterprise systems management, network and telecommunications, and strategic management in dynamic environments.
Colorado Tech is ranked #40 in the best online graduate computer information technology programs.
#22 – University of Cincinnati
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Cincinnati, Ohio
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,468
The University of Cincinnati provides interested students with an online master’s in information technology designed for professionals with a strong IT background. However, students without an IT background who complete four bridge courses as preparation for the program can seek admittance and are prepared to succeed.
Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree, a 3.0 GPA, a resume, transcripts, and a personal statement. GRE scores are waived for qualified applicants.
Classes may include advanced systems administration, advanced technologies for game development, games for learning and simulation, and information technology thesis research. U.S. News and World Report ranks the University of Cincinnati #133 in national universities.
#23 – George Mason University
Online Master’s in Applied Information Technology
Fairfax, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,480
George Mason University offers an online IT degree with an option to pursue a concentration in cyber security. The program is specifically geared towards preparing graduates for advanced IT careers that require effective leadership and management skills in addition to technical expertise. More specifically, the George Mason curriculum reflects a need to train future technical leaders within the federal government space.
The degree requires 30-36 credits, including 12 credits of core courses and 18 credits in concentration courses. Core classes include algorithms and data structures essentials, database management systems, fundamentals of computing platforms, and information representation, processing and visualization.
George Mason is ranked #140 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
#24 – University of Massachusetts
Online Master’s in Business Administration Concentration in Information Technology
Lowell, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,040
University of Massachusetts Lowell provides one of the best online IT degree programs for students seeking to increase their business and technical skills through an online MBA with a technology concentration. The program includes core business classes along with information technology elective courses covering topics such as enterprise systems management, digital commerce, and data mining.
IT concentration courses may include current topics in management information systems, enterprise system management, information technology infrastructure, and information technology project management.
University of Massachusetts Lowell is ranked #156 in national universities and #13 in best online graduate computer information technology programs for the 2018 cohort.
#25 – Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Blacksburg, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,072
Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University (Virginia Tech) offers a master’s in information technology online for professionals seeking the rigor of a world-class institution with the convenience of distance learning. The 11-course program is delivered through Virginia Tech’s Pamplin College of Business and the College of Engineering, allowing students to interact with leading faculty from a variety of disciplines.
The program includes eight distinct areas of study including analytics and business intelligence, big data, business information systems, cybersecurity, decision support systems, health information technology, networking, and software development.
The multifarious areas of study allow students to concentrate on an area specific to their careers and interests. U.S. News and World Report ranks Virginia Tech #69 in national universities.
#26 – Florida Institute of Technology
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Melbourne, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,128
Florida Institute of Technology provides prospective students with an online IT degree at the master’s level. The FIT program specifically develops student’s technical abilities in the areas of software system management and IT security.
Moreover, the program seeks to develop management and leadership skills needed to effectively run IT-based teams in the implementation of software systems integration and cybersecurity.
Florida Institute of Technology is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Course classes include advanced management of information systems, database systems management, global information technology management, and project management for information technology. FIT is ranked #151 by U.S. News and World Report.
#27 – Southern New Hampshire University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Manchester, New Hampshire
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $18,810
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online master’s in information technology for individuals seeking to conflate technical skills with leadership and business acumen needed to be effective IT professionals and managers within complex organizations.
This interdisciplinary program makes it particularly effective for individuals seeking upward career trajectories to top IT positions within their given contexts whether it be private industry, government, education, non-profit, or NGOs.
The curriculum includes advanced information technology, innovations in information technology, object-oriented application development, and telecommunications and networking. U.S. News and World Report ranks Southern New Hampshire University #86 in regional universities North for its 2018 cohort.
#28 – Lawrence Technological University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Southfield, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,788
Lawrence Technological University provides an online IT degree at the graduate level for students seeking a rigorous curriculum delivered in a convenient online format.
In addition to developing IT expertise in areas such as cyber security and project management, students also learn critical decision-making and business skills needed to successfully navigate complex organizational duties.
Courses include business analytics and decision-making, database modeling and administration, enterprise systems security, and information technology integration.
The program operates under the auspices of LTU’s College of Business and Information Technology, which is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). U.S. News and World Report ranks LTU #38 in regional universities Midwest.
#29 – Pennsylvania State University
Online Master’s in Geographic Information Systems
University Park, Pennsylvania
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,974
Pennsylvania State University offers a master’s in information technology online specific to geographic information systems.
The program is designed for practitioners to investigate specific areas of GIS occupations and to become subject matter and technical experts in an area that interests them such as environmental resource management, surveying and cartography, transportation planning, and more.
The program’s admission standards require no GRE, no professional experience, and no letters of recommendation. The program includes 36 credits and allows students to attend on a full or part-time basis.
U.S. News and World Report ranks Pennsylvania State University #52 in national universities and #30 in computer science.
#30 – New Jersey Institute of Technology
Online Master’s in Computer Science
Newark, New Jersey
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $22,690
New Jersey Institute of Technology offers an online master’s in information technology for professionals seeking graduate degree credentials from an accredited institution.
The program is geared towards working professionals desiring to maintain their current personal and professional obligations while attending graduate school. The program is delivered through the Ying Wu College of Computing Sciences and offers students concentrations in database and data mining, networking, and cybersecurity.
Admission requirements include a 3.0 UGPA and the possible completion of a bridge program, which is done on a case-by-case basis. GRE scores are encouraged for all applicants but are only required for those seeking financial assistance or who have degrees from non-U.S. institutions. NJIT is ranked #140 in national universities by U.S. News and World Report.
CVO Staff
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