Can I Get a Master’s in Information Technology Online?

We’re more connected today than ever before. In 2020, Americans had access to an average of more than ten connected devices in their households, according to a Statista study. But with so many gadgets at our fingertips, we’ve become increasingly vulnerable to cyberattacks due to poor network security. Issues with hardware and software have become prevalent as well.

Businesses require well-educated information technology professionals to address these problems. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects overall employment in computer and information technology occupations to grow 15 percent from 2021 to 2031, adding about 682,800 new IT jobs to the workforce.

IT professionals are coming out of the woodwork to secure these high-paying roles. Those with advanced information technology degrees have a competitive advantage in the hiring process.

Information technology encompasses the realms of computer systems, hardware, software, and networks related to the processing and sharing of data. IT technicians design, install, manage, and troubleshoot issues related to computers and networks.

If you’re interested in building a career in this field, you may be asking can I get a master’s in information technology online? This article answers that question and discusses:

• Online Master of Science in Information Technology
• Related master’s degrees you can earn online
• Why you should earn your degree online

Online Master of Science in Information Technology

An online master’s program in information technology helps students expand their IT, leadership, and business skills, preparing them to tackle advanced career goals, including senior-level positions in the tech industry. A master’s degree in information technology can lead to fulfilling roles including:

• Database administrator
• IT project manager
• Information security manager
• IT director
• Chief Information Officer (CIO)
• Chief Technology Officer (CTO)

M.S. in Information Technology curriculum

Master’s programs in information technology can take anywhere from one to two years to complete and typically consist of 30 to 36 credit hours. Program lengths vary based on school requirements and areas of specialization. Like on-campus programs, online degrees combine both hands-on and lecture-driven study. Curricular topics include:

• Cybersecurity, protection, and prevention
• Big data and data analytics
• Enterprise solution and database design
• Project management techniques and theories
• Software development
• Database management fundamentals
• IT integration and business support
• Enterprise digital transformation

In addition to the abovementioned coursework, you’ll typically complete a research project that combines your theoretical and practical knowledge.

M.S. in Information Technology program objectives

A master’s program in information technology provides you with many vital proficiencies. You’ll learn how to apply successful data management techniques, implementing methodologies to design, develop, and maintain computer systems. You’ll also learn how to analyze information systems to enhance business operations and communicate effectively to lead an IT department.

Best online master’s degrees in information technology

Many factors should influence your program choice, including accreditation status, tuition rate, online versus on-campus, and school ranking. You can pursue an excellent online master’s degree in IT at:

• Columbia University
• Johns Hopkins University
• University of Arizona
• University of Southern California
• University of Washington
• Virginia Tech

Related master’s degrees you can earn online

You don’t need an M.S. in IT to have an IT-related master’s degree. Information technology is a broad discipline with many applications. So, what are some related online master’s degree programs?

Master of Science in Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity/ master’s programs prepare students to evaluate and analyze an organization’s cybersecurity needs. They take around two years to complete and comprise 30 to 36 credit hours. They typically include/ courses and electives in:

• Digital forensics
• Cryptography
• Ethical hacking
• Network security
• Cybersecurity management
• Security architecture
• Application security
• Cybersecurity law and policy
• Blockchain and fintech security
• Penetration testing

You can enroll in online cybersecurity master’s programs at:

• University of California – Berkeley
• Yeshiva University (Katz)
• Indiana University – Bloomington
• Johns Hopkins University

The University of Tulsa offers an online cybersecurity master’s degree designed with the working professional in mind. This program can be completed in just 20 months and provides online students with a comprehensive knowledge of cybersecurity concepts. It includes live discussions and real-world practice using the latest technologies in practice today.

Master of Science in Information Management

Those interested in pursuing leadership positions in IT may consider the M.S. in Information Management. This graduate program equips students with the knowledge to solve organizational problems. It can take anywhere from one to two years to complete; courses may cover the following:

• Policy and ethics in information management
• Data science
• Business intelligence systems
• Program management and consulting
• Product and project management
• Strategic and managerial business intelligence
• Foundations of cybersecurity
• Systems thinking and problem-solving

The University of Washington iSchool offers an online Master of Science in Information Management (MSIM) encompassing a holistic knowledge of systems thinking, data-driven strategic planning, ethics, and social responsibility. It includes specialization courses and culminates with a capstone project in the form of faculty-sponsored research or an organization-sponsored applied project.

Master of Science in Network Engineering

Interested in building new computer networks and integrating new technology into existing networks? A master’s degree in network engineering may be the path for you. Each college and university approaches this degree uniquely. Topics include:

• Network design
• Information systems analysis and design
• Digital communications technology
• Network management
• Network protocols
• Web technologies
• Information security
• TCP/IP network administration

The Southern?utm_source=noodle_article_prospect&utm_medium=affiliate_cpl&utm_term=anonymous&utm_content=online-masters-information-technology&utm_campaign=Computer%2520Science?utm_source=noodle_article_prospect&utm_medium=affiliate_cpl&utm_term=anonymous&utm_content=online-masters-information-technology&utm_campaign=Computer%2520Science Methodist University Lyle School of Engineering offers a hands-on online master’s degree in network engineering. Students in this program engage in extensive lab projects using the latest software and strategies in the business. Faculty members design their courses around issues they’ve faced as working professionals. Students get to work with organizations like the Department of Defense and Microsoft.

Master of Business Administration

A Master/ of Business Administration (MBA) is an excellent option for managing an IT team. An MBA can expand your pool of IT job opportunities while enhancing your marketability. Full-time MBAs typically take one to two years to complete. Courses cover topics such as:

• Leadership principles
• Managerial accounting
• Legal and ethical operations of business
• Financial/ management
• Marketing management and research
• Operations/ and supply chain
• Economics for global business
• Statistical/ and business analytics

There’s no shortage of online MBA programs. For example, Howard?utm_source=noodle_article_prospect&utm_medium=affiliate_cpl&utm_term=anonymous&utm_content=online-masters-information-technology&utm_campaign=Computer%2520Science University’s School of Business offers an online MBA with international immersion opportunities, access to their robust alumni network, and an emphasis on strategic thinking and corporate citizenship.

Butler?utm_source=noodle_article_prospect&utm_medium=affiliate_cpl&utm_term=anonymous&utm_content=online-masters-information-technology&utm_campaign=Computer%2520Science?utm_source=noodle_article_prospect&utm_medium=affiliate_cpl&utm_term=anonymous&utm_content=online-masters-information-technology&utm_campaign=Computer%2520Science?utm_source=noodle_article_prospect&utm_medium=affiliate_cpl&utm_term=anonymous&utm_content=online-masters-information-technology&utm_campaign=Computer%2520Science University’s online MBA offers a flexible, student-focused learning environment. It comprises 38 credit hours and includes the application of real-world business challenges and a capstone project.

The Southern Methodist University Cox School of Business online MBA program comprises 24 months and 52 credit hours. It includes live online sessions and two four-day global and domestic immersion experiences.

Why you should earn your degree online

Online degrees are great for working professionals and students looking to upskill with convenience and flexibility. They can be completed from anywhere and provide students with opportunities outside their direct geographic location.

Due to technological advances, students have access to the same quality of curriculum and education in an online program as they would on campus. They also have opportunities to participate in live discussions and immersion opportunities to enhance their understanding of concepts.

Online programs can also be a more affordable option, as they eliminate the need for student amenity fees, on-campus parking passes, and other resources traditional students may require. Some colleges even offer in-state tuition rates for online students, even if you log in from out of state. And, of course, being able to choose from among many online programs broadens your options to include some that might be less expensive than local on-campus programs.

Years ago, there was only one way to earn a master’s in information technology degree—on campus. Now, the possibilities are practically endless if you have a WiFi connection and the right motivation.

Questions or feedback? Email editor@noodle.com