Best Online Associate in Information Technology Degree Programs

Information technology (IT) professionals play a pivotal role in the world today, with IT services largely focused on providing businesses with tech support, and the maintenance and upkeep of hardware and software. Typically, a company’s IT team is responsible for all the hardware and software an organization uses, including servers and internet setup.

A fully online associate degree in IT is an excellent first step toward an entry-level position in the industry. The associate curriculum is designed to give students an introduction to computer systems, programming, statistics and the basics of tech installation. Students will also have the opportunity to explore numerous high-tech multimedia systems while completing assignments in a virtual environment. In addition to advanced technical abilities, pursuing a career in IT requires strong writing, communication and problem-solving skills; all of which are part of the foundational work of an IT associate degree online.

Training at the associate level qualifies students for transfer into a bachelor’s program and can provide adequate eligibility for entry-level jobs in computer support, customer service related to IT and web development, depending on individual employer requirements.

Below, you will find our the best online associate IT programs in the U.S. Each features a detailed profile covering key program offerings, course requirements and the online interface each school uses to power its degree program.

Rank School Name School Logo City Cost Address & Contact Info School Links Acclaim for Online Programs School Description
1Keiser University - Ft LauderdaleFort Lauderdale$$$$$1500 NW 49th St
Fort Lauderdale, FL
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Keiser University's residential campus may be in Fort Lauderdale but its online associate degree in information technology extends it campus far beyond the state of Florida. Perfect for students pursuing careers in network management, tech support, system administration and security support, the school's 72-credit hour terminal associate of science degree includes courses in web systems, internetworking technologies, principles of information technology, multi-user operating systems, and much more. At KU, associate of science in information technology students learn to communicate better, think critically, install optimal personal data security measures, troubleshoot hardware and software, and better understand network management. KU is a career-focused institution with physical campuses in 18 Florida cities. In 2017, the school was ranked by U.S. News & World Report as one of its Best Value Schools in the United States.

2Indiana Wesleyan University-MarionMarion$$$$$4201 S Washington St
Marion, IN 46953-4974
(765) 674-6901

Indiana Wesleyan University offers its students online or flexible on-campus career-oriented learning. Students can earn the school's associate degree in information technology through online courses combined with some on-campus classes and may even use these credits through the school's bridge program to begin working on a bachelor's degree. The program is administered by seasoned faculty and offers students a modern course load that blends information technology with a liberal arts education. Students may take classes in college writing and lifelong learning as well as quantitative reasoning, operating systems concepts, web design, and software troubleshooting. Targeted courses provide students with all the skills they need to excel in the modern workplace. The school works to provide online learners with many of the same services that students receive on its 320-acre Marion, Indiana campus, including personal academic advisors and off-campus library services. IWU is a private, evangelical Christian school that teaches within a Christian worldview.

3Bismark State CollegeBismarck$$$$$1603 Edwards Ave.
Bismarck, ND 58506-5587
(701) 224-5400

Bismarck State College’s on-campus or online associate degree in information technology helps students learn the skills and software necessary for modern IT jobs, such as Microsoft Office Specialist and Adobe Cloud Systems. BSC offers a one-year certificate program and a two-year associate of science option which includes database and web education, internship opportunities and liberal arts courses. The school's AS degree in information technology program fits into Bismarck State’s larger mission of providing career-oriented education through innovative approaches. Online and distance learners enjoy full access to library resources, research tools, and tech support. Located in North Dakota's capital, BSC's scenic campus overlooks the Missouri River. IT is a fast-growing and in-demand career option, and BSC's services make earning an associate degree in IT online a possibility.

4West Kentucky Community and Technical CollegePaducah$$$$$4810 Alben Barkley Drive
Paducah, KY 42002-7380
(270) 554-92000

Whether in the Bluegrass State or online, West Kentucky Community and Technical College is focused on two-year, career-focused education. Information technology associate degrees can lead to professional opportunities in IT or computer science or transfer over to a four-year program with ease. West Kentucky’s online associate degree in information technology is different than many other similar programs due to the sheer number of specializations it offers. With specializations in Cisco or Microsoft network management, business computer support, software support, information systems programming, information security, data center hardware, and more, West Kentucky lets students tailor their specialities to their interests and desired careers. The Paducah, Kentucky college also provides more than a dozen certificate options in the same field for additional opportunities. Delivering online classes for more than 20 years, West Kentucky offers all the resources and support online learners need to thrive. Students can choose to learn by term or on demand for maximum flexibility.

5Davenport UniversityGrand Rapids$$$$$6191 Kraft Avenue S.E.
Grand Rapids, MI 49512-9396
(616) 698-7111

Davenport University’s online associate degree in information technology is unique in its focus on business. In addition to courses such as C++ programming, web applications, database design and operating systems, Davenport also teaches principles of project management, e-business foundations, and professional ethics. These courses in addition to mathematics and composition classes allows online students to gain the optimal skills necessary to excel in a corporate or business environment. The school's associate of applied science in computer information systems is a 60-credit program that caters to the interpersonal, management, and practical computer skills needed to run a business IT department. Its main campus in Grand Rapids, Michigan, Davenport enrolls students at more than a dozen campuses throughout the Wolverine State and serves thousands of students online. Davenport administers hundreds of online classes for its undergraduate and graduate programs and provides all online students high-touch virtual services.

6Southern New Hampshire UniversityManchester$$$$$2500 North River Road
Manchester, NH 03106-1045
(603) 668-2211

Southern New Hampshire University has made a name for itself by way of its dedication to providing excellent online student services. The school's 24/7 online classroom access, digital library, generous credit transfer options, tutoring services, online writing center, and career services are available to all of its information technology associate degree students. SNHU's flexible IT program features courses in website design, applied statistics, app development, network management, and more. The school's programs are explicitly designed to provide students the skills they need for gainful employment after graduation. SNHU also makes available a number of veteran-specific tuition options. In addition to its extensive online resource offerings, online students who decide to visit SNHU's physical campus will find that it boasts a wooded and picturesque, showcasing the rolling beauty of the Granite State. SNHU's physical campus is located between the cities of Manchester and Hooksett.

7Wake Technical Community CollegeRaleigh$$$$$9101 Fayetteville Road
Raleigh, NC 27603-5696
(919) 866-5000

Located in North Carolina’s famed Research Triangle, Wake Technical Community College has provided modern, career-focused programs to the greater Raleigh area since the 1950s. No longer restricted to the classroom, the school now serves the world through the miracles of the digital era. WTCC's online associate degree program in information technology and computer programming offers a wide range of specializations. AAS students may choose to specialize in network management, software and web development, technical support, mobile app development, data science, and more. Outside of IT and technical support careers, WTCC education prepares students for jobs in the healthcare, manufacturing, finance and insurance industries. In addition to the extraordinary number of diverse course offerings at WTCC, the school's online program provides student with help via its Individualized Learning Center.

8Central Georgia Technical CollegeWarner Robins$$$$$80 Cohen Walker Drive
Warner Robins, GA 31088
(478) 757-3400

Central Georgia Technical College’s mission remains the same for both local and distance learners: to provide practical, individualized education and workforce training to adults and students in Georgia and beyond. With campuses in 11 Georgia counties and online learning available wherever there's an internet connection, CGTC offers students plenty of ways to earn an information technology associate degree. Computer and information technology careers are expected to become more in demand and profitable in the near future, and CGTC designs their program to meet this demand. With specializations in network management, IT support, computer programming, and beyond, CGTC offers courses designed to lead to employment in a number of fields. Students at CGTC retain the in-the-classroom feeling by using video conference calling software for online learning. Online learners can become part of the campus community by using student services and joining groups such as the Student Veterans Organization.

9Pennsylvania State University - World CampusUniversity Park$$$$$128 Outreach Building
University Park, PA 16802
(814) 865-5403

The online division of Pennsylvania State University, a world-renowned public research university, Penn State World Campus's online associate degree in information technology provides students from around the world with the skills they need for IT employment. This 60-credit global campus program includes courses in web systems, database structures, PC hardware, and data storage. In addition to online coursework, the school's information sciences and technology program features team projects, an internship, and a capstone project. PSWC's AS program prepares students for career opportunities in business, retail, healthcare, and more, and credits may transfer to bachelor’s programs. Students will learn from a number of IT experts among PSWC's faculty and may take advantage of a number of students through the well-known school. Career counseling, tech support, tutoring, writing aid, military services, and special accommodations are all provided for online learners at PSWC. IT students will also learn college writing, mathematical, and other general education skills for optimal hire-ability.

10Peninsula CollegePort Angeles$$$$$1502 E Lauridsen Blvd
Port Angeles, WA 98362
(360) 452-9277

Surrounded by the world-famous Olympic mountains and nestled on the coast of beautiful western Washington state, Peninsula College uses a two-tiered approach for its online associate of applied sciences in information technology: classroom teaching and practical experience. At Peninsula, students learn the basics of network support, IT management, security, and computer support, as well as advanced, specific support for operating systems like Microsoft and Linux. The school's information technology associate degree is designed for students pursuing a career in the business world and offers added courses in business communication. Peninsula's AAS program features an emphasis on helping students pass exams for career-specific certifications and the school offers an AAS-Transfer option for students who want to make their credits more easily transferrable to a four-year program at a different school. Peninsula prizes campus community and shared principles and online students have the option to embrace their role as part of the college's community with online students services and collaborative coursework.

11Pitt Community CollegeWinterville$$$$$1986 Pitt Tech Road
Winterville, NC 28590
(252) 493-7200

Based in Winterville, North Carolina (a part of the Greenville metropolitan area), Pitt Community College is committed to teaching skills that employers want. The school offers multiple online associate degrees in information technology, which students may choose from based on their interests and goals. Serving around 12,000 students annually, PCC offers associate applied science degree programs for network management, support and services, systems security, web administration and design, computer programming and development, and game development. The school was founded in 1961 with a tiny student body and a handful of program options. Since then it has grown significantly: today PCC administers a number of online services for distance learners, including 3,000 internet-based classes and 465 flexible hybrid courses. PCC provides continuing, vocational, career-oriented and online education, and the school's top goals include student engagement, job readiness, and successful learning.

12Florida Institute of TechnologyMelbourne$$$$$150 West University Blvd
Melbourne, FL 32901
(321) 674-8000

Florida Institute of Technology’s associate of science in computer information systems is the perfect program for software fanatics. The program is 100% online and through it students become familiar with popular programming languages that include Java, C++, and Visual Basic. Aside from software education, Florida Tech students learn about systems, information technology, and liberal arts topics. Students take courses in e-commerce, marketing, economics, and mathematics as part of their degree—perfect for the business sector. Florida Tech's commitment to online education can be seen in the design of its online classroom, where students can learn via videos, tutorials, interactive apps, and chat rooms. Enrollment services representatives, students services, and 24/7 tech support are just a few of the benefits that Florida Tech online students enjoy. Graduates from Florida Tech’s associate degree in information technology pursue careers as IT support representatives, help desk assistants, program analysts, or Structured Query Language developers, for example.

13University of Massachusetts - LowellLowell$$$$$1 University Ave
Lowell, MA 01854-5104
(978) 934-4000

Located in the state's center, the University of Massachusetts, Lowell has leveraged its robust traditional university resources to create superior online programs, in turn opening its digital campus to students all over the world. Online offerings, such as information technology associate degree programs, are taught by UMass-Lowell’s full-time professional faculty, who draw from significant industry and academic backgrounds. Inspired by its residential campus programs, UMass-Lowell offers students an enormous number of course offerings. Online AS students take core classes in composition or economics and then choose from dozens of IT electives such as an introduction to XML, network security, database concepts, or web development. All associate degree in information technology students enjoy full access to academic advisors and tech support, ensuring an optimal learning experience. In addition to preparing students for careers in the field, an AS in IT from UMass-Lowell automatically counts towards a bachelor’s degree at the school.

14Rio Salado CollegeTempe$$$$$2323 W 14th St
Tempe, AZ 85281
(480) 517-8000

Based in dry Tempe, Arizona, Rio Salado College provides the online education in information technology that modern employers seek out. With affordable tuition and notably inexpensive tuition for local students, the school's information technology associate degrees are a wise choice for computer lovers. Rio Salado's 64-credit associate in applied science in computer technology program includes classes on in-demand subjects such as web design, network managements, digital design, and advanced applications. There are elective class options that allows students to hone their expertise to a specific industry, including business-personal computers, corporate technology, or office automation. Online students enjoy access to students services including tutoring, library resources, and tech support. Rio Salado began its online education program early in 2004 and has constantly improved on its approach since. Today, many of Rio Salado’s programs are available online and the school boasts a large and thriving community.

15Peirce CollegePhiladelphia$$$$$1420 Pine Street
Philadelphia, PA 19102-4699
(888) 467-3472

Peirce College’s information technology associate degree is tailored to prepare students for a quickly growing career field where the only constant is technological evolution. From learning the ins and outs of hardware and software to understanding the practical maintenance of networks and data security, Peirce consistently employs comprehensive, competency-based techniques. Peirce's approach allows students a flexible schedule fine-tuned to their needs and ability. The school awards students who have accrued relevant practical experience with credits and students have the opportunity to work with a personal coach on new topics. Peirce tailors its curriculum to the diverse needs of its students, including online and on-campus learners, recent high school graduates, and adult learners. At Peirce, students also enjoy the opportunity to take communication and general education electives.

16Hawaii Pacific UniversityHonolulu$$$$$1164 Bishop Street, Suite 800
Honolulu, HI 96813
(808) 544-0200

Students who can’t make its to Hawai'i Pacific University’s beautiful Honolulu campus can still enjoy the many other benefits that this liberal arts college provides. For example, HPU's online associate degree in information technology program gives students from all over the world a chance to learn the most in-demand skills in the IT world. HPU’s 60-credit program includes classes in computer programming, computer science, data structures, and electives such as math and science. The school’s military campus program makes pursuing the school's AS in IT convenient for active duty military service members and veterans alike. HPU's associate degree is also completely compatible and transferable toward a bachelor’s degree at the school. Additionally, HPU’s information technology associate degree program features a specific focus on quantitative methods not found in many other online programs. Aside from the academic route, many HPU students leverage their AS into IT jobs in business, retail, healthcare or other fields. The school values its unique position between the continental U.S. and Asia, and prizes and promotes collaboration within its diverse student body.

17St Petersburg CollegeClearwater$$$$$6021 142nd Ave N
Clearwater, FL 33760-2822
(727) 341-4772

St. Petersburg College’s associate degree in computer information technology transfers directly into the Clearwater, Florida school’s bachelor’s program. Students who enroll at SPC work toward two goals at the same time, earning credits for an AS and BS simultaneously. SPC's information technology associate degree prepares students directly for entry-level IT positions, so that students can enter the career force right away or continue their education. As part of the associate degree, students complete an internship to gain practical experience as well as courses in network security, computer programming, database management, computer repair, and business. Online students enrolled in the associate program have pursued careers as help desk, computer support, IT, and technical support specialists. Online students enjoy access to a convenient suite of web tools to help with practical details as well as graduation status tools, financial aid, student email, and a learning portal.

18North Dakota State College of ScienceWahpeton$$$$$800 N 6th St
Wahpeton, ND 58076-0002
(701) 671-2403

Tech lovers interested in starting a career as an information systems administrator or technology support specialist should consider North Dakota State College of Science’s associate degree in IT. NDSCS's AAS degree program includes classes in hardware, networking, web server management, security, programing, and operating systems. In addition to a 66-credit information technology associate degree, NDSCS offers a certificate in the same field. Students may be interested in related majors like mobile app development, web design, or IT forensics and security. NDSCS online students can also take classes at the Fargo or Wahpeton campuses, and have the opportunity to join the school's Pathway Program, which allows for easy credit transfer to programs at North Dakota State University. NDSCS employs online tutorials, SMARTHINKING tutoring, and its own technical support to give its students all the tools necessary for success. Much like its associate degree in IT, many of NDSCS’s majors are aimed at securing gainful employment in a student's chosen field.

19Western Wyoming Community CollegeRock Springs$$$$$2500 College Dr
Rock Springs, WY 82902-0428
(307) 382-1600

Based in Rock Springs, Wyoming, Western Wyoming Community College’s associate of science in computer information systems features some significant differences from otherwise similar programs elsewhere in the country. Although it offers tech courses such as computer information systems, computer science and electives, the program is heavily math-based and features, for example, classes in calculus, accounting, and microeconomics. These courses help prepare students not just for entry IT jobs but also provides them with a foundation for other business career options. WWCC's 66-credit program feature group activities, hands-on problem solving, and is split over two years. WWCC online courses are not self-paced, providing the students with structure similar to that of a traditional university. The school’s mission is to provide students in the Rocky Mountain region and online with quality education and wider opportunities at an affordable price.

20Northcentral Technical CollegeWausau$$$$$1000 Campus Dr
Wausau, WI 54401-1899
(715) 675-3331

Northcentral Technical College’s main campus is located in Wausau, Wisconsin but NTC's Virtual College reaches far beyond the state's lake and forest-dotted landscapes. NTC students earn dozens of degrees through the school's Virtual College, including an associate degree in information technology. NTC's Virtual College is committed to the needs of busy students and features dynamic class schedules, variable due dates, and flexible courses that can be completed as quickly as four weeks—or as slowly as 16. NTC Virtual College students receive college advisor assistance to better prepare them for success and can even progress toward a bachelor’s degree (via a partnership from Lakeland College). The school's online associate degree in information technology teaches students everything they need to know to manage IT hardware, software, networks, and customer service skills needed for IT work. Graduates from the program are qualified for entry-level IT positions and often become help desk specialists or PC technicians. NTC also offers specialist IT programs such as business analysis, network technology, and user experience studies.

21Brigham Young University - IdahoRexburg$$$$$525 S Center
Rexburg, ID 83460-1690
(208) 496-1411

Brigham Young University prepares students for careers as computer programmers, software engineers, systems analysts, and computer help specialists by way of online classes administered through the school's Idaho campus. This well-known private university features an online associate degree in information technology that’s perfect for students who seek to transform their passion for technology into a career. With an emphasis on computer programming, BYU’s AS program offers classes on topics such as software development, web engineering, project management, and computer security. Although courses are taught online, BYU makes a point to retain the instructor-student relationship so strongly associated with traditional universities. Students will work with online materials and interact frequently with instructors throughout the semester. BYU’s online classes are structured the same as the school's on-campus classes and feature the same objectives. Students at BYU have the option to complete their courses at a variety of paces.

22Central Texas CollegeKilleen$$$$$6200 West Central Texas Expressway
Killeen, TX 76549-4199
(254) 526-7161

Central Texas College offers online associate degrees in information technology, network systems administration, and information security. The Killeen, Texas school provides associate degrees in a number of fields. Associate of applied science degrees at CTC are designed to make students instantly employable following graduation. Information technology associate degrees from CTC are crafted to prepare students for a number of entry-level tech jobs, including network technician, computer support representative, or hardware repair associate. CTC offers hundreds of certificate and degree programs, and the school provides a wide range of general education options. Students can pursue their IT career in a wide range of fields, from corporate offices and healthcare to small business and educational institutions. CTC’s online school also feature separate specialty programs for members of the military and high school students.

23Wisconsin Indianhead Technical CollegeShell Lake$$$$$505 Pine Ridge Drive
Shell Lake, WI 54871-8727
(715) 468-2815

Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College's associate degree in information technology graduates have gone on to work in system administration at local entertainment websites and to perform web development for national companies. WITC is committed to teaching students the important skills that make them employable and allow them to excel in their new careers. The information technology degree focuses on learning programming languages and practical analytic techniques. In addition to web and software design, WITC students also learn about database design. WITC's programs feature a strong software focus. An associate degree in IT from WITC prepares students for a variety of in-demand jobs and students also have the opportunity to transfer to a four-year college such as the University of Wisconsin-Stout.

24Stanly Community CollegeAlbemarle$$$$$141 College Drive
Albemarle, NC 28001
(704) 982-0121

Stanly Community College offers students two information technology associate degree options: network management and business support. Stanly's network management specialty focuses on the design of network hardware, the maintenance of such devices, the management of infrastructure, and the installation of software among other skills. Network management AS students often go on to become network operators, analysts, technicians, and managers. The program's business support track offers similar classes but focuses specifically on business, governmental, and educational work environments. Students work on business communication skills and with common softwares of the industry. All SCC online students have access to a variety of services, including Stanly's Writing Center, counseling services, academic support, advisement, and financial aid. Both IT associate degrees are offered on-site in North Carolina and online.

25Fox Valley Technical CollegeAppleton$$$$$1825 N Bluemound Dr
Appleton, WI 54912-2277
(920) 735-5600

Located in Appleton, Wisconsin, Fox Valley Technical College prepares students for the careers they want. Tech junkies and amatuer computer experts alike use Fox Valley’s online associate degree programs in information technology to find a high-demand IT jobs. The school offers associate of applied science degrees for network systems administration, computer support or information systems security. Successful students transform into the go-to IT experts at a small businesses or manage a vast array of hospital network infrastructure systems, for example—Fox Valley graduates pursue a number of career paths. The school works with students from all backgrounds, including parents and students looking to eventually earn a four-year degree. Fox Valley aims to prepare its students for success and support them along the way, leading to a more productive community and economy. The school teaches more students than any other technical college in the state.

Graduates of an online associate degree in information technology program are qualified for a variety of career opportunities. Though some entry-level positions may require a bachelor’s, applicants who hold an associate degree are considered to have a comprehensive foundation in the IT basics needed for all positions and occupations within the field. Students at this level are qualified to become web developers, computer support specialists, IT customer service reps and more.

Computer support specialists, for example, are expected to see an increase of 17% in jobs in this area through 2022; according to the BLS, there is a growing need for qualified IT specialists who can meet the demands of evolving technologies and tech services. Other potential career options for those skilled in IT include computer network support specialists and computer repair technicians.

Students pursuing an online associate in IT may be looking to enter a distinct subfield of the industry. For example, a student aspiring to become a graphic designer may want to select digital design theory and computer graphics courses as primary electives, after satisfying their basic IT requirements. Typical coursework in an associate program is designed to provide a broad foundation in IT, and basic study at this level can also allow each student the flexibility to find their area of interest. In addition to identifying specialty courses to take their education to the next level, it is never too early to pursue local internship opportunities with a web development firm or network management services provider, for example. Field experience may prove to be a primary asset when applying for jobs in the industry.

Though not required for general employment in IT, professionals in this area may be asked to obtain certification or licensure to show competency in a particular software program or technology service. For example, an employer that exclusively services machines with Microsoft technology may require its technicians to obtain Microsoft Certified Professional (MCP) certification. Individual certification options are available for a range of technology providers as well as specific occupations. Though not commonly offered as part of an associate program, students interested in a particular certification may want to consider applying to a bachelor’s program that includes certification prep in addition to coursework in their desired concentration area.

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