Information technology (IT) impacts nearly every aspect of modern life—it is also the largest of any computer-related industry. As an IT professional, you ensure the success of businesses by upgrading and maintaining their computer systems, networks, and software. And if you're interested in becoming an entrepreneur, the rise of smartphones opens doors for IT professionals; there are a growing number of opportunities for information technology degree graduates to create apps and programs that run on mobile devices.According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the job pool in the computer and IT industry is projected to grow by 12% from 2014 to 2024. Cloud computing is expected to heavily contribute to this growth. Additionally, due to the rise in cyber attacks, more businesses are employing professionals with information technology degrees to install antivirus software and other intrusion detection systems.Online information technology programs and online information systems programs teach you how to evaluate and solve complex, real-world problems using technical tools and methodologies. As an IT expert, you will need to be detail-oriented, analytical, and comfortable communicating with clients and team members about complex technical subjects. If you want to build onto these skills, read on to learn more about IT degree options, certifications, and career opportunities in the field.
Online Information Technology Degree Overview
| Degree Level | Average Cost | Loan Default Rate | Time Commitment | Early Career Pay | Mid-Career Pay | Unemployment Rate |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Associate | $14,987 | 15.2% | 2 years | Not reported | $54,000 | 8.3% |
| Bachelor's | $17,543 | 10.9% | 4 years | $47,000 | $75,000 | 4.3% |
| Master's | $20,496 | 8.1% | 2 years | $66,000 | $92,000 | 3.2% |
Earning an online IT degree can lead to a variety of job opportunities within the technology sector. Students with an associate degree from an online information technology program or an online information systems program will be prepared to work in entry-level IT positions. However, most IT jobs require students to earn at least their bachelor's degree in the field. Students who graduate with a bachelor's in information technology online will be prepared to work as network and computer systems administrators, computer support specialists, or computer software designers.Online IT degree graduate programs provide students with specialized training within a specific area of information technology, such as systems and security, planning and management, or innovation and leadership. Professionals with a master's degree are more likely to work in managerial and supervisory roles.
Online Information Technology Degrees
Online Information Technology Find Accredited Degrees
Online Information Technology Choose Your Career
| Career | Median Salary | Projected Growth | 2014 Employment |
|---|---|---|---|
| IT Manager | $131,600 | 15% | 348500 |
| Computer Network Architect | $100,240 | 9% | 146200 |
| Information Security Analyst | $90,120 | 18% | 18 |
| Web Developer | $64,970 | 27% | 148500 |
| Computer and Network Systems Administrator | $77,810 | 8% | 30200 |
Online Information Technology Professional Requirements
Certificate in Risk and Information Systems Control (CRISC)
The Certificate in Risk and Information Systems Control focuses on information security. Professionals who earn this license have demonstrated their ability to manage and safeguard against IT risks. In order to earn this certification, individuals must successfully complete the CRISC exam and have at least three years of relevant work experience in the field of risk management. This certification is not required. However, earning the CRISC license provides IT professionals with enhanced credibility. It also creates more opportunities for career and salary advancement.
Certified Information Security Manager (CISM)
Similar to the CRISC, becoming a Certified Information Security Manager demonstrates your expertise in the field of risk management. However, the Certified Information Security Manager license also validates your understanding of broader business goals and leadership skills. IT professionals interested in designing and building company-wide security programs and IT professionals interested in working as security managers or IT consultants should consider earning their CISM license. In order to earn the CISM license, individuals must pass the CISM exam, and have at least five years of work experience, including three years in information security management. The CISM certification is not required, however it enhances your credibility, job prospects, and future earning potential.
Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional license ensures that individuals working in information security have a strong knowledge of security regulations, standards, and practices. If you are a network architect, or security consultant, manager, or analyst you should consider earning your CISSP credential. Candidates must have at least five years of full-time work experience and pass the CISSP exam. Once the CISSP has been successfully completed, candidates must also have an endorsement form completed and signed by a certified professional. The CISSP exam covers the following eight areas: Security and Risk Management, Asset Security, Security Engineering, Communications and Network Security, Identity and Access Management, Security Assessment and Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security. While the CISSP isn't required to work as a security professional, it is highly recommended. The CISSP demonstrates your technical knowledge and increases your marketability. Individuals must be recertified every three years.
Cisco Certified Networking Professional (CCNP)
The Cisco Certified Networking Professional certification program is intended specifically for individuals working as Cisco Network Security Engineers. In order to earn the credential, individuals must pass the CCNP exam. To prepare for the exam, Cisco recommends enrolling in its Cisco-approved training program, which includes four 5-day courses that cover: Cisco Secure Access Solutions, Cisco Edge Network Security Solutions, Cisco Secure Mobility Solutions, and Cisco Threat Control Solutions. Candidates must pass one exam per course in order to earn their certification. It is required for Cisco Network Security Engineers, and must be renewed every 3 years. Candidates must take 4 separate exams in order to earn their CCNP credential. Each exam is 90 minutes long, and contains between 65 to 75 questions.
AWS Certified Solutions Architect
The AWS Certified Solutions Architect license affirms your ability to design, deploy, and operate applications on Amazon Web Services. IT professionals can earn an associate certificate or a professional certificate. To earn an AWS associate certificate, individuals must have at least one year of experience designing systems on AWS, and pass an AWS associate exam. The AWS associate exam covers topics like: identifying use of AWS architectural best practices, estimating AWS costs, and selecting the most appropriate AWS service. To earn an AWS professional certificate, individuals must have already earned their AWS associate certificate, have at least two years of experience designing cloud architecture on AWS, and pass an AWS professional exam. The AWS professional exam covers topics like: designing enterprise-wide operations on AWS, designing reliable and scalable applications on AWS, and applying cost control techniques. The AWS is not required, but it is a recognized credential that demonstrates your expertise and can help advance your career. The AWS associate exam takes 80 minutes to complete. The AWS professional exam takes 170 minutes to complete.