In this article, we profile the 30 most affordable online master’s in information technology degree programs.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (United States Department of Labor) – Occupational Outlook Handbook, jobs in the IT industry are on the rise. In fact, information security analysts expect a job growth of 28% over the next eight years while computer and information research scientists expect a growth of 19%. Information technology degrees open doors to a variety of jobs in the field. Online programs from reputable institutions offer online master’s in information technology degrees designed to leverage your career in IT.
We reviewed over 50 accredited colleges and universities with a graduate tuition of less than $22,000. Using information compiled by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator, we selected 30 schools that met our graduate tuition/fees criteria and offered online master’s in information technology, or closely related, programs. We confirmed school and program accreditation, and those that had received rankings or recognition from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. We then listed the schools according to raw affordability.
Below are the resulting selections for our most affordable online master’s in information technology programs.
#30 – New Jersey Institute of Technology
Online Master’s in Information Technology Administration and Security
Newark, New Jersey
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $21,814
The New Jersey Institute of Technology’s online master’s in information technology program is designed to equip students with the ability to administer IT systems and networks while maintaining their security. Students gain hands-on experience by taking a number of classes that satisfy degree requirements. These courses include database administration, network management and security, network services administration, system administration, and wireless networks security and administration. Several electives allow students to tailor their degree toward areas of interest. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank New Jersey Institute of Technology as the 140th best national university and 32nd best value school in the country.
#29 – American InterContinental University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Schaumburg, Illinois
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $20,375
The American InterContinental University offers master’s in information technology online degree programs with two types of specializations. The MSIT degree may be completed entirely online and with specializations in either information assurance and security or IT project management. Students complete a series of classes including database system design and implementation, enterprise networks, legal issues in information security and incident response, principles of information systems, and principles of IT management. Some classes vary depending on which specialization is selected. The school is accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the most recent edition of Best Colleges ranks the institution as a best regional university in the Midwest.
#28 – Lawrence Technological University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Southfield, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,266
Lawrence Technological University offers an accredited online information technology degree program that prepares professionals for careers in engineering, IT, logistics, or manufacturing. The fully online 30-credit program takes two years to complete and offers two optional concentrations so that students may tailor their degree toward areas of interest or to meet career goals. These concentrations include cybersecurity and project management. Program curriculum includes courses in database modeling and administration, enterprise information technology, information technology integration, and systems analysis and design. To add to the school’s reputation, major publications like U.S. News and World Report have ranked Lawrence Tech as the 38th best regional university in the Midwest and the 62nd best value school. Also, the online graduate IT programs earned a ranking between #40-#52 among the best 1,200 online programs.
#27 – The College of Saint Rose
Online Master’s in Computer Information Systems
Albany, New York
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $15,196
The College of Saint Rose offers one of the more affordable information technology degree online programs on our list. The online master’s in computer information systems offers small class sizes of typically 20 students, held in computer labs, and provides access to faculty. The program is endorsed by the National Professional Science Masters Association (NPSMA) and designed for individuals with some experience in computer technology and programming. Part time and full time enrollment options are available. Some of the required courses include advanced programming, database theory and design, software engineering, and user interface design. The College of Saint Rose is a private institution, ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 91st regional university in the North and 74th best value school.
#26 – Capella University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Minneapolis, Minnesota
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $715 per credit
Capella University’s School of Business and Technology offers one of the best online information technology degree programs on our list. The completely online IT degree has five concentrations designed for students to hone their skills and meet career goals by tailoring their degree in cybersecurity, enterprise networks and cloud computing, IT analytics, project management, or general information technology. There is also a general information technology degree that does not include a specialized area of concentration but provides a general study to the IT degree. The program is accredited to meet the standards for quality curriculum and faculty by The Higher Learning Commission.
#25 – University of Massachusetts
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Lowell, Massachusetts
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,679
University of Massachusetts offers an online Master of Science in Information Technology that can be completed entirely online. This program provides a pathway for students who have completed a bachelor’s in IT degree and for working professionals who want to gain a graduate-level understanding of information technology. The online framework makes it ideal for busy and working students juggling outside responsibilities. The program consists of ten classes including advanced cloud computing, computer network security, network and systems administration, operating systems foundations, and systems security and auditing. To apply for admission, applicants must hold an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution and meet C programming and computer proficiency. The university is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national institution and public school. Also, the online graduate computer IT programs rank #13 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#24 – George Mason University
Online Master’s in Applied Information Technology
Fairfax, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,724
George Mason University’s master’s in information technology online degree program is offered 100% online and consists of 30-36 total credit hours. The program is designed for working or busy individuals who want to lead multidisciplinary teams in the design, management, or development of IT projects. Students interested in cyber security may choose to earn a concentration in this highly specialized area of IT. All courses are delivered online and include algorithms and data structures essentials, database management systems, fundamentals of computing platforms, and secure software development. To apply to the program, students must hold a bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college with an undergraduate GPA of 3.00. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank George Mason as the 140th best national university and 103rd best value school in the country. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #23 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#23 – Colorado Technical University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Colorado Springs, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,439
Colorado Technical University offers an accredited online information technology degree designed to help students prepare to build advanced foundations in the IT environment. This program may be completed entirely online and consists of 48 credits. Some of the courses include computer systems security foundations, enterprise data management, enterprise systems architecture, networking and telecommunications, project management processes in organizations, and strategic management in dynamic environments. A series of electives is also available and allows students to tailor their degree toward areas of interest or to meet career goals. According to major publications like U.S. News and World Report, Colorado Tech ranks among some of the nation’s top regional universities in the West. Also, the online graduate computer IT programs rank #40-52 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#22 – University of Arizona
Online Master’s in Management Information Systems
Tucson, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,383
The Eller College of Management at University of Arizona offers a type of information technology degree online program designed for working students. The online master’s in management information systems program covers courses commonly seen in a fully online MIT degree. The program consists of ten online courses designed to improve technical skills and business knowledge. Courses include business foundations of IT, business intelligence, enterprise data management, fundamentals of object-oriented programming, information technology audit, and social and ethical issues of the internet. Admission requirements include an undergraduate degree with a 3.00 GPA, two years of work experience, and a complete graduate application. The school is accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university and best value school. Also, the online graduate computer IT programs at U of A rank #8 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#21 – Central Michigan University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Mount Pleasant, Michigan
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,232
One of the best online information technology degree programs on our list is the affordable online master’s in information systems available at Central Michigan University. This completely online degree has three specialization tracks designed so that students can customize their coursework toward an area of interest. These specializations include cybersecurity, enterprise systems using SAP software, and project management. Required courses, no matter which specialization is selected, include application development, communication in professional contexts, database management for business systems, and information systems. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as a top national university and public institution.
#20 – Murray State University
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Murray, Kentucky
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,072
Murray State University offers one of the most affordable master’s in information technology online degree programs on our list. The AACSB-accredited degree program requires applicants have an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution, current resume, and official GRE scores that meet requirements. All courses are delivered online and include classes like data warehousing and business intelligence, decision support and expert systems, software methodologies, and telecommunications principles. The school is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 32nd best regional university in the South and 53rd best value school in the country.
#19 – Florida State University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Tallahassee, Florida
Website
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,543
Florida State University’s online master’s in information technology degree program requires the successful completion of 32 semester hours of graduate coursework in IT-related studies. On average, students take two courses each semester and have up to seven years to complete the degree requirements, although most students complete them earlier. Courses include leadership and management in IT, large-scale data management, and technology and networking. The school is accredited through the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools and is recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, U.S. News ranks FSU the 81st best national university and 98th best value school in the country. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #7 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#18 – Missouri University of Science and Technology
Online Master’s in Information Science and Technology
Rolla, Missouri
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,824
One of the most affordable online information technology degree programs on our list is the online master’s in information science and technology program at Missouri University of Science and Technology. This 30-credit hour program is structured in a convenient way that allows busy and working students to take live streaming video classes or courses over the internet which are accessible at any time. Several graduate certificates are also available and designed for students to tailor their degree toward areas of interest or to meet career goals. These graduate certificates include digital media, electronic and social commerce, human-computer interaction and user experience, or project management (information systems). Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Missouri University S&T as a top national university (#165) and a top public school (#87). Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #19 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#17 – American National University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Salem, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,644
American National University’s information technology degree online program is for IT professionals who want to gain advanced knowledge of the field. Classes are delivered entirely online and taught by faculty with both academic credentials and IT industry experience. Small class sizes facilitate personal attention from instructors. These classes include advanced database systems, data warehousing – cloud based, global IT products and services outsourcing, network security, systems analysis, and web application development of mobile applications. The program is structured to complete in 70 weeks. American National University is accredited and recognized by major publications. The school has received national accreditation by the Accrediting Council for Independent Colleges and Schools (ACICS).
#16 – Grand Canyon University
Online Master’s in Information Technology Management
Phoenix, Arizona
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,612
For those seeking a master’s in information technology online degree program that prepares students for leadership positions in IT, Grand Canyon University is an affordable and accredited option. The school offers a 34-credit online master’s program with classes that run eight weeks in length. The flexible online programming makes it convenient for working students to take classes without disrupting daytime obligations. Some of the courses offered include business process analysis, financial decision making, financial fundamentals for managers, IT management and leadership, and IT project management. The program takes approximately 18 weeks to complete. Grand Canyon is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.
#15 – University of South Florida
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Tampa, Florida
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,428
University of South Florida offers one of the best online information technology degree programs on our list. Applicants to the graduate program must provide satisfactory GRE scores, three letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and hold a bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or closely related field. Courses are delivered online, and a total of 30 credit hours are required. Some of the courses include advanced database administration, advances in object oriented programming for information technology, data mining, network programming for information technology, and selected topics in ethical hacking for IT. The degree is considered a non-thesis major, although a comprehensive exam must be satisfied. Accreditation and rankings make University of South Florida a top institution. In fact, U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as the 140th best national university and 81st best value school. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #23 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#14 – Central Washington University
Online Master’s in Information Technology and Administrative Management
Ellensburg, Washington
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,398
Central Washington University’s online master’s in information technology and administrative management degree is designed to prepare graduate students for careers in the IT industry. The program emphasizes leadership, communications, supervision, and IT management skills. Four specialization areas are also offered so that students may tailor their electives to suit career goals. These specializations include administrative management, cybersecurity management, information technology, and structures of data analytics for IT managers. The program is 100% online and can be taken on a part-time basis or at an accelerated pace. Central Washington is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 44th best regional university in the West and 51st best value school. Also, in the most recent edition of Best Colleges, U.S. News ranks Central Washington as the 10th best public school in the nation.
#13 – Concordia University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Mequon, Wisconsin
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,290
Concordia University offers some of the best online information technology degree programs on our list. The master’s in information technology (MS-IT) is a 39-credit, completely online program designed for working and busy students looking to advance their careers. Courses are delivered online and taught by experience Concordia professors. These classes include database and information management, foundations of information technology, introduction to informatics, systems development – theory and practice, and vocation and ethical computing. Concordia is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 51st best regional university in the Midwest and 59th best value school. Also, several online graduate programs at Concordia have received rankings and recognition.
#12 – Purdue University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
West Lafayette, Indiana
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,002
Purdue University offers two master’s in information technology online degree programs designed for working students. The graduate IT degrees are 100% online and include two specialization options: Business analysis and project management. All courses are delivered online and taught by Purdue professors. Sample course topics for the project management IT degree include IT economics and procurement management, organizational and project change management, program and portfolio management, project estimating and control, and requirements management processes. A total of 34 credits are required, and the degree may be earned in as short as 11 months or up to five years. Purdue is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 56th best national university and the 74th best value school in the country.
#11 – Virginia International University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Fairfax, Virginia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,344
Virginia International University’s online information technology degree is a graduate level program designed for busy and working individuals who want to gain skills across an entire range of IT topics. The MIT program is generally completed within two years of full time study and consists of seven core courses (21 credits) and five elective courses (15 credits). Some of the required courses include computer architecture and implementation, computer networks, database management systems, information technology fundamentals and management, introduction to information and assurance, and web applications development. The school is an accredited member of the ACICS and has received certification to operate in Virginia by the SCHEV.
#10 – Towson University
Online Master’s in Applied Information Technology
Towson, Maryland
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $9,054
Towson University offers one of the best online information technology degree programs on our list. The online master’s in applied information technology is a customizable degree that explores areas of timely IT topics like database management systems, information security and assurance, internet application development, networking technologies, and software engineering. All classes are delivered online and are taught by university professors. Internship opportunities are also offered so that students may gain valuable and applicable work experience. Admission requirements to Towson are stringent. The IT program requires an earned bachelor’s from a regionally accredited college or university with a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.00. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank Towson as the 41st best regional university in the North and the 57th best value school.
#9 – University of Maine
Online Master’s in Information Systems
Orono, Maine
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,666
One of the most affordable types of information technology degree online programs on our list is the master’s in information systems degree found at the University of Maine. This 30-credit hour program consists of five three-credit core courses and a minimum of fifteen additional credits from a selection of electives. All courses are delivered online and taught by experience University of Maine professors. These courses include design of information systems, formal foundations for information science, human computer interaction, information systems law, and information systems programming. Admission to the program requires an earned bachelor’s from an accredited institution with a satisfactory undergraduate GPA. The institution is accredited and ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #40-#52 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.
#7 – Oklahoma State University
Online Master’s in Management Information Systems
Stillwater, Oklahoma
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,735
Oklahoma State University’s online master’s in information technology degree programs include the MSIS degree. This completely online program is led by nationally recognized scholars and experienced instructors with acumen in both academic and private sectors. Courses emphasize team building and teamwork. These courses include digital business systems, knowledge management systems, and project information systems. Applicants must have a minimum GMAT score of 550 or a GRE score of 305 and at least a 3.0 overall undergraduate GPA. Although not required for admission, it is recommended that students have some background in computer programming and an understanding of business concepts. Oklahoma State is a ranked public institution. In fact, major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the school as the 156th best national university and 80th top public school in the country.
#6 – Aspen University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Denver, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,125
Aspen University’s online information technology degree program is designed for working students who want to earn a master’s degree in IT. The degree may be completed entirely online by taking online classes and completing a final proctored examination. Some of the online courses include data communications, eBusiness, emerging technologies, information systems strategic planning, management of information systems, project management essentials, project management organizational framework, and systems design. Admission requires applicants hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and provide official transcripts. There is no GRE requirement for this degree. Aspen has earned accreditation from the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC) and has been approved by Colorado to participate in the National Council for State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements.
#5 – Western Governors University
Online Master’s in Information Technology Management
Salt Lake City, Utah
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,790
Western Governors University offers a master’s in information technology online degree program designed to equip students with the skills needed for upward mobility in the IT industry. Classes can be taken entirely online and are taught by Western Governors’ experienced professors. These courses include key subject areas like advanced networking technology, disaster recovery planning – prevention and response, information technology management, and technical communication. The program is designed to move quickly, and most students earn their graduate degree in under two years. Admission requirements include a bachelor’s degree in information systems or information technology and a resume showing at least three years of significant work experience in IT. According to the most recent edition of Best Colleges, U.S. News and World Report lists Western Governors as among the best regional universities in the West.
#4 – Kennesaw State University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Kennesaw, Georgia
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,740
The information technology degree online programs at Kennesaw State University are accredited and highly affordable. The programs include the master’s in information technology, which are designed to enhance the career options for busy and working students. Classes are delivered online and include computer architecture, databases – design and applications, managing operations and network systems, software design and development, and web technologies and application development. Admission to the graduate program requires a statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and official transcripts from all colleges attended. U.S. News and World Report ranks the school as a top national university. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #40-#52 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.
#3 – American Sentinel University
Online Master’s in Information Systems Management
Aurora, Colorado
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,315
American Sentinel University offers an online information technology degree that can be completed entirely online. The online master’s in information systems management requires 36 credit hours, and students may transfer up to 18 eligible credits. All courses are delivered online and taught by university instructors. These courses include data communications and networking, health care information systems, organizational behavior for technology professionals, organizational systems metrics, and strategic information systems management. Admission requirements include a complete application, official transcripts, and a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. The school is CCNE-accredited.
#2 – Trident University International
Online Master’s in Information Technology Management
Cypress, California
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,120
Trident University International offers one of the best online information technology degree programs in terms of affordability. The online master’s in information technology management is offered 100% online and designed to prepare students for careers as IT managers and IT systems developers. Three concentrations are available and allow students the freedom to select an area of specialty that is tailored to fit their career goals. These concentrations include information security/assure and digital forensics, IT project management, and IT systems analysis and design. Admission requires an earned bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of 2.5. No entrance exams are required. Trident is recognized by U.S. News and World Report as an unranked national university.
#1 – Grantham University
Online Master’s in Information Technology
Lenexa, Kansas
Graduate Tuition/Fees: $4,080
Grantham University’s online master’s in information technology degree is a 37 credit hour program designed to complete in just 24 months. Less time may be required for completion if transfer credit is accepted. Courses begin monthly, so students may jump into the program when they are ready. All courses are offered online and taught by experienced Grantham instructors. Some of the online courses include data communications, emerging technologies, information systems strategic planning, information technology project management, network systems design, systems analysis and design, and telecommunications. Grantham is institutionally accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), which is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The school offers our top choice (based on raw affordability) for an online master’s in IT.
BCO Staff
January 2018
This concludes our list of the top 30 most affordable online master’s in information technology degree programs.
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