Earn your IT degree online
- $320/credit (120 total credits)
- Specialize with 1 of 5 different concentrations
- Explore tools and technologies crucial to success in the field
- Transfer up to 90 credits
- Median annual salary of $91,250 for computer & IT jobs1
- Keep up with innovations in the rapidly-evolving IT industry
Online Information Technology Degree Programs Overview
Build your technical abilities and gain the professional skills you need to become an IT professional with an online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technologies or Bachelor of Arts (BA) in Information Technologies at Southern New Hampshire University.
Our online information technology degree explores principles of computing and how they relate to business operations – beginning with the fundamentals of information technology and culminating in advanced courses in system design and implementation.
Learn how to:
- Analyze and solve complex computing problems
- Design, implement and evaluate computing-based solutions
- Communicate effectively in various professional contexts
- Function effectively as a member or leader of a team
From networking events to technology conferences and student competitions, there are always new opportunities to grow at SNHU.
Earn credit for what you already know: At SNHU, we want to remove the barriers standing between you and your goals – and help you save time and tuition along the way. That's why, if you've earned an IT certification or credentials through organizations like Cisco, CompTIA, (ISC)2 or Oracle, you may be eligible to receive credit toward your degree program.
2 IT Programs, 5 IT Concentration Options to Choose From
SNHU offers two IT program options – a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) – with the same 17 core courses and 14 IT courses. Whichever degree you select, you’ll learn the technical abilities and practical skills to help any organization innovate IT practices, products and processes.
Bachelor of Arts in Information Technology
Program Overview
This degree program is ideal for professionals already working in IT and want to enhance their technical skills or individuals looking for a career change.
Of the two IT programs we offer, the BA in IT is more transfer friendly, with 21 free elective credits (vs. 9 free elective credits within the BS in IT program). For more information on the BA in Information Technology, see the full curriculum.
Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
Program Overview
While not as transfer-friendly as the BA in IT, the BS degree provides the option to specialize in one of the following 5-course concentrations, or select 5 courses, to tailor the degree to your interests. For more information on the BS in Information Technologies, see the full curriculum.
Business Management for IT
Apply an IT perspective as you explore operations management, policies and administration with a Bachelor of Science in Information Technologies with a concentration in Business Management from Southern New Hampshire University.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, computer and information technology occupations are projected to grow 13% through 2030.1 A concentration in business management can help graduates gain the knowledge and skills they need to stand out, and ultimately break into an entry-level role.
The business management concentration explores crucial aspects of successfully running a business – including communications and critical thinking skills as well as organizational leadership.
You'll gain a solid foundation in the principles of information technology, human relations in administration and fundamentals of international business – helping you succeed in a globalized workforce. Business processes and goals and necessary techniques are emphasized using authentic scenarios to ensure that business results are achieved.
Courses may include:
- Principles of Management
- Human Relations in Administration
- Introduction to International Business
Cyber Security
Learn the basics of defending networks and information systems against cyber attacks by earning your Bachelor of Science in IT with a concentration in Cybersecurity.
As cyber crimes continue to grow in number and sophistication, the need for qualified defenders is expected to grow exponentially. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, information security analyst occupations are projected to grow 33% through 2030 – much faster than the national average.1 Median annual pay for information security analysts was $103,590 as of May 2020.1
Information security is critical to preventing identity theft and strengthening computer networks. Analysts are dynamic problem solvers who must analyze, anticipate and mitigate vulnerabilities in computer networks and systems.
Courses may include:
- Cyber Security Foundations
- Cyber Defense
- Network Security
In addition to this concentration, we also offer a full online cyber security degree program.
Data Analytics
Using authentic scenarios and problems, the Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Data Analytics helps students in the online bachelor's IT program learn how to collect, analyze and interpret data and communicate their findings to stakeholders to help solve relevant organizational challenges.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that about 667,600 new jobs will be added through 2030 – making computer and information technology a promising field in the coming years.1 Graduates with a data analytics concentration should come away with skills that can help supplement their background in IT and set them apart from other professionals in the field.
Courses may include:
- Leveraging Data for Organizational Results
- Data Validation: Quality and Cleaning
- Data Analysis Techniques
In addition to this concentration, we also offer a full online data analytics degree.
Project Management for IT
Combine an IT foundation with project management skills to successfully reach organizational goals by choosing a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Project Management.
This concentration helps students set and execute project goals from start to finish – from assessing cost and scope to project integration, quality and procurement.
With median annual wages of $91,250 in May 2020 – well above the national average for all occupations – a career in computers and information technology appears promising in the next decade.1 Those with a background in project management will be uniquely qualified to manage workflow and adapt to unpredictable changes in timelines, scope and resources, as they'll have an in-depth understanding of the daily challenges faced by IT professionals.
Lydia Alonci ’18 said a pair of classes - leadership and project management - focused her interest in the field, a decision that led to her receiving a job at a Fortune 100 company right out of college.
"I realized that was what I really wanted to do," Alonci said. "Those have really changed the way that I look at the world and look at myself and what I can do. It's definitely empowered me to know where I can go and see the possibilities and kind of design the life that I want to have."
Courses may include:
- Adaptive Project Management
- Operations Management
- Resource Estimating and Scheduling
In addition to this IT concentration, we also offer a project management concentration as part of our bachelor's in computer science degree online.
Software Development
Create software and apps that take advantage of new hardware, networks and technology with this specialized online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Software Development.
Combined with the online bachelor's in IT, the software development concentration focuses on the software development lifecycle and programming languages Java, Python and C++ .
In addition, you'll explore the development and design of functional programs using best practices.
Job prospects for software developers appear promising for the next decade. According to the U.S. Bureau of Statistics, the number of software developer/quality assurance analyst/tester occupations are set to soar 22% through 2030 – much faster than the national average for all occupations.1 The median annual pay for these roles was reportedly $110,140 in May 2020.1
Courses may include:
- Foundations in Software Development
- Programming Languages
- Software Development Lifecycle
In addition to this IT concentration, we also offer a BS in Computer Science with an online software engineering degree concentration.
Career Outlook
The digital age has changed nearly every aspect of our lives. With these advancements come new career opportunities – some we never could have predicted we would need. A bachelor's in IT may prepare you for a variety of these roles, including:
- Computer support specialist. Whether they're working directly with consumers to help solve basic computing problems, or within an organization to test, evaluate and maintain network systems, computer support specialists are a valuable part of any tech-enabled business. According to the BLS, jobs are set to grow 9% through 2030.1
- Computer systems analyst. When an organization has an inefficient computer system or procedure, a systems analyst steps in to help fix it. The BLS predicts a 7% lift in jobs through 2030 – about as fast as the average growth for all occupations.1
- Information security analyst. Information security analysts are responsible for planning and carrying out security measures to protect an organization's computer networks and systems. This particular job is expected to grow at a staggering rate, as information security is a major priority for businesses across industries. The BLS predicts 33% job growth through 2030 – over 4 times faster than the national average growth rate for all occupations.1
Businesses and organizations of all types and sizes must invest in new technology, not only with tools, but also with talent. This demand has fueled the growing need for skilled IT professionals at all levels in nearly every industry.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that employment opportunities for computer and IT occupations will grow 13% through 2030, faster than the national average for all occupations.1 In May 2020, the BLS also reported a median annual wage of $91,250 across all computer and IT jobs.1
“I think another important characteristic for being in the field is to be curious,” Numme said. “... The field is changing so rapidly that in order to stay current, being curious is one way that will help you embrace the continuous learning that’s essential in order to remain relevant in the field.”
"This program fit very well with my plans for my career roadmap," he said. "The classes were some that I had already had some experience with, so the opportunity to expand on subjects I already knew something about was very appealing."
Girkin managed to accelerate his career, thanks to his education at SNHU: He became an IT director not long after finishing his master's degree.
Start Your Journey Toward an Online Information Technology Degree
Why SNHU for your Information Technology Degree
Flexible
With no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7.
Affordable
As part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. In fact, we haven’t raised our online tuition rates, some of the lowest in the nation, since 2012.
Prior coursework could also help you save time and money. SNHU’s transfer policy allows you to transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree and 45 credits for an associate degree from your previous institutions—that means you could save up to 75% off the cost of tuition. You could also save time and money by getting college credit for previous work experience, or by taking advantage of military discounts and employer tuition assistance if available to you.
Respected
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 100,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is institutionally accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- U.S. News & World Report named SNHU the 2021 Most Innovative University in the North and one of the nation's "Best Regional Universities"
- Awarded the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology by The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
- A $1 million grant from Google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Network
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
96.5% of students would recommend SNHU (according to a 2019 survey of 9,200+ online students). Discover why SNHU may be right for you.
Admission Requirements
Expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials:
- Completed free undergraduate application
- Prior transcripts, which we can retrieve at no cost to you
- Test scores are not required as part of your application
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 6 (8-week) undergraduate terms.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going:
- Complete a free undergraduate application
- Submit any additional documents required
- Work with an admission counselor to explore financial options and walk through the application process
If you have questions or need help filling out your application, call 1.888.387.0861 or email enroll@snhu.edu.
IT Courses & Curriculum
Bachelor of Arts (BA) in IT
The online Bachelor of Arts in Information Technologies program is designed to help you leverage new technologies in the modern workplace through adaptive problem-solving best practices, technical knowledge and professional communication skills.
Program outcomes include the ability to analyze complex computing problems and the opportunity to design and implement innovative computing-based solutions.
Better yet, the BA in Information Technology accepts 21 free-elective credits. That means you may be able to save time and money by transferring in more courses from your previous program, whether they be in IT or another field.
Bachelor of Science (BS) in IT
SNHU's BS in Information Technology degree online is taught by experts in the field who empower you with the chance to learn, practice and demonstrate your mastery of IT skills with the latest innovative online tools.
And the online classroom environment can be just the right place to learn about those tools.
And now that he's finished the program, he can see the real-world application.
"The class that stood out to me the most was the Python class," McQueen said. "I use the Python language basics that I learned to practice coding on my own time."
You'll learn from instructors based around the country who have years of IT experience.
"The instructors I had seemed to be experts in their respective fields and were very knowledgeable in the classes I was taking," said Ken Girkin '17 '21G. "They did a good job of providing helpful feedback to the assignments and discussions."
McQueen agreed.
"The instructors gave me information on how the real-world IT field works and insight into the importance of certain practices," he said.
And it's not just instructors you can learn from. Because students in your classes come from a wide variety of backgrounds, it's easy to engage with them on different topics.
If you need help throughout your program, SNHU has the resources for you to succeed.
"Your academic advisor helps support your journey," said Beth Maldonado '20, who was also able to earn her master's degree at SNHU in 2021. "I love how your advisor is always there for you, every step of the way. ... I didn’t have that in my previous experience" at a local community college.
Become a Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)®
Already have an active Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® certification? You may be eligible to waive QSO-345: Project Management for CAPM® Certification and receive full credit for the course. When you receive credit for prior learning, you save time and tuition. Ask your admission representative for details.
General Curriculum Requirements & Resources for IT Degrees- General education courses: All bachelor's students are required to take general education classes, if not obtained in prior coursework. Through these foundation, exploration and integration courses, students learn to think critically, creatively and collaboratively, giving you the edge employers are looking for.
- Technology resources: We provide cloud-based virtual environments in some courses to give you access to the technology you need for your degree – and your career. Learn more about our virtual environments.
- Earn math credits for what you already know: Save time and tuition with our Pathways to Math Success assessments. Show your knowledge of the materials in your program's math courses, and you could earn up to 12 math credits – at less than $50 for each assessment.
SNHU's online IT degrees are 120 credits.
View Full Curriculum in the Catalog
| Courses May Include | ||
|---|---|---|
| BA in Information Technologies and BS in Information Technologies | ||
| IT 140 | Introduction to Scripting | Students will learn the fundamentals of programming concepts including data types, variables, decision statements, loops, functions and file handling. By developing simple scripts, students will understand how to use common scripting language constructs including lists, literals, and regular expressions to build useful applications. |
| IT 200 | Fundamentals of Information Technology | Students will learn about the fundamental knowledge and skills required in the information technology (IT) field. While exploring the various roles and functions of IT professionals, students will engage with basic technologies, hardware, software, and a systems thinking approach to solving problems. |
| IT 212 | Introduction to Computer Networks | Students will learn the basics of interconnectivity of computing systems. With fundamental networking knowledge, students will design a basic and secure computing environment that consists of a network, server, client system, and firewall. |
| IT 253 | Computer Systems Security | Students will explore the fundamentals of cybersecurity and related policies and procedures. Within the context of an organizational environment, they will examine concepts in the protection of data and personal information, and learn best practices in security planning within the information technology (IT) field. |
| IT 423 | Computing as a Service | Students will explore the use of cloud-based databases and design and implement a cloud-based system for an organizational need. Students will also learn about the implications for designing Internet of Things (IoT) software applications. |
| IT 482 | IT Operations and Systems Planning | Organizational strategy, mission, and vision influence the operational and strategic plans of an organization's information technology (IT) environment. Through the integration of these organizational requirements and consideration of applicable laws and regulations, students will design an IT operations plan and a strategic plan for the implementation of a new system architecture. |
| Total Credits: 120 | ||
Minimum Software Requirements
Some courses may require software purchase or subscription:
- Adobe Dreamweaver (12 month subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud Student Edition)
- Adobe Photoshop (12 month subscription to Adobe Creative Cloud Student Edition)
- GameMaker (purchase required)
- ArcGIS (purchase of student license required)
- Cypherpath (purchase required)
Microsoft® Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are enrolled at SNHU. Upon graduation, you will need to convert to a paid subscription. Terms are subject to change at Microsoft’s discretion.
Minimum Hardware Required Specifications
|
Component Type |
PC (Windows OS) |
Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|---|
|
Operating System |
Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
|
Memory (RAM) |
8GB or higher |
8GB or higher |
|
Hard Drive |
100GB or higher |
100GB or higher |
|
Antivirus Software |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
|
SNHU Purchase Programs |
||
|
Internet/ Bandwidth |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100 ms Latency |
Notes:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
Tuition & Fees
As a private, nonprofit university, we’re committed to making college more accessible by making it more affordable. That’s why we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation—and haven't raised our costs in a decade.
We also offer financial aid packages to those who qualify, plus a 30% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
| Online Undergraduate Programs | Per Course | Per Credit Hour | Annual Cost for 30 credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree/Certificates | $960 | $320 | $9,600 |
| Degree/Certificates (U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty)* | $675 | $225 | $6,750 |
Tuition Rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually. *Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional Costs No Application Fee, $150 Graduation Fee, Course Materials ($ varies by course)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between computer science and information technology?
While there may be some crossover between these two disciplines, it's important to identify the ways in which they are different.
Information technology covers a broad support range of computing concepts as they relate to and support business operations – such as human-computer interaction, information management, programming, networking and web systems. IT professionals can work in a wide range of roles, including information security specialist, information technology manager and systems specialist.
Computer science degrees, on the other hand, focus more heavily on software development. Computer scientists have a deep understanding of popular software languages like Python, Java and C++, as well as development and testing tools such as Eclipse, OpenGL, Cucumber with Maven and Junit testing. Graduates of computer science are likely to pursue careers as full-stack developers.
How do I start a career in IT?
This depends on the area of IT you'd like to explore. For example, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, entry-level education for computer support specialists, in some cases, is an associate degree in IT or a related field. On the other hand, many employers will require a master's in IT for computer and information research scientists.
Generally, most employers will require completion of a bachelor's-level program, along with some experience in a related occupation. For students in SNHU's BS in IT program, internships and experiential learning opportunities can help your resume stand out, and give you the confidence you need to succeed in a professional setting.
A former massage therapist, she knew she needed more than a degree in her hand to break into the tech field. So she landed a 10-week paid internship with Snag, an organization that connects hourly workers with employers, where she built up her skill set, network and confidence.
The experience, she noted, was eye-opening – allowing her to see aspects of the business beyond the tech side.
“I learned that I really love the product and marketing side of things,” Evans said. Beyond that, it allowed her to apply the technical writing skills she learned in classes, too. “When I made the reference guide I had to keep the information concise so that it would all fit nicely into the format I chose."
Reflecting on her time at Snag, Evans can't understate the impact it had – and will continue to have – on her career. “Without it, I wouldn’t have been able to understand the different departments within this industry and what to apply for in the future,” she said. “It gave me the confidence and relevant experience needed to progress further once I graduate from SNHU."
Which IT jobs are in demand?
As a fast-growing field, there are many high-demand jobs in IT. For those who are interested in advancing their career, here are a few of the top IT occupations, along with BLS salary and job growth projections. (Note that these jobs may require specialized credentials or a master's degree.)
- Computer and information research scientist. As problem-solvers who use computing technology to help solve business challenges, computer and information research scientists are expected to be highly sought after in the coming years. The BLS predicts 22% job growth through 2030 – much faster than the national average for all occupations.2 The median annual salary for these roles was reportedly $126,830 in May 2020.2
- Network and computer systems administrator. A valued asset to just about any organization, network and computer systems administrators are responsible for the daily operation of computer networks. Job prospects for network and computer systems administrators are set to grow 5% through 2030.2 In May 2020, it was reported that professionals in the field earned a median annual salary of $84,810.2
- Database administrator and architect. These jobs are responsible for creating efficient and secure databases where consumer data are stored – such as financial information or shipping records. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for database administrators and architects are set to grow 8% through 2030.2
Ken Girkin '17, an Army veteran who also earned a master's in cyber security in 2021, was able to advance in his company because of his education.
"I was promoted to director of IT and security for my organization," he said. "I feel that my degrees played a big part in not only preparing me for this new role, but also providing me with the educational requirements for the job."
Learn more about types of IT jobs.
What does SNHU do to support women looking to break into IT?
At SNHU, we believe everyone deserves access to an education that can transform their life. For women in IT, who are still underrepresented in the workforce, this means offering networks and opportunities that tip the scales – so no matter who you are or where you come from, you have the tools you need to see yourself succeed.
You may want to take part in National Cyber League challenges, which are a great opportunity for women in tech to connect and compete with teams across the country. In fact, SNHU students represent the first-ever all-female team to compete in a National Cyber League competition.
"I love being able to teach about technology and help people solve problems," she said.
And just by design of the online environment, SNHU makes it easier for working mothers to achieve their career dreams in STEM.
"I would have never been able to fit a traditional college into my daily schedule," said Beth Maldonado '20. "I could do schoolwork anytime and anywhere, even at my daughter’s soccer practice. As a full-time working mom, you learn to multitask and get things in where they fit. SNHU’s online classes help with that."
A traditional brick-and-mortar education wouldn't have allowed her to change professions.
"I was able to change my career of 18 years to a new career I am passionate about and love," she said. "I changed my career from supply chain to cybersecurity," which she had added as her degree concentration.
We're proud to say that our commitment to inclusion has earned us a spot as one of INSIGHT Into Diversity magazine's 2019 Most Inspiring Programs in STEM – but we're just getting started. We'll keep pushing to do better, because at SNHU, equity and access are at the heart of what we do.
Is SNHU accredited?
Licensure and Certification Disclosures
SNHU has provided additional information for programs that educationally prepare students for professional licensure or certification. Learn more about what that means for your program on our licensure and certification disclosure page.
University Accreditation
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as well as several other accrediting bodies.
The Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM) is a registered mark of the Project Management Institute, Inc.
The PMI logo is a mark of the Project Management Institute, Inc.
Related Articles
References
Sources & Citations (1)
1Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm (viewed Sept. 23, 2021)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm (viewed Sept. 23, 2021)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm (viewed Sept. 23, 2021)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-and-information-research-scientists.htm (viewed Sept. 23, 2021)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm (viewed Sept. 23, 2021)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm (viewed Sept. 23, 2021)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm (viewed Sept. 23, 2021)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm (viewed Sept. 23, 2021)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.