Top 7 Jobs With a Master’s in Computer Science
STEM | 10min Read
IT Degree Online Bachelor’s in Information Technology
Program Overview Why get an online IT degree?
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.
Skills you'll learn:
- 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
Courses & Curriculum Online IT degree courses
SNHU offers two IT program options – a Bachelor of Arts (BA) and a Bachelor of Science (BS) – with the same major courses, including 14 IT-specific courses. Whichever degree you select, you’ll learn the technical abilities and practical skills to help any organization innovate IT practices, products and processes.
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. 12 free elective credits within the BS in IT program). For more information on the BA in Information Technology, see the full curriculum.
Online BS in IT degree concentrations
SNHU's Bachelor of Science (BS) in Information Technology degree offers 5 concentrations you may choose to add to your program.
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
Apply an IT perspective as you explore the fundamentals and principles of 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 much faster than the average for all occupations through 2032.1 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.
You’ll also explore principles of microeconomics. You'll examine how resources are allocated to satisfy the needs of individual members of a society and develop models that explain the behavior of consumers, producers, and resource suppliers in various market structure.
Courses may include:
- Principles of Management
- Managing and Leading in Business
- Global Dimensions of Business
- Microeconomics
Cybersecurity
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 32% through 2032 – much faster than the national average.1 Median annual pay for information security analysts was $120,360 in 2023.1
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:
- Cybersecurity Foundations
- Cyber Defense
- Network Security
In addition to this concentration, we also offer a full online cybersecurity 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 377,500 annual openings, on average, through 20321 – making computer and information technology a promising field in the coming years. 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:
- Role of Data Analysis in Organizations
- Data Validation: Quality and Cleaning
- Data Validation: Getting the Right Data
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 for IT.
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 $104,420 in 2023 – well above the national average for all occupations1 – a career in computers and information technology appears promising in the next decade. 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.
Courses may include:
- Project Contracting and Procurement
- Integrated Cost and Schedule Control
- 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 occupations are projected to grow 25% through 2032 – much faster than the national average for all occupations.1 The median annual pay for these roles was reportedly $132,270 in 2023.1
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.
Online IT degree courses
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.
Courses may include:
Introduction to Scripting
Course ID:
IT 140
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.
Fundamentals of Information Technology
Course ID:
IT 200
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.
Introduction to Computer Networks
Course ID:
IT 212
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.
Computer Systems Security
Course ID:
IT 253
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.
Computing as a Service
Course ID:
IT 423
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 Operations and Systems Planning
Course ID:
IT 482
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.
Visit the course catalog to view the full BA in Information Technologies curriculum.
Visit the course catalog to view the full BS in Information Technologies curriculum.
The Commons: SNHU's gen ed program
All undergraduate students are required to take general education courses, which are part of SNHU's newly redesigned program, The Commons. The goal of The Commons' curriculum is to empower you with some of the most in-demand skills, so you can succeed not only in your academic career, but in your personal and professional life too.
Courses may include:
Cultural Awareness and Online Learning
Course ID:
IDS 105
This course introduces students to the skills relevant to university learning, and the foundational knowledge and values of intercultural fluency needed to understand and effectively navigate the complexities of contemporary society. Students will examine the various factors that influence an individual's perception of justice and the impacts that cultural and social diversity have on collaboration and communication processes. Through the application of interpersonal communication strategies, students will also learn to navigate various interpersonal conflict situations.
Self, Society, and the Humanities
Course ID:
HUM 102
In this course, students explore the interaction between individuals and society as a framework for understanding cultural inquiry. Through the examination of the scientific, creative, cultural, and historical humanities, students develop a practice of reflexivity to describe conceptions of self, others, and systems and their interconnectedness.
Foundations of Written Communication
Course ID:
ENG 130
This course focuses on written communication and writing practice. Students will gain the critical reading and information literacy related skills vital to academic and workplace success. Students will explore methods to analyze, summarize, and evaluate written works to isolate key ideas and information. Students will examine how to adapt the writing process to a variety of writing situations and present their own perspectives in written form.
Mathematical Reasoning for Modern Problem-Solving
Course ID:
MAT 126
In this course, students learn about the use of mathematical reasoning and the practical application of quantitative techniques to inform their decision-making process. Students will develop the skills to critically examine elements of a problem they might face in their day-to-day personal and professional lives, solve for various outcomes using quantitative techniques, and make informed decisions.
Ethics in Global Society
Course ID:
PHL 218
In this course, students explore various ethical frameworks from a cultural and global perspective. Students examine the ways that ethics influence actions, decisions, and perceptions. Furthermore, students develop associated skills related to critical thinking, such as awareness of bias, to analyze issues from an ethical standpoint.
STEM Principles and Problem-Solving
Course ID:
SCI 260
In this course, students learn to apply science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) methodologies to a wide variety of contemporary issues and complex challenges within society to obtain knowledge and use that knowledge to develop recommendations and propose solutions. Students will leverage a scientific mindset to gather information, analyze data, and communicate information in varying ways based on their intended audience.
Social Issues and Decision-Making
Course ID:
SCS 260
In this course, students use social science methodologies to analyze various sociocultural issues and their impacts on society. In their exploration of the concept of society and how it manifests in different cultures, students learn to contextualize themselves within society, examine the relationship between the individual and society, and analyze the ethical implications of decision-making related to contemporary social issues.
| Minimum Requirement | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Windows 11 64-bit | Windows 11 64-bit |
|
Quad-core Intel i7 series or AMD equivalent processor - minimum 3.0GHz |
Quad-core Intel i9 series or AMD equivalent |
| 32GB RAM | 64GB RAM |
| 1TB solid state drive | 1TB solid state drive |
| NVIDIA GTX 1050 or higher, 4GB | NVIDIA GTX 4060 or higher, 8GB |
Optional accessories: Headphones, external hard drive
Minimum Specifications:
- CPU: Intel Core i7 12th Gen or AMD Ryzen 7 5000 series
- GPU: NVIDIA RTX 3070 (Laptop GPU) or AMD Radeon RX 6750M+
- RAM: 16GB DDR4 (32GB recommended for multitasking and creative work)
- Storage: 512GB NVMe SSD (1TB recommended for longevity)
- Display: 15.6” FHD (1920x1080), 60Hz+ (QHD optional for creative/visual work)
- OS: Windows 11 Home or Pro
- Internet/bandwidth: 5Mbps download, 1Mbps upload and less than 100ms latency
Additional Information:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Where to purchase: You may purchase any computer brand you wish from any location/reseller, relying on the minimum specs provided to ensure the acquisition of an appropriate machine. We recommend asking your preferred vendor if they offer a student discount, since many do.
- Mac users: You must verify your machine offers comparable specs.
- Devices that don’t meet minimum requirements: 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.
- Microsoft Office software: Office 365 is available to all students for free. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion.
- Antivirus software: This is strongly recommended for online students. Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
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.
Apply for free in minutes
Our no-commitment application can help you decide if SNHU is the right college for you and your career goals. Apply up until 2 days before the term starts!
Upcoming term starts: September 1, 2025 | October 27, 2025
Next term starts:
June 30, 2025
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 91.6% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2024 survey with 8,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
8-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
Dedicated to your success
Our instructors are at the heart of SNHU's mission of student success. With real-world business experience and dedication to our students and their learning, our faculty are with you every step of the way. Whether they are engaging with students on discussion boards, communicating concepts and ideas or helping you explore your passions, SNHU instructors strive to make your learning experience valuable and memorable.
Dr. Benita Hubbard
Adjunct Instructor
Before joining SNHU 10 years ago, Dr. Benita Hubbard's career included owning a web development company, working for the state of California as an e-learning developer and working as an IT manager at a marketing firm. Now she is a faculty team leader at SNHU and is a full-stack web developer leveraging both client- and server-side technology.
Joined SNHU
2014
Education
- Bachelor of Science in Computer Information Systems
- Master of Science in Professional Studies in Education/Curriculum
- Master of Science in Information Systems and Technology Management
"Enjoy learning and always keep your knowledge updated either via certifications, joining LinkedIn groups and networks. Welcome challenges and reach out to your instructor for questions and clarifications."
Read more about Dr. Benita Hubbard and other online faculty at SNHU.
What does an online course look like?
You’ll take your courses within SNHU’s Brightspace platform. This is where you’ll find your:
- Schedule of weekly assignments
- Discussion boards
- Grades
- Instructor announcements
What support services are available?
- Chat with your advisors
Get hands-on help from dedicated academic and career advisors. - Drop in for tutoring
Work with a tutor, any time of the day or night – no appointment necessary. - Learn from industry professionals
Instructors lead discussions and offer guidance – and they’re just an email away. - Use the online library
Access 600,000+ resources or chat with a librarian 24/7. - Reach out for accessibility help
Receive accommodations as an eligible student with disabilities. - Focus on your well-being
Connect with professionals to improve your health and wellness.
Why SNHU?
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 400,000 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.
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 2024 Most Innovative University in the North - The United States Distance Learning Association (USDLA)
Awarded SNHU the 21st Century Distance Learning Award for Excellence in Online Technology - Google.org
Gave SNHU a $1 million grant to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 250,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Admission Applying to SNHU is fast and free
No application fee. No test scores. And no college essay. Just a simple form with basic information. It’s another way SNHU helps you reach your goals sooner.
All it takes is 3 simple steps
Step 1: Complete the online application – it only takes minutes.
It's easy, fast and free.
Step 2: Submit additional forms.
Whether you're applying for an undergraduate or graduate degree, you’ll fill out a form to verify your previous education experience. As part of our admissions process, we'll help you request transcripts from your previous school(s) to see if you can transfer any credits into your SNHU program! (Also for free!)
Step 3: Make your decision.
After reviewing your official evaluation, you can decide if SNHU is right for you! If you choose to enroll, just pick your start date and get ready for classes to begin.
Talk to an admission counselor: 888.327.SNHU | enroll@snhu.edu
Accreditations
SNHU is accredited by the regional accreditor the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE). The university also carries specialized accreditations for some programs.
Tuition Cost & Savings College can be more affordable than you think
As a nonprofit university, SNHU offers some of the lowest online tuition rates in the country. And when you work with our Financial Services team, we'll explore ways to help you save even more on your education – and customize a payment plan that works for you.
Online undergraduate tuition
Student
Cost per credit
Cost per course
Cost for 120-credit degree*
Full- and part-time students
$330
$990
$39,600
Active-duty military and spouses | Full- and part-time students**
$231
$693
$27,720
*before previously earned credits are applied
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
**Note: Students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional costs: Course materials vary by course.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$9,900 $14,850 $19,800 $24,750 $29,700If 30 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $29,700
If 45 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $24,750
If 60 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $19,800
If 75 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $14,850
If 90 of your prior learning credits ($330/credit) are accepted toward your bachelor’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $9,900
How we estimate your tuition cost:
We look at the cost per credit multiplied by the number of credits you need to earn for a bachelor's degree. Most bachelor's degrees require 120 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 90 credits, requiring a minimum of 30 credits to be taken at SNHU. This is only a tuition estimator, and doesn't account for other fees that may be associated with your program of choice.
Ways to save on online tuition
Transfer your credits
Transfer up to 90 credits toward your bachelor's degree program at SNHU. If you’ve taken one course or many, we’ll evaluate them for you.
Apply for financial aid
Fill out the FAFSA to see if you’re eligible for grants or work-study. (You could also be offered loans, though you’ll have to pay those back later.)
Military discounts and credit
Earn credits in leadership, technology and more – while taking advantage of tuition discounts for active-duty service members and spouses.
Explore scholarships
Getting free money for college – from SNHU or an outside organization – could help you save hundreds or even thousands of dollars.
Earn credit for exams and certificates
Bring in credits from popular options like CLEP, Sophia Learning, Google and other common credit for prior learning (CPL) experiences.
Tuition Reimbursement
Learn how you can save money with tuition reimbursement from your employer.
Benefit from your employer
Take advantage of an online tuition discount through your organization’s partnership with SNHU. Check with your employer to see if your organization partners with us and if you’re eligible for additional tuition savings and partner education benefits.
Career Outlook What can I do with an online IT degree?
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 roles.
Occupations
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.
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.
Computer Systems Analyst
When an organization has an inefficient computer system or procedure, a systems analyst steps in to help fix it. A degree in IT can equip you with the skills to succeed in this role.
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.
377k+
openings are projected nationally each year through 2032, according to the BLS.1
$104k+
Median annual wages nationally for computer and information technology roles in 2023, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.1 Statistic not based on wage data for SNHU graduates.
Understanding the numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors—like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections are based on Bureau of Labor Statistics data, not on SNHU graduate outcomes, and do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
My degrees played a big part in not only preparing me for a new role, but also provided me with the educational requirements for the job.
Ken Girkin '17 '21G
Information Technologies (BS)
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.
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 couple of the top IT occupations, along with BLS salary and job growth projections.
- 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 projected to grow 2% through 2032.1 In 2023, it was reported that professionals in the field earned a median annual salary of $95,360.1
- 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 projected to grow 8% through 2032.1 The median annual salary for these roles was reportedly $117,450 in 2023.1
Ken Girkin '17, an Army veteran who also earned a master's in cybersecurity in 2021, was able to advance in his company because of his education.
“I feel that my degrees played a big part in not only preparing me for my new role, but also providing me with the educational requirements for the job,” he said.
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 great opportunities 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.
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.
Related Articles
Is a Computer Science Degree Worth It?
STEM | 8min Read
SNHU Spotlight: Prince Gelito, MS in Cybersecurity Grad
STEM | 1min Read
Sources & Citations
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 May 1, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/information-security-analysts.htm (viewed May 1, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/software-developers.htm (viewed May 1, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-support-specialists.htm (viewed May 1, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/computer-systems-analysts.htm (viewed May 1, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm (viewed May 1, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/network-and-computer-systems-administrators.htm (viewed May 1, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.