Online Master's in Information Technology MS in IT Degree
Program Overview Why get an online master's in information technology?
Organizations in every industry need IT professionals who can think beyond traditional technology support functions. And with a Master of Science (MS) in Information Technology degree from Southern New Hampshire University, you'll gain marketable technical skills — so you can serve as a bridge between IT and your organization’s management.
Skills you'll learn:
- Appropriate steps for ensuring information security
- Collaborative problem-solving
- Computer-based solutions to business challenges
- Ethically sound, technology-informed compliance procedures
- Risk assessment that informs change management processes
Courses & Curriculum Online IT courses built for the modern workforce
Learn to identify and implement technologies that drive growth and provide competitive differentiators for organizations in SNHU's online master's in information technology curriculum.
From developing computer-based solutions to business problems to collaborating and communicating effectively, you'll investigate current IT topics and their applications. Your courses will emphasize practical skills, too, like analyzing business needs, determining information systems requirements and applying current technologies.
Online information technology concentrations
Master a specialized skill set with one of our 7 industry-driven concentrations.
Data Analytics
By earning an online Master of Science in Information Technology degree with a concentration in Data Analytics, you’ll have the specialized intelligence to collect, organize and interpret statistical information while leveraging the power of big data. In this concentration, you'll examine the concept of data analysis and how it influences business decisions.
Career outlook:
The need for data analysts is on the rise as companies turn to big data to drive important business decisions. With a concentration in data analytics, you can fulfill a number of roles including:
- Operations research analyst
- Market research analyst
- Computer systems analyst
Those interested in advancing a career in this field may also be interested in a fully online master's in data analytics.
Courses may include:
- Foundations of Data
- Decision Methods and Modeling
- Presentation and Visualization of Data
Database Design
Databases are the backbone of almost every business, and with the Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Database Design degree, you’ll develop the skills necessary to successfully design databases.
SNHU's master’s in database design program focuses on the design and development of database applications, client/server systems and data warehouses within the context of a business environment. In this program, you’ll learn how multi-user database applications are created and manipulate data in a shared database environment. You’ll also explore the principles of design, development and implementation of data warehouse database management systems (DBMS).
Courses may include:
- Database Application Development
- Data Warehouse Concepts and Design
- Client/Server Systems
Healthcare Informatics
Use your aptitude for technology to make a measurable difference in people's lives with the Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Healthcare Informatics.
SNHU's healthcare informatics program will help you understand how to use information systems integral to the success of the evolving healthcare industry. You'll study electronic medical records (EMR), laboratory and radiation systems and more to determine new trends and practices, as well as how they function in various healthcare settings.
Career outlook:
Health information technology will play a major role in the future of healthcare. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates this field will grow 16% through 2032.1 The expertise you'll gain with a focus in health informatics could help prepare you to become a valued professional in the workforce. Upon completion of this program, you'll have the knowledge and skills needed to pursue management positions in a wide range of healthcare-related organizations.
Courses may include:
- Healthcare Informatics
- Social & Organizational Issues in Healthcare
- Management of Information Technology
Information Security
As information technologies evolve, so does the need for cyber security roles. Students in the Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Information Security will examine the current landscape of vulnerabilities, risks and security disciplines – and how these relate to the field of information security.
This ever-growing field involves managing and evaluating internal and external threats to security, system integrity and networks. This program equips you with the foundational knowledge and analytical skills necessary to prevent, mitigate and respond to cyber security threats.
You'll learn to develop best practices for planning, implementing and managing security and system integrity while developing organizational policies and procedures to evaluate and manage potential security threats. You'll also learn to investigate human factors present in cyber security related to ethics, integrity, practices, policies and procedures.
Plus, through our Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, SNHU proudly supports cybersecurity students across the globe. With highly experienced faculty, global networking events and experiential learning opportunities, it's no surprise SNHU has been designated as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) by the National Security Agency (NSA). The Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity is our validated program of study.
If you're interested in advancing your career in this specific field, you may also want to think about an online master's in cybersecurity.
Courses may include:
- Foundation in Information Assurance
- Human Factors in Security
- Network Assessment and Defense
Enterprise Technology Management
Advance your expertise with an exploration of topics that support managing enterprise-level information technology when you earn an online Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Enterprise Technology Management.
In this concentration, you'll focus on managing key aspects of information technology, including the relationships between structure and process in project management and the management of IT functions for a variety of organizations. You'll also explore enterprise resource planning, as well as the implications of cyber law and ethics.
From learning how to manage IT functions and interrelationships within an organization, to justifying recommendations for enterprise resource planning technology solutions, to managing the overall flow of information and integration, you can develop the skills you need to problem solve and propose future enhancements.
Those interested in advancing into IT leadership may also want to consider an online MBA with an information technology management concentration.
Courses may include:
- Cyberlaw and Ethics
- Management of Information Technology
- Enterprise Resource Planning
Software Application Development
The Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Software Application Development provides a hands-on introduction to designing and developing software applications. Learn the software development process, from considering the initial customer needs to designing and testing the product. Topics include software design methodologies, developing mobile applications and distributed software applications.
Courses may include:
- Mobile Application Development
- Distributed Application Development
- Software Design and Modeling
Web Design
Our online Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Web Design focuses on the design and development of interactive websites, web applications and methods for driving traffic to websites. You can gain experience with HTML/XML, scripting, embedding rich media and database connectivity, audience analysis, branding, page layout, templates and content organization. Other topics include e-commerce techniques, online security, privacy and ethics.
Courses may include:
- Website Construction
- Interface Design for Websites
- Website Optimization
Online master's in information technology courses
Throughout your IT courses, you'll deepen your understanding in crucial areas of information technology, including object oriented application development, innovations in the field, technical communication, operating systems, and more.
Additionally, you'll have the opportunity to participate in graduate-level experiential learning. With SNHU's 3-credit STEM experiential learning course, you can get credit for taking part in cyber competitions, learning cloud computing or analyzing real-world data. This course gives you the invaluable opportunity to gain hands-on experience, practice your skills and get a critical edge in the competitive modern workforce.
Courses may include:
Advanced Information Technology
Course ID:
IT 510
This course focuses on the principles and practices underlying the analysis, design, implementation and management of information technology systems. Topics include information system development methodologies, systems planning, requirements analysis, systems implementation, software engineering, project management, and interface, database and process design.
Object Oriented Application Development
Course ID:
IT 511
This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of object- oriented software development and provides a foundation for developing quality software. Students develop skills in applying object- oriented concepts to solve software problems and implement solutions. The course also teaches the concepts and design of algorithms for problem solving and includes the topics of data structures as they are related to the algorithms that use them. The course provides the technical foundation necessary to handle the material covered in the subsequent IT courses.
Innovations in Information Technology
Course ID:
IT 515
In this course, students strengthen their understanding of leadership theory and ethical frameworks in the context of a technology enterprise. Students will apply this understanding to business cases that reflect the need for innovative technology solutions in today's workplace in order to transform the thinking of an organization when change is required or to develop ideas that enable new business strategies.
Technical Communication
Course ID:
IT 520
The course focuses on the essential oral and written technical communication skills needed for producing technical documentation and presentations in many different forms for varying business situations. The course enables students to understand the needs of stakeholders in order to develop different technical documents such as white papers, design specifications, project plans, test plans, user manuals, etc. The ability to communicate research findings using appropriate academic formatting will also be addressed.
Operating Systems
Course ID:
IT 600
This course focuses on computer architecture and the operating systems of digital computers. Students learn about the operational methods of hardware; the services provided by operating systems' software; acquisition, processing, storage and output data; and the interaction between computers. Topics include widely used operating systems such as DOS, Windows, and UNIX.
Information Technology Project and Team Management
Course ID:
IT 625
This course introduces the students to the principles and practices necessary to be an effective IT project manager. The course covers project scope, time, cost, quality and human resource management techniques as applied to the kinds of project management problems and issues unique to the IT environment. Students learn how to design an actual IT project structure and will obtain hands-on experience using project management software. Emphasis is on the techniques of project management, leadership, teamwork and project risk management as applied to the IT environment. Case work is an important part of this course.
Telecommunications and Networking
Course ID:
IT 640
Telecommunications is a business resource that must be well managed. This includes the technical aspects and the application of telecommunications technology to solve specific business problems and enhance the strategic position of a business enterprise. Topics include the importance of telecommunication in today's business environment, the analysis, design and implementation of telecommunications systems, the scope of the telecommunications industry and current trends; telecommunications hardware, the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) network model, networking technologies and telecommunications software, protocols and standards.
Principles of Database Design
Course ID:
IT 650
This course is a study of the design, development and implementation of database management systems (DBMS) that emphasize relational DBMS architecture using SQL. Students will design and implement projects and complete case exercises as they are introduced to new developments in database design.
Capstone in Information Technology
Course ID:
IT 700
This capstone course is the culminating experience for the M.S. in Information Technology program. The aim of the capstone is to assess students' ability to synthesize and integrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout their coursework, rather than introducing new concepts. This course is structured to support student success in fulfilling program requirements.
If you don't have a background in information technology or a related field, you may need to take a foundation course. For those who do not meet the minimum requirements, the following course may be required:
- IT-505: Core Technologies
Visit the course catalog to view the full MS in Information Technology curriculum.
PC (Windows OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | PC (Windows OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Apple (Mac OS) Technical Requirements
| Component Type | Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required for campus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Apple |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps 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.
- 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.
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: October 14, 2024 | January 06, 2024
Next term starts:
July 29, 2024
Online Student Experience What’s it like going to SNHU?
Attending college online at SNHU can be a life-changing experience. In fact, 93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents.
What to expect:
10-week terms
Learn around your schedule
24/7 online support
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.
Learn from instructors with industry experience
Our faculty bring with them decades of experience in the IT field and exhibit strong leadership both in the classroom and in their professional careers. This experience informs the development of courses and curriculum that can help position graduates for success, wherever they go next.
Featured Faculty
Dr. Trebor Evans is the chief information security officer (CISO) and senior vice president at an $11 billion mutual bank where he leads the bank's Information Security Governance team and the Business Continuity Management team. He's also the executive sponsor of the bank's Rainbow Alliance LBGTQIA+ Employee Resource Network. He has 30 years of experience in IT and security and was named the CISO of the Year by the Pittsburgh Technology Council.
Position
Adjunct Instructor
Joined SNHU
2011
Education
- BA in Information Technology from South University
- MBA in Business Administration from South University
- Phd. in Instructional Management and Leadership from Robert Morris University
"Whether you are a traditional student or an adult learner wishing to move further in your present career, or perhaps change careers, SNNU provides an educational baseline to help you achieve your goals. The coursework is set up to be engaging, but also allows for balancing home and work. Online education requires discipline to do the work, but the rewards are definitely worth it."
Read more about Dr. Trebor Evans and other online faculty at SNHU.
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 180,000 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.
You’ll fill out one form to verify your high school completion or GED. Then, if you’ve attended college before, you’ll submit a form for each school so we can request your transcripts for you. (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), which means we meet certain standards of academic quality, and have the tools and resources necessary for students to be successful. 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.
Transfer credits and lower your cost by:
$1,911 $3,822 $5,733 $7,644If 3 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $17,199
If 6 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $15,288
If 9 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $13,377
If 12 of your prior learning credits ($637/credit) are accepted toward your master’s degree.
Your remaining tuition cost: $11,466
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 master's degree. Most master's degrees require 36 credits. SNHU allows you to transfer in up to 12 credits, requiring a minimum of 24 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
Career Outlook What can I do with an online master's in information technology?
With the growing demand for more business professionals with IT expertise, graduates of this program will be prepared for a variety of employment opportunities, including leadership roles. As businesses increase cybersecurity measures and integrate automation to perform repetitive tasks, IT professionals continue to be sought in high demand.1
SNHU’s online master's in information technology program is designed to help you change careers and break into the IT field. It's also a great choice for those already in the industry who are looking to advance their role. No matter what your goals are, you'll leave this program with the skills needed to take your next step.
Industries
Computer and information technology professionals can find roles in a wide array of industries, including:
Government
Develop and improve secure, effective software and hardware. Work in collaboration with engineers and other specialists to solve problems, test solutions and build new systems.
Insurance Companies
Design and build high-performing, efficient databases to house important information. Plan and implement strategies for maintaining database security.
Computer Systems Design Firms
Install, maintain and upgrade network hardware and software to fit the needs of a particular organization. Train staff to use systems properly.
Education
Support students, faculty and staff by troubleshooting and fixing computer or other technology problems.
Manufacturing
Plan and execute experiments to test new software. Identify risks, and create innovative solutions to mitigate those risks.
Self-Employment
Use computer languages, like C++ and Java, to write, test and fix programs. Use programming knowledge to make necessary updates and changes.
377,500
The number of computer and information technology job openings projected each year, on average, through 2032 by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).1
$104,420
The median annual salary for computer and information technology jobs as of May 2023, according to the BLS.1
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 do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
What SNHU students are saying
The experiential learning course allowed me to get real-world experience that led to a certification that will help me advance my career. The presentation of course material and support from the instructor helped to give me and my peers the tools to become a cloud professional.
Aaron Guyett '20G
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between information technology and computer science?
Computer science is focused on the underlying theories of computer systems. When studying for a computer science degree, you can focus on developing programming skills and becoming adept at creating and refining algorithms. Information technology studies are focused on the practical application of information systems and systems administration. Studies of information technology also include learning about databases, networking and gaining an overview of cyber security.
What can I do with a master's in information technology?
When it comes to career paths in information technology, examples run from tiny consulting firms to huge multinational corporations, and from highly technical specialties to management ladders that demand strong people skills.
And since it's an evergreen industry that's rapidly evolving, there's a wide range of career options available in the industry. “Everything that you touch, everything that you wear, everything that you interact with, anything that you order online, it’s all IT,” said Ben Steinbach, a career outreach specialist at SNHU. “It’s going to be with us every step of the way until the end of human civilization."
Our Career Services team can even help guide you along the way. After embarking on his master’s in IT online, Ricardo Scarello ‘19, who is also visually impaired, began working with the university’s career services team and participated in a virtual career fair. He credits SNHU with giving him the ability to be an equal to any other student. Now, he uses his skills and knowledge to allow others to experience the same through the work he does as a senior software developer.
“This was something no other school has done for me before,” he said. “Whatever came up, they said, ‘We’ll figure it out.’”
Here are some examples of career routes you might choose:
- Computer support specialist: A good entry role if you are new to IT and enjoy answering questions about computer software and hardware, setting up equipment and training computer users.
- Network and computer systems administrator: Daily tasks in this job could include maintaining computer network hardware and software, backing up data and troubleshooting network problems.
- Computer systems analyst: Strong computer skills, often including programming tools, database management software and development environment software are a must for this type of role, which requires an understanding of both IT and business systems.
What are the advantages to earning a master's in IT online?
If you're looking to progress in the IT field, earning an information technology master's degree at Southern New Hampshire University is an excellent choice. After learning the foundations of information technology through SNHU's 4-year bachelor program, the online MS in IT degree could help you advance your career.
How long does it take to get a master's degree in information technology?
Earning a master's in information technology can be done in as few as 15 months, depending on your schedule. At SNHU, you'll work closely with your academic advisor to develop a flexible timeline that works for your lifestyle.
How much can you make with a master's in information technology?
While it depends on a number of factors, according to the BLS, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $104,420 in May 2023.1
Which IT jobs pay the most?
According to information pulled from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the IT jobs that paid the most in May 2023 include:1
- Computer and information research scientist: $145,080
- Computer network architect: $129,840
- Software developer: $130,160
- Database administrator: $117,450
- Information security analyst: $120,360
Note: Additional education and certifications may be required in these roles.
Related Articles
Sources & Citations
1The Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/health-information-technologists-and-medical-registrars.htm#tab-1 (viewed April 22, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm (viewed April 22, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm (viewed April 22, 2024)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm#tab-5 (viewed April 22, 2024)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.