An online master’s degree in information technology may provide students with the training and skills needed to plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related issues within an organization. In these upper-level programs, students may learn how to use strategic information technology to assist in business ventures as well as how to manage people effectively. Coursework within these programs may include a few electives as well as major-specific courses, such as data communications, networking fundamentals, and software engineering.

Graduates may pursue entry to upper-level employment or further their education and enroll in a doctoral degree program in information technology. Master’s-level graduates may find employment opportunities in computer system design, IT, manufacturing, finance, and logistics.

Program Overview

• Prerequisite: Bachelor’s Degree
• Program Length: One to two years to complete
• Post-Grad Options: Employment or Doctoral Program
• Projected Employment Growth: 18% (2010-2020)*

Program Coursework

The curriculum within an online master’s-level program in information technology may include major-specific courses and several electives. Students enrolled in these upper-level programs may study the technical aspects of the Internet, learn how to use information technology practices, and understand software and hardware lifecycles. Core information technology courses may include the following:

• Software Engineering
• Computer Systems Fundamentals
• Data Communications
• Emerging Technologies
• Telecommunications
• Information Systems
• Networking Fundamentals

Career Options

Graduates of online master’s-level programs in information technology may seek careers in insurance, IT, banking, and logistics. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment opportunities for those pursuing careers as computer information systems managers are expected to increase by 18% from 2010-2020.*

Possible careers include:

• Senior Network Administrators
• Computer Support Specialist
• Computer Information Systems Manager
• Information Technology Supervisor
• Senior Web Developer

Continuing Education

Graduates of online master’s degree in information technology programs may pursue additional education and enroll in a doctoral-level program in information technology. These research-heavy PhD programs may offer students a specific area of concentration, including information security or network architecture, and they may include a dissertation requirement.

*U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Outlook Handbook