Online technology programs may focus on areas such as computers or information technology (IT), where students learn how to design, maintain, and repair specific technologies. Individuals who benefit from these types of programs should be analytical, detail-oriented, and have strong troubleshooting skills. Technology degree programs are available online at associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctoral levels, while select schools may offer a career diploma or certificate option.

Graduates may have the skills and training needed to land a career in a variety of settings, including organizations, businesses, and governmental agencies. Graduates of these programs may pursue a career as a software developer, database administrator, IT manager, computer programmer, or computer system analyst.

Available Degree Levels

• Diploma: Varies
• Certificate: One to two years to complete
• Associate Degree: Two years to complete
• Bachelor’s Degree: Four years to complete
• Master’s Degree: One to two years to complete
• Doctoral Degree: Three to five years to complete

Online diploma programs in computer information technology are designed to develop an individual’s ability to assess and repair technical issues related to computer software, hardware, and networks. These programs emphasize computer terminology, operating systems, technical support, and networking, providing students with a basic understanding of the field. Coursework may include database concepts, tech support functions, networking basics, and business ethics.

An online certificate program in information technology may provide students a strong foundation in the field through coursework focusing on networking and telecommunications, information systems and technologies, and data organization. These programs are ideal for individuals who have limited experience in the field, or for those who wish to obtain additional training.

Individuals enrolled in online associate-level programs in computer information technology may gain the skills and training needed to obtain entry-level employment, or further their education by enrolling in a bachelor’s program. Courses for these two-year programs may focus on operating systems, web programming, systems planning, and desktop hardware. In addition to major-specific courses, these programs may provide students with general education coursework and training.

Online bachelor’s degree programs in technology management may provide students the knowledge and skills to become an IT manager. Coursework may cover business law and ethics, information technology basics, networking fundamentals, and organizational behavior and management.

Master’s-level programs in information technology may provide advanced training and the additional skills needed to succeed in the ever-changing computer technology industry. These programs may combine business management and IT, enabling individuals to obtain leadership roles. Additionally, these graduate-level programs tend to be more research-centric compared to other degree levels. Individuals may study database design, internet security, healthcare informatics, and web design.

Online doctoral-level programs in information technology tend to be even more research-heavy compared to the master’s programs, allowing students to gain the knowledge and training to pursue academia-based positions. Topics may cover software systems design and implementations, technical foundations, data warehousing, and qualitative research.

Career Options

Graduates of online technology programs may pursue employment in numerous office setting environments, including computer systems design, information, and finance. Graduates should know how to test, design, and maintain specific types of technology.

Possible career fields include:

• Computer Programmer
• Computer System Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Software Developer
• Information Technology Manager