IT Management Degree Programs

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Updated October 4, 2022

Learn about IT management degrees and careers, and explore our ranking of the top bachelor's and master's degrees in IT management to find the best school for you.

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An information technology (IT) management degree teaches students to use technical skills and knowledge to solve business problems. IT management programs combine business and IT training. Courses cover topics like project management, computer security, business operations, and emerging technologies.

Information technology management programs can prepare graduates to apply for in-demand tech jobs. Potential positions include chief information security officer, IT security manager, and information security analyst.

A degree in this field can help current IT professionals expand their job and salary opportunities. An IT management program may also appeal to career-changers working in other fields. Students interested in a career that combines business and tech skills may find IT management a fitting major.

This page explains more about why to get a degree in information technology management. We cover what to expect from a typical program, along with salary and career potential for graduates. Further below, consult our rankings list of 2022's best schools for IT management bachelor's and master's degrees.

Why Get a Degree in Information Technology Management?

Mastering the technical skills and business knowledge required for an IT management degree can be challenging, but it can pay off. Top IT management programs help students develop the skills and knowledge to qualify for high-paying jobs in this fast-growing tech sector.

Below, we explain some benefits of earning an IT management degree.

  • Earning Potential: Payscale reports that IT management bachelor's degree-holders earned an average annual salary of about $79,000 as of April 2022. Graduates with a master's in IT management made about $88,000 on average as of April 2022.
  • Versatile Skills: An IT management degree develops technical and business skills that can transfer to many occupations. Key transferable skills include strategic thinking, project management, and communication.
  • High Demand: A degree in information technology management can prepare you for a job in an in-demand field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 33% job growth rate — much faster than average — for information security analysts, one potential career for graduates, from 2020-2030.

Should You Go to College for IT Management or Cybersecurity?

Colleges for IT management and cybersecurity both prepare students for in-demand tech careers. Curricula in these fields often cover some of the same topics. However, cybersecurity programs and IT management programs also differ in key ways.

IT management emphasizes broad information technology knowledge and skills. College programs in the field usually cover some cybersecurity issues. Situations when an IT management degree may be better than a cybersecurity degree include:

  • You want to pursue a career managing IT for companies
  • You want a versatile degree that can prepare you for tech or business jobs
  • You want to pursue further IT management education

Cybersecurity is a specialized subfield of computer science and IT that focuses on keeping information safe. Situations when a cybersecurity degree may be better than an IT management degree include:

What degree do you need to work in cybersecurity?
Explore top HBCUs with cybersecurity programs
How to transition from working in IT to cybersecurity
What's the difference between a computer science and cybersecurity degree?

Top Online Programs

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What to Expect From an IT Management Program

The best schools for IT management teach students how to help businesses achieve their goals using technology. IT management majors focus on topics like networks and security, leadership tactics, general business principles, and information systems management.

The types of cybersecurity courses offered vary by program. IT management majors might take cybersecurity classes like foundations of network and security or principles of information security.

Most programs, regardless of degree level, offer courses in data management, management principles, and financial and managerial accounting. Many programs include an IT management capstone, final project, or seminar.

Types of Degree Programs in IT Management

Colleges for IT management offer associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral degrees. Generally, higher degree levels lead to more job opportunities and stronger salary potential.

Below, we explain what to expect from a typical IT management program at each degree level.

Associate Degrees

Students are more likely to find associate degrees in IT than in IT management. An associate degree in this field explores subjects like general information technology, project management, and computer systems.

Students learn to identify users' needs and to solve problems using basic technical skills. Most IT associate programs require about 60 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete. Popular classes include information technology concepts, Microsoft applications, and introduction to business.

Associate degrees in IT can prepare students for entry-level jobs like computer support specialist. Graduates can use this degree as a starting point for their studies and transfer to a bachelor's program.

Learn more about associate in cybersecurity programs

Bachelor's Degrees

A bachelor's degree in IT management usually takes 3-4 years to complete. Most programs require around 120 semester credits. A typical curriculum includes classes like introduction to spreadsheets, finance skills for managers, digital forensics, and computer programming in Java.

Graduates with a bachelor's degree in IT management can apply for jobs like information security analyst, IT security manager, and security director. Some positions may demand more experience or certifications. Students can get hands-on experience while still in school by completing an internship or co-op work program.

Most bachelor's in technology management programs follow general university admission requirements. Criteria typically include a high school diploma or GED certificate. Applicants may need to meet minimum GPA requirements and submit SAT or ACT scores.

Hundreds of colleges accept applications for IT management programs through Common App. This website lets students save time by applying to many schools with one general application.

Learn more about bachelor's in cybersecurity programs

Master's Degrees

A master's degree in information technology management builds on foundational business and IT knowledge to develop expertise in the field. This degree usually takes 1.5-3 years to complete. Programs include about 36-48 credits. Potential job titles for graduates include IT director, project manager, security consultant, and information systems manager.

Common master's-level IT management courses include technology and innovation management, business forecasting and planning, technical communication, and project management. Electives explore topics like marketing analytics, cloud and internet law, software and security, and software development management. Many programs include an IT management project capstone.

Admissions requirements for a master's in IT management program include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. Students with an undergraduate degree in an unrelated field may need to complete foundational prerequisite courses. Other application requirements may include a resume, GRE or GMAT scores, letters of recommendation, and an essay.

Learn more about master's in cybersecurity programs

Doctoral Degrees

Some top IT management programs offer doctoral degrees. These programs let students focus on a narrow part of the field and develop an area of expertise. This degree usually takes about five years to complete.

After completing coursework, doctoral candidates conduct research and write a dissertation that contributes new ideas to the field. Most programs also require a comprehensive exam.

A Ph.D. in IT management prepares graduates for careers in research, university teaching, and private industry. After earning their doctorate, some students complete a fellowship before taking a permanent job.

Learn more about doctorates in cybersecurity

Jobs for Graduates of Technology Management Programs

The top schools for IT management help prepare graduates for well-paying information technology careers. Potential jobs include IT security manager, security director, and chief information security officer. IT management degree-holders can also apply for positions like information security analyst and security consultant.

Salaries for these positions start around $85,000 for security consultants. Top-earning professionals like chief information security officers can earn more than $168,000. Below, we explain what to expect from these occupations.

IT Security Manager

Security managers oversee high-level information security issues for their organizations. Daily responsibilities vary depending on industry, employer, and experience level. Senior IT security manager positions may prefer applicants with a master's degree.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): Not available
Average Annual Salary: $117,030

Information Security Analyst

Information security analysts help organizations protect their computer systems and networks. These professionals develop security best practices and analyze networks to detect security breaches. They also install data encryption and firewall programs and help computer users. Key skills include scripting, hacking, operating systems, and networking.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): +33%
Median Annual Salary: $102,600

Security Director

Security directors oversee the programs that keep an organization's information safe. Responsibilities may include managing incident response and prevention, training staff, and strategic planning. Security directors usually need years of information technology experience. Important skills include leadership, communication, and teamwork.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): Not available
Average Annual Salary: $90,890

Chief Information Security Officer

A leadership-level job, chief information security officers create organizational security policies and manage IT staff. Their main responsibility is to ensure the safety of their company's data. A master's degree can help prospective chief information security officers stand out from other job applicants. They need significant industry experience.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): Not available
Average Annual Salary: $168,530

Security Consultant

Security consultants analyze IT security measures, help organizations respond to security incidents, and oversee security plans. They may work for one company or consult for many. Typical tasks include running systems tests, coding, and implementing security measures. Key skills include penetration testing, problem-solving, and communication.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): Not available
Average Annual Salary: $85,430

Explore government cybersecurity careers

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Choosing the Best IT Management School for You

Finding the best schools for IT management takes work. Think about what matters most to you. Below, we outline some important factors to consider.

  • Cost and Financial Aid: What is your budget for college? Calculate your expected cost of attendance, including tuition, fees, supplies, and living expenses. Research financial aid opportunities by contacting your school's financial aid office or IT management program.
  • Location: Do you want to go to a local school? Are you prepared to move to attend the best program? Even if you choose an online degree, location can affect your tuition and the types of student services and resources available.
  • Accreditation: Attending an accredited university helps ensure that you get a high-quality education that prepares you to apply for the job you want. Accreditation also makes it easier to qualify for financial aid, transfer credit to another institution, and apply for graduate programs and professional certifications.

Should You Get Your Degree Online?

Online education is increasingly prevalent and recognized as a successful learning format. Some top IT management colleges offer their programs fully online or as hybrid in-person/online degrees.

Earning your information technology management degree online can provide greater flexibility and convenience than a traditional on-campus program. Online learning may add to your understanding of IT management, since remote learners need to be comfortable working in a digital environment.

Some online technology management programs take place synchronously. In a synchronous format, students attend virtual classes in real time. Other programs offer asynchronous courses, where learners can log on to view lectures and complete coursework any time.

Should you attend a top-rated bootcamp instead?

Top Schools for IT Management Bachelor's Degrees

Explore 2022's top five schools for IT management bachelor's degrees. The link below explains the methods we use to rank schools for all degree levels.

View our ranking methodology

#1 IT Management Degree Programs

University of California-Santa Cruz

  • Santa Cruz, CA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

The University of California-Santa Cruz delivers 155 academic programs, including bachelor's program in technology and information management. The school provides a variety of online programs for bachelor's degree-seekers. Bachelor's programs in all fields require general education coursework. Upper-division courses build on foundational knowledge and explore topics specific to the learner's major. 

Students gain analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills. Online and on-campus students generally need about four years to complete a bachelor's program. Part-time students may need more than four years to graduate.

The institution reports that 70% of students receive financial aid and 39% take out loans. Undergraduate students at the institution pay an average net price of $17,889 each year. The school accepts 51% of undergraduate students.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$41,196
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$11,442
Out-of-state
$26,544
Retention Rate
89%
Acceptance Rate
51%
Students Enrolled
19,494
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
4% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior Colleges and University Commission

#2 IT Management Degree Programs

Olivet College

  • Olivet, MI
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Olivet College delivers 41 academic programs from its location in Michigan. The school offers a variety of options for online bachelor's degree-seekers, including a bachelor's in information technology management. 

Bachelor's programs feature general education classes in areas such as English, math, and science. After completing general education classes, students take upper-division courses focused on their field of study. Coursework helps degree-seekers develop analytical and problem-solving skills that employers value. Bachelor's programs typically require four years to complete. Part-time students may need more than two years to complete a bachelor's program.

The school reports that 100% of students receive financial aid and 81% take out loans.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$27,700
Out-of-state
$27,700
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
69%
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
1,120
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
5% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#3 IT Management Degree Programs

New York University

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

New York-based New York University delivers 564 online and on-campus programs. The school offers some of the highest-quality bachelor's programs in the country, including a BS in information systems management. Students gain knowledge and skills to impress employers. Bachelor's degree-seekers complete general education coursework. Major classes cover field-specific topics to prepare learners for the workforce or graduate studies. Graduates with a minor are often more competitive for positions in niche fields.

As an accredited institution, the school delivers programs that prepare learners for the workforce and further studies. Bachelor's degree-seekers who study full time typically complete their program in four years. If the institution accepts transfer credits, students may be able to complete the program sooner. 

In addition to coursework, students can receive credit for completing internships. Students can explore the school’s website for details about experiential learning opportunities. Student support services such as tutoring and career counseling prepare learners to succeed academically and professionally. To prepare for careers, students can participate in networking events through student organizations.

New York University has been accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education, an independent accrediting agency.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,684
Out-of-state
$50,684
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$33,408
Out-of-state
$33,408
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
52,885
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 IT Management Degree Programs

St Francis College

  • Brooklyn Heights, NY
  • 4 years
  • Campus

After graduating from St Francis College's information technology, BS, degree-holders can apply for entry-level careers in information technology management. Located in Brooklyn Heights, New York, St Francis College is a private institution. The information technology management program's rigorous curriculum provides foundational knowledge through core coursework.

Learners in the bachelor's program complete general education requirements, which foster transferable skills they can apply to field-specific classes. Degree-seekers who plan to pursue specialized careers can choose electives aligning with their goals. Internship opportunities allow undergraduates to gain professional experience, which they can add to their resume.

For specific application details, including requirements and deadlines, prospective learners can contact an admissions advisor. Full-time students generally complete a bachelor's degree in four years.

St Francis College Numbers:

Percentage of Learners Receiving Aid: 100%

Percentage of Learners Receiving Student Loans: 42%

Number of Bachelor's Programs: 36

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$25,188
Out-of-state
$25,188
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$16,000
Out-of-state
$16,000
Retention Rate
76%
Acceptance Rate
78%
Students Enrolled
2,596
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
41% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 IT Management Degree Programs

University of Northern Iowa

  • Cedar Falls, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

The University of Northern Iowa delivers 165 academic programs, including a bachelor's program in IT management. Undergraduate students can pursue a bachelor's degree in a variety of other subjects, as well. 

Bachelor's programs require foundational coursework in areas such as the maths and sciences. Upper-division classes explore topics specific to the learner's major. Bachelor's degree-seekers gain analytical, critical-thinking, and problem-solving skills. Bachelor's programs typically require about four years of full-time study. Part-time learners may need longer to graduate.

The institution reports that 83% of students receive financial aid and 55% take out loans. Bachelor's degree-seekers at the school pay an average net price of $15,760 annually. According to the school, 79% of hopeful students receive admission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,665
Out-of-state
$19,949
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$9,159
Out-of-state
$21,375
Retention Rate
83%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
10,477
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
26% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Top Schools for IT Management Master's Degrees

Learn about 2022's five best schools for IT management master's degrees in the following ranking. Visit our methodology page to find out how we rank higher education institutions.

#1 IT Management Degree Programs

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

  • Seattle, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

University of Washington-Seattle Campus delivers 687 academic programs online and from its campus in Washington. The institution offers some of the highest-quality graduate programs in the country. Master's-level curricula emphasize the knowledge and skills that employers value. Master's programs require advanced courses, including the master of science in information systems. Classes explore topics specific to the learner's field of study to prepare them for the workforce.

The institution delivers in-person and virtual student support services. Learners can use peer tutoring sessions to improve their grades.

University of Washington-Seattle Campus Numbers:

Total Students: 47,576

Number of Master's Options: 273

Tuition for Grad Students: $18,198 in-state; $32,439 out-of-state

Average Aid Awarded Per Student: $15,354

Average Annual Price: $10,692

The school has been accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,370
Out-of-state
$37,071
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,198
Out-of-state
$32,439
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
52%
Students Enrolled
47,576
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#2 IT Management Degree Programs

New York University

  • New York, NY
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

New York University is a private institution offering a variety of master's programs. The school's master's programs include a respected master of science in information systems. The information technology management program incorporates a rigorous curriculum and experiential learning opportunities designed to help graduates reach their career goals.

The graduate-level curriculum features specialized information technology management classes and foundational core coursework. As an accredited institution, the school delivers programs that meet high standards of quality. Master's students can access support services such as faculty mentorship and career counseling. After earning the master's degree in information technology management, graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career.

Degree-seekers at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs. According to the school, 52% of the student body receives financial aid to fund their graduate education.

New York University Fast Facts:

Number of Master's Programs: 201

Number of Online Master's Options: 28

Average Per-Credit Cost: $1,867

Graduate Tuition In-State: $33,408

Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $33,408

Transfer Credits Allowed: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$50,684
Out-of-state
$50,684
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$33,408
Out-of-state
$33,408
Retention Rate
94%
Acceptance Rate
16%
Students Enrolled
52,885
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
10% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#3 IT Management Degree Programs

Brandeis University

  • Waltham, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private institution, Brandeis University is based in Waltham, Massachusetts. Degree-seekers at the school choose from master's programs in many fields, including a master's in technology management. The information technology management program features a rigorous curriculum that helps enrollees develop transferable skills and specialized knowledge in the field.

Core classes help students develop transferable skills and prepare for advanced information technology management classes. As an accredited institution, the school delivers graduate programs that meet high standards of quality and confer widely recognized credentials. The school delivers support services including academic advising and career counseling. After earning the master's degree in information technology management, graduates can apply for positions in the field or advance their current career.

Degree-seekers with financial need can fund their education through federal grants and loans. The school reports that 69% of students receive financial aid.

Brandeis University Facts:

Number of Master's Programs: 47

Online Master's Degrees: 7

Average Cost Per Credit: Unavailable

Graduate Tuition In-State: $51,940

Graduate Tuition Out-of-State: $51,940

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$55,340
Out-of-state
$55,340
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$51,940
Out-of-state
$51,940
Retention Rate
93%
Acceptance Rate
30%
Students Enrolled
5,825
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
7% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 IT Management Degree Programs

University of Dallas

  • Irving, TX
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A private institution, the University of Dallas is located in Irving, Texas. Master's-level curricula focus on advanced courses. The MBA with technology management concentration helps degree-seekers gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure positions in their field. While earning credits, students gain specialized knowledge in their field.

The school offers support services for online and on-campus students. Students can access peer tutoring to improve their academic performance.

University of Dallas Numbers:

Number of Students Enrolled: 2,481

Master's Degrees: 30

Graduate Tuition Rate: $33,750 in-state

Average Price With Aid: NA

University of Dallas has received accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges, an independent accrediting agency.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$39,680
Out-of-state
$39,680
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$33,750
Out-of-state
$33,750
Retention Rate
85%
Acceptance Rate
45%
Students Enrolled
2,481
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
24% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 IT Management Degree Programs

Washington University in St Louis

  • Saint Louis, MO
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

With a main campus in Missouri, Washington University in St. Louis offers a comprehensive catalog of 86 master's programs. Learners at the institution enroll in master's programs that meet high academic standards, including the master of information systems management. Students complete high-level coursework to advance their information technology management knowledge.

The school offers support services, including tutoring for online and on-campus students. Degree-seekers can join student organizations to network with other students and access professional development opportunities.

Per credit, degree-seekers at the school pay an average of $2,556. About 51% of enrollees receive financial aid, and 17% of students take out loans to fund their education. Learners can reduce out-of-pocket costs by applying for grants and scholarships. The institution accepts 14% of learners.

The school is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$54,250
Out-of-state
$54,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$54,250
Out-of-state
$54,250
Retention Rate
97%
Acceptance Rate
14%
Students Enrolled
16,191
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
6% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Top Online Programs

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

FAQ About Information Technology Management

Should you get a bachelor's or master's degree from a top IT management program?

Whether to earn a bachelor's or master's degree in IT management depends on your education and experience, career and future study goals, and budget. A master's degree may open the door to better jobs and higher salaries.

Is information technology hard to study?

IT management programs demand technical skills and knowledge, which can be challenging. However, most people can successfully earn an IT degree if they put in the necessary time and work.

Is IT management a good career?

Information technology management can be an excellent career choice. The BLS projects 13% growth (faster than average) for computer and information technology occupations from 2020-2030. The agency also reports higher-than-average pay for this field, with a median annual salary of $97,430 as of May 2021.

Which college has the best IT management program?

Use our rankings as a starting point to find the best schools for IT management programs. Make sure to identify your individual priorities, needs, and preferences to figure out what to look for when choosing a school.

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