Top 30 Affordable Online Master’s in Information Technology 2017

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In this article, we list the top 30 affordable online master's in information technology degree programs for 2017.

A graduate IT degree is typically required for leadership roles in computers, information systems, and technology fields. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs in the information technology arena are among the top five occupations with the largest pay raises. With this in mind, individuals are returning to school to earn advanced degrees, and thankfully, online options have become readily available.

Methodology

We reviewed 117 accredited colleges and universities listed by the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) College Navigator that offer online master's in information technology degrees, information systems degrees, or closely related programs. From this pool of schools we chose institutions with rankings from major publications like U.S. News and World Report. We then selected the 30 most affordable of these top recognized schools based on the in-state graduate tuition rates published by NCES College Navigator.

Below are the resulting selections for our top 30 affordable online master's in information technology programs for 2017, listed in order of affordability.

#30 – Johns Hopkins University

Online Master's in Information Systems

Baltimore, Maryland

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $50,510

Earning an online MS in information systems from Johns Hopkins' Carey Business School gives you the distinction of attending one of the best business schools in the country. While not the most affordable school on our list, Johns Hopkins is a top-ranked institution recognized for its research and rigor. Graduate information systems students have the option of attending part-time or full-time. Full-time students complete the 36-credit requirement in one year, while part-time students generally take two years. All courses are delivered online and include applied IS architecture, data analytics, digital data and business intelligence, operations management, and statistical analysis. Johns Hopkins' online graduate computer information technology programs rank #6 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News and World Report.

#29 – Boston University

Online Master's in Computer Information Systems

Boston, Massachusetts

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $48,082

Boston University is a top-ranked research university that offers master's in information technology online degree programs like the MS in Computer Information Systems. Several available concentrations allow graduate students to tailor their degree to suit career goals and personal interests. These concentrations include computer networks, data analytics, database management and business intelligence, health informatics, IT project management, security, and web application development. A total of 40 credits are needed to satisfy requirements, and the general completion time is 18-24 months. While Boston University is a top-ranked national university by major publications like Forbes magazine and U.S. News and World Report, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #4 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#28 – University of Denver

Online Master's in Information and Communications Technology–Technology Management

Denver, Colorado

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $43,358

One of the top master's in information technology online degree programs on our list is offered from the College of Professional and Continuing Studies at University of Denver. Admissions require no GMAT or GRE score, and the average completion time is less than two years. Students take a total of 12 courses with four technology management concentration courses. Online classes include business forecasting and planning, information technology service assurance, principles of project management, technical foundations, and technology and innovation management. University of Denver is a top national university, ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs have earned recognition.

#27 – Drexel University

Online MS in Information Systems

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $31,519

Drexel University offers one of the best accredited information technology graduate programs online and on our list. This accredited degree programs is designed to train systems specialists with the most current technology and techniques seen across digital platforms. All classes are delivered online and taught by distinguished Drexel faculty members. Students work at their own pace and tailor their degree to better suit their career goals or personal interests. Courses include human-computer interaction, information systems analysis and design, introduction to database management, perspectives on information systems, and web systems and architecture. Drexel is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 96th best national university and 65th best value school. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #11 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#26 – Pace University

Online Master's in Internet Technology

New York, New York

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $29,070

Pace University offers one of the most innovative information technology graduate programs online and on our list. This interdisciplinary degree requires 30 credits to earn an MS in Internet Technology. The degree may be coupled with a specialization in a complementary discipline such as security and information assurance. The program may be completed entirely online, with classes taught by university professors. Classes include concepts and structures in internet computing, database management systems, overview of information security, systems development and project management, and web development with contents management systems. Pace is ranked nationally by U.S. News and World Report, and its graduate computer information technology programs are ranked #21 in the country.

#25 – Pennsylvania State University

Online Master of Professional Studies in Information Sciences

University Park, Pennsylvania

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,832

Pennsylvania State University offers an accredited online MS in information systems type of degree that combines information sciences with cyber security and information assurance. The degree is ideal for students interested in the constant security challenges faced by businesses, governments, and individuals with regard to information sharing and technology exchange. All courses are delivered online and include computer and cyber forensics, information security management, network management and security, and web fundamentals. The program requires a total of 33 credits and may be completed in two years when enrolled on a part-time basis. Penn State is ranked by all major publications, including U.S. News and World Report, who ranks it as the 50th best national university and 14th top public school.

#24 – Lawrence Technological University

Online Master's in Information Technology

Southfield, Michigan

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $19,050

Lawrence Technological University offers an accredited online master's in information technology program designed to be completed in just two years when working at your own pace. Two concentrations are available and include information assurance and project management. All courses are delivered online and consist of 30 credit hours (seven core courses and three electives). These courses include business application programming, business applications of statistical analysis, enterprise information technology, and systems analysis and design. The university is accredited and ranked with major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 40th best regional university in the Midwest. The online graduate computer information technology programs rank #38 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#23 – Florida Institute of Technology

Online Master of Science in Information Technology

Melbourne, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $16,128

Florida Institute of Technology offers an accredited master's in information technology online with three specialty programs, including cyber security, database administration, and enterprise resource planning. The 100% online IT program is designed for working students who desire to gain a well-rounded and professional education that improves their knowledge of business and strategic technology management. All courses are delivered online and include advanced management of information systems, global information technology management, introduction to information security management, and management of software systems. Florida Tech is ranked as a best national university by U.S. News and World Report, and the online graduate computer IT programs rank #21 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#22 – University of Maryland

Online Master's in Information Technology

Baltimore, Maryland

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,761

University of Maryland's online master's in information technology degree program is for working adults looking to gain an IT skill set that maximizes their career potential. A total of 36 credits are required, and eight specializations are offered so that students may tailor their degree to better suit career goals and interests. Some of the specializations include database systems technology, homeland security management, information assurance, or software engineering. Required courses, no matter the specialization, include computer systems architecture, information systems infrastructure, and information technology project management. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. In fact, the school's online graduate computer information technology programs rank #19 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#21 – University of Cincinnati

Online Master's in Information Technology

Cincinnati, Ohio

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,468

One of the more affordable information technology graduate programs online is found at University of Cincinnati. This flexible graduate degree is ideal for working students with specialty interests in cybersecurity, game development, or infrastructure. The degree is comprised of 30 credit hours and may be completed in just one year if enrolled full-time. All classes are delivered online and include human computer interaction and usability, information technology research methods, learning sciences and technology, and theory and practice of crime prevention. The university is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 135th best national university and top college for veterans. Also, the online graduate computer IT programs rank #32 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#20 – Virginia Tech

Online Master's in Information Technology

Blacksburg, Virginia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $14,116

Virginia Tech offers an online master's in information technology management degree program designed for working students who want the flexibility and convenience that an online program offers. Available modules allow students to customize their studies in particular areas of interest like big data, business information systems, health information technology, networking, security, or software development. All classes are delivered online and taught by the same university professors who teach on campus. Virginia Tech is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 74th best national university and 27th top public school. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #2 in the country (out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News).

#19 – University of Massachusetts

Online Master's in Information Technology

Lowell, Massachusetts

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,799

University of Massachusetts at Lowell offers an online master's in information technology degree program that consists of 30 credits that can be earned entirely online. Accredited and ranked, this online IT program offers a wide range of courses taught by university professors. Courses include computer network security, large scale application development, network and systems administration, operating systems foundations, and systems security and auditing. The program is designed for working IT professionals who want to gain advanced skills in order to advance their current careers. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 152nd best national university. Also, the online graduate computer IT programs have earned rankings–#27 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#18 – George Mason University

Online Master's in Applied Information Technology

Fairfax, Virginia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $13,304

George Mason University offers information technology graduate programs online that include the MS in Applied Information Technology degree with a cyber security concentration. This program is ideal for working adults and industry professionals who want to earn an advanced degree without disrupting their daytime obligations. Thirty credits are required, which include 9 credits of core courses, 18 credits in the concentration, and a 3-credit capstone course. All courses are delivered online and include analysis of financial decisions, determining needs for complex big data systems, information systems infrastructure lifecycle management, and managing IT programs in the federal sector. George Mason is a top-ranked national university by major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, the online graduate computer IT programs rank #36 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by the publication.

#17 – Colorado Technical University

Online Master's in Information Technology

Colorado Springs, Colorado

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $12,682

The online master's in information technology management program from Colorado Technical University focuses on IT and the growing challenges the industry faces in the modern world. Four specializations are offered so that enrolled students may tailor their IT degree towards career goals and personal interests. These specializations include a general track or focus in network management, project management, or security management. All courses are delivered online and include computer systems security foundations, enterprise data management, enterprise systems architecture, networking and telecommunications, and strategic management in dynamic environments. Colorado Tech is recognized as a top regional university by U.S. News and World Report. Also, the publications list the school's online graduate computer information technology programs 38th out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#16 – University of Louisville

Online Master's in Computer Science

Louisville, Kentucky

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,866

One alternative to an online MS in information systems or information technology is the computer science master's degree available from University of Louisville. This 100% online program consists of 30 credit hours with classes offered year-round and taught by award-winning faculty who routinely teach on campus. The program is designed for individuals with an adequate technical background, but may not have acquired a bachelor's degree in computer science. The program may be completed in just two years and includes courses like computer networks, distribute systems, modeling and analysis, and simulation and modeling discrete systems. University of Louisville is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 171st best national university and 90th top public school. Also, the graduate computer information technology programs are ranked #25 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by the publication.

#15 – Florida State University

Online Master's in Information Technology

Tallahassee, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,543

The accredited online master's in information technology from Florida State University is among the most affordable online IT programs on our list. The degree requires the completion of 32 semester hours of graduate study and offers specialization areas designed to help students tailor their degree toward career goals. Core courses include assessing information needs, information systems management, management of information organizations, and usability analysis. Twenty credits of electives must also be completed. These include advanced online searching, digital media concepts and production, research in information studies, or website development and administration. Florida State is a ranked national university and top public school according to major publications like U.S. News and World Report. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #11 out of 1,200 surveyed programs.

#14 – Colorado State University

Online Master's in Computer Information Systems

Fort Collins, Colorado

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,357

The online MS in information systems from Colorado State University is an accredited program that may be completed in less than two years. Flexible online study is available on a part-time or full-time basis. Students work at their own pace, and in doing so may complete the degree in as little as three semesters or take up to five years. A total of 33 credits (11 classes) are required in courses like application software infrastructure, business visual application development, enterprise computing and systems integration, information technology and project management, and IT communications infrastructure. Colorado State is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the school's online graduate computer information technology programs rank among the top 30 in the country.

#13 – University of Michigan

Online Master's in Information Systems and Technology

Dearborn, Michigan

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $11,280

The 30-credit master's in information technology online program from University of Michigan is designed for business professionals, computer scientists, engineers, and others who want to gain advanced skills in information systems and technology. Five specializations allow students to tailor their degree towards areas of personal interest or career goals. These specializations include information management applications, information security and quality, information systems engineering, supply chain and information systems design, and web information management. Admission to the program requires completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution. The institution is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 40th best regional university in the Midwest.

#12 – Regis University

Online Master's in Information Technology Management

Denver, Colorado

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,800

Regis University offers one of the most affordable information technology graduate programs online. This program is accredited and offers ten IT emphasis areas so that students can tailor their degree to suit career goals. Some of the specialty areas include cybersecurity, data science, database administration or design, healthcare informatics, and software engineering. A total of 36 credit hours are required for the degree with 9 credits in core courses and 12 credits in IT management core studies. All classes are delivered online and include information technology concepts, IT research methods, and strategic information technology. Regis is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 23rd best regional university in the West, and its online graduate computer technology programs have also earned recognition.

#11 – Missouri University of Science and Technology

Online Master of Science in Information Science and Technology

Rolla, Missouri

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,537

Designed for industry professionals who desire an accredited online master's in information technology management type degree, the master's in information science and technology from Missouri University of Science and Technology is an affordable 30-credit program. Admission requires a bachelor's degree or successful completion of 12 graduate hours in information science technology courses, GRE scores, and a complete application. Classes are delivered entirely online and can be structured towards areas of interest. Several specialization areas are available that lead to graduate certificates in enterprise resource planning, human-computer interaction, project management, and psychology of leadership. Major publications like U.S. News and World Report rank the institution as a best national university and top public school. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs are ranked #6 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#10 – University of South Florida

Online Master's in Information Technology

Tampa, Florida

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,428

The master's in information technology online degree program at University of South Florida is offered through the College of Engineering and Department of Computer Science. This non-thesis degree is designed for individuals with a background in computer science or related IT program and can be completed entirely online. GRE scores are required for all MSIT applicants, along with a bachelor's degree in IT or related major, three letters of recommendation, and a statement of purpose. All classes are delivered online and include advanced database administration, advanced programming, enterprise information systems management, and statistics data mining. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top national university. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #29 out of more than 1,200 programs surveyed by U.S. News.

#9 – Auburn University

Online Master's in Information Systems

Auburn, Alabama

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $10,418

Auburn University offers an accredited online MS in information systems program that consists of 30 hours of coursework. The program is designed for working students who want to earn an advanced degree but are unable to attend a traditional on-campus residency. All courses are delivered online and include advanced business data communications, current issues in information systems, project management, and social media as a tool for business strategy. Admission requirements include a bachelor's degree, GMAT or GRE scores, and a complete application. Appropriate work experience is desired but not required. Auburn is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 99th best national university. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs are ranked #30 in the nation.

#8 – University of Arkansas

Online Professional Master of Information Systems

Little Rock, Arkansas

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,752

The University of Arkansas offers one of the most affordable information technology graduate programs online on our list. This professional degree is AACSB-accredited and requires the completion of online coursework and on-campus interaction one Saturday each month. A professional concentration is also available for students interested in enterprise resource planning or enterprise systems management. Courses are typically team-taught by faculty and industry experts. These courses include data management systems, decision support and analytics, ERP fundamentals, global information systems, and management of information technology. Admissions requires an official transcript, complete resume, letters of recommendation, and official GMAT or GRE scores. The institution is ranked by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as the 135th best national university and 90th best college for veterans.

#7 – Georgia Southern University

Online Master's in Computer Science

Statesboro, Georgia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,728

While Georgia Southern University does not have an online master's in information technology management, it does offer a master's in computer science that can be completed entirely online. This 30-hour distance learning program is designed to provide a strong foundation in artificial intelligence, databases, and web systems and offers specializations in data mining, data warehousing, and distributed database systems. Online courses are taught by university professors who routinely provide instruction on the Statesboro campus. A bachelor's in computer science or related program is required for admission. Georgia Southern is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best national university. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #21 out of more than 1,200.

#6 – Liberty University

Online Master's in Information Systems

Lynchburg, Virginia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $8,000

For individuals interested in online master's in information technology management or information systems programs, Liberty University offers a 36-hour online program that focuses on technology and management knowledge from a biblical worldview. Two areas of specialization are offered in information assurance and technology management. These specializations allow students to tailor their degree to better suit career goals and personal interests. Core courses include enterprise models, ethics and legal issues, operations management, and systems analysis–modeling and design. The 12 hours of technology management includes courses in advanced IT project management, business simulation and modeling, and decision making and executive information systems. Liberty University is recognized by U.S. News and World Report as a top national university.

#5 – University of North Carolina

Online Master of Science in Information Technology and Management

Greensboro, North Carolina

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,489

The online master's in information technology management program at University of North Carolina is offered through the renowned Bryan School of Business and Economics. Through flexible curriculum, students are able to balance their work-life obligations without experiencing a disruption in everyday responsibilities. Admission to the program includes GMAT or GRE test scores (taken within the last five years) and a complete application package that includes official transcripts, statement of purpose, work experience, and three letters of recommendation. For those interested in business, a business analytics specialization is offered so that students may tailor their IT degree to suit career interests and goals. UNC is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 220th best national university and 125th top public school. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #27 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#4 – Southeast Missouri State University

Online Master of Science in Technology Management

Cape Girardeau, Missouri

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $7,270

One of the most affordable online master's in information technology programs on our list is offered by Southeast Missouri State University. This program is highly customizable and offers six specializations so that students may tailor their degree to better suit career goals and personal interests. Specialties include cybersecurity, facilities management, industrial education and training development, manufacturing systems, telecommunications systems, and workplace environment and health safety. All classes are delivered online and include advanced quality concepts, facilities management and sustainability, and technology supervision in diverse workplace. Admission to the program requires a significant background in a related field and a complete application package. The university is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as the 103rd best regional university in the Midwest and 29th top public school.

#3 – Western Governors University

Online Master's in Information Technology Management

Salt Lake City, Utah

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,790

Western Governors University offers an accredited master's in information technology online degree program designed for experienced IT professionals seeking to move into management roles but who need the credentials and education to do so. All courses are delivered online and include advanced networking technology, disaster recovery planning and prevention, information technology capstone, and technological globalization. A capstone project is required for successful completion of the degree and consists of a final project that showcases the culmination of your hard work. Western Governors is recognized by major publications like U.S. News and World Report as a top tier regional university in the West.

#2 – Kennesaw State University

Online Master of Science in Information Technology

Kennesaw, Georgia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $6,740

The accredited online master's in information technology program at Kennesaw State University is designed to enhance career options for IT professionals pursuing management roles. Courses are taught online by university professors and explore topics in database design and application, issues in information technology, IT and the law, multimedia applications, and web technologies and app development. Graduate certificates are also available in several areas of focus like information technology fundamentals or information technology security. Kennesaw is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best national university, and the school's online graduate computer information technology programs rank #38 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

#1 – University of West Georgia

Online Master's in Applied Computer Science

Carrollton, Georgia

Website

Graduate Tuition/Fees: $5,958

The most affordable type of online master's in information technology management on our list is the applied computer science degree from University of West Georgia. The program is delivered entirely online and can be completed in just 24 months. Courses are delivered by university professors and include database systems, program construction, software development, system and network administration, and web technologies. Admission to the program includes a current resume, letter of intent, and three letters of recommendation, along with a complete application package. The program is designed for industry professionals looking to advance their careers. The institution is ranked by U.S. News and World Report as a best national university. Also, the online graduate computer information technology programs rank #37 out of more than 1,200 surveyed programs.

BMD Staff
February 2017

This concludes our ranking of the top 30 affordable online master's in information technology degree programs of 2017.