Modern information technology has reshaped organizations and industries around the world. The increasing complexities of tech means IT education and skills are more desirable than ever.
According to CompTIA's 2023 State of the Workforce report, there were 4.1 million job postings in tech in 2022. Projections for 2023 indicated the tech workforce would top 9.4 million professionals and are about 9% of the total economy.
Earning a master's in information technology positions graduates to capitalize on this growing demand. This degree can qualify professionals for many of the most appealing tech careers, but candidates should still consider employment data and trends.
Uncover the finer details about a master's in IT with this guide. Explore career pathways, program options, and which schools have the best IT programs.
Popular Information Technology Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
Top Master's in Information Technology Degrees
#1 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
Florida International University
- Miami, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With more than 56,000 students, Florida International University (FIU) is one of the 10 largest universities in the nation. The school's diverse student body is composed of 61% Hispanic learners and 13% Black students.
Master of Science in Information Technology
FIU's master of science in information technology requires 30 credits, including 15 elective credits, six concentration-specific credits, and nine core credits. All learners take software and data modeling, computer systems fundamentals, and fundamentals of computer security. Students also pursue a specialization in software, security, or system administration.
With administrative approval, the program allows enrollees to pursue elective courses in fields outside of information technology. For learners interested in pursuing further study, FIU also offers a Ph.D. in computer science.
Applying to FIU
Applicants need a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA in all upper-level coursework. FIU prefers learners who studied IT, computer science, computer engineering, or a related field.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $456/credit (in state); $1,002/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
Purdue University
- West Lafayette, IN
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded more than 150 years ago, Purdue University now enrolls about 152,000 students — 50,000 on its campus in West Lafayette, Indiana, and 102,000 through its global campus. The university maintains more than 400 research labs.
MS in Computer and Information Technology
Purdue's MS in computer and information technology offers eight concentrations, including big data and data analytics, bioinformatics and healthcare computing, and cyberinfrastructure and high-performance computing. The degree culminates in a thesis or directed research project.
Class options to fulfill the degree's foundational course requirements include information technology economics, quality management in information technology, and basic cyberforensics. Purdue offers graduate assistantships, fellowships, and scholarships for computer and information technology students.
Applying to Purdue
Applicants need a bachelor's degree in a computer-science related field or at least 15-18 credits of computational coursework. Transcripts should demonstrate a minimum 3.0 undergraduate GPA. Prospective students also submit GRE scores, a statement of purpose, three letters of recommendation, a resume, and a writing sample.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $5,558/term (in state); $14,959/term (out of state)
- Required Credits: 33-36 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
47%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#3 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
The University of West Florida
- Pensacola, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With campuses in Pensacola and Fort Walton Beach, the University of West Florida (UWF) enrolls more than 14,000 students. In the 2022-23 school year, UWF enrolled over 150 master's-level students in computer and information technology programs.
MS in Information Technology
Offered through the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering, UWF's information technology MS helps prepare enrollees for leadership roles in IT. Courses run online in eight-week sessions and explore topics like data visualization, network performance monitoring and security, and digital media analytics.
The degree culminates in a thesis or capstone. The thesis requires enrollees to complete research, while the capstone asks enrollees to synthesize their knowledge through a real-world project.
Applying to UWF
Applicants need an undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA in the last 60 credits of coursework. The program may admit learners from non-IT backgrounds if they complete prerequisites in networks and operating systems concepts. Prospective students submit a letter of intent, contact information for two references, a resume, and evidence of any relevant professional certifications. The application fee is $30.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $425/credit
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online
Percent Online Enrollment
88%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
Worcester Polytechnic Institute
- Worcester, MA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1865 and located in Worcester, Massachusetts, Worcester Polytechnic Institute (WPI) is a technology-focused university that emphasizes project-based learning. WPI offers 70 undergraduate and graduate degree programs.
Master's in Information Technology
WPI's master's in information technology explores how to apply business analytics, management, and IT principles to business. Housed within WPI's business school, this degree emphasizes security management, enterprise systems, innovation and the systems development lifecycle.
Required courses include data management for analytics, policy and strategy for IT and analytics, and business intelligence. Learners also complete two different specializations in data analytics, digital transformation, IT user experience, or information systems design. The program concludes with a two-course capstone project experience that covers teaming and organizing for innovation as well as system design and development.
Applying to WPI
Applicants need a bachelor's degree with at least one college-level programming course and one statistics course, each with a grade of B or better. Transcripts should reflect a minimum GPA higher than 3.0. The application fee is $70.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Tuition: $1,050/credit
- Required Credits: 33 credits
- Delivery Format: 100% online; on campus
Percent Online Enrollment
32%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#5 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
Carnegie Mellon University
- Pittsburgh, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, Carnegie Mellon University (CMU) enrolls more than 16,500 students from over 100 countries. The university's professors and alumni invented tools like the Duolingo app and the Java computer language.
Master of Information Technology Strategy
The College of Engineering, School of Computer Science, and the Carnegie Mellon Institute for Strategy & Technology jointly offer CMU's master of information technology strategy, which requires 11-12 classes. The degree has four specialization areas: information security, politics and strategy, software and networked systems, and data analytics.
Course options include dynamic network analysis; remote systems and the cyber domain in conflict; and information security, privacy, and policy. The degree culminates in a capstone project that pairs groups of students with an organization, company, or research center to solve a strategic problem.
Applying to CMU
Applicants submit an undergraduate transcript showing a minimum 3.0 GPA and a background in analytics, programming languages, algorithms, and data structures. Prospective students also send a statement of purpose, diversity essay, resume, two letters of recommendation, and a $75 application fee.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $30,000/term
- Program Length: 12-16 months
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
31%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#6 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Offering 140 academic programs, Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute (RPI) emphasizes five key areas of research: biotechnology and the life sciences; computational science and engineering; energy, environment, and smart systems; media, arts, science, and technology; and nanotechnology and advanced materials.
MS in Information Technology
RPI's MS in information technology teaches students to solve information and data problems using technology leadership and management strategies. Learners take core courses in the following domains: data analytics, database systems, software design and engineering, management of technology, and human-computer interaction.
The program also requires enrollees to pursue a three-course focus area. Options include cognitive computing, information dominance, web science, and financial engineering. The degree concludes with a capstone, master's project, or research thesis.
Applying to Rensselaer
Applicants need an undergraduate degree with a minimum 3.0 GPA and coursework in data structures and basic computer science. Industry experience may substitute for coursework. Prospective students submit a resume, 2-3 letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and an IT background evaluation form. RPI does not consider GRE scores. The application fee is $75.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $2,600/credit
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#7 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
Fordham University
- Bronx, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1841, Fordham is a Jesuit university in New York City. The institution enrolls almost 17,000 students across nine schools. Graduate students in the university's business MS programs hold an average of one year of work experience.
MS in Information Technology
Offered through the Gabelli School of Business, Fordham's MS in information technology develops students' technological skills to generate business value. The degree offers a one-year full-time option and a part-time option designed for professionals who want to earn their degree as they work. The program also holds STEM designation, so international learners may be eligible for a 24-month visa extension.
Courses include project management, web applications development, and data mining for business. Enrollees pursue one of four specialization tracks: business analytics, cybersecurity, digital transformation, or enterprise computing. The program also offers experiential learning activities in the Center for Digital Transformation or the school's design and AI labs.
A joint IT and business program is also available.
Applying to Fordham
Applicants need a bachelor's degree and a basic understanding of information technology. Fordham requires prospective students to submit an essay and complete an admissions interview. The school charges a $130 application fee.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $2,032/credit
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Delivery Format: On campus
Percent Online Enrollment
26%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#8 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
University of Cincinnati
- Cincinnati, OH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With almost 48,000 current students, the University of Cincinnati (UC) offers 426 degrees and 205 certificates. The school is known for its research facilities, local economic impact, and Bearcat athletic teams.
Master of Science in Information Technology
UC's master of science in information technology prepares enrollees for careers like IT manager, software engineer, software developer, or information security analyst. This degree includes a pathway for students with no IT background. Core courses include human-computer interaction and usability, a graduate seminar in information technology, and information technology research methods.
UC allows learners to take up to six credits in non-IT fields such as criminal justice, health informatics, or data analytics. Students can also use their elective credits to fulfill the requirements for a data-driven cybersecurity certificate. The program concludes with either a research thesis or an information technology project.
Applying to UC
Applicants need a bachelor's degree from an accredited university demonstrating a minimum 3.0 GPA. Prospective students with GPAs below this threshold or with non-IT backgrounds can supplement their applications with GRE scores or evidence of relevant work experience. The school also requires a resume, goal statement, and three letters of reference.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Tuition: $662/credit (in state); $1,249/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: On campus; online
Percent Online Enrollment
66%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
#9 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
Temple University
- Philadelphia, PA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Temple University's history began in 1884 with a single student and today enrolls more than 35,000 learners. The institution offers more than 600 academic programs across 17 schools and colleges.
Information Science and Technology MS
Temple's information science and technology MS teaches learners to solve complex business and engineering problems using current technology. This degree requires ten courses, including seven electives. In-person classes run in the evenings and online courses combine asynchronous assignments with weekly synchronous meetings. Students can enroll full time or part time.
Core class options include database design and programming, scripting for sciences and business, and operating systems and architecture. Temple runs a variety of related student organizations, including the Alliance for Minority Participation in STEM, the Association for Computing Machinery, or the Association for Computing Machinery for Women. The school also offers study abroad opportunities in China, Germany, Taiwan, South Korea, and Italy.
Applying to Temple
Applicants submit a resume, a statement of goals, and two letters of recommendation. The program maintains an August 1 deadline for fall admission and a November 1 deadline for spring admission.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
- Tuition: $1,301/credit (in state); $1,696/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous and synchronous); on campus; hybrid
Percent Online Enrollment
68%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#10 Best Master’s Degrees in Information Technology
University of North Carolina at Charlotte
- Charlotte, NC
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Comprising eight professional colleges, the University of North Carolina at Charlotte (UNCC) enrolls more than 30,000 students in 79 bachelor's, 64 master's and 24 doctoral programs. Over 8,000 enrollees graduate every year.
Master of Science in Information Technology
UNCC's information technology MS prepares learners to design, implement, evaluate, deploy, maintain, and manage information and communication systems and applications. The degree requires students to pursue one of seven specialization areas, which include human-computer interaction, information security and privacy, emerging technologies, and web development.
The program's curriculum consists of 15 core credits, nine concentration credits, six elective credits, and a culminating experience. Core courses explore topics like application development, databases, and software systems design. Culminating experience options include an internship, thesis, or project report.
Applying to UNCC
Applicants need a bachelor's degree in computer science or coursework in data structures and object-oriented programming in C++, C#, or Java with a minimum 3.0 GPA. Prospective students submit a statement of purpose and three letters of recommendation.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $248/credit (in state); $1,058/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 30 credits
- Delivery Format: On campus; hybrid
Percent Online Enrollment
69%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
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Why Get a Master's in IT Degree?
Since the Rochester Institute of Technology offered the first information technology degree in 1993, the field has significantly expanded. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the number of computer and information technology graduate degrees conferred grew 178% between 2010-11 and 2020-21, nearly doubling the next fastest-growing discipline.
Despite this incredible growth in advanced IT degrees, most tech employers believe the growing tech skills gap results from a lack of advanced skills in the workforce. Candidates with advanced IT abilities can pursue diverse opportunities across several industries.
Of the 9.4 million jobs in tech, over 2 million work in software development, over 700,000 in cybersecurity and systems engineering, and over 680,000 in network engineering. The top industries include IT services, telecommunications, tech manufacturing, and software.
While graduates of undergraduate programs and coding bootcamps can also pursue these roles, employers often seek master's graduates for their expertise and specialized skills.
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Career Advancement
A master's in information technology often includes business, operations, and leadership strategy courses. Many employers look for professionals with advanced education when hiring for management positions.
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Specialization Opportunities
Master's programs often provide more specialization opportunities than undergraduate programs. Learners can build on their IT foundations with cybersecurity, networking, or database concentrations.
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Earning Power
On average, master's graduates earn about 18% more than bachelor's degree-holders, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). In computer and IT occupations, the top 25% of earners made annual salaries more than $30,000 over the median earners in the field as of May 2021.
What To Expect From Master's in Information Technology Programs
In general, a master's in information technology equips students to develop and implement technological solutions for businesses and organizations.
A master's in IT usually runs between 1-2 years and features 30-45 credits. Students may encounter several study options, including courses and concentrations in hardware, software, design, administration, and analysis. The programs may also feature practicum, thesis, portfolio, or capstone project requirements.
The prestige and type of school can affect student outcomes and costs. While the number of IT programs available ensures students have options, most learners pay just over $20,000 per year, per the NCES.
Admission Requirements
The admission requirements vary by program, but an applicant typically needs a computer-related undergraduate degree, such as a bachelor's in information technology. Competitive programs may require a minimum 3.0 GPA or strong GRE scores.
Other common requirements include letters of recommendation and personal statements. While rarely mandatory, professional experience and a strong portfolio can increase a prospective student's chances of admission.
Degree and Specialization Options
Information technology programs may feature in-person, online, and blended formats. Online programs may have asynchronous delivery for maximum flexibility or synchronous delivery for more classroom engagement.
Concentrations vary, depending on the program. These specializations focus on certain topics and can improve graduates' career opportunities in that field or niche. Possible IT tracks include web application development, data analytics, and IT project management.
Popular Master's in IT Courses
In such a vast field as IT, students can encounter many different courses. The following list highlights a few of the more common topics covered in a master's in IT.
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Information Systems Analysis
In this course, students learn to analyze organizations' technological needs. They explore the methods for evaluating existing systems and designing solutions.
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Information Technology Management
Learners examine how organizations can align IT with operational and corporate goals and strategies. Coursework may touch on real-world IT concerns to improve problem-solving strategies.
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Business Data Management
This course looks at the design, development, and management of data systems. Students learn how businesses use data and how proper management can improve business decisions and outcomes.
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Strategic Communications
In this course, students explore the role of IT in strategic communications. The course may cover business networks, digital media, or communication software and applications.
How Much Will a Master's in Information Technology Cost?
According to the NCES, the average overall graduate tuition was $20,513in 2021-22. At public schools, the average tuition was $12,596, while private schools charged a median tuition of $28,017.
Tuition prices vary by school type and student residency. Schools may charge out-of-state students more than in-state learners, though many graduate programs offer a standard rate.
Students incur other costs, including travel, food, course and facility fees, and room and board. Fortunately, learners can pursue financial aid through federal grants, loans, and scholarships. The links below offer more information on the topic of financial aid.
Jobs for Master's in Information Technology Graduates
The employment outlook for information technology master's graduates appears particularly strong. The BLS projects significant growth for all computer and information technology occupations from 2022-2032. The median annual wage for this sector was $100,530 in May 2022 — more than double the median wage for all occupations.
Many of the highest-paying and most in-demand jobs in this industry belong to people with advanced skill sets and education. Information technology master's graduates can also move in many professional directions depending on their specializations, internships, and postgraduate certifications.
Find some details on some of the available career paths below.
Computer and Information Systems Manager
Computer and information systems managers coordinate and oversee the technological activities and operations within organizations. They ensure the systems perform at the level required to serve their organization's audience and meet the business goals. These professionals may manage IT companies or handle the IT divisions in information, finance and insurance, and manufacturing organizations.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Median Annual Salary: $164,070
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +15%
Computer Systems Analyst
Computer systems analysts evaluate organizations' information systems and needs. They may design solutions or provide consultation upgrades and efficiency improvements. Most systems analysts work in computer systems design services, but they also find employment in finance and insurance, government, and information industries.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Median Annual Salary: $102,240
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +10%
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts create, implement, and manage organizations' cybersecurity systems and policies. They provide management with security insights to help with business decisions and projections. These analysts primarily work in computer systems design services, finance and insurance, and information industries.
- Required Education: Bachelor's degree
- Median Annual Salary: $112,000
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +32%
Computer and Information Research Scientist
Computer and information research scientists develop technological solutions to common problems for people, businesses, and industries. These professionals may specialize in computer architecture, networking, or cybersecurity. Their primary employment industries include the federal government, computer systems design services, and software publishing.
- Required Education: Master's degree
- Median Annual Salary: $136,620
- Job Outlook (2022-32): +23%
Choosing the Right IT Graduate Program
Prospective students need to research several elements when comparing master's in information technology programs. To make the best decision, they should consider these factors while focusing on their needs and interests:
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Institutional and Programmatic Accreditation: Prospective students should prioritize institutional accreditation when researching colleges and universities. Schools cannot provide federal financial aid without accreditation, and the status may affect postgraduate employment and certification. While not mandatory, programmatic accreditation from ABET helps verify the program's quality and improve employment outcomes.
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Program Curriculum: Students should find programs that provide courses and concentrations in the fields that interest them. While a broad field like information technology allows learners to explore their options, specializations can significantly affect a graduate's career path.
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Program Structure: Program structure covers program and course length, course load intensity, start dates, and the semester breakdown. Prospective students should determine the structure that best fits their life and learning style.
Other considerations include:
- Admission requirements
- School faculty and facilities
- School location and residency requirements
- Program delivery methods and schedule
- Class size and student-to-teacher ratio
- Support services and student organizations
- Alumni network and mentorship programs
Should You Get Your Master's in IT Degree Online?
An online master's in information technology adds an extra level of flexibility to college studies. These programs often run asynchronously for total schedule control or synchronously during the evenings or weekends. As a result, online students can better maintain employment while pursuing degrees.
For online learning success, enrollees should ensure that the program aligns with their learning style. Online classes can be more independent and less interactive than in-person programs. Some online programs also have residency requirements that may limit how distant the campus can be.
Explore other IT education paths:
Doctoral Degrees in Information Technology
Information Technology Certificate Programs
Bachelor's Degrees in Information Technology
Online Bachelor's Degrees in IT Programs
FAQ About Information Technology Master's Programs
What can I do with a master's degree in information technology?
Professionals with master's degrees in information technology can pursue advanced roles in the tech sector and beyond. Popular IT careers include computer and information research scientists, software developers, information security analysts, and computer systems analysts.
What is a master of science in information technology?
A master's in information technology focuses on developing and managing IT devices and systems in the workplace. These programs often emphasize business applications of IT. While typically broad, IT master's degrees usually offer concentrations that allow learners to focus on specific areas of the field.
Is a master of science in IT worth it?
Yes. The high rate of growth in the IT field has created a shortage of highly skilled IT professionals. With a master's in information technology, graduates possess the skills and knowledge to keep up with changes in the field and pursue leadership positions in many organizations and industries.
Will I get a better salary with a master's in information technology?
Professionals with master's degrees typically earn more than individuals with undergraduate degrees. Master's graduates have better access to leadership and management positions, which tend to pay very well. According to the BLS, computer and information systems managers made a median annual salary of $164,070 in May 2022, more than the median annual salary for all computer and IT occupations.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by Computer Science. Page last reviewed March 4, 2024.
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