8 Fastest Online IT Degree Programs 2025

Information technology (IT) studies computer networks and systems as they relate to the operation of a business. This differs from computer science, which focuses more on software development. Pursuing an IT degree prepares students to take on the following tasks in professional settings:

• build communications networks
• safeguard data and information
• create and administer databases
• troubleshoot computer and mobile device problems

Are you interested in pursuing an online IT bachelor's degree and want to complete your studies fast? William Paterson University, California Baptist University, and the University of Massachusetts-Lowell offer accelerated online programs that help students graduate in less time than traditional programs. Below, we'll highlight top online information technology degree programs and answer frequently asked questions about their costs and benefits.

Online Accelerated Degree Programs in Information Technology

With several pros and cons of accelerated programs, the main benefit is completing the courses faster. Online accelerated IT degree programs help students complete their studies and advance their careers quickly. Explore the list of schools below to discover programs offering speedy paths to degree completion.

1. William Paterson University

William Paterson University offers bachelor's degree programs in information technology with flexible scheduling via asynchronous online courses. Degree options include a Bachelor of Science in information technology and a Bachelor of Science in information technology with a concentration in cybersecurity.

Both programs offer multiple start dates giving students several enrollment periods. Admission is open to students four years after completing high school, or two years post-high school with 60 or more college credits.

2. California Baptist University

California Baptist University's BS in computer information technology is an accelerated 100% online degree program offering asynchronous courses that start every eight weeks. The program delivers three semesters year-round and is transfer-friendly. Students who attend full-time and complete general education coursework and electives can graduate in 16 months.

Enrollees take courses in cloud computing, legal and ethical practices in IT, and advanced business networking. The curriculum also helps students attain multiple CompTIA certificates.

3. University of Massachusetts-Lowell

The BS in information technology - second degree from the University of Massachusetts-Lowell is an accelerated online program students can complete in as little as 12 months. U.S. News & World Report has ranked this program among the best online bachelor's in Greater Boston.

Ideal enrollees already possess a bachelor's degree and want to earn a second bachelor's in IT. Learners take 22 online classes covering operating systems, website development, networking, cloud computing, and more.

4. Lindenwood University

Lindenwood University offers an online BS in information technology allowing students to transfer up to 90 credits toward their college degree. This generous transfer credit policy helps students complete their studies in as little as two years.

Students learn networking and cybersecurity foundations, programming logic, and database analysis and can choose from an applications development or networking concentration. Program graduates can pursue careers as IT support specialists, network administrators, and software developers.

5. North Kentucky University

North Kentucky University students can prepare for careers as software developers, full-stack software engineers, and web developers by enrolling in the BS in information technology program. This 100% online degree teaches programming, cybersecurity, SQL, and risk analysis and helps students secure CompTIA A+ certification.

Admission requirements include a minimum GPA and official transcripts from each college attended. Students can graduate in less time by transferring up to 90 credit hours of previous learning.

6. Arizona State University

Arizona State University offers an online BS in information technology that teaches foundational IT concepts and allows students to choose from cybersecurity, information systems, or networking specializations. Enrollees interested in a master's program can pursue an accelerated MS in IT, which they can finish one year after earning the bachelor's degree.

Admission to ASU's BS program requires meeting high school GPA, graduating class, or ACT/SAT minimums, and competency requirements, such as four years of math and one year of American history. Master's degree admissions requirements include a minimum 3.0 cumulative GPA in the last 60 hours of a first bachelor's program.

7. Western Governors University

Western Governors University offers an accelerated BS to MS program in information technology teaching students data management, networking, scripting, and programming. This fast-track program lets students take fewer courses to earn two degrees in four years.

WGU enrollees start with general education courses and six bachelor's degree-level IT courses and then move into graduate-level coursework. Learners earn their bachelor's degree and certifications then complete six more master's courses, a capstone, and more certifications. The program doesn't require class times or assignment deadlines and bills by the six-month term instead of per credit.

8. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University offers an online information technologies program that students can earn as a Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts. Enrollees in either program learn to analyze and solve complex computing problems and implement computing-based solutions.

The BA program is more transfer-friendly, allowing students to choose 21 free electives versus 12 free electives in the BS program. SNHU allows students to transfer up to 90 credits and earn credits for military service, certificates, and exams (e.g., CLEP, Sophia Learning, and Google).

Our Selection Criteria

Our team used rigorous vetting to choose the institutions in the rank list above. Every school in this list aligns with the following criteria for delivering a high-quality educational experience:

• Accredited: The schools have received accreditation from the New England Commission of Higher Education, Middle States Commission on Higher Education, WASC Senior College and University Commission, Higher Learning Commission, Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, and Southern Association of Colleges and Schools, Commission on Colleges, guaranteeing recognized academic standards.
• Reputable: We verified that the institutions in this list are respected schools, considering factors like acceptance rates, graduation rates, and student outcomes.
• Path to degree completion: The colleges and universities above offer an accelerated degree path through generous transfer credit policies, work experience credits, fast-track programs, self-paced courses, and credits for exams and certificates.

FAQs About Online IT Degree Programs

Numerous online colleges nationwide offer reputable IT degrees. Read the following FAQs to learn more about these programs.

How Fast Can I Get an IT Degree?

The time it takes to earn an IT degree depends on whether you enroll in an accelerated program, already have an associate degree or college credits you can transfer, or pursue a degree that offers credits for CLEP exams, certificates, or life experience. While a traditional bachelor's degree takes about four years to complete, you might be able to earn an accelerated IT degree in as little as one year.

Is an Information Technology Degree Worth It?

Yes, an information technology degree is worth the time, effort, and cost. Graduates can pursue careers in various roles when ready to enter the job market, including:

• computer network architect
• database administrator
• software developer
• computer programmer
• web developer

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was more than double that of all occupations in May 2023. Employment for these roles is projected to grow much faster than average from 2023 to 2033.

How Much Does an Online Bachelor's Degree in IT Cost?

The tuition rate for an online bachelor's degree in IT varies by school. For example, California Baptist University charges $520 per unit plus fees for its online BS in computer information technology.

Northern Kentucky University charges $320 per credit for its BS in information technology program. The BS in information technology at Lindenwood University costs $495 per credit. Students can save on tuition costs by applying for scholarships and other financial aid.

Explore Accelerated Bachelor's Degrees Online Today

Begin your journey toward an exciting career in information technology by exploring the accredited degree programs offered by schools on Learn.org. Contact one of these colleges directly to learn how their programs can help you take the first step toward an IT career.