10 Most Affordable Online IT Associate Degrees 2025

Information technology (IT) professionals create and support computer applications, networks, and systems. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects 356,700 new job openings in the IT field over the next decade. This faster-than-average job growth encompasses career opportunities such as computer systems analysts, information security specialists, web developers, and support specialists.

In this article, we highlight ten schools that offer online associate degrees in information technology and answer questions about degree costs, program coursework, and career outlooks. Read on to learn about affordable associate degree programs and more.

What Is an Online Associate Degree in Information Technology?

An associate degree in information technology prepares students for entry-level computer and IT roles. Program curricula include general education courses and core subjects like computer programming, network systems, web development, and troubleshooting. Online degree programs have the same curriculum standards as in-person programs.

Information technology associate degrees come in a few forms, such as Associate of Arts (AA), Associate of Science (AS), and Associate of Applied Science (AAS). While all of these degree programs teach the fundamentals of information technology, each pathway has a slightly different focus. For example, an AS in information technology has a more technical emphasis than an AA degree program.

How Much Does an Online Associate Degree in IT Cost?

Generally speaking, the cost for online associate degrees in IT ranges from about $8,000 to more than $50,000 in total tuition. Additional costs to consider include application fees, equipment, and materials like software.

The total cost to earn your associate in information technology will depend on your chosen school, length of program, any transfer credits, and financial aid opportunities. Applying for the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) determines your eligibility for federal and state aid, including scholarships for online students.

Cheapest Online IT Associate Degrees

The following list features some of the most affordable online associate degree programs. All schools are accredited institutions and offer a variety of financial aid options.

1. U.S. Career Institute

The U.S. Career Institute offers a 62-credit health information technology associate degree program that can be completed in 16 months. This degree program prepares students to work for hospitals, insurance companies, and outpatient clinics.

The self-paced courses are delivered entirely online over four semesters. Courses include medical terminology, health information management systems, business communications, and procedural coding.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,191 total tuition
• Financial aid: Employer reimbursement programs and military benefits for active service members, veterans, and spouses are available.
• Accreditation: Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)

2. Georgia Military College

The Georgia Military College (GMC) has an AS in information technology program that can be taken on campus or online. Full-time students can complete the degree program in two years.

GMC program's curriculum covers topics like information systems, business communications, website development, and programming languages like Java. Graduates can become database administrators and architects, information security analysts, and computer scientists.

• Estimated tuition cost: $8,280 per year
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and military tuition assistance are available.
• Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

3. Kent State University

Kent State University (Kent State) is a large public school with an Associate of Applied Business (AAB) in information technology. The online associate degree program consists of 61 credit hours. Students can choose from four concentrations: general technology, network technology, web development, and application development technology.

The curriculum includes courses such as systems administration for IT professionals, operating systems, network technology, and cyber ethics. Full-time students can graduate in four semesters.

• Estimated tuition cost: $15,200 total tuition (in-state)/$15,800 total tuition (out-of-state)
• Financial aid: Students can apply for grants, scholarships, and loans.
• Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC)

4. South College

Students who pursue an online AS in information technology at South College can graduate in as few as 18 months. Online courses hone skills in computer architecture, operating systems, database applications, and software development. Students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills through individual coursework and group projects.

South College offers additional computer science programs, like its Bachelor of Science (BS) in cybersecurity and its software development certificate program. The certificate program prepares learners for Amazon Web Services (AWS) Developer and AWS Cloud Practitioner certifications and is stackable with the AS degree program.

• Estimated tuition cost: $3,975 per quarter term
• Financial aid: Grants, scholarships, loans, and veterans' benefits are available.
• Accreditation: SACSCOC

5. Rasmussen University

Rasmussen University, a private school with multiple campuses across the U.S., also has extensive online degree options. Its associate degree in information technology is conducted 100% online, and full-time students can graduate in 18 months.

The program encompasses subjects like troubleshooting hardware and software, managing operating systems, creating secure networks, and delivering technical support. Students learn through self-paced coursework and hands-on practical projects.

• Estimated tuition cost: $322 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Grants, loans, military benefits, and employer partnership discounts are available.
• Accreditation: HLC

6. Indiana Wesleyan University

Indiana Wesleyan University (IWU) offers an AS in computer information technology degree program. Students who enroll in IWU's AS degree program can take courses online or on campus. The program consists of 20 courses and can be completed in 24 months.

The 60-credit program includes courses like database concepts, Microsoft Office applications, and basic web design and development. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for key IT certification exams.

• Estimated tuition cost: $325 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Students can use scholarships, grants, employer tuition reimbursement programs, and veterans' benefits to cover costs.
• Accreditation: HLC

7. University of Cincinnati

Located in its namesake city, the University of Cincinnati has a 63-credit AAB in information technology program. The program is 100% online, and students can enroll on a full-time or part-time basis. There are three start dates per year.

The curriculum consists of general education courses and core courses covering information security, network administration, computer programming, database management, and web design.

• Estimated tuition cost: $327 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Students can apply for grants, scholarships, loans, and military benefits.
• Accreditation: HLC

8. Southern New Hampshire University

Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU) offers an AS in information technology that prepares students for various entry-level positions in the IT world. Students develop skills like troubleshooting, building and running computer networks, and cloud computing.

The degree program is 60 credit hours, consisting of 20 courses that are conducted in eight-week sessions. SNHU's associate degree curriculum includes courses such as computer operating systems, project management, and cross-platform technologies.

• Estimated tuition cost: $342 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Scholarships, grants, loans, and military benefits are available.
• Accreditation: New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)

9. National American University

Students at National American University (NAU) can earn their AAS entirely online. NAU's associate degree in information technology program totals 93 credit hours and consists of general education courses, core courses, and electives.

The AAS program curriculum covers topics like database maintenance, network infrastructure support, and programming principles. The program is designed to prepare students for industry certifications like CompTIA A+, Linux+, and Network+.

• Estimated tuition cost: $342 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Grants, loans, scholarships, and military benefits are available.
• Accreditation: HLC

10. University of Massachusetts Lowell

The University of Massachusetts Lowell (UMass Lowell) offers an AS in information technology through its online platform, UML Online. This associate degree program is 60 credit hours total. Students with eligible college credits can transfer up to 36 credits and graduate in one year.

The online program provides students with the fundamental skills and knowledge needed to enter the IT field. Courses include engineering and ethics, principles of information security, and information systems.

• Estimated tuition cost: $385 per credit hour
• Financial aid: Students can use grants, loans, and scholarships to cover tuition costs.
• Accreditation: NECHE

How We Rank Schools

We use the following criteria to rank our featured schools, from tuition rates to program reputation.

• Accreditation: The universities and colleges featured here are all accredited institutions. This ensures program curricula and faculty meet educational standards.
• Affordability: The associate degree program tuition rates must be $500 or less per credit hour.
• Program reputation: A program's reputation is determined by accreditation status, curriculum, faculty, and any awards or industry recognition.

How To Find an Affordable Online IT Degree

IT degree costs vary widely, based on your chosen school, program length, any applicable transfer credits, and financial aid opportunities. Online programs often offer more affordable tuition rates than on-campus degree programs.

Public schools are also more affordable than many private colleges and universities. If you are an in-state resident, you can take advantage of lower tuition rates. Many public schools offer reduced tuition rates for regional residents, too.

Financial aid comes via grants, scholarships, low-interest rate loans, and work-study programs. You must apply for FAFSA to determine your eligibility for federal and state aid. Additional grants and scholarships can come from schools and private organizations and are often merit-based.

FAQs About Low-Cost Online Associate in IT Degrees

In this section, we address questions about online associate degrees in IT, from timeline to completion to potential jobs.

Is an Online IT Degree Worth It?

An online degree in information technology prepares you for a wide variety of entry-level positions in the IT world. Associate degree programs are affordable pathways to more advanced degrees, like bachelor's degrees and master's degrees in computer and information technology.

However, whether an online associate degree program in IT is worth it is a very personal decision. You must consider your budget and your personal and professional commitments before choosing to enroll in a degree program.

How Long Does It Take To Complete an Online Associate Degree in IT?

Most associate degrees in IT are between 60 and 65 credit hours total. Full-time students can typically earn their degree in two years.

Transfer credits can greatly reduce the time needed to earn your degree, enabling you to complete your online program in 12 to 18 months. If you enroll as a part-time student and have no eligible transfer credits, it will take longer to earn your associate degree.

What Can I Do With an Online Associate in IT Degree?

You can work in many different entry-level positions with an associate degree in information technology. Graduates can become computer network support specialists, computer programmers, network and computer systems administrators, data entry keyers, and software developers.

How Much Can I Make With an Online Associate Degree in IT?

Salaries for IT professionals vary according to degree level, industry, and prior experience. Entry-level salaries can range from $40,000 to $60,000 per year.

If you choose to pursue your bachelor's or master's degree, you can earn higher wages. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the median salary for computer and information systems managers with at least five years of experience was $171,200 in 2024.

Discover Online IT Degrees

If you want to learn more about online IT degrees, we invite you to connect with the featured schools on Learn.org. Request information about their programs and discover which pathway best supports your education and career goals.