Most Affordable Online Information Technology Degrees in Illinois 2025

Information technology is one of the most rapidly expanding career paths as industries of nearly every type require these professionals. Entry-level positions in the IT field generally require a bachelor's degree or higher. Learners can enroll in affordable online information technology degrees to develop the skills to start their careers or apply for master's degree programs.

These online degree programs allow students to earn four-year degrees or participate in degree completion programs that utilize their associate degree or transfer credits.

Affordable Online Information Technology Degree Programs in Illinois

Affordable online colleges in Illinois provide a couple of in-state options for learners. These Illinois colleges offer prospective students flexible and affordable degree programs, as well as easier pathways to state-based financial aid programs.

1. Southern Illinois University

The fully online Bachelor of Science in information technology from Southern Illinois University prepares students for numerous careers. Graduates can work in network security, web and app development, and IT project management. Online students still have access to internships and other hands-on learning experiences, like simulated labs.

Online learners at SIU pay $404.25 per credit hour, but some Illinois students will qualify for the Saluki Commitment, which covers full tuition costs for students with a demonstrated financial need.

2. Illinois Institute of Technology

The Illinois Institute of Technology, also called Illinois Tech, offers an online bachelor's degree program in information technology through a partnership with Coursera. Students in this program will earn an Illinois Tech college degree � Coursera is merely the hosting platform. This degree relies heavily on using real-world problem-solving and case studies to make practical use of learning from online courses.

This IT degree costs $18,000 in total, or roughly $141 per credit hour.

Other Affordable Online IT Programs

Online learning doesn't have the same restrictions as on-campus learning. As a result, many schools offer in-state tuition rates for out-of-state students. If you can't find an in-state program that fits your budget and educational goals, check out these other online schools that provide nationwide undergraduate program options.

1. Western Governors University

The Bachelor of Science in information technology from Western Governors University covers several of the most in-demand IT skills, such as data management, business administration, and cybersecurity. Students can also complete certification programs from industry-leading providers at no additional charge.

WGU charges students tuition based on six-month periods, as opposed to individual courses. Students pay $3,925 per six-month session, regardless of how many courses they complete in that time.

2. University of Massachusetts Global

UMass Global offers students a Bachelor of Science in information technology. This online undergraduate degree coursework can be completed in instructor-led, or self-paced, asynchronous formats. Students can use CompTIA certificates earned before enrollment to satisfy some credit requirements.

The online education tuition rate at UMass Global is $500 per credit hour.

3. New Mexico State University

Students at New Mexico State University enroll in a Bachelor of information and communication technology degree completion program (2+2) or as a full four-year degree program out of high school or for a first degree. Both programs have three concentration choices, including cyber defense, network technologies, and software development.

Online students pay $395.40 per credit hour for any undergraduate degree at NMSU.

4. North Carolina Central University

North Carolina Central University has a Bachelor of Science in information technology degree completion program. Students are expected to have at least 24 transfer credits, but those with an associate degree, or a high number of transfer credits, can still use this program. Students will learn skills like project management, database management, and systems analysis.

The online tuition rates at NCCU are $361 for in-state students and $433 for out-of-state students.

5. Kennesaw State University

The Bachelor of Science in information technology from Kennesaw State University prepares students for careers in data analysis, computer systems analysis, and software development. This degree can be used in the Double Owl Pathway, which allows students to complete accelerated undergraduate and graduate programs in tandem.

The online tuition rate at KSU is $190 per credit hour.

6. East Carolina University

East Carolina University offers a Bachelor of Science in information and cybersecurity technologies. This degree includes courses in network fundamentals, digital communication systems, and technology project management. Students will also complete a multiple-semester capstone project to demonstrate their skills.

The online tuition rate for in-state students is $150.40, while out-of-state students pay $863.71. Out-of-state students will be eligible for grants, scholarships, and other financial aid that can greatly reduce this cost.

Our Selection Criteria for Online Programs

Many methodologies can be used to evaluate online programs. We focused on three main criteria to identify the most affordable, highest-quality education programs available to Illinois-based online students.

• Accreditation: All of these programs are accredited by U.S. Department of Education-recognized accrediting bodies. If a higher education program doesn't have accreditation, it won't be respected by employers or eligible for graduate programs or financial aid.
• Flexibility: We highlighted programs with full-time and part-time enrollment options that allow students to tailor their education. Flexible programs will also allow students to continue working while they earn their degrees.
• Diverse offerings: Schools that offer a wide selection of degrees allow IT students to pursue online minors to prepare for specific careers in fields like healthcare administration, criminal justice, and business administration.

What To Expect From an Online Information Technology Degree

Students enrolling in an online IT degree program should have several clear expectations. Students should expect a combination of hands-on practice through simulated labs and case studies to complement the lessons they learn from readings and video lectures. Students who complete online programs will be ready for the same career options as in-person students.

Average Cost of an Online IT Degree

The average cost of online IT degrees nationally is around $41,000. This number will change based on a few key factors, including whether your school is for-profit or nonprofit, the amount of transfer credits you use, and what financial aid programs you qualify for.

How To Make an Online IT Degree More Affordable

A high-quality online education is an investment, but there are many ways that you can reduce your total education costs. Some of these will be applied automatically for you yearly, while others will require you to complete additional steps.

Federal Financial Aid

Students should fill out their Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) forms each academic year. These documents will determine your eligibility for federal financial aid, like the Pell Grant, and your results will be used by state and school financial aid offices for other programs. Many online colleges in Illinois accept FAFSA to help students cover education costs.

Transfer Credits

Most online schools accept transfer credits from community colleges or other universities. Reducing the total number of credits you need to complete will reduce your total costs. Some schools also accept certificates earned through free affordable information technology classes as a substitute for credit hours.

Flexible Programs

Flexible scheduling, such as asynchronous scheduling or part-time credits, allows students to continue working while they earn their degrees.

Scholarships and Grants

Students should also look into school and state-based scholarships and grants. Illinois students can look into scholarship programs through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission.

Find an Online Degree Today

Online students can find affordable online IT degrees from top-ranking universities in Illinois and nationwide. Learners can use our resources to learn more about individual degree programs, including admission, student retention, and graduation rates. Once you've narrowed down the best programs for your goals, use our contact forms to reach out and start your application process today.