5 Most Affordable Online Information Technology Degrees in Ohio 2025

Earning an information technology (IT) degree can be an effective way to start or advance your career in a continuously growing field. Many affordable online IT degrees provide high-quality education at a lower cost.

Whether you are a recent high school graduate or a working professional, at low-cost colleges in Ohio, you can benefit from financial aid programs (federal and state) that can help you pay for college. These accessible programs have the flexibility students need to balance coursework with personal commitments, while still maintaining high academic standards.

Affordable Online Information Technology Degree Programs in Ohio

These programs combine affordability with the flexibility of online learning, making them accessible for both full-time and part-time students.

1. Franklin University

Franklin University offers a Bachelor of Science in information technology that provides flexibility and affordability. The online program costs approximately $400 per credit hour and allows students to transfer up to 94 credits into the 124-credit program. The school's transfer policy makes it a great choice for students who have completed an associate degree or some college coursework.

Franklin University's Tuition Guarantee ensures you never pay more than your initial tuition rate for the duration of your enrollment. Ohio residents can also apply for financial aid options like the Ohio College Opportunity Grant, designed for students pursuing their first bachelor's degree.

2. Miami University

Miami University's online bachelor's degree in information technology is another affordable option for earning a high-quality degree. While the program cost is $590 per credit hour, the university accepts various forms of financial assistance. Students can also use federal and state financial aid, including the Ohio College Opportunity Grant, to help lower their tuition expenses.

Additionally, students in the IT program can receive scholarships such as the Choose Ohio First Scholarship, aimed at increasing the number of Ohio residents in STEMM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics, and medicine) fields.

3. Kent State University

Kent State University's bachelor of science in information technology provides seven concentrations, including database design and health IT, allowing students to customize their education to their career goals. Tuition rates for Ohio residents are approximately $3,700 per semester for lower-division courses and $4,330 for upper-division courses.

Students can further reduce the in-state tuition by utilizing financial aid. For Ohio residents, scholarships like Choose Ohio First and the Ohio College Opportunity Grant are available to help pay for college expenses.

4. University of Cincinnati

The University of Cincinnati offers a fully online bachelor of science in information technology with four concentrations, including data technologies and software application development.

The cost per credit hour is $590 and students also have the option to pursue an accelerated master's degree in IT, saving time and tuition costs. Scholarships and grants, such as Choose Ohio First, can help Ohio residents lower the cost of their degree program.

5. Ohio Christian University

Ohio Christian University offers an online bachelor of science in information technology at $450 per credit hour. The program's five-week asynchronous courses are ideal for working professionals or those with busy schedules. The university also offers an associate degree in IT and financial aid options like the Ohio College Opportunity Grant.

Other Affordable Online IT Programs Across the U.S.

Students in Ohio also have the option of enrolling in accredited programs across the U.S. that also use online learning formats. We've listed some options below.

1. Fort Hays State University

Fort Hays State University provides a Bachelor of Science in computer science at $257 per credit hour, making it one of the most affordable IT degree programs nationwide. The program combines technical coursework with practical skills to prepare students for careers in the IT field.

2. Colorado State University Global

Colorado State University Global offers a Bachelor of Science in information technology for $375 per credit hour. The program prepares students for industry certifications and features a tuition guarantee that ensures your tuition rate remains the same throughout your degree program.

3. Western Governors University

Western Governors University (WGU) offers a competency-based Bachelor of Science in information technology for $3,835 per six-month term. It allows students to complete as many courses as they can during this period.

The program includes industry-recognized certifications like CompTIA IT Operations Specialist, providing added value. WGU also offers an accelerated program that allows students to earn both a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in less time.

Our Selection Criteria for Online Programs

When selecting programs for this list, we focused on the following criteria:

• Accreditation: All programs are accredited, ensuring they adhere to strict academic standards.
• Affordability: We emphasize programs with low tuition rates and accessible financial aid options.
• Flexibility: These programs offer part-time and full-time online formats to accommodate students with busy schedules.
• Program quality: Each program provides a high-quality education with comprehensive and relevant coursework.
• Student support: The schools offer comprehensive resources for online learners, including financial aid guidance, career services, and academic advising.

What to Expect From an Online Information Technology Degree

An online IT degree typically includes courses in programming, cybersecurity, data management, and networking. Programs often offer concentrations that allow students to specialize in areas like software development or database administration.

Most programs take four years for full-time students to complete, though flexible and accelerated options are available. Graduates can pursue careers in healthcare, business administration, and cybersecurity.

Average Cost of an Online IT Degree

The cost of an online bachelor's degree in IT varies widely. In Ohio, undergraduate tuition rates range from $375 to $590 per credit hour for many programs. Out-of-state students and those attending in-person classes at Ohio colleges generally pay more tuition. However, nationwide, students can find programs for as little as $257 per credit hour at schools like Fort Hays State University.

How to Make an Online IT Degree More Affordable

By utilizing federal financial aid, transfer credits, and flexible program options you can earn a more affordable online degree. Taking advantage of the many resources available to you can help reduce the overall cost of earning your degree.

Federal Financial Aid

One of the most effective ways to lower the cost of your education is by completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). Many state-funded grants and institutional scholarships also require you to complete the FAFSA, making it an important first step for making your degree more affordable. Most online colleges accept FAFSA.

Through the FAFSA, students can qualify for federal grants, such as the Pell Grant. It also provides access to federal student loans and work-study opportunities, which allow students to earn money for tuition costs while gaining valuable work experience.

Transfer Credits

For students with previous college coursework, credits from free online information technology classes, or an associate degree from a four-year or community college, transferring credits can significantly reduce the cost of completing a bachelor's degree. 

Many online colleges accept transfer credits, allowing students to skip foundational or general education courses they've already completed. This not only lowers tuition costs but also shortens the time needed to earn your degree.

It is important to check with each school's transfer credit policies and speak with an academic advisor to ensure you get the most out of your transferable credits.

Flexible Programs

Flexibility is another one of the many advantages of online education. Choosing online programs with asynchronous coursework or part-time enrollment options can make pursuing an IT degree more affordable.

Asynchronous programs allow students to learn at their own pace, making it easier to balance education with work or family responsibilities. Part-time options, on the other hand, let students spread out their tuition costs over a longer period, avoiding the financial strain of paying for a full course load each semester.

Scholarships and Grants

Scholarships and grants are another effective way to reduce tuition costs. Many programs, like the Ohio College Opportunity Grant, provide need-based aid to eligible Ohio residents pursuing undergraduate programs.

Additionally, universities often offer school-based scholarships based on academic merit, community involvement, or specific program areas. External organizations and industry associations also provide scholarships for students studying information technology, which can further offset expenses. Searching for and applying to these opportunities early can lead to substantial savings.

Explore Online Degrees

Earning an IT degree is the first step to starting a successful career in a growing field and Ohio's affordable online programs provide flexibility and quality education at competitive tuition rates. To learn more about these programs and others, explore additional information on Learn.org and reach out to the schools that align with your goals.