Designed to equip students with a strong foundation in business administration and specialized IT knowledge, online MBA programs in information technology prepare graduates for a wide range of high-paying roles, such as IT manager and cybersecurity analyst.
Typically, these programs can be completed within two to three years, offering significant flexibility for working professionals. While costs vary among institutions, the average tuition for a graduate degree program is $20,513 per year.
How To Choose an Online MBA in Information Technology Degree Program
Choose your area of study
Many online MBA in information technology programs will allow you to select a concentration and focus your studies on a particular niche in this field. When choosing a program, carefully consider your strengths, interests, and career goals.
For example, some students may be more suited for cybersecurity, while others may enjoy data analytics. Others still may prefer specializations that center around project management or technology consulting.
Researching the latest industry trends and future growth prospects may also help guide your decision-making process. Additionally, seeking advice from industry professionals or mentors can provide valuable insights into in-demand skills and emerging fields.
Research schools and programs
Once you have decided on your specialization, it’s crucial to research the schools and programs you would like to attend.
You should only apply to institutions that have been approved by a DOE-recognized regional accrediting organization, such as the New England Commission of Higher Education or Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. These organizations evaluate schools to ensure they provide students with a high-quality education. Those who attend a school that isn’t regionally accredited may be unable to access financial aid or transfer credits to another institution if needed.
Ideally, your online MBA in information technology program will also be accredited by a respected industry group like the Association for the Advancement of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) or the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). These programmatic accrediting organizations have particularly high standards for business education.
Also, consider factors such as the program’s format, flexibility, and support services for online learners. These elements are crucial and can considerably impact the quality of your online education.
To learn more about any schools that you’re interested in, you can visit the school’s website, contact an admissions counselor, follow the school on social media, or attend an in-person or virtual open house.
Prepare for tests and applications
Application requirements vary by school and program. Research the specific requirements for each option you’re considering, including the standardized tests they accept, like the GMAT or GRE. Dedicate ample time to study for these tests by making good use of study guides, online resources, and practice exams. Some students benefit from enrolling in test preparation courses and working with tutors for additional support.
While preparing for standardized testing, you’ll also want to strengthen your application components, such as drafting a solid personal statement highlighting your relevant experiences and professional goals. Gather letters of recommendation from professors or employers who can vouch for your skills and potential. Lastly, ensure that all your application materials, including transcripts and resumes, are well-prepared and organized.
Investing time and effort in test preparation and application components can increase your chances of admission into your desired programs. Always contact an admissions counselor to ensure you have the most accurate information regarding requirements and deadlines.
Select your programs
After you have received a few admissions offers, it’s time to select your program.
Before making your final decision, review your needs and goals again. Do you plan to attend school full-time or part-time? Do you want your program to be as online as possible, or are you fine with a hybrid program that has a fair amount of in-person requirements? Some programs offer asynchronous courses, which can be completed at your own pace, while others only offer synchronous courses, which involve remotely attending lectures and completing assignments at the same time as other students — which of these two online learning formats do you prefer? Your school should accommodate your scheduling needs and learning preferences.
Determine how you’ll pay for your degree
Speak to financial aid counselors at the schools you’re interested in for the most accurate and specific information about program cost. Paying for an online MBA can feel daunting, but many resources are available to help you finance your degree.
Start by researching scholarships and grants specifically for MBA students, both general and IT-related. Then, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This vital form helps determine eligibility for federal loans, grants, and work-study programs. You can also contact your school’s financial aid offices to inquire about scholarships, grants, and assistantships you may be eligible for. Those who already work in the field should see if their employer offers tuition assistance benefits as well.
Top 50 Online MBA in Information Technology Programs to Consider
Discover More Options
How We Rank Schools
This list features MBA in information technology programs that are delivered fully or primarily online to ensure access for students regardless of their schedules or geographic locations. Many programs are also offered on-campus, and students may have the option to complete their degree through a combination of online and on-campus classes.
As a measure of quality, we only reviewed programs offered by regionally accredited institutions. Additionally, many of these options have programmatic accreditation through bodies like the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB), the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP), or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education (IACBE).
We evaluated the programs on their reputation, cost, outcomes, faculty, and flexibility. Then, we calculated the Intelligent Score for each on a scale of 0 to 100. For a more extensive explanation, check out Our Ranking Methodology.
What Can You Expect From an Online MBA in Information Technology Degree Program?
An MBA in information technology offers prospective students a comprehensive education that combines business administration principles with specialized knowledge in IT. Students can expect to learn essential skills like IT management, data analytics, cybersecurity, technology innovation, and project management. Most curricula cover IT governance, database management, emerging technologies, and business intelligence. While the duration of these programs can vary depending on enrollment status and individual course load, most part-time students can complete this degree in two to three years.
Learning in an online environment can provide unique opportunities for virtual collaboration. Some programs may have in-person requirements such as a capstone project or supervised internship.
Potential courses you’ll take in an online MBA in information technology program
- Strategic Management: A popular core course for IT majors, this class focuses on the strategic management of information technology within organizations. Students will learn how to align IT strategies with business objectives, assess risks, manage projects, and make informed decisions regarding technology investments to drive organizational success.
- Data Analytics for Business: While many programs offer this course as an elective, this class is a crucial cornerstone in information technology. Students are introduced to the fundamentals of data analytics and its application in business decision-making. They gain expertise in statistical analysis techniques, data visualization, and predictive modeling.
- Cybersecurity Management: This course covers cybersecurity principles and the management of information security systems within organizations. Students will learn about threat detection and prevention, risk management, incident response, and ethical considerations in cybersecurity. They will develop a significant understanding of cybersecurity strategies and practices to protect organizational assets and mitigate cyber threats.
- Accounting Theory: Many MBA programs require students to take at least one course in accounting, and accounting theory is a popular pick. This class delves into the theoretical frameworks and standards that guide accounting practices, enabling students to understand how financial information is prepared, presented, and interpreted in IT-driven organizations.
- Data and Information Management: Managing data and information within organizations is an essential tool for MBA students majoring in IT. This course covers strategies for collecting, organizing, storing, and retrieving data, as well as techniques for ensuring data security, privacy, and compliance.
What Can You Do With an Online MBA in Information Technology?
Career outlook
Those with the combination of business knowledge and technology acumen that comes with an MBA in IT will find themselves with multiple possible career paths. Few organizations and businesses don’t rely on information technology to function and succeed, so there are career options in a broad range of fields. If you have an interest in the healthcare industry, for example, you will find several specialty areas available that mesh your business and computer skills, including database administration and health information technology.
Here is just a sampling of the possible career paths you may pursue with an online MBA in information technology:
- Information systems manager — Assess an organization’s technology needs, plan IT projects, and hire and supervise IT staff.
- Median annual salary: $169,510
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 15%
- New job openings projected: 46,900 annually
- Management analyst — Advise organizations on issues such as how to use technology to improve efficiency.
- Median annual salary: $99,410
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 10%
- New job openings projected: 92,900 annually
- Top executive — Coordinate the work of an organization by establishing goals, overseeing activities, and appointing department heads and managers.
- Median annual salary: $103,840
- Projected employment growth (through 2032): 3%
- New job openings projected: 311,600 annually
Online MBA in Information Technology Degree Frequently Asked Questions
How do I apply to an online MBA in information technology degree program?
Research the specific admission requirements of your desired programs. Generally, you’ll need a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, transcripts, a resume, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and sometimes standardized test scores like the GMAT or GRE. Talking with an admissions counselor is important before applying to understand the program’s prerequisites, application deadlines, and any additional requirements. An admissions counselor can provide guidance, answer questions, and help ensure a smooth application process tailored to your specific circumstances.
How much does an online MBA in information technology degree cost?
Tuition prices vary widely depending on the institution and program you plan to attend. While the most affordable options cost around $310 per credit hour, this figure is often significantly higher. Overall, the average annual cost of graduate school tuition is $12,596 at public schools and $28,017 at private schools.
In addition to tuition, it’s crucial to remember the other costs of earning an online degree, like application fees, textbooks, and technology requirements.
How long does it take to earn an online MBA in information technology degree?
It takes most students around two to three years to complete an online MBA in IT program. However, this figure can vary depending on your pace of study and enrollment status. Part-time enrollment can extend the program duration, while full-time enrollment typically enables faster completion. When choosing a program, it’s important to take into account the number of credits required for graduation, as this can affect the program’s duration. Different institutions may have varying credit requirements.
Is an online MBA in information technology worth it?
If you are fascinated by the integral interplay of business with technology, an online MBA in information technology may be the right degree for you. It will prepare you for various jobs utilizing your business knowledge and understanding of the networks and systems that keep most businesses and organizations running smoothly.
Jobs requiring an understanding of the technology needs of businesses tend to pay well, with many offering six-figure salaries. A computer and information systems manager, for example, earns a median salary of $169,510 per year.
Another benefit of jobs in the IT sector is their anticipated increase in demand over the coming decade. The need for IT professionals is expected to grow faster than most other occupations, so plenty of jobs will be available after you graduate with your MBA.
Read More About Online MBA in Information Technology (IT) Programs
Interested in a degree instead?
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