What Can I Expect from an Online MBA in Information Technology?
The online MBA in information technology combines the fundamentals of a traditional master’s in business administration with a concentration in computers and information systems. Learning from home eliminates the need to relocate if you don’t live near a college or university that offers the program. Also, if you choose a program that is completely online, you eliminate commute times and can complete your degree at your own pace. Because every program is different, research and locate the coursework that suits your needs and aligns with career goals.
Curriculum for an Online MBA in Information Technology
Courses for an online MBA in information technology range from business, leadership and management to technology and information systems. Students are required to take a list of core classes and several electives to fulfill the curriculum requirements. A capstone course may also be required for graduation depending on the college or university. Some of the common courses you may encounter include:
| COURSES | DESCRIPTION |
| Business Law | Provides information on laws and regulations in business. Students study a variety of legal issues and learn the terminology of employment laws, contracts, liability and ethics. |
| Advance Information Technology | Focuses on the design, implementation and management of information technology systems. |
| Managing Digital Strategy | Examines strategic management and the challenges faced in information technology. The course also looks at the basic business topics as they relate to the business world. |
| Data Visualization | Students learn how to create visual models of data using algorithms, emerging technologies and visualization. |
| Data Management | Teaches students how to build, manage and maintain a database in a business environment. |
| Organization Leadership | Explores the foundations of being a leader in a variety of business environments. Topics include negotiation, conflict management and interpersonal skills. |
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online MBA in Information Technology?
An online MBA in information technology takes between one to two years when taking classes full-time. With an accelerated degree program, students typically complete the coursework in a year. Most curricula consist of 36 to 54 credit hours depending on the chosen program. Part-time students may need as much as five years to complete the program by taking one class at a time and even taking summers and other time off for work and personal obligations.
Certifications and Licenses an Online MBA in Information Technology Prepares For
| CERTIFICATION | DESCRIPTION |
| CompTIA Network+ Certification | This elite certification ensures you have the skills required to handle troubleshooting, configuring and managing networks. |
| CompTIA Security+ Certification | The CompTIA is a global certification that assesses your baseline skills in IT security. It focuses on risk management, threat management and intrusion detection. |
| Certified Information Technology Professional | The CITP certification prepares information technology professionals for a career in technology. Students must pass a comprehensive exam to qualify. |
| Certified Associate in Project Management | This certification is offered by the Project Management Institute and is one of the most basic entry-level credentials for those in IT fields. Those interested must take and pass an online proctored exam. |
Accreditation for Online MBA in Information Technology
Most employers seek applicants who have graduated from an accredited program to fulfill their open positions. Accreditation is an official recognition that the college or university and its programs meet educational and industry standards. Accreditation for MBA degrees is handled by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, the International Assembly for Collegiate Business Education and the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs. When looking for an online program, it’s best to choose only programs with regional accreditation. This is the most prestigious form of accreditation and ensures the programs are held to the highest standards. Also, if you plan on seeking federal aid, only accredited programs are eligible.
Employment Outlook for MBA in Information Technology Graduates
Job Placement: Master’s v. Bachelor’s
Many entry-level positions today require a master’s degree over a bachelor’s degree, especially if you plan on working towards senior management or senior professional position. However, it’s important to know that experience in a given field is also preferred, which is ideal for those who intend to continue working while completing the degree.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, more master’s degrees in business were awarded in 2013 than in any other field. And when compared to other industries, business, finance and sales occupations held the highest wage premiums for those with a master’s degree.
Expected Salary
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals who held master’s degrees often earned a premium wage of as much as $12,000 more per year over those with just a bachelor’s degree. Graduate degrees open doors to advanced positions and can lead to higher pay.
Overall, computer and information technology jobs are expected to grow around 13 percent from 2016 to 2026. As more companies turn to computers for point-of-service systems, cloud storage and automation, individuals can find employment in nearly any industry. Consider the industries with the highest levels of employment in this occupation.
| Job Title | Percentage of Industry | Average Salary |
| Computer Systems Design | 4.02% | $158,160 |
| Software Publishers | 3.66% | $165,090 |
| Other Information Services | 3.28% | $184,810 |
| Data Processing | 3.05% | $156,220 |
| Monetary Authorities | 2.11% | $168,730 |
| Clothing Stores | 0.01% | $193,650 |
Career Opportunities
Individuals with an MBA in Information Technology can pursue a variety of career opportunities in both computers and business. Combining the two concentrations qualifies you for IT management and other specialized occupations.
| JOB TITLE | JOB DESCRIPTION | MEDIAN SALARY | PROJECTED GROWTH RATE |
| Computer Network Architects | Computer network architects design and build data communication networks, including LANs, WANs and intranets within an organization. | $104,650 per year | 6% |
| Database Administrator | Database administrators help optimize an organization’s technological processes to increase productivity. | $88,270 per year | 9% |
| Computer Systems Analyst | Directs the creation of material that maintains and enhances a company’s image. | $88,279 per year | 9% |
| Information Research Scientists | Iformation research scientists help invent and design new approaches to computer technology and help find innovative uses for the current or existing networks within a company or organization. | $114,520 per year | 19% |
Professional Organizations
Joining a professional organization in your industry gives you a competitive advantage. It keeps you up-to-date on industry information and trends, provides valuable networking opportunities and can even help open doors for future career opportunities. Consider these top professional organizations for those with a master’s in business administration in information technology.
IEEE Computer Society: The world’s leading membership organization that’s dedicated solely to computer science and technology, this group publishes a variety of newsletters and information for its members and holds several technical conferences throughout the year.
Institute of Engineering and Technology: The IET seeks to inform, inspire and influence the global engineering community and technology innovation to support the needs of society.
Computing Research Association: The CRA joins together industry, government and academia to help strengthen and advance technology and advanced education in computing. The group hosts several workshops and holds conferences throughout the year.
Association for Computing Machinery: The ACM is the world’s largest educational and scientific computing society. The group provides continuing education opportunities, holds conferences throughout the year and has several special interest groups for its members to join.
Association of MBAs: The Association of MBAs connects MBA graduates with other peers and potential employers. The group offers research opportunities, classes and networking events.
Financing Your Online MBA in Information Technology
The online MBA in nonprofit management program offers the same coursework and excellence that on-campus programs offer but at a reduced cost. Individuals enrolled online often still seek financial assistance to help pay for their degree. The first place to start is by filling out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which provides you with information on grants, loans and scholarships available through the federal government. For additional assistance, there are many private and public organizations that offer scholarships and financial assistance for those majoring in an MBA in nonprofit management. Check out the following resources for more information.
Resources
| Understanding FAFSA |
| Financial Aid for Graduate Students |
| Knowing Your Options |
| Repayment Estimator |
| Financial Aid for MBAs |
Scholarships
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Scholarships |
Details |
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Golden Key International Honour Society Graduate Scholar Award |
Award: $10,000 Deadline: December 15 Eligibility: Candidates must be an undergraduate about to graduate or a current grad student, a member of the Golden Key Honor Society and have demonstrated excellent academic achievement and community service. |
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Award: Up to $1,500 Deadline: June 1 Eligibility: This scholarship is open to graduate students in a business-related field and those with a GPA of at least 3.0 or better. |