Information Technology Degree Guide
Diplomas
Diploma programs are generally completed in less than one year. These programs help students with a high school education gain the skills necessary for entry-level positions, such as database tech, network tech and computer support tech.
Certificates
IT certificates range from entry-level career training to advanced credentials for experienced tech professionals. Microsoft, Cisco and Oracle all have popular certification credentials that validate an individual's ability to work with a specific product or technology and also identifies individuals that posses a level of expertise demanded by today's industry. Certificate programs often take only a few months to complete.
Associate's Degrees
Associate's degree programs can be completed within 18-to-24 months and are often a stepping-stone to a bachelor's degree. An associate's education helps students with a high school diploma or GED gain the skills necessary for entry-level positions, such as network tech or computer support tech.
Bachelor's Degrees
A traditional 4-year bachelor's degree program requires roughly two years of general education requirements followed by two years of intensive computer/IT course work.
Starting salaries for computer engineers with a bachelor's degree in computer science, computer engineering, information science or a related area are often significantly higher than salaries of bachelor's degree graduates in many other fields.
Master's
Master's level IT and information systems management degrees such as Master of Information Technology, Master of Information Systems, Master of Management Information Systems and Master of Technology Management are designed for working professionals with a desire to advance their careers in the IT field.
Programs may focus on the acquisition of IT theory and the application of theory and practice to real world business opportunities and challenges. Curriculum may cover computer architecture, networking and telecommunications, database management, business and financial management strategies and more.
Due to the full-time work schedules of most tech-industry grad students, classes are often scheduled for evenings and weekends. Programs often take two years to complete.
Technology MBA
Technology MBA programs combine management techniques and technology in a unified MBA program. Most tech MBA programs are designed for experienced high-tech industry professionals who wish to gain a broader business management knowledge base. Curriculum may cover accounting, marketing, strategy, statistics, finance, economics and operations management. Due to the full-time work schedules of most tech MBA students, classes are often scheduled for evenings and weekends. Tech MBA programs often take two years to complete.