Earn your Master's in IT Online
- $637/credit (36 credits total)
- Transfer up to 12 graduate credits
- Complete in as few as 15 months
- Learn current IT tools and technologies
- Increase your management potential
- Get hands-on employable skills
Online Master's in Information Technology Program Overview
Learn to identify and implement technologies that drive growth and provide competitive differentiators for any organization. A Master of Science in Information Technology degree from Southern New Hampshire University can provide you with marketable IT skills that can help you serve as a bridge between IT and your organization’s management. This program emphasizes practical skills as you'll analyze business needs, determine information systems requirements and apply current technologies.
Organizations in every industry need IT professionals who can think beyond traditional IT support functions. The master’s in IT at SNHU can help you land a key IT role in a broad range of organizations.
What You'll Learn
- Appropriate steps for ensuring information security
- Collaborative problem-solving
- Computer-based solutions to business challenges
- Ethically sound, technology-informed compliance procedures
- Risk assessment that informs change management processes
How You'll Learn
At SNHU, you'll get support from day 1 to graduation and beyond. And with no set class times, 24/7 access to the online classroom and helpful learning resources along the way, you'll have everything you need to reach your goals.
Concentration Options
You'll also have the option to master a specialized skill set with one of our 7 industry-driven concentrations.
Data Analytics
By earning an online Master of Science in Information Technology degree with a concentration in Data Analytics, you’ll have the specialized intelligence to collect, organize and interpret statistical information while leveraging the power of big data. In this concentration, you'll examine the concept of data analysis and how it influences business decisions.
Career outlook:
The need for data analysts is on the rise as companies turn to big data to drive important business decisions. With a concentration in data analytics, you can fulfill a number of roles including:
- Operations research analyst
- Market research analyst
- Computer systems analyst
Those interested in advancing a career in this field may also be interested in a fully online master's in data analytics.
Courses may include:
- Foundations of Data
- Decision Methods and Modeling
- Presentation and Visualization of Data
Database Design
Databases are the backbone of almost every business, and with the Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Database Design degree, you’ll develop the skills necessary to successfully design databases.
SNHU's master’s in database design program focuses on the design and development of database applications, client/server systems and data warehouses within the context of a business environment. In this program, you’ll learn how multi-user database applications are created and manipulate data in a shared database environment. You’ll also explore the principles of design, development and implementation of data warehouse database management systems (DBMS).
Courses may include:
- Database Application Development
- Data Warehouse Concepts and Design
- Client/Server Systems
Healthcare Informatics
Use your aptitude for technology to make a measurable difference in people's lives with the Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Healthcare Informatics.
SNHU's healthcare informatics program will help you understand how to use information systems integral to the success of the evolving healthcare industry. You'll study electronic medical records (EMR), laboratory and radiation systems and more to determine new trends and practices, as well as how they function in various healthcare settings.
Career outlook:
Health information technology will play a major role in the future of healthcare. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) estimates this field will grow 16% through 2032.1 The expertise you'll gain with a focus in health informatics could help prepare you to become a valued professional in the workforce. Upon completion of this program, you'll have the knowledge and skills needed to pursue management positions in a wide range of healthcare-related organizations.
Courses may include:
- Healthcare Informatics
- Social & Organizational Issues in Healthcare
- Management of Information Technology
Information Security
As information technologies evolve, so does the need for cyber security roles. Students in the Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Information Security will examine the current landscape of vulnerabilities, risks and security disciplines – and how these relate to the field of information security.
This ever-growing field involves managing and evaluating internal and external threats to security, system integrity and networks. This program equips you with the foundational knowledge and analytical skills necessary to prevent, mitigate and respond to cyber security threats.
You'll learn to develop best practices for planning, implementing and managing security and system integrity while developing organizational policies and procedures to evaluate and manage potential security threats. You'll also learn to investigate human factors present in cyber security related to ethics, integrity, practices, policies and procedures.
If you're interested in advancing your career in this field, you may also want to think about an online master's in cyber security.
Courses may include:
- Foundation in Information Assurance
- Human Factors in Security
- Network Assessment and Defense
Enterprise Technology Management
Advance your expertise with an exploration of topics that support managing enterprise-level information technology when you earn an online Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Enterprise Technology Management.
In this concentration, you'll focus on managing key aspects of information technology, including the relationships between structure and process in project management and the management of IT functions for a variety of organizations. You'll also explore enterprise resource planning, as well as the implications of cyber law and ethics.
From learning how to manage IT functions and interrelationships within an organization, to justifying recommendations for enterprise resource planning technology solutions, to managing the overall flow of information and integration, you can develop the skills you need to problem solve and propose future enhancements.
Those interested in advancing into IT leadership may also want to consider an online MBA with an information technology management concentration.
Courses may include:
- Cyberlaw and Ethics
- Management of Information Technology
- Enterprise Resource Planning
Software Application Development
The Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Software Application Development provides a hands-on introduction to designing and developing software applications. Learn the software development process, from considering the initial customer needs to designing and testing the product. Topics include software design methodologies, developing mobile applications and distributed software applications.
Courses may include:
- Mobile Application Development
- Distributed Application Development
- Software Design and Modeling
Web Design
Our online Master of Science in Information Technology with a concentration in Web Design focuses on the design and development of interactive websites, web applications and methods for driving traffic to websites. You can gain experience with HTML/XML, scripting, embedding rich media and database connectivity, audience analysis, branding, page layout, templates and content organization. Other topics include e-commerce techniques, online security, privacy and ethics.
Courses may include:
- Website Construction
- Interface Design for Websites
- Website Optimization
Career Outlook
With the growing demand for more business professionals with IT expertise, graduates of this program will be prepared for a variety of employment opportunities. As businesses increase cybersecurity measures and integrate automation to perform repetitive tasks, IT professionals continue to be sought in high demand.1
SNHU’s information technology master's program is designed to accommodate career changes as well as those already in the field looking to advance their role in the industry. Upon graduation, you'll have the skills needed to take your next step.
Where Could You Work?
Common industries that employ computer and information technology professionals, according to the BLS1, include:
Government
Develop and improve secure, effective software and hardware. Work in collaboration with engineers and other specialists to solve problems, test solutions and build new systems.
Insurance Companies
Design and build high-performing, efficient databases to house important information. Plan and implement strategies for maintaining database security.
Computer Systems Design Firms
Install, maintain and upgrade network hardware and software to fit the needs of a particular organization. Train staff to use systems properly.
Education
Support students, faculty and staff by troubleshooting and fixing computer or other technology problems.
Manufacturing
Plan and execute experiments to test new software. Identify risks, and create innovative solutions to mitigate those risks.
Self-Employment
Use computer languages, like C++ and Java, to write, test and fix programs. Use programming knowledge to make necessary updates and changes.
Job Growth and Salary
Job Growth
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects that jobs for computer and information technology occupations will continue to grow at a rate much faster than average, with 377,500 openings predicted annually through 2032.1
Salary
The median annual salary for computer and information technology jobs was $100,530 in May 2022.1
Understanding the Numbers
When reviewing job growth and salary information, it’s important to remember that actual numbers can vary due to many different factors — like years of experience in the role, industry of employment, geographic location, worker skill and economic conditions. Cited projections do not guarantee actual salary or job growth.
Start Your Journey Toward an Online Information Technology Degree
Why SNHU for Your Master's in Information Technology
Flexible
With no set class meeting times, you can learn on your schedule and access online course materials 24/7.
Affordable
As part of our mission to make higher education more accessible, we’re committed to keeping our tuition rates low. In fact, we offer some of the lowest online tuition rates in the nation.
Prior coursework and work experience could also help you save time and money. SNHU’s transfer policy allows you to transfer up to 12 credits from your previous institution. You could also earn college credit for previous work experience.
Respected
Founded in 1932, Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution with over 160,000 graduates across the country. SNHU is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE), a regional accreditor, which advocates for institutional improvement and public assurance of quality.
Recently, SNHU has been nationally recognized for leading the way toward more innovative, affordable and achievable education:
- “Most Innovative” regional university honors from U.S. News & World Report each year since 2015
- A $1 million grant from Google.org to explore soft skills assessments for high-need youth
- Recognition as a 2017 Digital Learning Innovator by the Online Learning Consortium
Network
At Southern New Hampshire University, you'll have access to a powerful network of more than 300,000 students, alumni and staff that can help support you long after graduation. Our instructors offer relevant, real-world expertise to help you understand and navigate the field. Plus, with our growing, nationwide alumni network, you'll have the potential to tap into a number of internship and career opportunities.
93.2% of online students would recommend SNHU according to a 2023 survey with 21,000+ respondents. Discover why SNHU may be right for you.
Admission Requirements
Expanding access to quality higher education means removing the barriers that may stand between you and your degree. That’s why you can apply at any time and get a decision within days of submitting all required materials:
- Completed free application
- Undergraduate transcripts, which we can retrieve for you by submitting a transcript request form
- Online master's degree candidates must also submit a personal resume
Acceptance decisions are made on a rolling basis throughout the year for our 5 graduate terms.
How to Apply
If you’re ready to apply, follow these simple steps to get the process going:
- Complete free graduate application
- Submit undergraduate transcripts
- Work with an admission counselor to explore financial options and walk through application process
100% Online - With No Set Class Times
Linda Charlton-Gunderson '20
"I loved SNHU because I am working full time. Being online allowed me to work and study on my schedule."
Courses & Curriculum
From developing computer-based solutions to business problems to collaborating and communicating effectively, the online IT curriculum provides a look at current IT topics and applications that you’ll learn at SNHU.
The skills you'll gain in this program will prepare you to step into a variety of leadership roles in the IT field. Throughout your courses, you'll deepen your understanding in crucial areas of information technology, including:
- Object Oriented Application Development
- Innovations in Information Technology
- Technical Communication
- Operating Systems
- Telecommunications and Networking
- Principles of Database Design
Graduate Experiential Learning
"The experiential learning AWS (Amazon Web Services) course allowed me to get real-world experience that led to a certification that will help me advance my career. The presentation of course material and support from the instructor helped to give me and my peers the tools to become a cloud professional," said Aaron Guyett, a student in the MS in IT with a concentration in Web Design and Development program.
Cybersecurity Center of Excellence
Through our Cybersecurity Center of Excellence, SNHU proudly supports cybersecurity students across the globe. To learn more about our contributions to the field, and connect with our academic leaders, visit our Cybersecurity Center of Excellence page.
| View Full Curriculum in the Catalog |
|---|
| MS in Information Technology |
| Courses May Include | ||
|---|---|---|
| MS in Information Technology Online | ||
| IT 510 | Advanced Information Technology | This course focuses on the principles and practices underlying the analysis, design, implementation and management of information technology systems. Topics include information system development methodologies, systems planning, requirements analysis, systems implementation, software engineering, project management, and interface, database and process design. |
| IT 511 | Object Oriented Application Development | This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the principles and practices of object- oriented software development and provides a foundation for developing quality software. Students develop skills in applying object- oriented concepts to solve software problems and implement solutions. The course also teaches the concepts and design of algorithms for problem solving and includes the topics of data structures as they are related to the algorithms that use them. The course provides the technical foundation necessary to handle the material covered in the subsequent IT courses. |
| IT 515 | Innovations in Information Technology | In this course, students strengthen their understanding of leadership theory and ethical frameworks in the context of a technology enterprise. Students will apply this understanding to business cases that reflect the need for innovative technology solutions in today's workplace in order to transform the thinking of an organization when change is required or to develop ideas that enable new business strategies. |
| IT 520 | Technical Communication | The course focuses on the essential oral and written technical communication skills needed for producing technical documentation and presentations in many different forms for varying business situations. The course enables students to understand the needs of stakeholders in order to develop different technical documents such as white papers, design specifications, project plans, test plans, user manuals, etc. The ability to communicate research findings using appropriate academic formatting will also be addressed. |
| IT 600 | Operating Systems | This course focuses on computer architecture and the operating systems of digital computers. Students learn about the operational methods of hardware; the services provided by operating systems' software; acquisition, processing, storage and output data; and the interaction between computers. Topics include widely used operating systems such as DOS, Windows, and UNIX. |
| IT 625 | Information Technology Project and Team Management | This course introduces the students to the principles and practices necessary to be an effective IT project manager. The course covers project scope, time, cost, quality and human resource management techniques as applied to the kinds of project management problems and issues unique to the IT environment. Students learn how to design an actual IT project structure and will obtain hands-on experience using project management software. Emphasis is on the techniques of project management, leadership, teamwork and project risk management as applied to the IT environment. Case work is an important part of this course. |
| IT 640 | Telecommunications and Networking | Telecommunications is a business resource that must be well managed. This includes the technical aspects and the application of telecommunications technology to solve specific business problems and enhance the strategic position of a business enterprise. Topics include the importance of telecommunication in today's business environment, the analysis, design and implementation of telecommunications systems, the scope of the telecommunications industry and current trends; telecommunications hardware, the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) network model, networking technologies and telecommunications software, protocols and standards. |
| IT 650 | Principles of Database Design | This course is a study of the design, development and implementation of database management systems (DBMS) that emphasize relational DBMS architecture using SQL. Students will design and implement projects and complete case exercises as they are introduced to new developments in database design. |
| IT 700 | Capstone in Information Technology | This capstone course is the culminating experience for the M.S. in Information Technology program. The aim of the capstone is to assess students' ability to synthesize and integrate the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout their coursework, rather than introducing new concepts. This course is structured to support student success in fulfilling program requirements. |
| Total Credits: 36 | ||
Minimum Hardware Required Specifications
| Component Type | PC (Windows OS) | Apple (Mac OS) |
|---|---|---|
| Operating System | Currently supported operating system from Microsoft. | Currently supported operating system from Apple. |
| Memory (RAM) | 8GB or higher | 8GB or higher |
| Hard Drive | 100GB or higher | 100GB or higher |
| Antivirus Software | Required forcampus students. Strongly recommended for online students. | Required forcampus students. Strongly recommended for online students. |
| SNHU Purchase Programs | Visit Dell | Visit Apple |
| Internet/ Bandwidth | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency | 5 Mbps Download, 1 Mbps Upload and less than 100ms Latency |
Notes:
- Laptop or desktop? Whichever you choose depends on your personal preference and work style, though laptops tend to offer more flexibility.
- Note: Chromebooks (Chrome OS) and iPads (iOS) do not meet the minimum requirements for coursework at SNHU. These offer limited functionality and do not work with some course technologies. They are not acceptable as the only device you use for coursework. While these devices are convenient and may be used for some course functions, they cannot be your primary device. SNHU does, however, have an affordable laptop option that it recommends: Dell Latitude 3301 with Windows 10.
- Office 365 Pro Plus is available free of charge to all SNHU students and faculty. The Office suite will remain free while you are a student at SNHU. Upon graduation you may convert to a paid subscription if you wish. Terms subject to change at Microsoft's discretion. Review system requirements for Microsoft 365 plans for business, education and government.
- Antivirus software: Check with your ISP as they may offer antivirus software free of charge to subscribers.
University Accreditation
Southern New Hampshire University is a private, nonprofit institution accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE) as well as several other accrediting bodies.
This program and its concentrations are accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP). Student achievement data can be found on the ACBSP accreditation page.
Tuition & Fees
Tuition rates for SNHU's online degree programs are among the lowest in the nation. We offer a 25% tuition discount for U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty.
| Online Graduate Programs | Per Course | Per Credit Hour | Annual Cost for 15 credits |
|---|---|---|---|
| Degree/Certificates | $1,911 | $637 | $9,555 |
|
Degree/Certificates (U.S. service members, both full and part time, and the spouses of those on active duty)* |
$1,410 | $470 | $7,050 |
Tuition rates are subject to change and are reviewed annually.
*Note: students receiving this rate are not eligible for additional discounts.
Additional Costs:
Course Materials ($ varies by course). Foundational courses may be required based on your undergraduate course history, which may result in additional cost.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between information technology and computer science?
Computer science is focused on the underlying theories of computer systems. When studying for a computer science degree, you can focus on developing programming skills and becoming adept at creating and refining algorithms. Information technology studies are focused on the practical application of information systems and systems administration. Studies of information technology also include learning about databases, networking and gaining an overview of cyber security
What can I do with a master's in information technology?
When it comes to career paths in information technology, examples run from tiny consulting firms to huge multinational corporations, and from highly technical specialties to management ladders that demand strong people skills.
“This was something no other school has done for me before,” he said. “Whatever came up, they said, ‘We’ll figure it out.’”
Here are some examples of career routes you might choose:
- Computer support specialist: A good entry role if you are new to IT and enjoy answering questions about computer software and hardware, setting up equipment and training computer users.
- Network and computer systems administrator: Daily tasks in this job could include maintaining computer network hardware and software, backing up data and troubleshooting network problems.
- Computer systems analyst: Strong computer skills, often including programming tools, database management software and development environment software are a must for this type of role, which requires an understanding of both IT and business systems.
What are the advantages to earning a master's in IT online?
After a 5 year gap in her career, Anu Chenthamarakshan '21 decided to pursue her master's in IT online with SNHU to help gain back her confidence. "SNHU gave me the best of education and I am moving forward with an immense wealth of knowledge," said Chenthamarakshan. "My manager was happy and excited to see that I have earned a master's degree and considers me a role model."
How long does it take to get a master's degree in information technology?
Earning a master's in information technology can be done in as few as 15 months, depending on your schedule. At SNHU, you'll work closely with your academic advisor to develop a flexible timeline that works for your lifestyle.
How much can you make with a master's in information technology?
While it depends on a number of factors, according to BLS, the median annual wage for computer and information technology occupations was $100,530 in May 2022.1
Which IT jobs pay the most?
According to information pulled from BLS, the IT jobs that pay the most include:¹
- Computer and information research scientist: $136,620
- Computer network architect: $126,900
- Software developer: $124,200
- Database administrator: $112,120
- Information security analyst: $112,000
Note: Additional education and certifications may be required in these roles.
Related Articles
SNHU Spotlight: Alex Petitto, BS in Cybersecurity Grad
SNHU Spotlight: Remus Figueroa Orozco '23: BS in Cybersecurity
What is a Degree in Math and Why is It Important?
References
Sources & Citations (1)
1According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, on the internet, at:
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/healthcare/health-information-technologists-and-medical-registrars.htm#tab-1 (viewed Nov. 15, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/computer-and-information-systems-managers.htm (viewed Nov. 15, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/home.htm (viewed Nov. 15, 2023)
- https://www.bls.gov/ooh/computer-and-information-technology/database-administrators.htm#tab-5 (viewed Nov. 15, 2023)
Cited projections may not reflect local and/or short-term economic or job conditions and do not guarantee actual job growth.