Today’s digital society needs experts who can skillfully design, execute, and monitor systems that help companies maintain a competitive edge. This can mean devising strategies to store and access information, building data communication networks, and writing code needed for software and applications to properly function. Every industry needs these kinds of specialists, so those with an online master’s in information technology are in demand. Furthermore, the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 13% growth in computer and information technology occupations by 2026. This includes careers like computer network architect and software developer.
An online master’s degree in information technology leverages your analytical abilities, interpersonal and organizational skills, and attention to detail. Furthermore, it encourages you to creatively solve problems.
These tables offer information from the BLS and PayScale. They explore how many experts the top states for this occupation employ and the average annual salary they earn in comparison to the entire U.S. In addition, the tables report annual income by level of experience for IT managers. This information can help you understand what to expect should you decide to earn an online master's in information technology, including where you can find the best job opportunities with the most lucrative pay.
State | Employment | Annual Mean Wage |
---|---|---|
New York | 26,520 | $187,770 |
New Jersey | 13,900 | $175,830 |
California | 53,270 | $174,790 |
Virginia | 13,460 | $169,660 |
District of Columbia | 4,060 | $164,310 |
United States | 365,690 | $149,730 |
Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics
Source: PayScale
Completing an accredited online master’s in information technology opens up many professional opportunities. Whether you choose to work in a nonprofit or government position, every industry requires the skills you possess. Computer and information technology occupations not only require technological competence, but also the ability to work well in teams, communicate effectively, and manage projects on time and within budget. A career in this field requires staying up to date on emerging trends and practices.
Annual Median Salary: $81,100
Projected Growth Rate: 6%
These experts oversee the daily network operations of organizations. Their responsibilities include coordinating, installing, and monitoring networks. An advanced degree helps these professionals develop the skills to train others in the proper use of software and hardware. It also strengthens troubleshooting skills.
Annual Median Salary: $95,510
Projected Growth Rate: 28%
Analysts monitor, identify, and resolve network security breaches. These professionals install data encryption programs to protect an organization’s sensitive information. In addition, they perform penetration testing to assess system vulnerabilities and help create a disaster recovery plan in the event of an emergency. An online master's in information technology helps build these analytical skills.
Annual Median Salary: $87,020
Projected Growth Rate: 11%
These professionals use specialized software to store, organize, and retrieve data. They protect an organization’s digital information, including backing it up and restoring it to avoid data loss. In addition, they maintain databases and merge them as needed for optimum system performance. An advanced degree sharpens their ability to solve unexpected problems.
Annual Median Salary: $139,220
Projected Growth Rate: 12%
Frequently called IT managers, these experts organize and direct an organization’s computer-related activities. Not only do they assess its information technology needs and goals, they also help implement necessary computer systems. A master’s degree equips IT managers with the communication skills needed to engage stakeholders within an organization about technology challenges.
The classes you take to earn a top online master’s in information technology largely depend on the school and program you select, but most offer a similar curriculum. You should expect to study topics in information systems, operations research, and information assurance. In addition, you may study data privacy and computer networks.
Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.
You're about to search for degree programs related to a career that you are researching. It's important to recognize that a degree may be required for a career or increase your chances of employment but it is not a guarantee of employment when you complete your degree.
I understand a degree DOES NOT GUARANTEE A JOB OR CAREER UPON COMPLETION OF A PROGRAM