Is Information Technology a Hard Major? What Students Should Know in 2026

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Information technology as a major often carries a reputation for being difficult, yet this perception varies widely among students. In the U.S., enrollment in information technology programs has grown by over 20% in recent years, reflecting rising industry demand. Such growth highlights the field's expanding importance and the increasing rigor of related academic programs.

This article explores key aspects of the major, including course difficulty, typical workload, essential skills, and personal factors that affect how challenging students find information technology studies. Understanding these elements can help prospective students make informed decisions about pursuing this career path.

Key Benefits of Information Technology as a Major

Information technology offers practical skills relevant across industries, aiding career changers in accessing new opportunities with a strong technical foundation.
It supports full-time workers by providing flexible learning paths and real-world applications, facilitating balance between employment and education.
Traditional undergraduates benefit from hands-on experience and problem-solving tasks, boosting confidence and academic resilience amid challenging coursework.

Where Does Information Technology Rank Among the Hardest College Majors?

Information technology is usually ranked as moderately challenging in national difficulty assessments, falling below majors like engineering, physics, and computer science. These assessments often factor in the intensity of coursework, technical complexity, and the amount of hands-on labs or projects required. For instance, a 2023 ranking on YouTube positioned information technology beneath computer science and engineering, noting that IT emphasizes applied skills and system management rather than deep theoretical or algorithmic knowledge. Students in IT programs can expect a heavy workload that combines technical classes with practical exercises, though the math component is generally less demanding than in engineering or pure computer science.

The perceived challenge of information technology varies considerably depending on the institution and the student's background. Schools with rigorous programs, such as Carnegie Mellon or MIT, tend to have more demanding curricula, increasing the workload and competitiveness. Students with a foundation in computing or strong analytical abilities may find IT more manageable compared to others. When compared to related fields, engineering, computer science, and physics are usually seen as harder, while information systems have a similar difficulty level. Many social science and humanities majors are typically less intensive due to fewer technical and lab requirements. Ultimately, how hard information technology feels depends largely on individual strengths, interests, and prior preparation.

What Factors Make Information Technology a Hard Major?

Several academic and skill-related demands contribute to why information technology can be a challenging major for many students. These demands include mastery of diverse technical subjects alongside practical application, which requires significant dedication and adaptability.

Academic rigor: Programs typically require completion of 120-128 credit hours, including courses in programming, mathematics, statistics, database management, networking, and cybersecurity. ABET-accredited curricula mandate at least 30 semester credit hours in computing subjects combined with mathematical rigor often equivalent to introductory calculus, underscoring the intensity of information technology academic rigor.
Technical and analytical complexity: Students must analyze complex problems, design computing solutions, and evaluate results across multiple disciplines. Proficiency in various programming languages and the ability to solve intricate technical issues demand ongoing critical thinking and strong problem-solving skills.
Time commitment: Extensive project work, including senior capstone experiences that often span multiple semesters, requires sustained effort. Maintaining a minimum GPA-usually 2.0 in core courses-is essential for progression and graduation, reflecting the significant information technology workload demands.
Field-specific challenges: Rapid technological advancements and evolving industry standards require continual self-study and engagement beyond the classroom, increasing overall difficulty for students.

Students balancing work and study may find resources on the quickest online degree programs for working adults helpful in managing these demands.

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Who Is a Good Fit for a Information Technology Major?

Understanding who thrives in an information technology major is key to succeeding in this demanding field. Identifying the right student profile helps manage the workload and learning style effectively, ensuring better academic outcomes.

Successful students in this area often share these traits:

Analytical thinkers: These students excel at diagnosing technical issues, designing solutions, and evaluating new systems, which match the core coursework in IT. Their logical approach helps navigate complex problems efficiently.
Attention to detail: Precision is critical for troubleshooting and ensuring accuracy in technical tasks, allowing students to catch errors and fine-tune solutions.
Effective communication: IT programs demand translating technical concepts for non-technical audiences and collaborating with diverse teams, making communication skills vital.
Adaptability and curiosity: The fast-evolving tech landscape requires students to continuously learn and embrace new technologies, which benefits those who are naturally curious and flexible.
Background in math or computing: Prior experience in these areas helps in managing the major's technical demands, but a willingness to learn is just as important to rise to challenges.

Students exploring if they might be a good fit for IT can also consider the easiest online masters degree options to compare workloads and expectations across fields.

How Can You Make a Information Technology Major Easier?

Students often find information technology challenging due to its fast-paced, technical nature and heavy workload. However, adopting targeted strategies can significantly ease the difficulties and improve academic success.

Master time management: Planning schedules carefully, setting clear priorities, and breaking tasks into manageable segments help reduce stress and increase efficiency.
Build core skills early: Strengthening basics in programming, math, and problem-solving provides a solid foundation that simplifies learning advanced concepts.
Engage actively with material: Utilizing techniques like self-testing, group discussions, and regular review fosters deeper comprehension and better retention than passive reading.
Leverage academic support: Seeking help from tutors, mentors, and professors prevents gaps in understanding and encourages steady progress.
Create focused study spaces: Designating quiet, organized areas for study and minimizing distractions improves concentration and productivity.

A graduate who majored in information technology shared that the demanding coursework initially felt overwhelming, especially balancing coding labs with theory-heavy classes. She emphasized how discovering the importance of daily planning helped her keep track of assignments and avoid last-minute cramming. Forming a study group was another turning point, allowing her to discuss difficult topics openly and gain insights she missed alone. She recalled, "I used to think I just had to grind through alone, but collaborating made a huge difference." Attending office hours regularly built confidence, turning confusing material into manageable pieces. Over time, these strategies transformed her stress into steady motivation, illustrating that thoughtful approaches can make the information technology journey far less intimidating.

Are Admissions to Information Technology Programs Competitive?

Admissions to information technology programs are generally competitive, especially at top universities. The main reasons include a high number of applicants, limited capacity in these programs, and prerequisite requirements that screen candidates. For example, some institutions have acceptance rates below 12%, while others admit closer to 40%. This variation reflects both demand for tech skills and limited available spots.

Selectivity depends on factors such as academic performance-with many schools expecting a high school GPA around 3.7 or higher-and standardized test scores. Some programs require prior coursework in math or computer science, and though less common, a few look for coding experience. Rising interest in technology fields has led to increased enrollment each year, intensifying competition for the best programs.

When I spoke with a professional who majored in information technology, he described the admissions process as daunting but motivating. He recalled, "It felt like every application needed to stand out. I focused on improving my math grades and learning to code before applying." He also mentioned the anxiety of waiting for decisions but emphasized the rewarding feeling of finally gaining admission, remarking that the challenge strengthened his commitment to the field.

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Is an Online Information Technology Major Harder Than an On-Campus Program?

An online information technology major is not inherently more difficult or easier than an on-campus program; rather, the level of challenge varies based on individual learning preferences and personal discipline. Both formats require dedication, yet students face distinctive obstacles shaped by their study environment. To better understand these differences, consider the following aspects comparing online information technology degree vs campus programs:

Academic Expectations: Accredited online IT degrees maintain standards equivalent to on-campus curricula, ensuring comparable workloads and assessment rigor.
Workload and Pacing: Online students benefit from flexibility but must self-manage their schedules, which can be demanding without structured class times.
Interaction and Support: On-campus programs offer immediate, face-to-face feedback and collaboration, while online learners rely on virtual help desks and scheduled communications.
Learning Environment: Online programs utilize virtual labs and simulators providing remote, hands-on experiences; on-campus students engage directly with instructors and peers.
Unique Challenges: The flexibility of online IT programs in the US requires strong self-motivation, as distractions at home can impact progress, whereas campus environments foster routine and spontaneous academic interaction.

Recent studies show online learners may retain up to 60% more information compared to traditional classroom retention rates of 8-10% while often spending 40-60% less time learning. This improved retention reflects the adaptable structure of online formats rather than a reduction in difficulty. Success in either program ultimately hinges on a student's ability to adapt to their chosen mode of study.

Prospective students aiming for competitive fields can benefit from consulting lists of the highest paying masters programs, which often include specialized IT tracks.

Are Accelerated Information Technology Programs Harder Than Traditional Formats?

Accelerated information technology programs are generally harder than traditional formats because they condense the same amount of coursework into much shorter timeframes, resulting in intense pacing and heavier workloads. This often leads to increased stress and requires greater focus and discipline from students. To better understand the differences, consider this comparison of accelerated Information Technology degree programs vs traditional formats:

Course Pacing and Content Density: Accelerated programs cover a semester's worth of material in just five to eight weeks, while traditional programs spread content over 16 weeks, allowing for a more gradual absorption of complex topics.
Workload Management: Students in accelerated IT formats face rapid deadlines and frequent assignments, which can be challenging for those balancing work or family, whereas traditional students benefit from more manageable schedules.
Academic Expectations and Skill Demands: Accelerated formats demand strong self-discipline and time management, often favoring students who thrive in fast-paced environments compared to traditional formats that allow time for reflection and review.
Learning Retention and Stress Levels: Traditional programs typically result in better retention and lower stress due to a slower pace, while accelerated courses increase stress because of concentrated workloads.
Flexibility and Structure: Traditional IT programs offer more flexible day-to-day scheduling, whereas accelerated courses require consistent, daily focus and limit downtime for practice.

When weighing whether are IT bootcamps more challenging than college, it is important to note that many bootcamps follow accelerated structures similar to these programs, emphasizing intensity and rapid skill acquisition. Both formats cover core Information Technology content, but students considering either path should assess their ability to maintain high focus under pressure. For those exploring accredited options in this field, institutions featured among the best non profit online accredited colleges may offer a variety of program formats suited to different learning preferences and schedules.

Can You Manage a Part-Time Job While Majoring in Information Technology?

Students majoring in information technology can often maintain a part-time job, but balancing work with demanding coursework depends on several factors. The intensity of IT studies, including lab hours and technical assignments, often requires 15 to 20 or more hours weekly outside of class. Flexibility in scheduling, such as evening or online courses, also plays a significant role. Additionally, strong personal study habits and effective time management are essential for successfully handling both commitments.

Many students manage by carefully planning their workloads and choosing fewer credits to accommodate study and work obligations. Flexible employment options-like remote tech support or campus IT assistant roles-align well with the fluctuating demands of IT projects and exam cycles. Access to academic support services, whether on campus or online, aids students during particularly heavy periods. However, given the rigorous nature of IT programs, some students struggle to find a sustainable balance, especially if they underestimate the discipline's demands or overcommit to work hours.

What Jobs Do Information Technology Majors Get, and Are They as Hard as the Degree Itself?

Career paths for information technology graduates vary widely in difficulty, responsibility, and required skills. While some jobs reflect the rigor of the degree, others may feel less demanding or challenge professionals in different ways.

Cybersecurity Analyst: Protects organizations by identifying vulnerabilities, monitoring networks for threats, and responding swiftly to security incidents. This role demands continuous learning and high attention to detail, making it often as challenging as studying information technology.
Cloud Engineer: Designs and manages cloud-based systems on platforms like AWS or Azure, requiring mastery of complex infrastructure and security concepts. Responsibilities for large-scale, mission-critical systems make this job as demanding as the degree itself.
IT Support Specialist: Provides technical assistance, troubleshoots hardware and software issues, and maintains systems. Although less technically rigorous, this role demands strong communication and problem-solving skills, presenting challenges in a more interpersonal way.
Data Analyst: Cleans, analyzes, and visualizes large data sets to support business decisions. This position may be less demanding than some technical IT roles but requires strong analytical thinking, especially in data-intensive industries.
DevOps Engineer: Bridges software development and IT operations focusing on automation and continuous integration. The fast-paced, cross-functional nature of this work often matches the degree's difficulty, requiring scripting expertise and system-level understanding.

The average GPA for information technology majors in the US typically ranges between 2.9 and 3.2, illustrating the academic rigor involved compared to many other fields. For those exploring the best jobs for information technology majors, choosing roles aligned with personal strengths is key. If you're weighing whether is working in IT as hard as studying information technology, consider that job demands differ widely across roles and industries.

Prospective students interested in practical, skill-based education may also find value in exploring the top online vocational colleges, which can offer alternative pathways to enter the IT workforce efficiently.

Do Information Technology Graduates Earn Higher Salaries Because the Major Is Harder?

There is no direct link between the difficulty of an information technology major and higher salaries for graduates. Although the field is known for its technical challenges and fast-paced advancements, salary increases are mainly driven by the market value of acquired skills like programming, problem-solving, and systems management. Employers prioritize expertise and adaptability over academic rigor alone. Industry demand plays a significant role in shaping pay scales, rewarding those who can meet current technological needs. Therefore, harder coursework does not automatically translate to greater earnings.

Several factors influence the salaries of IT graduates beyond the complexity of their studies. Job roles differ widely, with data scientists averaging $122,738 annually, while technical support positions earn closer to $55,275. Location also impacts pay, varying from $90,400 in Michigan to $143,670 in California, reflecting local market conditions and living costs. Entry-level salaries often start near $54,169 but grow with experience and certifications such as AWS or CISSP. Overall, market demand, role specificity, geography, and professional credentials shape salary outcomes more than the major's difficulty.

What Graduates Say About Information Technology as Their Major

Cameron: "The major in information technology was intense, requiring dedication to grasp both foundational and advanced concepts. Professionally, it transformed my career prospects significantly, landing me roles I once thought unreachable. The cost, roughly $22,000 per year, was noticeable but manageable through scholarships and careful budgeting. Overall, it was a strategic investment with substantial returns. "

Yitzchok: "When I first started my information technology degree, I found the coursework quite demanding, especially balancing theory with practical skills. Reflecting on it now, the experience was invaluable, shaping my approach to tech problems at work. Although the financial burden was tough, considering the average cost at about $18,000 annually, the career stability and opportunities I gained have justified every expense. "

Lawrence: "Studying information technology was definitely challenging, but the hands-on learning and problem-solving made it incredibly rewarding. The cost was steep-tuition averaged around $20,000 per year-but investing in this major opened doors to a thriving career in cybersecurity that I truly enjoy. For anyone willing to put in the effort, the payoff is worth it. "

Other Things You Should Know About Information Technology Degrees

What kind of workload does an information technology major have?

Students majoring in information technology can expect a demanding workload that includes theoretical studies, hands-on labs, and project assignments. The curriculum often combines programming, systems analysis, and network management, requiring consistent study and practical application. Time management is essential due to overlapping deadlines and the technical nature of the material.

Is coding mandatory for an information technology major?

While coding is not the sole focus of an information technology major, proficiency in at least one programming language is generally required. Courses typically cover scripting and software development fundamentals to support system administration and network tasks. Familiarity with coding improves problem-solving skills and broadens career options within IT.

Does information technology require strong math skills?

Information technology majors do need a solid understanding of basic math concepts such as logic, discrete mathematics, and statistics. Advanced calculus is usually not required, but students must be comfortable with analytical thinking and numerical problem-solving. These skills help in areas like algorithm development, data analysis, and cybersecurity.

Are internships important for information technology students?

Internships play a crucial role in an information technology education by providing real-world experience and networking opportunities. They allow students to apply classroom knowledge in workplace settings and often improve employment prospects after graduation. Many programs encourage or require internships as part of the degree to enhance practical skills.