Online Information Technology Degree Programs Costs: Tuition & Fees for 2026

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Pursuing an online Information Technology degree often involves significant financial commitment, with tuition and fees representing a major portion of total educational costs. These expenses play a crucial role in a student's budgeting and decision-making, impacting loan needs and overall affordability. Understanding the financial layout ahead can prevent unexpected burdens during the course of study.

Online IT programs vary widely in price due to factors like institution type and program length. This article examines typical tuition ranges, fees involved, how these costs compare to other disciplines, and highlights financial aid options available to help manage expenses effectively.

Key Points About Online Information Technology Degree Costs

Online Information Technology degrees in 2024 typically range from $10,000 to $40,000 in total tuition, varying by institution, program length, and public versus private status.
Costs are influenced by factors such as credit hours, technology fees, and access to specialized software or labs required for coursework.
The investment often leads to higher earning potential and career advancement, justifying expenses through increased job opportunities in a growing tech industry.

What Is the Average Cost of an Online Information Technology Degree?

The typical tuition for an online Information Technology bachelor's degree in the US during the 2025/2026 academic year ranges between $40,000 and $63,000. This varies primarily based on whether the school is public or private. Some universities, like Kennesaw State, offer much lower total costs around $4,770, presenting affordable alternatives.

Costs fluctuate based on degree level and institution type. Public universities usually charge approximately $40,536 for in-state students and about $59,011 for those from out-of-state. Private colleges tend to charge about $63,185 for the full bachelor's program. Tuition is often billed per credit hour, with public schools averaging $337 and private schools around $516 per credit. Graduate-level online IT courses can be more expensive, averaging near $1,099 per class.

When compared to similar disciplines such as online computer science degrees, IT programs generally offer somewhat lower or comparable tuition fees. For instance, the median yearly cost for online computer and information science degrees is about $9,803. This suggests online IT degrees provide competitive pricing within the technology education landscape.

What Is Typically Included in the Tuition for an Online Information Technology Degree?

Tuition for online Information Technology degree programs in the U.S. generally covers key elements needed to complete the program successfully. Most schools provide access to all courses, lectures, assignments, and exams required to earn the degree.

Beyond the coursework itself, tuition often includes several valuable resources and services that support student learning and skill development in IT fields.

Academic Support Services: Many programs offer virtual tutoring, technical assistance, career advising, and digital library access to help students stay current and succeed.
Technology Infrastructure: Tuition commonly covers the use of learning platforms, video conferencing tools, and specialized virtual labs or simulations essential for hands-on IT training.
Instructional Materials: Some programs provide digital textbooks, software licenses, and relevant online tools, especially for areas like programming or cybersecurity, at no extra charge.

Students should be aware that certain costs are typically excluded from tuition. These may include physical textbooks or printed materials, required hardware like personal computers meeting specific requirements, and fees for proctored exams, graduation, or specialized labs.

Knowing what is included and what extra expenses might arise enables prospective students to plan their finances more effectively and avoid surprises during their studies.

What Factors Influence the Cost of Pursuing an Online Information Technology Degree?

The cost of pursuing an online Information Technology degree varies widely due to multiple factors students should understand before enrolling. Considering these elements can help learners better estimate expenses and manage their education budget effectively.

Type of School: Public universities usually offer lower tuition, especially for in-state students, compared to private institutions. For example, online tuition at Georgia Southern University is about $199 per credit, while private schools may range from $103 to $395 per credit hour.
Residency Status: Tuition rates can differ for in-state versus out-of-state students, although many programs now provide uniform costs. This variability contributes to significant online IT degree costs by state.
Credit-Hour Requirements and Program Length: A typical bachelor's degree in Information Technology requires approximately 120 credit hours. Accelerated options, like the 1 year masters programs, can reduce overall tuition and shorten the time to completion.
Technology Fees and Mandatory Costs: Additional expenses such as technology fees, e-book charges, and course materials are commonly applied per term or course, adding to total costs. For instance, Western Governors University may charge a $200 e-book fee alongside tuition.
Student Support Services and School Reputation: Universities investing in experienced faculty, career services, and maintaining specialized accreditations often charge premium tuition. These factors can enhance learning outcomes and job placement, justifying higher costs.

Other considerations include flexible payment plans, transfer credit acceptance, and financial aid availability, all contributing to factors affecting online information technology degree tuition.

Are Online Information Technology Programs Cheaper Than Traditional Programs?

Online Information Technology degree programs generally offer a more affordable alternative to traditional on-campus degrees in the United States for the 2025-2026 academic year. Students weighing their options should understand how the average cost of online IT degree vs traditional programs can impact their budget.

The average annual tuition and required fees for an online IT bachelor's program are approximately $12,216, compared to around $18,981 for on-campus equivalents. On a per-credit basis, online courses typically cost about $509, while campus classes at four-year institutions average $791. These differences highlight significant online IT degree tuition savings for many students.

Cost variations stem from lower operating expenses for online education, which eliminates much of the physical infrastructure needs. Online students also avoid added costs for transportation and campus housing. Additionally, flexible learning paths, including credit for prior work experience and accelerated options, allow some students to finish faster and reduce overall expenses. Prospective students can explore easy associate degrees online as an affordable entry to IT careers and a stepping stone toward a bachelor's degree.

Are There In-state and Out-of-state Tuition for Online Information Technology Programs?

Tuition costs for online Information Technology degrees often differ based on whether a student lives in the state where the public university is located. This distinction can impact overall affordability when pursuing an online bachelor's in IT.

At many public institutions, students who reside out of state usually pay higher tuition than in-state residents, even for fully online programs. For example, average total tuition for an online IT degree might be roughly $40,500 for in-state learners, while out-of-state students could face charges around $59,000. This gap typically reflects subsidies provided by state taxpayers to residents, resulting in lower costs for them.

Nevertheless, some schools adopt a uniform tuition model, charging all online IT students the same rate regardless of residency. Western Governors University is one such example, with tuition around $3,760 per six-month term plus fees. Additionally, certain states participate in regional agreements or offer waivers to reduce out-of-state tuition for some students, though these policies vary widely. Prospective students should verify each program's tuition policies to understand how residency might influence costs.

Which Schools Offer the Most Affordable Information Technology Degree Programs?

Several accredited universities offer some of the most affordable online IT degree programs in the United States, making it easier for students to pursue a career in Information Technology without excessive financial burden. These programs often feature flexible, asynchronous coursework that suits working adults and help reduce indirect costs.

Below are three examples of institutions with notably cheap accredited online information technology degrees 2025:

Western Governors University (WGU): WGU charges a flat rate of $3,875 per six-month term for its bachelor's degree in IT. This model can result in significant savings, especially for students who accelerate their pace of study.
Florida International University: Offering a Bachelor's in Information Technology program with an approximate tuition cost of $6,168 per year, FIU is one of the most affordable public universities for this field.
New Mexico State University: Known for low annual tuition rates, NMSU provides accessible online IT degree options with competitive pricing for in-state and out-of-state students alike.

Other affordable programs include Columbus State University with a total of $22,440 for 120 credits and Georgia Southern University at $24,676 total tuition. Students should compare transfer credit policies and financial aid availability to identify the best option for their needs.

For individuals interested in gaining insight on earning potential by major, it is useful to explore what college majors make the most money, which can help guide educational investments in fields like Information Technology.

Which Schools Offer the Most Expensive Information Technology Degree Programs?

Several accredited institutions in the United States offer some of the most expensive online IT degree programs in the US. These programs often feature high tuition rates due to factors such as institutional prestige, advanced curricula, and access to specialized faculty or resources. Prospective students should be aware of these costs when considering online studies in this field.

Below are some of the highest tuition information technology bachelor's degrees available online, highlighting institutions with notable price points.

George Mason University: Offers an online IT degree program with a total cost of approximately $177,000, making it the most expensive option among accredited schools.
DePaul University (Chicago): Features an online Bachelor of Science in Information Technology totaling about $160,512 for 192 credits at $836 per credit.
South University (Savannah, Georgia): Provides a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology with an estimated cost of $85,500 for 180 credits.

Other institutions with high tuition include DeVry University in Illinois, with a Bachelor's in Information Technology and Networking costing roughly $61,680 for 120 credits, and East Carolina University offering a Bachelor of Science in Information & Cybersecurity Technology at up to $61,080 for out-of-state students.

The higher tuition rates often reflect the use of experienced faculty, strong industry connections, advanced technology labs, and extensive student resources, which contribute to the overall value of these programs. Students aiming for fast educational paths might also explore the shortest doctoral programs available online for further advancement opportunities.

How Long Does It Take to See a Return on an Online Information Technology Degree?

Completing an online degree in Information Technology (IT) can be a solid investment, but the timeline to see financial returns varies. Most graduates start earning a competitive salary promptly after finishing their studies, making it easier to recover educational expenses.

Typically, graduates recoup the cost of their IT degree within two to five years. This timeframe depends on factors such as total tuition, starting salary, and personal financial circumstances. Many online IT students begin their careers with salaries between $65,000 and $80,000, with potential increases averaging over $22,000 within two years. These gains are bolstered by strong demand for IT professionals and upward salary trends averaging 8-10% annually.

The overall payback period also hinges on the amount of debt incurred and career choices. Graduates who minimize student loans and specialize in in-demand areas tend to see faster returns. While continuing education through graduate programs can boost long-term earnings, it may delay immediate financial benefits. Assessing program costs, expected entry-level salary, and job market trends can help students estimate their return on investment more accurately.

Are Online Information Technology Students Eligible for Financial Aid?

Online Information Technology (IT) students enrolled in accredited programs are generally eligible for financial aid, including federal student aid, scholarships, grants, and employer tuition assistance. These opportunities closely mirror those available to on-campus students, provided that the institution is accredited and students fulfill basic eligibility criteria. Understanding financial aid options is essential for prospective students to manage education costs effectively.

One primary step is completing the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which determines FAFSA eligibility for online Information Technology students. The FAFSA process opens access to federal grants, loans, and work-study programs, helping to reduce tuition expenses. There are also various other forms of financial support specifically designed for online IT learners.

Federal grants and aid: U.S. citizens and eligible non-citizens pursuing accredited IT degrees may qualify for federal aid such as the Pell Grant, which can cover up to $7,395 for the 2025-26 academic year, along with subsidized student loans and work-study opportunities based on financial need and academic standing.
State and institutional grants: These vary widely depending on the student's state and school, offering additional funding options that reduce out-of-pocket tuition costs. Availability and amounts depend on local budgets and eligibility.
Employer tuition assistance: Many employers provide tuition reimbursement programs for employees working toward IT degrees related to their job roles, often covering part or all of the tuition.

In addition to these, private and school-specific scholarships target Information Technology majors and online learners. Aid amounts can range from a few hundred dollars to full tuition coverage but typically require maintaining satisfactory academic progress and reapplication each year. Prospective students should always confirm with their school's financial aid office to ensure program eligibility prior to applying.

For those exploring career outcomes post-degree, researching the best paying trade jobs can provide valuable insights on return on investment when choosing an online IT program.

Are Online Information Technology Programs Expected to Increase in the Coming Years?

Pursuing an online degree in Information Technology (IT) offers flexible learning options for many students across the United States. Understanding the tuition costs associated with these programs helps prospective students plan their education budgets more effectively.

Currently, tuition rates for online IT degrees can vary significantly depending on the institution type and program level. Public universities usually offer more affordable rates compared to private institutions. Additionally, in-state students often benefit from reduced tuition fees, while out-of-state learners may pay higher rates. Community colleges and technical schools tend to price their IT programs competitively, making them accessible options for many.

As demand for IT professionals continues to rise, online program tuition has shown a gradual increase. However, many institutions provide financial aid, scholarships, and flexible payment plans to support students. It is also common to see cost differences between associate, bachelor's, and master's degree programs, with advanced degrees carrying higher tuition rates.

Being informed about these trends ensures students can make timely decisions aligned with their financial capabilities and career aspirations.

What Students Say About The Cost of Pursuing Online Information Technology Programs

Quesha: "Pursuing my online Information Technology degree at a reasonable cost has truly changed my career trajectory. The affordable tuition allowed me to balance work and study without overwhelming debt, and now I'm seeing a clear return on investment with new job opportunities and increased salary prospects. I highly recommend this path for anyone mindful of both quality education and cost."

Ralf: "Reflecting on the cost of my online Information Technology degree, I realize it was a wise investment despite initial concerns. Although tuition added up, the flexible learning schedule and industry-relevant skills have opened doors I never imagined. It's reassuring to know that even with the average cost of attendance, the long-term benefits outweigh the expense."

Sheila: "From a professional standpoint, the cost-effectiveness of my online IT program was a major deciding factor. Balancing work and study was feasible thanks to affordable tuition, and completing the degree has already enhanced my expertise and career competitiveness. For anyone weighing cost vs. career growth, this degree offers solid return on investment."

Other Things You Should Know About Information Technology Degree Program Costs

Do online Information Technology degree programs charge additional fees?

Yes, many online Information Technology programs include additional fees beyond base tuition. These can include technology fees, course material fees, and exam proctoring fees. It is important to review the program's fee schedule to understand the full cost before enrolling.

Can employers reimburse tuition costs for online Information Technology degrees?

Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs for employees pursuing online degrees in Information Technology, especially when the education directly supports job responsibilities. Policies and amounts vary widely, so students should check with their human resources department about eligibility and requirements.

Are there cost differences between undergraduate and graduate online Information Technology programs?

Yes, graduate-level online Information Technology programs generally cost more per credit hour than undergraduate programs. This reflects the advanced curriculum and specialization offered at the graduate level. Prospective students should factor in these differences when budgeting for their education.

Do online Information Technology students need to budget for hardware and software?

Yes, online Information Technology students often need reliable computers and specialized software. Some programs provide licenses or discounts for required software, but students should verify what is included. Budgeting for hardware updates or additional software can be a necessary part of program costs.