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The Best Associate Degrees in Information Technology
to Launch Your Career

There’s no denying the role information technology plays in our day-to-day lives. It is through IT that companies can communicate, safeguard data, and store important records. This means the job outlook is exceptionally good for IT professionals.

A community college program prepares students for a wide range of information technology associate degree jobs. It could help you become a computer programmer, a web developer, or a software developer. Read on to find out more about the best Associate Degree in IT programs, including flexible and online programs.

Overview: The Top 10 Associate Degrees in IT

To get a job in IT, you’ll need to go through proper training delivered by accredited schools. Tuition rates vary across schools, and some offer online or hybrid learning options. Below, we’ve rounded up the top associate degree programs in IT that will give you industry-standard training.

School and Degree State Tuition Online Option
Brookdale Community College
Associate of Applied Science in
Network Information Technology
OH $148 per credit (in-state)
$279 per credit (out-of-state)
No
Gateway Technical College
Associate of Applied Science in
Information Technology
WI $141 per credit (in-state)
$211 per credit (out-of-state)
Hybrid
Guttman College
Associate of Applied Science in
Information Technology
NY $265 per credit (in-state)
$420 per credit (out-of-state)
No
Midwestern Career College
Associate of Applied Science in
Information Technology
IL $413 per credit Hybrid
Raritan Valley Community College
Associate of Science in
Information Systems and Technology
NJ $168 per credit (in-county)
$238 per credit (out-of-county)
No
Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College
Associate of Applied Science in
Information Technology
MD $179 per credit hour (in-state)
$627 per credit hour (out-of-state)
No
Southern New Hampshire University
Associate of Science in
Information Technology
NH $320 per credit Hybrid
University of Arkansas Rich Mountain
Associate of Applied Science in Business and
Information Technology
AR $83 per credit (in-state)
$107 per credit (out-of-state)
No
University of Management and Technology
Associate of Science in
Information Technology
VA $390 per credit hour Yes
Williston State College
Associate of Applied Science in
Information Technology
ND $134 per credit No

What Is an Associate Degree in IT?

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An Associate Degree in IT is a two-year program that helps students attain the basic skills and education to start a career in IT. The associate degree program trains students on the best practices in IT.

Students take the two-year program to change or start information technology jobs. These programs can help you launch a career in computer programming, web development, or software design. You can also take the program and go on to pursue a Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology.

Why You Should Get an Associate Degree in IT

Many people wonder whether an Associate Degree in IT is worth it. If you’re interested in the field of IT, it is a worthwhile degree program that will help you launch a successful tech career. Read below for more benefits of an Associate Degree in Information Technology.

  • Plenty of career opportunities. The associate degree will open up incredible opportunities in different industries. You will be able to work as a computer programmer or a computer support specialist in a range of industries.
  • Higher pay. People with degrees generally earn more than people without them. PayScale estimates that people with an Associate of Science in IT earn $59,748 per year.
  • Great way to transition to a bachelor’s degree program. An associate degree serves as an education pathway for students seeking to join four-year university programs. In most cases, you can transfer your credits and accelerate your bachelor’s degree.

In Detail: The Best Associate Degrees in IT

Before choosing a program, consider the particular skills and knowledge you want to gain. Also look into whether your school offers online learning, financing options, and networking opportunities. Below, we give a deeper insight into the best associate degree programs if you want to learn IT.

Brookdale Community College | Associate of Applied Science in Network Information Technology

This program will get you job-ready for an entry-level role in networking. The essential networking skills and knowledge you gain will pave the way for you to attain certification. The instructors will help you learn how to design, install, configure and maintain networks using Windows, Linux, and Mac OS.

Associate of Applied Science in Network Information Technology Pros

  • Your credits will be transferable to Wilmington University for its Bachelor of Science in Computer and Network Security.
  • The program prepares students for Microsoft MCSE and CompTIA A+ and Network+ certification exams.

Associate of Applied Science in Network Information Technology Cons

  • There are mathematics and science requirements for enrollment.
  • The school has no flexible tuition payment options.

Gateway Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology

Get industry-standard skills by attending Gateway Technical College. Its associate degree program is popular for helping students progress to certification programs. You can specialize in many different IT fields like data analytics, web development, cyber security, and more.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Pros

  • You will be prepared for certifications from Microsoft, Oracle, or CompTIA.
  • There are flexible learning options and tuition payment plans.
  • The school is accredited by Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Cons

  • There are additional costs for books and accommodation if you stay on campus.

Guttman College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology

Guttman College provides students an opportunity to develop industry-relevant technological skills. The full-time and part-time programs equip students with the essential knowledge to navigate the professional field with ease. By joining the program, you will gain the expertise to apply IT knowledge and skills successfully.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Pros

  • The broad program includes database management, communication networks, programming security, and web design.
  • It teaches soft skills such as leadership, critical thinking, and teamwork.
  • It prepares students for certification from CompTIA Network+.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Cons

  • It is not available online.
  • The program does not feature any career services.

Midwestern Career College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology

If you want to learn how to design, develop and manage IT projects, this program might be what you’re looking for. As part of the diverse curriculum, you will learn information security management, organizational principles, software management, and quality assurance. This is the essential AAS in Information Technology.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Pros

  • The school is accredited by the Council of Education and approved by the Illinois Department of Higher Education.
  • The program prepares you for certification such as Professional Scrum Master, Cisco Certified Network Associate, or CompTIA A+.
  • There are career services.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Cons

  • It is not available online.

Raritan Valley Community College | Associate of Science in Information Systems and Technology

If you are looking to join a bachelor’s degree program but don’t have enough credits, you should consider this exceptional community college. You will be able to transfer your credits easily. These classes will help you learn R programming, data structures, computer programming, and the basics of computer science.

Associate of Science in Information Systems and Technology Pros

  • The program features career training.
  • There are plenty of tuition financing options.

Associate of Science in Information Systems and Technology Cons

  • It’s not available online.
  • There are charges on books and other equipment.

Southeast Kentucky Community and Technical College | Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology

Do you want to become a web designer, web administrator, or computer network specialist? You should look into this program. It will give you real-world, hands-on experience. As well as general education and technical modules, you’ll have the opportunity to specialize in one or more IT tracks.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Pros

  • The program will prepare you for any certification exam.
  • You can get free tuition if you qualify for the Work Ready scholarship program.
  • It features pre-employment transition services to help students prepare to join the workforce.

Associate of Applied Science in Information Technology Cons

  • It is not available online.

Southern New Hampshire University | Associate Degree in Information Technology

This is an excellent program to gain an insight into the IT industry. It will teach you how IT departments operate and impact end-users. By the time you have completed your classes, you will have the technical skills to land an entry-level job. The knowledge you gain will give you the tools to solve common IT problems.

Associate Degree in Information Technology Pros

  • You have the option to transition to a bachelor’s degree program.
  • The admission process is relatively easy.
  • The school is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.

Associate Degree in Information Technology Cons

  • It’s only available online.
  • It doesn’t offer career services.

University of Arkansas Rich Mountain | Associate of Applied Science in Business and Information Technology

This IT associate degree will help you acquire technical skills in computer information processing, processing, networking, and software installations. It will also give you a strong foundation in business-related IT. This means you will be prepared for any entry-level opportunity in the industry.

Associate of Applied Science in Business and Information Technology Pros

  • It prepares you for the certification exams for computer technicians.
  • You can transfer your credits to a bachelor’s degree.
  • It has options for tuition financial aid.

Associate of Applied Science in Business and Information Technology Cons

  • The school is popular for its nursing programs, not IT.
  • It is not available online.

University of Management and Technology | Associate of Science in Information Technology

This is a great program to gain entry to a bachelor’s program in IT. You will go through adequate preparation in different areas such as mathematics, statistics, and communications. By the time you complete the classes, you will be able to tackle any information technology challenge.

Associate of Science in Information Technology Pros

  • The program prepares you for a bachelor’s degree program.
  • It offers tuition aid options.

Associate of Science in Information Technology Cons

  • There are no career services.
  • The program is completely online, which means there are fewer student resources.

Williston State College | Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology

This is an exceptional program to develop a solid foundation in computer diagnostics, network administration, technology security, and server installation. You will get the training you need to get an entry-level job or progress to the next level of education. The curriculum will help you learn computer programming, web design, and automation technology.

Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology Pros

  • The program includes the fundamentals of Wide Area Networking.
  • The classes are taught by experienced instructors from the IT industry.
  • There is a huge community of alumni.

Associate in Applied Science in Information Technology Cons

  • It is not available online.
  • There are no career services.
Online vs In-Person Associate Degrees in Information Technology

Online vs In-Person Associate Degrees in Information Technology

Online and in-person associate degrees provide students with a fantastic opportunity to grow their skills and knowledge. Many schools offer both options to ensure students have access to flexible learning options to suit their needs. However, the two learning styles have different pros and cons.

Most working professionals seek an online associate degree because of the flexibility.
You can easily study in the comfort of your own home. You can usually choose when you study, so it’s possible to fit it around your commitments. Online associate degrees are also a much more affordable option. You will save on transport and accommodation costs.

However, the traditional in-person learning model is still favorable among many who are skeptical about learning through online platforms. In-person learning can make it easier to network with other students and access direct support.

It’s challenging to pick the best route to follow when pursuing an Associate Degree in IT. Below are some of the advantages of online and in-person IT courses.

Benefits of an Online Associate Degree in Information Technology

  • Relatively affordable. Your expenditure will be lower than an on-campus student.
  • More flexible. You will have the freedom to choose where to study. You can also usually choose when to study.

Benefits of an In-Person Associate Degree in Information Technology

  • Individualized learning sessions. In an in-person class, the instructor will be more attentive to each student. You will be able to ask questions in real-time.
  • Stronger peer relations. It is easier to forge relationships when you are in the same place. The in-person classes make it easier to foster long-term professional relationships.

How to Pick the Best Information Technology Associate Degree for You

With hundreds of platforms offering Associate Degrees in IT, it is key that you pick the best institution to launch your career. Below you will find a guide to help you navigate the programs and choose the best school.

Affordable Tuition

Most students opt for associate degree programs because of the low tuition cost. Before you commit to any program, ensure you check the tuition. You should also keep in mind that there may be additional costs of books and resources. It is important to note that the expensive programs don’t always provide quality education.

Accredited Institution

Always go for a regionally accredited institution over generic community colleges. Accredited programs adhere to the industry standard of education. Employers will be keen to hire graduates from recognized and approved institutions.

Career Services

The process of job searching is not easy for any student after graduation. Check if the institution offers support in finding a job. Some colleges prepare students for interviews, curate their resumes, and train them on technical skills.

How Much Can You Earn With an IT Associate Degree?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, you can earn an average salary of $91,250 with an Associate Degree in IT if you work in a related occupation. There are extensive job opportunities in this field. If you want a higher-paying IT job, consider pursuing a bachelor’s or a master’s degree program.

The Top IT Associate Degree Careers

Profession Average Salary
Information Technology Manager $88,931
Information Technology Consultant $79,589
Systems Engineer, IT $76,443
Computer Systems Analyst $70,181
Information Systems Analyst $66,134
Computer Programmer $64,800
System Administrator $62,983
Web Developer $60,149
Computer Technical Support Specialist $50,032
Computer Operator $49,175

Why You Should Study IT in 2021

You should study IT in 2021 because of its promising future. With the rapid development of IT infrastructure, the use of technology is going to become even more widespread. If you have knowledge and skills in IT, you will have an easy time landing a job in any industry. You should start your Associate Degree in IT in 2021.

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