2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Information Technology
Earning an affordable online master’s in information technology can lead to advanced roles in cybersecurity, data analytics, or IT project management without the cost of a traditional on-campus program. To better understand the value of these degrees, I spoke with a software project manager and a tech recruiter, both of whom shared insights on how a master’s can impact career growth and hiring potential.
Our affordability list includes highlight accredited schools with low tuition and strong outcomes:
- Best for Budget: Cumberlands ranks #1 overall and #1 for tuition at just $5,502.
- Best for Salary: WGU grads report the highest median salary just four years after graduation, $125,482.
- Best for Recommendation Rate: U of Maine earns a 94% alumni approval rating based on surveys we've collected.
We verify all tuition manually and only include fully online master's in IT programs that meet strict affordability and accreditation standards. For full criteria, see our methodology.
2025 Most Affordable Online Master's Degrees in Information Technology
| Rank | School | Location | Annual Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| University of the Cumberlands | Williamsburg (KY) | $5,502 | |
| Columbia Southern University | Orange Beach (AL) | $6,282 | |
| The University of West Florida | Pensacola (FL) | $6,375 | |
| Aspen University | Denver (CO) | $7,740 | |
| Middle Georgia State University | Macon (GA) | $7,830 | |
| Purdue Global | Indianapolis (IN) | $8,400 | |
| DeSales University | Center Valley (PA) | $8,435 | |
| Arizona State University, Online | Tempe (AZ) (and 4 others) | $9,075 | |
| University of Maine | Orono (ME) | $9,120 | |
| SUNY Polytechnic Institute | Utica (NY) | $9,322 | |
| Metropolitan State University | Saint Paul (MN) | $9,429 | |
| Western Governors University | Salt Lake City (UT) | $9,510 | |
| Campbellsville University | Campbellsville (KY) | $9,522 | |
| University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati (OH) (and 1 other) | $10,155 | |
| Regent University Online | Virginia Beach (VA) | $10,425 |
A Data-Driven Analysis of the Most Affordable Online IT Master’s Degrees: Choose the Right Program for You
In today’s tech-driven world, earning a master’s in information technology can fast-track your career, but it doesn’t have to come with a mountain of debt. That’s why we analyzed 15 of the most affordable online IT master’s degrees in the U.S., digging deep into the tuition for the list, but we also want to discuss the outcomes, student satisfaction, program design, and more.
Affordability alone isn't enough. Whether you're switching careers, climbing into management, or deepening your tech skill set, you need an online master's degree that balances cost, flexibility, and real-world results.
Let’s break down what makes these schools stand out and what the numbers actually mean for you.
Lowest Tuition: A Closer Look at the Top Three IT Master's Programs
Online IT students are often working full-time or balancing life commitments. You need affordability, but also a reliable, flexible virtual environment that keeps you engaged and supported through graduation.
The University of the Cumberlands takes the #1 spot for affordability, offering its online master’s in IT for just $5,502—a price tag lower than many bachelor’s degrees. But cost isn’t its only strength: UC ranks in the top 3% nationally for online enrollment, meaning it has a mature digital learning platform and a large, engaged community of fellow online students.
Columbia Southern University, at $6,282, is another standout for budget-conscious learners. It includes textbooks in tuition and offers a 24-credit transfer policy, which is rare at the master’s level. With a 78% recommendation rate from students we surveyed, it’s clear that many graduates found real value here.
The University of West Florida earns the #3 spot with a tuition of $6,375, but its graduate earnings are also impressive at $101,550. Plus, its retention rate tops 85%, placing it in the top 14% nationally. That means students are staying and completing their degrees. UWF also ranks in the top 7% for online enrollment, indicating a strong, scalable infrastructure.
These top three online schools show that low cost doesn’t have to mean low quality. High online enrollment means better tech platforms, smoother student support, and more chances to connect with peers. These are all crucial factors when you’re studying remotely and trying to stay on track toward a high-value IT credential.
This chart is your cost-first filter — a fast way to narrow your options before diving deeper into curriculum, outcomes, or program structure. When you know what you can afford, it becomes easier to focus on what you want. It offers a clear, side-by-side look at the top 10 cheapest online master’s degrees in information technology, showing that several reputable schools offer full online IT master’s programs for under $10,000 total, a fraction of what many traditional graduate programs cost.
The most affordable option (UC) is just $5,502 per year, totaling barely over $11K for the full degree.
Many of the schools on this list, like UC, CSU, and UWF, have large online student populations, indicating strong infrastructure and broad student support. This is essential for a positive remote learning experience. Another takeaway to consider is that the difference between the #1 and #10 schools is only around $7,600 total over two years. That suggests that most schools in the top 10 cluster around a similar price point, giving you flexibility to compare other features (like concentrations or pacing) without a huge financial gap.
Consider Graduate Earnings and Career Support
For IT professionals, pursuing a master’s degree is often a strategic move, whether it’s to boost earning potential or step into a leadership role. That’s why future salary outcomes and a school’s ability to support students through completion are key metrics to watch.
Western Governors University (WGU) stands out in both areas, with median earnings of $125,482 among IT graduates, placing it in the 65th percentile nationwide. Considering its tuition is just $9,510, the return on investment is substantial. WGU’s self-paced model also offers the chance to finish faster, potentially reducing the total cost even further.
The University of West Florida is another standout, reporting graduate earnings of $101,550 (38th percentile) alongside a retention rate over 85%, putting it in the top 14% of schools nationwide. These numbers point to not only strong financial outcomes, but also a student experience that supports persistence and success.
We believe that this reflects the market’s recognition of the IT graduate program’s quality. And for online students, especially those earning a degree outside of a household-name university, that kind of employer validation can make all the difference.
Insights From Professionals in the IT Field
Software project manager
What types of career opportunities are available to graduates with an online master’s in IT?
Earning a master's in IT today provides specialized knowledge, better career opportunities, and greater earning potential. Graduates of online master's programs can pursue roles like IT Manager, Cybersecurity Analyst, Data Scientist, Cloud Architect, or Software Project Lead.
When selecting an online master's program, consider how well it aligns with your career goals, quality of faculty, program accreditation, student support services, schedule flexibility, and specialization options. Concentrations like cybersecurity and data analytics hold significant value due to their strong demand and direct alignment with growing industry needs.
In your experience, what technical skills and soft skills are most important for students pursuing careers in IT?
Key technical skills include cybersecurity, data analytics, cloud computing, software development, and understanding AI fundamentals. Important soft skills are communication, teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability, and leadership. These combinations enable professionals to handle technical duties effectively while navigating complex business and organizational environments.
Are there certain certifications, internships, or projects that can enhance the value of a master's degree in IT?
Certifications like CISSP, AWS, PMP, and CompTIA Security+ can bolster an online master's degree's value. Internships, hands-on capstone projects, or participation in hackathons also highlight practical experience and demonstrate real-world skills to potential employers.
How can online students in IT build strong professional networks while studying remotely?
Building professional networks remotely can occur through active participation in online forums, LinkedIn groups, virtual industry conferences, alumni networks, and webinars. Staying proactive in these communities can greatly expand your connections and opportunities regardless of geographic limitations.
Tech Talent Recruiter
From your perspective, what are the biggest advantages of earning an IT master's degree today?
As a technical recruiter, when I see a master's degree in IT on someone's resume, that tells me they could be a strong contender for strategic roles related to technology. I am especially impressed when I see this paired with technical skills in areas like cloud computing, data analytics, cybersecurity, networking/systems architecture, and DevOps. Many masters programs also allow students to specialize in areas like AI, data science, or project management, which can further enhance your resume as an ideal fit for roles related [to] those areas.
I would say that the biggest advantage of earning an IT [master's] is that it can speed your transition into leadership roles. It's rarely a mandatory requirement, but it is certainly a differentiating factor, and when I'm reviewing resumes for technical leadership positions, the candidates who hold advanced degrees are often at the top of my stack.
What current trends in IT should students be aware of as they plan their education and careers?
One trend students should be aware of is that technology leadership is increasingly being seen from a strategic and cross-departmental standpoint, rather than IT being considered its own separate function. To prepare for this, it can be beneficial to strengthen your business acumen, or to gain knowledge and certifications in areas like strategic planning, business alignment, IT governance, and digital transformation.
What advice would you give to someone starting an online master’s in IT?
My top advice for professionals about to start an online masters program in IT is to be proactive in building and strengthening your network, both within and beyond your program. This starts with being active in discussions during virtual classes or on asynchronous collaboration and discussion platforms that are provided. Along with this, you should connect with classmates and professors on LinkedIn and take part in any competitions, collaborative projects, hackathons, etc. that your program sponsors or takes part in. It's also smart to join online communities on GitHub, Discord, or Stack Overflow, where you can extend this networking beyond the confines of your program.
Affordability Meets Impact in Online IT Master’s Degrees
A cheap online master’s in information technology can be a smart path to career advancement. You can lead IT teams, specialize in cybersecurity, or break into roles like data scientist or cloud architect. Our rankings focus on tuition, but the real value emerges when you consider everything else alongside the cost.
In the absence of a physical campus, online IT students rely heavily on virtual mentorship and peer networks. These experiences directly impact learning outcomes. For example, Aspen earns high marks here, with a 5:1 student-faculty ratio, the lowest on this list, and a 4.08 out of 5 average review rating from students who have been there. It also offers zero-interest payment plans, reducing financial stress. Another example is the U of Maine, which has a 94% recommendation rate, the highest among all ranked programs, reflecting strong alumni endorsement.
If you want a school with more choices, Purdue Global offers eight concentration tracks (!), from AWS Cloud to Blockchain, and accepts military and certification credit, which can cut both time and cost.
Meanwhile, the most affordable school on our list, UC, charges just $5,502 annually, but it also ranks in the top 3% for online enrollment, showing that low-cost doesn’t mean low-quality.
Experts agree: the real-world impact of a master’s in IT comes down to more than just coursework. Certifications, hands-on projects, and networking — even in virtual spaces — can significantly increase your marketability. And concentrations in fields like Cybersecurity and Data Analytics are especially valuable in today’s hiring landscape.
Recruiters increasingly see master’s holders as front-runners for leadership roles, particularly when paired with in-demand technical skills and proactive engagement in professional communities.
Ultimately, this list is more than a roundup of affordable degrees. It’s a guide to programs that combine cost-efficiency with career relevance. If you’re ready to invest in your future without breaking the bank, these online IT master’s degrees offer a high-value, high-impact way forward.
Student Reviews of Online Information Technology Programs
I acquired my BSN degree at Chamberlain University and currently pursuing MSN degree online. I have nothing but good experiences at Chamberlain. The admission representatives, academic advisers and instructors are very friendly and knowledgeable. At Chamberlain, you have all the support and resources you need to succeed.
Review Date: 2/22/2024
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I'm a DeVry graduate & Keller student. I graduated from DeVry in 1990 with a Bachelors in EET, classroom. Then again with another Bachelors in CIS 2020, Online. And, I'm attending Keller for a Master's in Information Technology Management, graduating April 2022. I have one daughter that received a Bachelors in Nursing about six years years ago, and other daughter that just received a Bachelor's in CIS. All from DeVry. We've all received great jobs right after graduation based on our degree's and... Read More
Review Date: 1/4/2022
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I just began my master's program in January of 2017 and have been very pleased with the process. The advisers and staff are excellent and made the process of applying and registration nearly painless. My fist term completes in two weeks and both the workload and expectations for a part time online class are reasonable while still challenging enough to feel worthwhile. I highly recommend this school to any professional looking to further their education while working.
Review Date: 3/12/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I was exciting to go back to school for my Masters as I'm creeping every closer to 40. I am disabled and live in California, so of course I chose the online route, but I have been severely disappointed from the beginning. I don't know why I was surprised, but just like all corporate run state colleges, this one was no exception. They must assume that everyone is a clueless freshman that has no direction in life (not saying this applies to all freshman), as, of course, they enroll you in classes that... Read More
Review Date: 3/27/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Degree program has not changed and seemed stale. The instructors were questionable on skill level and did not seem to reflect well for the program. I would expect more from a school like this. I ended up moving on to a different program at a different institution that seemed to be more modern and up to date program for information technology but has not changed at all. I would not recommend.
Review Date: 1/10/2019
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Throughout the general courses, everything was fine. Once you are in the core classes, that is when it gets sloppy. Chamberlain came out with a new handbook, but failed to announce, and they were still emailing students the old handbook, which states there are two practicum requiring 200 hours, but they new handbook states there are three practicum courses and each requires 72 hours. Due to that mixup and Chamberlain not processing everything correctly, I had to sit out a class. You have to locate... Read More
Review Date: 1/26/2020
Would Recommend: No
Helpful for Career: No
Overall, I would recommend this school to others. The things I like about Grantham University: 1) Military Friendly, My tuition assistance covered all the tuition and there were minimal fees in the beginning, circa 2018, fees were eliminated later with the exception of a graduation fee 2) My student advisor was awesome, he would answer any question or get me any info I wanted to decide what class was next or how many classes I was going to take. I never took more than two at a time, but I did that... Read More
Review Date: 8/19/2020
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Going back to school can be a scary and an exciting decision. Last month, I researched many schools and could not find one that will meet my needs. Then I found Liberty University Online and everything started to fall in place. The application process was so easy. The graduate admission counselors take the time to answer any question I had no matter how long we were on the phone and always kept me updated on things I needed to do before I start this summer. Getting accepted into an online masters... Read More
Review Date: 3/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Northwestern offers great programs. I like that the program is available online. The schedule accommodates my work hours. I am able to still travel for work without interrupting my schoolwork. I do wish they offered scholarships through the University. The financial aid process has been a setback for myself as well as other students.
Review Date: 2/7/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Boston University has a reputable Computer Information System program. It's convenient because it is delivered completely online and classes are 7 weeks long. The curriculum is solid and provides many concentration options to explore and choose from.
Review Date: 3/13/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
The classes are straightforward. It's important to read the syllabus at least once a week. The financial aid office is open 24/7. Make sure your homework is handed in on time. The courses will require a lot of reading. There are at least three semesters a year, depending on your major.
Review Date: 3/29/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Overall Kennesaw State University is a great school especially if you are looking for a online program. There are several online programs/majors available for working adults. Most of the online programs are %100 online which is a blessing if you do not have the time to sit in a classroom. The professors are very helpful and usually respond to e-mails within 24 hours.
Review Date: 8/10/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
I have previously written a positive review for my undergraduate psychology degree at this University. I have just finished my first master's IT class, IT 505, Core Technologies. The instructor (M. Gallaher) was amazing, and incredibly engaging with his students. He is employed with NASA (yes, SNHU has excellent instructors). The Core Technologies class was an introduction to information technology, and I am looking forward to taking the rest of the courses in the program to graduate with a Master's... Read More
Review Date: 6/12/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Grand Canyon University has been a great fit for me. I started in a doctorate program and midway decided to start another Master's degree instead. The staff was incredibly accommodating and helped me make the transition seamlessly. All of the instructors are fully vested in ensuring you get the most out of each class. The best part of each class is that you learn the real world application of what you're being taught, not just what you need to know to pass the class. Highly recommend GCU!
Review Date: 3/28/2017
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: Yes
Pros: very relative program for today's workforce and backed by the NSA. Cons: There are none.
Review Date: 5/23/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I'm currently an online graduate student studying Information Science and Technology at MST. I chose this program because of the close relationship with my employer, admission options, and the ability to watch live campus courses online. I have been pleased with the program as I feel as though I'm receiving the same experience as students who are studying online.
Review Date: 3/26/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pro: The graduate programs are updated and tailored to meet the needs of students and the businesses in which they will work. Con: The price of tuition is horrible.
Review Date: 5/31/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
Pro: As a new student to the program, I think that the support so far has been really good. There are opportunities to collaborate with other students and teach accessibility has been good. I also like the fact that it is self paced. Con: Miss the interactiveness of a classroom environment.
Review Date: 7/18/2013
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
I strongly support University of Maryland's online learning environment because, as a working professional, I have the convenience of attending class at my leisure. Love, Love, Love! Unfortunately, I do have concerns in regards to the financial strain of attending grad school at the University of Maryland. As for job placement after graduation, that option is only for student that live near the college. After graduating with a BS in Information Systems Management I was responsible for acquiring interships... Read More
Review Date: 7/30/2015
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No
In the last 3 years, I have asked around different online schools regarding a Masters degree in Nursing but only felt the genuine support from a GCU counselor who, with her commitment, convinced me to enroll in GCU. In the process I realized that I made the right decision because GCU emphasizes on preparing its students by providing academically challenging and values-based curriculum with its values defined by its Christian heritage. This is reflected by their College of Nursing and Health Care... Read More
Review Date: 8/26/2016
Would Recommend: Yes
Helpful for Career: No