Looking to move from tech expert to team leader? An online MBA in Information Technology can help you get there — without putting your life or job on hold. These programs are designed for busy professionals, combining flexible online learning with business and IT-focused coursework. The payoff is clear: IT pros with an MBA earn up to 46% more than those with a bachelor’s alone. If you’re ready to level up, read this guide to let OMD show you how.
- Inside Real Programs
An inside look at actual online programs, exploring their structure, curriculum, costs, admission criteria, and more…
Read more - Cost Breakdown
A clear overview of how much my degree might cost and the factors influencing total expenses…
Read more - FAQs
Insightful and guiding answers to common questions prospective students like myself have about earning this degree…
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What doors open after graduating with my master’s degree…
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Exploring Resources for MBA in IT Students and Professionals
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Spotlight: Inside Popular Online MBA in IT Degree Programs
Below, we’ll profile three accredited U.S. universities that offer online MBAs in Information Technology. Each school delivers a tech-infused MBA curriculum, a flexible online format, and student support to help you succeed from enrollment through graduation.
Southern New Hampshire University (SNHU)
SNHU’s flexible online MBA in Information Technology Management is designed for both recent graduates and working professionals. The curriculum covers MBA topics — like marketing, finance, and strategy — alongside IT-focused subjects such as information systems management and technology innovation.
Students complete 10 courses (30 credits), using scenario-based learning to apply concepts to real-world business tech challenges. SNHU also provides robust support services, including academic advising, 24/7 tutoring, and access to an online library.
The program is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs (ACBSP).
SNHU’s career services team offers resume support and job search assistance, helping many graduates earn promotions or pivot into new IT/business opportunities.
Highlighted Program: MBA in Information Technology Management
Duration: One year (with full-time study) or 18+ months (with part-time study)
Mode: Fully online, with asynchronous learning
Cost: $637 per credit
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree (in any discipline) from an accredited college or university
- Transcripts from undergraduate courses
- Resume
- Personal statement outlining goals (recommended)
Western Governors University (WGU)
Western Governors University offers a competency-based MBA in Information Technology Management designed for self-driven learners. Instead of traditional semesters, students progress by mastering material — allowing you to move at your own pace.
The curriculum includes 11 courses plus a capstone project. Topics cover managerial accounting, marketing, strategic leadership, and specialized IT management such as IT project management and emerging technologies.
Students can complete the program in as few as 12 months or take longer if needed. Each student is paired with a mentor for personalized, one-on-one guidance throughout the program.
WGU also offers cohort-based webinars and an active online student community to ensure support despite the self-paced structure.
The program holds ACBSP accreditation, and WGU is also regionally accreditation by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU).
The capstone project emphasizes real-world problem solving, requiring students to address a business challenge using both tech and business strategies.
Highlighted Program: MBA in Information Technology Management
Duration: Approximately 1-2 years
Mode: Fully online, self-paced
Cost: $4,755 per six-month term (tuition only)
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university
- Official transcripts
- Work experience in IT or business (recommended)
University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG)
UNC Greensboro’s Bryan School of Business offers an MBA with an Information Technology concentration. The program provides a mix of on-campus study with online convenience: students can complete it entirely online, attend evening classes on campus, or choose a hybrid format.
The core MBA curriculum (classes in accounting, economics, operations, etc.) is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB). It’s known for an emphasis on strategic thinking and responsible leadership. Students who opt for the IT concentration must take elective courses in cybersecurity, business analytics, and IT project management, and learn to align tech initiatives with business goals.
UNCG’s interactive courses often include live case studies and group projects with local companies. Online classes might have weekly live sessions or recorded lectures plus discussion forums. The school prides itself on personal attention; online MBA students have access to faculty mentors, career coaches, and tech support.
As a public university, UNC Greensboro offers affordable tuition, especially for North Carolina residents. The program’s strong reputation and alumni network in the Southeast can be a springboard for career growth.
Highlighted Program: MBA with Information Technology concentration
Duration: 2 years (full-time) or 3-4 years (part-time)
Mode: Online or hybrid
Cost: $533.33 per credit hour
Admissions Requirements:
- Bachelor’s degree
- Official transcripts
- Resume (one or more years of work experience is preferred)
- Personal statement
- 60-second video introduction that articulates the student’s goals
- Three letters of recommendation (academic or professional)
Ways to Pay: Funding an Online MBA in IT Degree Program
Tuition for these programs varies widely. Fixed costs include tuition per credit (or per term), fees, and possibly short residencies; variable costs include books, tech or software, and whether you study full-time or part-time (completing a degree program faster can lower the total tuition cost, in some cases). Online programs sometimes cost less than on-campus programs, but not always; factors like accreditation, program length, and public versus private school status play a role, as well.
The table below compares the tuition of three programs to illustrate a range of costs. Note that many schools charge the same online rate for in-state and out-of-state students, while others have different tiers. Financial aid, scholarships, and employer assistance can help reduce costs. Students should break down the cost per credit and the total number of credits required to compare programs.
The tuition numbers listed below reflect the universities’ published rates and might exclude fees. Always check the latest tuition rates on a school’s website.
| University/Program | Number of Credits | Cost per Credit | Total Tuition |
|---|---|---|---|
| Southern New Hampshire University | 30 | $637 | $19,110 |
| Western Governors University | N/A | $4,755 per six-month term | $19,820 (for two years) |
| University of North Carolina at Greensboro | 45 | $533.33 | $24,000 |
Student Help Center: Online MBA in IT Degree Program FAQs
Q: Is an online MBA in IT degree respected by employers?
A: Yes – as long as the program is accredited. Employers increasingly recognize that an MBA earned online covers the same curriculum and rigor as on-campus degree programs. The accreditation and reputation of a business school matters the most. Be sure to choose an accredited program (e.g., AACSB or ACBSP) so your MBA degree is valid.
Many graduates of online MBA in IT degree programs report positive career outcomes – from promotions to new job opportunities – as employers value their mix of business and tech skills.
Q: How hard is an online MBA in IT degree program, and can I balance it with work?
A: This type of program is challenging, but it’s designed for working professionals. Students should expect a steady workload of readings, case studies, and team projects each week. Time management is key – you might spend 10 to 15 hours per week on coursework. The flexible online flexibility is beneficial; students can often watch lectures or do assignments after work or on weekends.
Many programs are offered in a part-time format, so students can take fewer courses at once. Universities offer support like academic advisors and tutoring. With discipline and good planning, most students can successfully balance a job, personal responsibilities, and their studies (and find that they can apply what they learn at work immediately).
Q: Do I need a technical background to earn an MBA in IT degree?
A: Not necessarily; these programs are open to people from various backgrounds. While many students have some IT experience, it’s not a strict requirement for most schools. Core courses for an MBA degree cover business fundamentals from the ground up.
Students who lack a tech background might need to study more for IT-specific courses, but professors and resources are available to help. Some programs offer leveling courses or foundation modules in information systems basics.
A passion for technology and willingness to learn are more important than previous knowledge about coding or managing servers. An MBA in IT degree program prepares students to lead and make decisions at the intersection of technology and business.
Q: Why is accreditation important for online MBA in IT degree programs?
A: Accreditation serves as a mark of quality. It proves that a degree program was vetted by an independent agency for rigorous academic standards and relevance. For example, AACSB accreditation is held by top business schools worldwide – it assures students (and employers) that the curriculum, faculty, and outcomes meet high benchmarks.
The fact that an MBA in IT degree program is accredited is also important to students who pursue further education, as credits might transfer only from accredited institutions. In practical terms, graduating from an accredited program ensures that your MBA credential is respected and can be trusted, as it teaches you the skills that a manager needs.
Q: What can I expect from an online learning format?
A: Online MBA in IT degree programs typically use a mix of learning tools. Students use a learning management system (LMS) to access lectures (recorded videos or live webinars), readings, and discussion forums. Interaction with professors and classmates occurs via email, forum posts, video conferencing, and (sometimes) chat apps or group collaboration tools. Many courses are asynchronous, so students can work on their own schedule each week. Some programs offer synchronous sessions (e.g., a weekly live class or office hours on Zoom) so students can ask questions and engage in real time.
You’ll likely work on group projects using tools like Microsoft Teams or Google Workspace to collaborate remotely. Exams can be online timed tests or take-home projects. It’s important to note that online learning is not easier – the content and expectations usually match those of on-campus programs. But, online learning offers convenience; for example, you can take a finance quiz at your kitchen table or join a team meeting after putting the kids to bed. Successful online students report that staying organized and actively participating are keys to getting the most out of the experience.
Career Growth for MBA in IT Graduates
An MBA in IT degree program can lead to exciting career paths at the nexus of business and technology.
Graduates often pursue leadership and strategic roles that let them translate technical knowledge into business value. For example, they might lead an IT department as an IT Manager, overseeing teams and projects that deploy new systems. Or they could become a technology consultant who advises companies on digital transformation and process improvements.
Other common avenues include project management roles (ensuring that tech initiatives are completed on time and on budget), analytics or systems analysis roles (using data to inform business strategy), and C-suite positions like Chief Information Officer (CIO) – when a graduate has ample experience. The skills gained – such as strategic thinking, tech fluency, and leadership – prepare graduates for jobs that require bridging the gap between IT and business. Graduates are equipped to handle budgets and business plans as comfortably as software implementation plans.
The table below profiles careers in which an MBA in IT degree is valuable, plus salary information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
| Career | Projected Growth | Median Annual Pay | 90th Percentile Pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | 17% | $169,510 | $239,200+ |
| Management Analysts | 11% | $99,410 | $172,280+ |
| Computer Systems Analysts | 11% | $103,800 | $165,700+ |
| Information Security Analysts | 33% | $120,360 | $182,370+ |
Exploring Resources for MBA in IT Students and Professionals
Staying sharp during an MBA in IT degree program and beyond means tapping into great resources. Listed below are 10 tools, websites, and podcasts for MBA in IT students and aspiring tech leaders.
- CIO.com – This leading website for IT executives covers the latest tech trends, IT strategies, and leadership advice. Articles and blogs on the site offer insights into how companies deal with digital transformation and align technology with business goals (a must-read for future Chief Information Officers).
- Technovation (Podcast) – This weekly podcast, hosted by Peter High, features interviews with CIOs and tech leaders. Each episode provides real-world stories about innovation and IT leadership at top companies and gives inspiration and practical tips from professionals in the field.
- Project Management Institute (PMI)– PMI is a professional organization for project managers. Its website offers guides and standards like the PMBOK, articles on managing projects (including IT projects), and info on certifications (like PMP) that many IT managers pursue. Graduates can learn formal project management techniques and network with PM professionals.
- ISACA – ISACA is an international association focused on IT governance, security, and auditing. It’s known for certifications like Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) and Certified Information Security Manager (CISM). Online resources include research papers, frameworks (COBIT for IT governance), and webinars, which are valuable for graduates who are interested in learning about cybersecurity and ensuring that IT delivers business value through proper controls.
- Harvard Business Review – Technology – HBR’s Technology section features thoughts from leaders about the intersection of business and tech. Graduates can read case studies and analysis on topics like leading tech teams, the economics of new technologies, and digital strategy. It’s a perfect resource to broaden a strategic view beyond what students get from a class.
- TED Talks (Technology Topics) – TED.com offers short, engaging talks by experts and innovators. Check out playlists like “the future of tech” or talks on leadership and innovation. They’ll spark new ideas and help graduates think creatively about how to apply technology in business. (Plus, they’re fun and motivating to watch between study sessions.)
- Coursera – On this online learning platform, you can find courses on everything from data analytics and Python programming to business finance. MBA students or graduates can use Coursera to fill skill gaps – for example, they can take a Machine Learning course to communicate better with data science teams. Many courses are offered by top universities and offer flexible scheduling.
- Gartner (Free Resources) – Gartner is a top IT research and advisory firm. Though much of its content is designed for subscribers, free webinars, blog articles, and summaries on IT trends (like Cloud, AI, and cybersecurity) are offered. Graduates who follow Gartner’s blog and/or news can get a big-picture view of where tech is headed and what business executives are concerned about; these are useful topics for class discussions or strategic planning at work.
- Stack Overflow – This site offers a Q&A forum for IT professionals and developers that’s useful for graduates with an MBA. If you’re working on a tech-related project or trying to understand a technical concept, Stack Overflow is a goldmine of explanations. For instance, if you’re non-technical and want to grasp a term like “microservices” or solve a snag in an Excel macro for a project, a quick search of the site can help.
- LinkedIn Learning – Previously known as Lynda.com, this platform offers video courses on both soft skills and technical skills. Graduates can find courses on leadership, project management, Excel for business analytics, stress management, and productivity. The site provides a convenient way to continue learning new tools (like Tableau or SQL) or sharpen management techniques after you’ve finished an MBA degree program. Many universities provide free access to LinkedIn Learning for students and alumni; take advantage of it to keep your skills fresh.