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Information Technology

Why study information technology.

The Doctor of Philosopy (PhD) in Information Technology provides students with the necessary skills to provide applied research in evidence-based, human-centered, and secure information technology (IT) practice. The program prepares students to educate future IT professionals at the K12, undergraduate, and graduate levels. Graduates of our doctoral degree program in Information Technology are also prepared to become key leaders in organizations and enterprises to develop IT solutions for consumers or businesses.

Admission Requirements

Applicants must meet at least one of the following requirements:

• Completed a baccalaureate degree from an ABET-accredited Information Technology degree program with a GPA of 3.0 or higher. ABET is a nonprofit certified organization that accredits college and university programs in Applied and Natural Science, Engineering, and Engineering Technology.
• Completed an undergraduate degree and (a) completed a minimum of 18 graduate-level course work in Information Technology with a GPA of 3.5 or above, or (b) completed significant years of professional experience in information technology as determined by the graduate director.

Other requirements:

• While it is not a requirement, applicants may include Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores to demonstrate their potential for success in the doctoral program. This is highly recommended for applicants who have not yet completed a Master's degree. 
• For international applicants: Submission of a transcript evaluation by a  NACES member  is required in place of the unofficial transcript(s) to reflect both a converted GPA (on a 4.0 scale) as well as the US equivalence of the degree earned.
• References should be from credible sources who speak to relevant IT experience and/or work ethic; two or more reference letters should be on letterhead.
• A resume or curriculum vita (CV). Include any prior research or teaching experience and a list of publications with full citations, if applicable
• Applicants are encouraged to share a copy of a Master's thesis and/or academic publication(s) to further demonstrate aptitude for doctoral level research and writing skills. This documentation can be uploaded in the "Additional Materials" section of the application.
• English Profiency Scores (if applicable)

Graduates of this program will be prepared for the careers listed below. All opportunities may not be listed. 

For question regarding advising, please contact Nicole Cochran , Associate Director of Graduate Education.  

The following exams and minimum scores are accepted as proof of English proficiency:

• TOEFL: minimum score of 80 iBT
• IELTS: minimum score of 6.5 overall band 
• Duolingo (DET): minimum score of 110 
• PTE: minimum score of 54
• Guide: IT PhD 2019-2020 post-master's
• Guide: IT PhD 2019-2020 post-baccalaureate

Application Deadlines

Early Admission

General Admission

Prospective students are admitted once per year in the Fall semester: the application deadline is January 31. 

Contact Information

Find related programs in the following interest areas:.

• Computers & Technology

Program Code: 18DOC-IT-PHD

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The School of Information is UC Berkeley’s newest professional school. Located in the center of campus, the I School is a graduate research and education community committed to expanding access to information and to improving its usability, reliability, and credibility while preserving security and privacy.

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The School of Information offers four degrees:

The Master of Information Management and Systems (MIMS) program educates information professionals to provide leadership for an information-driven world.

The Master of Information and Data Science (MIDS) is an online degree preparing data science professionals to solve real-world problems. The 5th Year MIDS program is a streamlined path to a MIDS degree for Cal undergraduates.

The Master of Information and Cybersecurity (MICS) is an online degree preparing cybersecurity leaders for complex cybersecurity challenges.

Our Ph.D. in Information Science is a research program for next-generation scholars of the information age.

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The School of Information's courses bridge the disciplines of information and computer science, design, social sciences, management, law, and policy. We welcome interest in our graduate-level Information classes from current UC Berkeley graduate and undergraduate students and community members.  More information about signing up for classes.

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Research by faculty members and doctoral students keeps the I School on the vanguard of contemporary information needs and solutions.

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Ph.D. in Information Science

Ph.d. community.

Ph.D. students are knowledge architects and respected contributors to our information society, with a vision of expanding access to quality information, an appreciation for diverse perspectives, and the spirit of collaboration.

You Belong at Berkeley

The I School is a welcoming community of students, faculty, and staff from a wide variety of backgrounds, nations, cultures, and experiences.

The doctoral program is a research-oriented program in which the student chooses specific fields of specialization, prepares sufficiently in the literature and the research of those fields to pass a qualifying examination, and completes original research culminating in the written dissertation. The degree of Doctor of Philosophy is conferred in recognition of a candidate's grasp of a broad field of learning and distinguished accomplishment in that field through contribution of an original piece of research revealing high critical ability and powers of imagination and synthesis.

The Ideal Place for Breakthrough Thinking

School of Information offers an ideal environment for information scholars , on the campus of a preeminent, forward-thinking research institution .

Dedicated to cross-disciplinary research, breakthrough thinking, and creative collaboration, the I School actively shapes the information frontier and has a track record of scholarly ideas, solutions, and policy counsel that make information more accessible, manageable, and useful.

Rigorous academics instill the theoretical and research capabilities required to advance diverse interests — from information design, architecture, and assurance, to human-computer interaction and the social, economic, and public policy implications of information. Ph.D. students work closely with faculty recognized as information pioneers.

Interdisciplinary thinking and partnership are central to the I School approach, so doctoral research often engages exceptional UC Berkeley schools and departments beyond the I School, from journalism, business, and law to computing, engineering, humanities, and social sciences.

On average, I School students complete the Ph.D. degree in 6 years.

• Semester 1–4 : Breadth, major, & minor coursework
• Semester 4–5 : Prelim research paper & exam
• Semester 6–8 : Qualifying exam
• Semester 10–12 : Complete & present dissertation

Detailed degree requirements & timeline

Areas of Study

Major and minor areas include:

• Human-Computer Interaction
• Information Economics and Policy
• Information Law and Policy
• Information Organization and Retrieval
• Information Systems Design
• Social Aspects of Information
• Information and Communication Technologies and Development

Your Career

I School Ph.D. graduates go on to careers in academia, industry, or the public sector.

Recent Ph.D. graduates hold tenure-track faculty positions at the world’s leading universities, as well as leading research positions in industry, academia, and public-interest organizations.

More about Ph.D. career outcomes

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—Galen Panger Ph.D. 2017

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The Best Online Doctorate in Information Technology Programs

Are you ready to discover your college program?

Ph.D. in Information Technology

The Best Online Doctorate in Information Technology Programs. An online Ph.D. in information technology prepares you for leadership roles in information technology with highly competitive salaries and exceptional job prospects. It can also open up an academic career path. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the median computer and information systems manager over 86,000 new computer and information systems managers jobs will be created by 2032.

University of the Cumberlands

• Campus + Online
• In-State $9,875
• Out-of-state $9,875
• Retention Rate 69%
• Acceptance Rate 80%
• Students Enrolled 16,966
• Institution Type Private
• Percent Online Enrollment 91%
• Accreditation Yes

Best Online Programs

Doctorate in information technology, online doctorate in information technology programs ranking guidelines.

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

Featured Online Doctorate Programs

Many schools offer online doctoral programs in information technology, so try to find a program with coursework that matches your professional goals.

An online Ph.D. program in information technology begins with foundational classes in subjects like principles of programming, enterprise database design and advanced software development. As you advance, you can specialize with electives like cloud computing, technology for mobile devices and project management . Some programs even offer formal specializations in areas like healthcare information technology and computer security.

To earn a Ph.D. in information technology online, you often must complete a research-based dissertation. To prepare for this graduation requirement, you would take courses in research design and advanced academic writing. You would also work closely with a faculty advisor who helps you choose a topic, collect data and interpret the results of your study. Once you finish writing your dissertation, you must defend your work before a faculty committee.

Some online Ph.D. in information technology programs feature a doctoral capstone project instead of a dissertation. Students in these programs apply research to practical problems in information technology, but they typically do not need to create this research themselves.

What Else Can I Expect from an Online Doctorate in Information Technology Program?

You can customize your online doctorate in information technology degree. While many programs offer similar foundational courses, you can specialize in a particular area by either choosing a formal concentration or selecting electives that align with your interests.

Online Doctoral Degree in Information Technology Concentrations

Network administration and security.

Concentration Careers: senior information security analyst, director of cyber security

Data Management

Concentration Careers : data engineer, director of data management

Healthcare Information Systems

Concentration Careers : director of clinical informatics, chief information officer

Curriculum for an Online Doctoral Degree in Information Technology

• Fundamentals of Information Systems: If you pursue your online doctorate in information technology, then you explore the principles of computer hardware, software and networks. You learn how to create algorithms, express data and use basic programming languages to realize designs.
• Computer Networking and Operating Systems: In this course, you would examine topics like file systems, configurations, administration, security, multitasking, interfacing and performance analysis. You would apply your theoretical learning by creating elements of information or communication infrastructure.
• Systems Analysis and Design: This class helps prepares you to develop large-scale software systems. First, you would learn to use structured and object-oriented approaches; this would help you better understand a given system’s functional requirements.
• Principles of Programming: Programming plays an indispensable role in information technology. In this course, you would gain practical experience with languages such as C++, Python and Java. You would also practice algorithmic thinking, precise coding and logical design.
• Applied Research Methods: This course prepares you for a research-based dissertation by introducing you to the fundamental elements of collecting, analyzing and interpreting both quantitative and qualitative data. Students with prior graduate-level education may immediately move on to more advanced statistical analysis courses.

Careers with a Doctorate in Information Technology Careers

After earning your doctorate in information technology online, you are qualified for a wide variety of careers. You may choose to work in cybersecurity where you would safeguard your company’s computer networks and intellectual property. You could pursue a career in the healthcare industry where you would apply your expertise in database architecture to help treat patients and unlock cures for chronic diseases. Or, you may want to pass along your knowledge to the next generation by serving as a college or university professor.

Computer or Information System Manager Median Salary $164,070

Computer or information systems managers direct their organization’s various computer-related activities. These activities include setting strategic departmental goals, hiring and training IT staff, and working with senior leadership to ensure that their company possesses the needed technology for effective performance. Many computer and information systems managers hold a graduate degree.

Computer or Information Research Scientist Median Salary $136,620

Computer and information research scientists both invent new technologies and discover new uses for existing technologies. For example, the software and hardware that they design for robots may play a critical role in manufacturing, surgery or space exploration. Earning your doctor of information technology online can qualify you for many of these roles.

Postsecondary Computer Science Teacher Median Salary $80,840

Postsecondary teachers instruct students and conduct research at colleges, universities and other institutions of higher education. They may also serve in administrative roles, such as an academic dean or the chair of a computer science department. Most of these jobs require a relevant doctoral degree.

Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics

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Department of Technology, Operations, and Statistics | Doctoral Program in Information Systems

Doctoral program in information systems.

• Overview of the Doctoral Program in Information Systems

Program Requirements

Doctoral Courses

• Doctoral Students and their Research
• Information Systems Faculty

Overview of the IS Doctoral Program

Mission: To educate and train scholars who will produce first-rate IS research and who will succeed as faculty members in first-rate universities. We offer tracks in technical perspectives on IS, economic perspectives on IS, and organizational/management perspectives on IS. Admissions and performance: We enroll an average of three students each year out of more than 100 highly qualified applicants. Students enrolling typically have GMATS over 700 or GREs over 1400. International students typically have TOEFLs higher than 640. Our students are highly competitive within Stern and nationally. Recently our students have received school-wide awards as "outstanding doctoral students." They have won acceptance at doctoral consortia sponsored by the Academy of Management and the International Conference on Information Systems. And they have won national dissertation research competitions.

Advising and evaluation: The IS doctoral program faculty director advises all first-year doctoral students. During the first year students have many opportunities to get to know the research interests of all departmental faculty. By the beginning of the second year, students have selected a concentration advisor who will guide them through the comprehensive exam process and up to the thesis stage. By the middle of the third year students will have selected a thesis advisor. Each year every student submits a statement of intellectual progress to his/her advisor. All faculty meet to review the progress of all students in a day-long meeting each year. At this time, the student's intellectual progress is reviewed and plans for the following year are considered. The results of this review include a formal letter to the student assessing the previous year's work and offering guidance for the following year's work. All students take a comprehensive written and oral exam at the end of the second year. Students defend their thesis proposal by March of their fourth year and defend their completed dissertation at the end of the fourth year or during the fifth year.

Research and interaction with faculty: The heart of the IS doctoral program is immersion in a community of researchers. Every student has a formal research apprenticeship with one or more faculty members each year. Every student participates in formal and informal research seminars each week with departmental faculty and visitors. Every student presents research in progress and works toward producing publishable papers, usually with a faculty co-author. Students learn to be researchers by doing research. They learn to be research colleagues by working with others and critiquing their research.

Placement record: In the past ten years, our graduates have accepted faculty positions at such schools as University of California at Berkeley, Hong Kong University of Science & Technology, University of Maryland, University of Minnesota, University of Texas at Austin, the University of British Columbia, National University of Singapore, The Wharton School and the University of Cambridge, UK.   Please click on the links on the right to learn how to apply, to attend an information session, and to contact the Stern School Doctoral Office. 

Natalia Levina Coordinator, Information Systems Doctoral Program IOMS Department

Back-to-Top

All students take a common core of courses during their first year which provides an overview of the major research areas in IS and the fundamental knowledge necessary for specialized course work in the second year. In the second year students take specialized course work in one of three concentrations: technical perspectives, economic perspectives, behavioral/managerial perspectives.  

Mandatory Breadth Courses (3)

• Behavioral Research Methods
• Micro-economics
• Technical Foundations
• Each student is required to take 1 Probability and 1 Statistics course, from a list of approved courses.
• Technical Research in IS
• Economics Research in IS
• Behavioral/Managerial Research in IS
• Research Apprenticeship

YEAR TWO - Each student chooses one concentration track

Technical Track:

• A programming requirement, may be satisfied in a variety of ways
• Honors Analysis of Algorithms
• Artificial Intelligence
• Optimization
• Database Systems
• Machine Learning/Data Mining
• Other courses based on student's interest
• Research apprenticeship

Economics Track:

• Mathematical Methods for Economists
• Econometrics
• Game Theory
• Students will take elective courses in the Stern Economics Department, at the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, in Operations Management, Statistics, or at Courant as specified in consultation with the advisor

Behavioral/Managerial Track:

• Any two of the following four Stern Management Department Courses
• Organizational Behavior
• Managerial Cognition
• Organizational Theory
• At least one research methods or statistics course beyond the first year courses.
• Students may take doctoral level courses in Psychology, Sociology, Political Science, Public Policy, History, Education, or Law.
• Electives in the area of interest
• Thesis research
• Teaching apprenticeship (in year 3 or 4)
• Teaching one course (in year 3 or 4)
• INFO-GB.3345 (B20.3345)  Doctoral Seminar in Digital Economics  (offered in Spr 2012) This course introduces students to scientific paradigms and research perspectives related to the economics of information technologies. Topics in 2012 include information goods, piracy, digital rights management, network economics, sponsored search auctions, user-generated content, contagion in networks, technological innovation, IT productivity, the digital commons and online privacy.  
• INFO-GB.3382 (B20.3382)  Research Seminar on IT and Organizations: Social Perspectives (offered in Spr 2012) The course introduces students to sociological and organizational literature on the role of Information Technology in organizations and society.  
• INFO-GB.3383 (B20.3383)  Networks, Crowds & Markets   
• INFO-GB.3386 (B20.3386)  Technical Foundations of IS  
• INFO-GB.3355 (B20.3355)  Behavioral Research Methods  
• INFO-GB.3391 (B20.3391)  Research Seminar in Data Science   (offered in Spr 2012) In this course we will take a deep dive into selected topics in data science. The focus will be two-fold. First, we will read textbook segments, classic papers, and new research, with the goal of understanding research in data science. Second, we will study the actual practical application of data science methods to extract knowledge from large-scale data. We will cover topics such as machine learning, data mining, information retrieval, text classification, sentiment analysis, similarity analysis, network analysis, graphical models, Bayesian models, topic models, model evaluation, crowd-sourcing and micro-outsourcing, massive-scale data processing, reducing data for analytic purposes, and more. The selection of which topics are covered in a particular semester will be based on: (i) the current research and business environments, (ii) the research interests of the IS faculty, and (iii) the interests of the students in that semester. We also will discuss applications that are of current interest, such as recommender systems, social-network marketing, online advertising, Mechanical Turking, and more.

Questions about the PhD Program in Information Systems?

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Online Ph.D. in Information Technology

Applying IT research to real-world situations and expanding the IT field’s existing body of knowledge.

Programs & Requirements

Mission & goals.

• Career Outcomes
• Request Info

As technology advances at a rapid pace, you need to stay ahead of the curve.

As an experienced IT professional, you have a wealth of knowledge and skills under your belt. But the field of IT never stands still; as it evolves, you need to evolve with it. A PhD in information technology could be what you need to ensure that you stay ahead.

More than a pathway to earning the highest credential in your field, a doctorate program offers the chance to take a deep dive into the IT industry’s challenges and opportunities. That could mean gaining deep knowledge of how machine learning solves business problems, using analytics to plan for growing IT needs, responding to evolving cyber security threats, and much more. Pursuing your PhD in information technology offers the license to follow your scholarly interests and make discoveries that could potentially change the industry — and the world.

By the Numbers

Online doctorate in information technology.

The PhD in information technology online degree program from University of the Cumberlands is designed to help you take your IT career to new heights. The program is comprised of 60 required credit hours, which include professional research courses, content specialty courses, and a dissertation.

Our fully online curriculum focuses on predictive analytics, enhancing your credentials and giving you the tools you need to be your company’s IT expert in cybercrime security, big data, and smart technology. You’ll explore information governance, technology for a global economy, enterprise risk management, data science, big data, and more. You’ll also gain a comprehensive understanding of emerging threats to IT infrastructure and systems, plus identify countermeasures to keep cyberattacks at bay. 

Course Requirements

• ITS 831 - Information Technology Importance in Strategic Planning  
• ITS 832 - Information Technology in a Global Economy  
• ITS 833 - Information Governance  
• ITS 834 - Emerging Threats and Countermeasures  
• ITS 835 - Enterprise Risk Management  
• ITS 836 - Data Science and Big Data Analytics  
• DSRT 734 - Inferential Statistics in Decision-making  
• DSRT 736 - Dissertation Seminar  
• DSRT 837 - Professional Writing and Proposal Development  
• DSRT 839 - Advanced Research Methods  
• DSRT 850 - Qualitative Research Methods  
• DSRT 930 - Dissertation  
• DSRT 931 - Dissertation *
• DSRT 834 - Advanced Statistical Applications  

* If the dissertation is not completed at the end of DSRT 931 , the candidate repeats DSRT 931  as needed, for three (3) credit hours each term, until the dissertation is completed and successfully defended.

A content specialty area of at least eighteen hours (18) must be earned in one of several disciplines:

• Artificial Intelligence
• Cyber Engineering
• Data Science
• Digital Forensics
• Information Systems Security
• Information Technology

Courses in the following UC Master's programs will matriculate as the Doctoral specialty if the courses are completed beyond the first Master’s degree:

• MS Digital Forensics
• MS Information Technology
• MS Information Systems Security
• MS Cyber Engineering
• MS Blockchain

In the event a learner needs more classes, other related discipline courses could be considered with the discretion of the Department Chair and Program Director under the direction of the Dean of the School.

For a full list of course offerings or more program specific information, visit our Academic Catalog . 

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The mission of the online IT PhD program at Cumberlands is to teach practitioners the theories, strategies, and tactics necessary to lead in today’s global technology management field. Through this program, you will strengthen your skills in:

Information Technology Careers & Outcomes

*All statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics

Computer and Information Research Scientist: $136,620

Computer and information research scientists design innovative uses for new and existing computing technology.

Computer Network Architect: $126,900

Computer network architects design and build data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and Intranets.

Data Scientist: $103,500

Data scientists use analytical tools and techniques to extract meaningful insights from data.

Information Security Analyst: $112,000

Information security analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems.

Database Administrator/Architect: $112,120

Database administrators and architects create or organize systems to store and secure data.

Computer and Information Systems Manager: $164,070

Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization.

Common Questions

PhD and DIT programs have more similarities than differences. Either a PhD or a DIT could prepare you to conduct research, teach, or help businesses achieve their IT goals. Which program is right for you? At University of the Cumberlands, you don’t have to make that choice. Our PhD in Information Technology program blends the best of both a DIT and PhD. Our practitioner-aimed PhD program blends research with reality-based problem-solving.  

When you earn your PhD at University of the Cumberlands, you could prepare to advance your career, pursue IT leadership roles, or teach the next generation of IT professionals in an academic setting. Whether you’re interested in diving into big data, optimizing business networks, enhancing security with blockchain technology, or something else entirely, earning your PhD could propel you to the next level.

In 2021, doctorate degree-holders earned about $18,205 more in annual median wages than those with a master’s degree. They also earned about $30,680 more than those with a bachelor’s degree. In short, earning your PhD could pay off.

You don't have to leave your current job to earn your doctorate! The PhD in Information Technology degree program at University of the Cumberlands can be completed online and on your own schedule. So, you can advance your career goals in a convenient format that fits your life.

Some areas of research or work you could go into include:

• Programming 
• Machine learning
• Cloud computing
• Network technology
• Information security

All programs at University of the Cumberlands are offered at some of the lowest rates in the nation. For more information on how affordable this program would be for you, visit our Financial Aid page.

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• Information Technology
• Doctor of Information Technology

DIT Doctor of Information Technology

An online Doctor of Information Technology (DIT) from Capella University can help you gain advanced IT competencies and real-world knowledge that is relevant in today’s fast-changing technology settings.

The industry-inspired curriculum can help you build skills in areas like information assurance, cybersecurity and project management. This program can help prepare you to pursue leadership roles in IT.

Integrated capstone

You’ll develop a capstone project with the guidance of faculty, building real-world knowledge and expertise you can apply in today’s diverse and ever-changing technology settings.

Broaden your IT perspective

Grow your skills in project management and solidify your understanding of information assurance and cybersecurity.

Industry-inspired curriculum

The Doctor of Information Technology curriculum is based on input and advice from industry leaders and in consultation with the Capella School of Business, Technology, and Health Care Administration Advisory Board .

Apply today with no application fee.

At a glance

• 2 Virtual residencies

With Capella Tuition Cap, you won't pay more than $45,000* in tuition costs for your degree.

*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details.

Courses and skills

Explore information technology courses.

• This program requires a total of 82 quarter credits
• You’ll need to complete eight core courses, four specialization courses, two virtual residencies and one capstone

View all courses

What you'll learn

The Doctor of Information Technology (DIT) degree program is designed for experienced professionals seeking to advance in their careers as senior technology managers, consultants, researchers or teachers. Throughout the program, learners integrate information technology and research with practice, and develop expertise in IT, cybersecurity, and managing IT projects. Successful completion of this degree program prepares learners to apply the knowledge in the research literature related to their selected capstone topic to make better decisions involving information technology.

This program was designed to help you gain the following skills related to this field:

• Perform scholarly research to assist in identifying and analyzing problems and potential solutions
• Develop strategic technical solutions for complex business problems through scholarly research
• Apply critical thinking processes in analyzing information technology problems and solutions
• Develop governance, operational management and risk management processes to support technology improvements in the cybersecurity, reliability, efficiency and effectiveness of IT systems
• Analyze project management processes for managing IT projects
• Develop consulting and teaching skills in information technology
• Subscribe to a code of ethics in leadership roles within organizations using information technology
• Exhibit proficiency in communication, research, writing and critical thinking skills applicable to IT professionals

Review the Capella career exploration guide to learn more about this program and career paths to explore.

Tuition and learning format

How much does the doctor of information technology cost.

The total cost of your degree will depend on academic performance, transfer credits, scholarships and other factors. See GuidedPath cost information below.

A structured learning format with an active peer community and faculty guidance. We’ll set the schedule, you meet the deadlines.

• Based on the quarter system; 1–2 courses per 10-week quarter
• 1 semester credit = 1.5 quarter credits
• Weekly assignments and courseroom discussions
• Pay for what you take, price varies by courseload or term

Learn more about GuidedPath »

$765  per credit, $4,850 quarterly tuition max,  70 coursework credits, 12 max transfer credits

Tuition breakdown

Guidedpath pricing, program phases.

$765 Per quarter credit

70 coursework credits

Per quarter credit

$3,060 Per quarter

Per quarter

Resource kit fee

$175 Per quarter

Coursework phase only; includes eBooks, textbooks, interactive media, software, course packs, articles, test kits, and other instructional materials

Application fee

$0 no application fee

no application fee

Total Tuition Cap

Capella Tuition Cap

$45,000 Total tuition

• Pay no more than $45,000 in total tuition for your degree*
• Available to all students who start now through Jan. 6, 2025

*Eligibility rules apply. Books, course materials, supplies, equipment and other fees apply. Travel expenses for residency, practicum, etc., are not covered by the tuition cap.

Details and full eligibility requirements »

Total tuition

Tuition and program length are unique to you

Your total tuition and program length depend on a variety of factors:

• The program specialization you choose
• Scholarships and finances
• Prior coursework

Transfer credits

• Employer and/or military benefits
• Number of quarters spent working on dissertation
• Complexity of your dissertation
• Academic performance
• School/work/life balance
• Unexpected life events

About cost scenarios

The cost scenarios below are examples based on general program pricing and 2024–25 Capella tuition rates and assume the average number of transfer credits a student brings into the program. Pacing and pricing information is current as of Jan. 1, 2024. These rates are the same nationwide and may change depending on factors affecting program length and price. You are responsible for paying your own travel costs related to residencies, including plane, hotel, and food expenses.

To discuss whether the specialization you’re interested in has additional factors that may affect program cost and length, contact a Capella enrollment counselor.

Cost scenarios

*Eligibility rules and exclusions apply. Connect with us for details. Capella Tuition Cap is available to students who start now through Jan. 6, 2025.

Get the details

Connect with an enrollment counselor to further discuss the cost of the program and explore your eligibility for scholarships and discounts.

Scholarships and savings

Are there scholarships available for doctoral degrees.

Your education is an investment in your future that’s within your reach. There are  more ways to save  than you might think.

10% military discount 

Capella offers a tuition discount to active-duty service members, guard and reserve members, veterans, their spouses* and dependents. *Starting in July, spouses of veterans can now benefit from a 10% discount on eligible certificates, master’s and doctoral programs and a 15% discount on eligible bachelor’s programs.

Get the credits you deserve. You may be able to save time and money on your Capella degree by transferring credits from an accredited university.  Get started

Employer and association discounts

More than 900 organizations—including corporations and health care organizations—invest in their employees by partnering with Capella University to offer access to discounted education programs.

Accredited and recognized

Capella is accredited by the higher learning commission..

Accreditation and recognitions provide assurance that we meet standards for quality of faculty, curriculum, learner services, and fiscal stability. See all our  accreditations  and  recognitions .

How to apply

What are the dit admission requirements.

Applicants must provide the following information for  admission  to Capella programs and specializations:

• A master’s degree from an institution accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, or from an internationally recognized institution
•  Your official master’s transcripts, with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or higher on a 4.0 scale
• A valid, government-issued form of photo identification

GRE and GMAT are not required for admission.

International Student Requirements

If you completed your most recent academic coursework, degree, or credential at an institution outside the United States, regardless of your citizenship or where you currently live, you are considered an international applicant.

In addition to the above admission requirements, you will need to submit these materials:

• Minimum score on acceptable test for proof of English proficiency
• Transcript evaluation

Learn more about  international student admissions .

Faculty and support

What support does capella offer online students.

Our programs are designed to meet the unique needs of doctoral students. We’ve structured the experience in manageable pieces that build on one another to help you earn your doctorate. You’ll have support from faculty, staff, and online resources along the way.

Doctoral faculty

Work with faculty members who have years of experience and specialize in their areas of expertise throughout each phase of your program, including literature review and implementation planning.

Enrollment counselors

These specialists can provide details about your chosen doctoral program. They help you understand the differences among specializations, and help you identify which is the best fit for you. They can also help you with the admissions process.

Academic coaches

Through quarterly appointments and as-needed coaching sessions, these specialists introduce you to Capella and help you tailor your program to your personal goals and experiences.

Articles and resources

Expand your perspective on academic and career topics with articles and resources from Capella University.

IT program guide

We can help you understand education financing, review your options and explore ways to save on your degree.

Can I Transfer Credits into a Doctoral Program?

Transferring credits to an online doctoral program could potentially help you save time and money–tips from Capella University.

What’s It Like to Be a Doctoral Student?

What does it take to earn a doctoral degree? Learn more about the experience and explore each step of the journey.

Career exploration

What can you do with a dit degree.

In addition to exploring the field, take some time to research specific jobs and employment settings related to this program. Consider how these jobs and settings fit with your experience, skills, interests and values. This is a sample list of job titles and employment settings related to this field. To learn more, review job postings and talk with people who have these roles or work in these settings. You can find these professionals through LinkedIn, family, friends, schools, employers and community groups. Spend time researching your industry and prospective employers to decide whether this type of degree will help advance your career.

Related job titles to explore*

• Chief technology officer
• Director of information technology
• Director of innovation and technology
• Director of software development
• Director of software engineering
• Director of technology
• Research scientist
• Technical director

Employment settings to explore*

• Administrative management and general management consulting services
• Colleges, universities and professional schools
• Computer systems design services
• Computing infrastructure providers, data processing, web hosting and related services
• Custom computer programming services
• National security
• Other general government support
• Other scientific and technical consulting services

*These are examples intended to serve as a general guide. Some positions may prefer or even require previous experience, licensure, certifications and/or other designations along with a degree. Because many factors determine what position an individual may attain, Capella cannot guarantee that a graduate will secure any specific job title, a promotion, salary increase or other career outcome. We encourage you to research requirements for your job target and career goals.

**Educational and professional requirements for faculty positions vary widely by employer. Understanding your target employers’ particular requirements is key in deciding on a doctoral program.

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Find IT And Tech Programs That Work For You

• Learn about top skills to help you succeed
• Discover the best online IT and tech programs
• Explore different career paths in IT and tech

Top Information Technology Careers: Salaries, Degrees And Job Growth

Editorial Note: We earn a commission from partner links on Forbes Advisor. Commissions do not affect our editors’ opinions or evaluations.

Information technology (IT) careers are growing quickly and offer above-average salaries. IT professionals play an integral role in their organization’s digital infrastructure. They handle data storage and ensure their organizations’ technology works efficiently.

Whether you’re interested in cybersecurity, software development and testing or another IT career path, keep reading to learn about information technology careers.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Types of Information Technology Degrees

A degree in information technology is often the first step to landing a career in the field. Online bootcamps and certificate programs offer an alternative to traditional degrees. Many institutions offer IT programs, conferring degrees from the associate to doctoral level. IT students can study online in self-paced degree programs or in person at college campuses.

Information Technology Bootcamps

Many online bootcamps and platforms offer courses in information technology subjects. Offerings and costs vary among programs, which may be free or charge learners thousands of dollars in tuition.

Many bootcamps are online and self-paced. However, these programs are rarely accredited, so it’s important to do your research to make sure you’re investing in a reputable bootcamp.

Check out our articles on two online IT bootcamp providers, Galvanize and Udacity , to learn about their offerings and pricing.

Associate in Information Technology

Colleges and universities offer associate degrees in information technology, some of which are available completely online. Most associate degrees require 60 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete.

While each program is different, students in information technology associate programs often learn about cybersecurity, the fundamentals of programming, network connectivity and front-end user interface within the context of business.

Bachelor’s in Information Technology

Many careers in information technology require candidates to hold at least a bachelor’s degree. This degree prepares aspiring IT professionals through challenging coursework in subjects like IT project management and enterprise data management. Some bachelor’s programs even require capstone projects to showcase learners’ knowledge and skills.

Master’s in Information Technology

A master’s degree in information technology is not required for many jobs in the IT field. Even so, earning one may lead to higher earning potential and make you a more marketable job applicant. Information technology graduate programs challenge and grow your skills through courses like advanced cyberattack, cloud infrastructure and database management.

Careers Paths in Information Technology

After gaining critical IT knowledge and skills, whether through a degree or an online bootcamp, finding a career path that suits your interests is the next step. Career paths in information technology include network administrator, information security analyst and security engineer.

Many careers in information technology are expected to see strong growth in the coming years, with some jobs projected to grow as much as 32% from 2022 to 2032, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

We sourced the below salary data from the BLS and Payscale .

Web Developer

Median Annual Salary: $78,580 Job Growth: +17% Education Needed: High school diploma; bachelor’s degree in computer science, programming, web design, digital design or graphic arts often preferred Career Overview: Web developers create and maintain websites that meet their clients’ needs. These professionals manage the technical aspects of websites, which include performance and capacity. They also help design websites’ look and function. Depending on the role, a web developer may be responsible for the entire site as a full-stack developer, the site’s outward appearance as a front-end developer, or the site’s inward construction as a back-end developer.

Data Analyst

Average Annual Salary: Over $66,000 Education Needed: Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, statistics, mathematics or a related field Career Overview: Data analysts gather, organize, analyze and transform raw data into meaningful information. Data analysts often turn data into visually comprehensible reports or presentations for organizations. Data analysts typically hold junior roles and work within teams. This position can allow professionals to gain experience in the field before moving into more senior roles.

Network Administrator

Median Annual Salary: $90,520 Job Growth: +2% Education Needed: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or information technology Career Overview: Network administrators are responsible for the day-to-day operations of their organizations’ data communication networks. These professionals organize, install and support computer systems and data communications networks such as local area networks, wide area networks and intranets. Network administrators make sure their organizations’ servers and mobile equipment are updated and working efficiently.

Computer Systems Analyst

Median Annual Salary: $102,240 Job Growth: +10% Education Needed: Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, mathematics or a related field Career Overview: Computer systems analysts study organizations’ computer systems to make necessary improvements. Their duties include researching technologies that may increase efficiency, running cost-benefit analyses of potential upgrades and overseeing the installation and testing of new systems. Analysts may also use data modeling to design systems or focus on the coding and debugging of applications.

Information Security Engineer

Median Annual Salary: $112,000 Job Growth: +32% Education Needed: Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field such as mathematics or engineering Career Overview: Information security engineers protect their organizations’ network and computer systems. Their responsibilities include planning, testing, implementing and evaluating security measures. These engineers manage firewalls and data encryption programs to protect data, check for vulnerabilities in the current system and support the development of a disaster recovery plan. They also prepare reports about cybersecurity metrics, attempted attacks and breaches that are shared with management or senior staff.

Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts and Testers

Median Annual Salary: $124,200 Job Growth: +25% Education Needed: Bachelor’s degree in information technology, computer science, or a related field like mathematics or engineering Career Overview: Software developers, quality assurance analysts and testers are all involved in creating and revising effective software programs. Software developers create computer applications that do specific tasks, run devices and control networks. Analysts and testers implement software testing, documenting defects and problems with software and share feedback on usability and functionality to developers and stakeholders.

Frequently Asked Questions About Information Technology

The highest-paying IT jobs include computer and information systems managers and research scientists. Computer and information systems managers earn a median salary of $164,070, and computer and information research scientists earn $136,620.

Yes, many IT jobs are in demand and growing at above-average rates. Some roles—including software developer, web developer and information security engineer—are expected to grow at rates of up to 32% from 2022 to 2032.

Qualifications vary among schools and programs. For example, completing a bootcamp through Udacity or Galvanize may require foundational IT knowledge, while many associate degree programs in information technology are open to beginners.

– Brandon Galarita (contributor) and Veronica Beagle (Managing Editor)

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Masters or PhD?

I already have master of computer science alongside my A+,N+ and Security+. I have always desired to get a 2nd master in computer engineering or a PhD in computer engineering.  Which one would be best career wise? 

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Subscriber Only Event

The best of new scientist 2024.

New Scientist presents ...

Best of New Scientist 2024 

6pm UK Time | Tuesday 10th December 2024

Join us for a review of the biggest scientific stories of the year, as told by the team at New Scientist. Plus, put your questions to our expert panel of journalists about their favourite articles of 2024 and what they predict will be the big science stories of 2025 and beyond.

Hosted by Timothy Revell.

Timothy Revell is New Scientist's Executive editor. He has previously been Deputy US Editor, jointly responsible for launching our New York bureau, Comment and Culture Editor, responsible for the Views and Backpages sections of the publication both in print and online, and before that Technology News Editor. He has also run New Scientist's diversity internship scheme.

He is author of the popular mathematics book The Secret Lives of Numbers with Tomoko L. Kitagawa about how the history of mathematics is far more diverse, varied and interesting than often told. It is published by Penguin in the UK and HarperCollins in the US.

Timothy has a master's in mathematics from the University of Bath and a PhD in computer science from the University of Strathclyde.

What's included in your ticket:

• Live panel discussion lasting 60 minutes 
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This online event will start at 18.00 UK time on 10 December 2024 and will last for approximately one hour. Access to a recording of the event will be exclusively available to registrants for the 12 months following the live event. The on-demand recording will be available to view within 24 hours of the live discussion. Ring Central will email you a confirmation immediately after registering. You will also receive a separate email from Ring Central, with a link to access the event auditorium prior to the event; please note that each link is unique and should not be shared. Tickets are non-transferable to any other New Scientist event. All tickets are non-refundable. New Scientist reserves the right to alter the event and its line-up, or cancel the event. In the unlikely event of cancellation, all tickets will be fully refunded. New Scientist Ltd will not be liable for any additional expenses incurred by ticket holders in relation to the event. Tickets are subject to availability and are only available in advance through Ring Central. To secure your place we recommend you book in advance.