Information Technology is a field that is instrumental in helping various industries streamline their communication process and maximize productivity. Often concerned
with the storage, retrieval, and delivery of information, information technology encompasses different aspects: software, hardware, and applications, among many others.
Regardless of your industry, it is impossible to operate smoothly and efficiently without information technology. That is why IT professionals’ roles cannot be taken for granted, whether they below in programming, engineering, networking, web development, database administration, or e-commerce. They are responsible for creating, operating, maintenance, and programming computers that allow organizations to work with competence.
Some IT professionals have specialized tasks, while others could take care of the general side of things. Nevertheless, their profession can be difficult and needs substantial skills and knowledge. While a college education could give one ample opportunity in the IT field, a degree isn’t the only way to land the job of your dreams as an IT professional. It is also possible for one to build experience and skills through earning an IT certificate.
IT certificate programs are ideal for those who wish to jump to work right after their secondary education. Unlike traditional degrees, certificates require less time to complete. What more, they can also choose among many online certificate programs on information technology. This is a convenient and flexible method in completing a certificate, allowing one to juggle their responsibilities with their academic goals. Earning an online IT certificate can open a wealth of opportunities for those who want to explore and navigate the field of information technology.
It is also important to note that an online IT certificate is not confined to postsecondary graduates. Undergraduates and working professionals can also benefit a lot from an IT certificate. It is a great way for them to update and improve their skills, ensuring that they are updated with the latest trends, tools, and technology. This will also give them a competitive edge in the workplace. Even those who want to explore a different career path can consider earning a certificate in information technology.
Some of the most common positions that an IT professional can take up include networking, technical support, computer support specialist website designing, database creation, programming, and software development. These professions are in-demand, with BLS putting the projected growth for computer and information technology occupations at 11% for the period between 2019 to 2029.
The IT industry is huge–and it’s getting even bigger as more and more businesses consider information technology crucial to their operations! Be part of this massively growing industry by obtaining the best skills for the numerous professions associated with it! At OnlineSchoolsCenter.com, we are all about helping you do just that. This list highlights the 10 Best Online IT Certificate Programs that enable you to get the education and training required for IT-related work without necessarily earning the conventional college degree. These online IT certificate programs all share these excellent features:
- 100% Online or hybrid classes that enable IT students to work their education around their personal schedules,
- Top-rated coursework and up-to-date and industry-relevant training designed to prepare students for IT jobs,
- May feature credit transfers and quick or fast-track IT online certificate completion options, as applicable,
- Fully accredited by academic agencies, and acknowledged by several IT organizations,
- Consistently ranks in program quality, particularly in listings that feature education or training for the IT industry.
Need more information on our selection process? Please visit our Methodology page.
Navigate our 10 Best Online IT Certificate Programs with ease by using these quick links:
- University of Massachusetts Boston
- Boston University
- Purdue University
- University of California Irvine
- Brighton College
- University of West Florida
- Regis University
- Champlain College
- Charter Oak State College
University of Massachusetts Boston
Tuition Fee: Varies Per Credit Unit
Working professionals and undergraduate students who want to broaden their knowledge and skills in information technology can consider earning a certificate from the University of Massachusetts – Boston. The Certificate in Information Technology program is designed for those whose professional interests and fields of expertise in the IT field.
The program introduces the information systems discipline, covering the fundamental concepts and operation systems. There is a great focus on the tools, methods, and techniques used around information systems related to the development and use of computer-based applications.
The program is applicable for non-degree seeking students and non-College of Management students. Since it is available in an online format, working professionals will earn this certificate without compromising their careers.
Types of Aid: Assistantships, Loans, Grants, Federal Work-Study
Admission Requirements:
- High school diploma, most recent transcript, or GED equivalent
- Accomplished online application form
Accreditations:
New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Find more information on the University Name online IT certificate program.
Boston University
Tuition Fee: $28,427 Per Semester
Boston University offers several graduate certificate programs in Information Technology. One of them is the Certificate in Information Technology graduate program, which provides comprehensive knowledge of information technology’s various aspects. Students are expected to learn new skills regarding the different aspects of software design and implementation. Other skills they cover include hardware and software programming, cutting-edge tools and technology in system analysis, and database systems, to mention a few.
Their graduates must be able to gain advanced knowledge of the functions and operations of the IT organization. They must be able to apply what they learned in software design and implementation. They are also prepared to create information systems architecture tailored to the needs and goals of certain organizations.
The program comprises four courses with a total credit of 16, all of which are shared by the Master of Science in Computer Information Systems. It includes Business Data Communication and Networks, Database Design and Implementation for Business, Information Systems Analysis and Design, and IT Strategy and Management. Since the program is designed for online use, students will enjoy a more flexible learning experience, along with the support of a helpful online network. The certificate program courses are of high quality, considering how they are developed and taught by PhD-level faculty and experienced professionals in the industry.
It is good to note that the credits earned from this program can be transferred to MS in Computer Information Systems offered by the university.
Types of Aid: Scholarships, Graduate Loans, Payment Plans, Student Loans
Admission Requirements:
- Completed application for graduate admission along with an application fee
- Bachelor’s degree in any field of study from a regionally accredited university
- All college transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Personal statement
- Three letters of recommendations
Accreditations:
- New England Commission of Higher Education
Find more information on Boston University’s online IT certificate program.
Purdue University
Tuition Fee: $750 Per Credit Hour for Indiana residents and $775 for out-of-state residents
Designed for working professionals, Purdue University’s graduate certificate in information technology business analysis program imparts to students the integral knowledge and skills that will allow them to manage IT-related projects. They will be able to identify, analyze, and design processes that enhance the flow of information in organizations.
Some of the aspects they will cover in this program include understanding the areas of structure, policies, and operations of an organization, working as a liaison between the organization leadership and the IY department, and identifying and implementing IT requirements. It is fully available online, allowing students to learn at their own pace wherever they are in the world. This means they can enjoy a more flexible schedule that lets them choose their class timetable and work around their lifestyle. The program can be completed in as early as 12 months up to 3 years. It is designed in an 8-week format for flexibility.
Some of the professionals who can greatly benefit from this graduate certificate include business analysts, business consultants, solution designers, project managers, and many more.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Veterans’ Benefits, Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Bachelor’s in computer science, information technology, computer engineering, information systems, informatics, or closely related fields
- Undergraduate point average of 3.00 or better
- Minimum of two years of industry experience in an IT-related position
- Complete online application
- Official transcripts from all institutions
- Resume
Accreditations:
Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools (HLC-NCA)
Find more information on the Purdue University online IT certificate program.
University of California Irvine
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Tuition Fee: $ $5,559 average cost
The University of California Irvine offers a certificate on database management that is available online. The program teaches students to utilize the correct tools and techniques to capture and organize a wide variety of data from different sources. Working professionals such as data architects, database administrators, data analysts, and information technology staff members can greatly benefit from this certificate, allowing them to upgrade and broaden their knowledge and skills, especially when it comes to something as important as “Big Data.”
The program covers both the structured and unstructured data and how to manage them effectively. Students are expected to obtain general data analysis and management skills and apply different database management systems like Oracle and Microsoft SQL Server. Some courses included in this program include Data Integration, Modeling and ETL, R Programming, Introduction to SQL Programming, and Cloud Architecting, among many others.
This certificate can be completed between 9 to 15 months.
Types of Aid: Private Loans, Loan Deferment, Scholarships, Grants
Admission Requirements:
- Declaration of candidacy with $125 non-refundable fee
Accreditations:
- Western Association of Schools and Colleges
Find information on the University of California Irvine’s online IT certificate program.
Brighton College
Tuition Fee: $7,325
Brighton University recognizes the importance of keeping online data safe and protected. This advocacy led them to launch the Brighton College Cybersecurity Institute (BCCI). This institute puts cybersecurity at the center of learning. One of its offerings is the CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association) Certificate.
This program is designed for those who want to start their career in information technology. It covers the fundamentals of computer hardware, networking, and security. Graduates of this program are expected to master proper BIOS configuration, identify and describe different hardware components, and know the similarities and differences of LAN and WLAN technologies, among many others. Since the program is fully online, students learn through a series of detailed and engaging video lessons. The program is comprised of 34 credits, which can usually be completed in less than two years.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Employer Tuition Reimbursement, Veterans’ Benefits, Workforce Development and Vocational Rehabilitation
Admission Requirements:
- Enrolment application
- High school diploma or GED certificate
- Official school transcripts
Accreditations:
- Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC)
Find more information on Brighton University’s online IT certificate program.
University of West Florida
Tuition Fee: $ Per Credit Unit
Databases are integral to organization! Recognizing this aspect, the University of West Florida offers a certificate program for those who want to become database administrators or participate in other information system positions. The certificate is fully online, designed especially for those who want to gain technical knowledge in the competitive field of data mining and information security.
The coursework covers database design, management, and administration. This is where students can learn the basics of computer programming under the expert and experienced faculty tutelage. They are expected to gain a solid foundational knowledge and understanding of database system design and development. They must also be able to manage and process large data sets by building complex data models.
Students should complete the certificate program within five years with a completed grade average of C- or higher. The program’s required courses have a total of 9 credit hours. Students must take three program prerequisites, including Programming Using Visual Basic, Programming Using Java, and Programming Using C++.
Types of Aid: Student Loans, Loan Deferment, Scholarships, Grants
Admission Requirements:
- Complete the online undergraduate certificate declaration form
Accreditations:
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Find more information on the University of West Florida online IT certificate program.
Regis University
Tuition Fee: $845 Per Credit Hour
For those who want to navigate the field of technology and explore the methods and practices that it entails to achieve the goals of organizations, Regis University has a 12-credit-hour certificate program that will help them do exactly that. This program aims to teach students to maximize the advantages of technology and mitigating its negative aspects.
The program involves studying strategic technology and ethics in IT. Students will be allowed to make two choices from a range of curricula, including supply chain management, IT project management, business processing engineering, supply chain management, and many others. The program follows an online format that could spread to 8-week terms.
Students pursuing a master’s degree can apply for this certificate program’s courses at the university’s Master of Science in Information Technology Management.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Scholarships, Grants
Admission Requirements:
- Completed online application
- Official transcripts
- Resume/CV
- Admission essay
- Bachelor’s degree or relevant work experience
Accreditations:
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
Find more information on Regis University’s online IT certificate program.
Champlain College
Tuition Fee: $ Per Credit Unit
Champlain University is one of the many higher learning institutions that offer degrees and courses online. One of their offerings is an undergraduate certificate program in information technology. This certificate helps students build their fundamental IT skills and strengthen their credentials for entry-level positions in the information technology field.
Anyone can earn this certificate, whether working professionals who want to upgrade their skills or an undergraduate who currently pursue their bachelor’s degree. This certificate builds on one’s skills and allows them to explore and enter a new field. Some courses included in this program are Networking Fundamentals, Relational Database Design and SQL, Foundations of Cybersecurity, and Information Systems Analysis and Design, among many others. Graduates of this program are expected to identify essential network components and communication methods, discuss fundamental cybersecurity concepts, and learn how to use the object-oriented approach to systems development.
The program can be completed 100% online. Students have 24/7 access to coursework, allowing them to study at their own pace. Every week, students are expected to commit 10 to 17 hours for each course. Students can earn the certificate once they can complete the 18 credit hours required.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Loan Deferment, Veterans’ Benefits, Discounts for UC Alumni, AmeriCorps (National Service Trust), and Scholarships.
Admission Requirements:
- Minimum 2.5 GPA
- Complete online application
- High school transcripts
- Resume
Accreditations:
- New England Commission of Higher Education
Find more information on Champlain College’s online IT certificate program.
Charter Oak State College
Tuition Fee: $318 Per Credit Unit
Someone looking to enhance their cybersecurity skills might want to consider earning the Cyber Security Fundamental Certificate from Charter Oak State College. In this program, they will explore the fields in digital forensics and cyber policy analysis. They should understand and explain the concepts relating to the layers of information security, along with the landscape and key terms. They will familiarize themselves with the risk management principles that will help them conduct a proper assessment of the threats, vulnerabilities, and countermeasures surrounding the information systems.
Some of the certificate program courses include Hacker Techniques Tools and Incident Handling, Fundamentals of Network Security, Security Strategies in Windows OS/Applications, and many more.
This program is most beneficial to those who already have a strong computer background and have experience working in the cybersecurity field. Students will earn this certificate after they can complete nine credits with a grade of C or better.
Types of Aid: Private Educational Loans, Loan Deferment, Veterans’ Benefits, Grants, and Scholarships
Admission Requirements:
- Application for Admission form
- Application fee
- Official transcripts
Accreditations:
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
Find more information on Charter Oak State College’s online IT certificate program.
What can you expect from an online IT certificate program?
Designed for working professionals and those who cannot attend face-to-face classes for various reasons, an online IT certificate program offers a convenient and flexible way to improve one’s knowledge and skills in information technology. Most of these programs only require one to spend approximately 6 to 8 hours a week.
The lessons are often delivered through an online platform or website unique to the school offering it. Students are often given login credentials that they can use to access the course site. They will get their hands on the lectures, emails, assignments, documents, videos, links, discussion boards, presentations, and many others in one place. Some schools might offer online student interactions, giving one a chance to build relationships with other students.
What can you do with an online IT certificate program?
Online IT certificate programs differ. Some might be a specialist certificate that provides training and education on specific aspects of the IT field. For example, some might be solely focused on cybersecurity, cloud computing, or data technology. Others might offer more general and practical skills that would lend one a good chance at attaining a variety of entry-level career opportunities. Some of these programs can also be used as a stepping stone to an associate or bachelor’s degree in information technology. Many schools accept and credit courses earned from the certificate programs they offer, offering certificate graduates an incentive to continue their education for broader and better learning.
Is an online IT certificate program worth it?
Whether one is a high school graduate who wants to jumpstart their career in the IT field or a working professional who wishes to gain a specialized IT skill, an IT certificate is certainly an ideal choice. These certificate programs can help one build up their tech skills and validate their technical proficiency. Most of them allow one to get their foot through the door as many IT entry-level positions have the minimum requirement of earning a certificate.
They are especially useful to work professionals who want to enhance their skills and expand their knowledge in a particular IT field. According to BLS, computer and information technology occupations are projected to grow by 11% between 2019 to 2029.