3 Questions About Online IT Degree Programs

If you’re thinking about earning an online degree in information technology, you probably have a few questions, including:

• What exactly will I learn?
• Should I get certifications or a degree—or both?
• Will a degree help me advance in my career?

Pursuing higher education is always a big decision. You want to ensure you’re making a choice that will pay off in the long run. That’s why WGU’s IT degree programs are designed to offer real-world skills, valuable certifications, and career-ready credentials—all at an affordable price and on a schedule that fits your work and family life.

This blog discusses three of the most common questions that future IT students ask. Read on to learn the answers.

1: What Will I Learn in an Online IT Degree Program?

Information technology is a broad field, and there are many directions to take for hopeful professionals, from cybersecurity and cloud computing to software development and data analytics. WGU offers a variety of bachelor’s and master’s degree programs to help students specialize in their chosen path.

Each degree includes carefully designed courses that cover IT fundamentals such as:

• Programming languages like Python, Java, HTML, and CSS.
• Operating systems and network engineering.
• Cybersecurity principles and ethical hacking.
• Database management, cloud infrastructure, and analytics.

WGU’s competency-based education (CBE) model allows its students to progress through course material as quickly as they show proficiency in it. That means if students already know the subject matter, they can advance to new content. If they need more time with a concept, learners can slow down to gain a more thorough understanding before moving on. CBE is meant to help students master the material—not just get through it.

Flexibility is also a top priority at WGU, especially for individuals with full-time jobs and families or for those who are changing careers. WGU students are in the driver’s seat of their learning experience.

2: Should I Earn an IT Degree or Certifications?

Great news—you don’t have to choose.

At WGU, many IT degree programs include industry-recognized certifications at no extra cost. These certifications are built into the coursework, so as students complete classes, they can also prepare for and earn credentials that employers value. For example, select WGU programs include certifications like:

• CompTIA Security+, Network+, and A+
• AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
• Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
• Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Earning these certifications separately can be expensive. IT certifications typically cost several hundred dollars each, with prep courses and other resources sometimes adding more. WGU includes certifications in students’ flat-rate tuition, which may cost anywhere from $3,760 to $4,410 per 6-month term for IT bachelor’s degrees.

Those who already hold certifications may be able to transfer their existing credentials to waive certain courses, accelerating their progress toward a degree. WGU Program Mentors are always available to advise students on matters related to IT certifications.

3: What Can an IT Degree Help Me Achieve?

A degree should do more than merely fill a frame—it should open doors to opportunity. WGU’s IT degrees are designed by industry experts to lead to real career outcomes. Students graduate from WGU with skills and certifications that employers love to see, and they often advance into roles such as: 

• IT Manager
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Cloud Solutions Architect
• Server Administrator
• Network Engineer
• Software Developer

With over 380,000 graduates nationwide, WGU’s alumni network is a powerful resource for job seekers and career changers. Many of WGU’s IT graduates work at top companies like Amazon, IBM, Google, Dell, Verizon, Adobe, and Facebook—with a large number of them inhabiting leadership roles.

Whether you are launching a career, transitioning from another field, or moving up the ladder, a WGU IT degree can provide the credentials and the confidence you need to take the next step. And because WGU programs are built for working adults, students can earn their degree without quitting their job or putting their life on hold.

Further Questions

Below are a few more common questions related to online IT degrees.

How Do I Earn an Online IT Degree?

Getting an IT degree online is more accessible than ever. Here’s how it usually works:

• Choose an accredited online university. Look for schools like WGU that are institutionally recognized, affordable, and career-focused.
• Select your program. IT degrees come in several specializations, like cybersecurity, cloud computing, software development, and more. Pick the one that best aligns with your interests and goals.
• Apply and enroll. Most online degree programs offer a straightforward admissions process. You’ll need a high school diploma or an equivalent credential, and some programs may require prior experience or coursework.
• Learn on your schedule. Online programs offer a high degree of flexibility, so you can complete coursework when it works best for you.

How Long Does It Take to Earn an Online IT Degree?

The time it takes to earn an online IT degree depends on your schedule, the program structure, and any prior knowledge or transfer credits you bring along. Most traditional bachelor’s degrees in IT take around four years to complete. WGU’s online bachelor’s degrees in IT can be earned within two to three years.

H3: What Does the Career Field Look Like for Graduates with Online IT Degrees?

The job outlook for IT professionals is very strong and continues to grow. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment in computer and IT occupations is projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033. Demand is especially high in areas like: 

• Cybersecurity
• Cloud computing
• Data analytics
• AI and machine learning
• IT infrastructure and support

Graduates entering the field can expect competitive salaries, stable job security, and room for advancement in both technical and leadership roles. 

What’s the Difference Between Earning an Online IT Degree and an On-Campus IT Degree?

Both degrees cover similar material and are equally respected when earned from an accredited institution. The main differences come down to flexibility and format. WGU’s online IT degree programs are designed with career readiness in mind and include industry certifications at no extra cost, which may give you a competitive edge in the job market. Coursework at WGU can also be accessed any time, day or night, with no set log-in times. 

WGU IT Degrees: Built for Your Success

If you’re ready to begin—or continue—your career in information technology, WGU is here to help you succeed on your schedule and within your budget. Our online, flexible programs put you in charge of your education, and our curriculum is designed to help you graduate with marketable skills, certifications, and a clear career path.

Learn more today about our online IT degrees and how WGU can make your dream career a reality.