If you're interested in exploring a career in the information technology (IT) field, you may be curious about what a degree in the industry might entail. Read our guide to discover what you'll learn in a bachelor's in information technology program.

A bachelor's in information technology program prepares students to understand, build, support, and maintain information systems and processes. While courses emphasize technical aspects like coding, databases, and infrastructure, students will also learn the skills needed to lead teams, manage initiatives, and interface with clients.

Generally, an information technology bachelor's program is four years long, but many students elect to pursue additional schooling or third-party certifications to enhance their education.

Here are a few common courses you could expect to take in a bachelor's in information technology program:

Project management: Students will learn the basics of project management and the specific technologies and frameworks used in development, such as Jira, Scrum, Agile, and Kanban.

Cybersecurity: Data protection is a major part of the IT industry. Students will explore how to secure data and how hackers find vulnerabilities to exploit.

Database management: This course teaches students how to structure data, use Application Program Interfaces, secure infrastructure, and scale enterprises.

Some IT bachelor's programs allow students to concentrate their studies in a particular area. Here are a few popular options you can choose from:

Artificial intelligence: With the growth of AI, many schools now offer students the opportunity to learn this cutting edge technology. Students will understand how AI works, how it's expected to change, and how its power can be harnessed to support business operations.

Software development: Students will understand how software applications are built, upgraded, and deployed. This is ideal for students interested in careers creating programs, applications, or software.

Cloud computing: Most data in today's world travels through the cloud. Discover how the cloud works to secure and speed up business processes.

Most information technology bachelor's programs require students to complete 120 credits, a significant portion of which are degree-specific. Additionally, most IT degrees include experiential learning projects that allow students to apply their knowledge. Depending on your degree concentration, this could entail creating your own software, solving a real-world IT problem, or working with a team of students to achieve an IT-related goal.

While not always required by schools, some students may be asked to complete an internship with an IT company. Due to the nature of the degree, this could be done in person or remotely. Internships can be a great opportunity to gain real-world experience and may be a direct pathway to a job after graduation.

Common questions about obtaining a bachelor's degree in information technology

How to choose a bachelor's degree in information technology?

When choosing a bachelor's in information technology program, be sure to look at course offerings, faculty, and any industry partnerships the school might provide. Consider the industry you want to enter and find a program that aligns with your career goals.

How to pay for an online bachelor's degree in information technology?

In some cases, online bachelor's programs in information technology may be less expensive than in-person programs, but they can still offer competitive education and training. Like other bachelor's degrees, you can pay for a bachelor's in information technology through grants, scholarships, or loans.

What can I do with an online bachelor's degree in information technology?

A bachelor's degree in information technology can prepare you to analyze, develop, implement, and troubleshoot IT systems. You will gain hands on experience to prepare you to serve clients in the rapidly changing IT landscape. A bachelor's program can also prepare you to pursue advanced degrees or certifications to help you progress further in your career.