Online and Distance Learning.com

This page provides help finding suitable online IT programs, online computer engineering or other online computer studies courses.  A qualification in this challenging field can be very rewarding.

The importance of online IT programs

In the information economy, familiarity with computers is essential and a qualification in IT or computer studies is highly desirable. But is it possible to study online IT programs? 

Certainly information technology learning online is particularly challenging.  But with persistence, it is possible to obtain any level of certification in a wide vartiety of aspects of IT, e.g., database management, network administration or basic computer education online.

What jobs are there for graduates of online IT programs?

Graduates of online IT programs or computing degrees are in demand in all companies in the US and that demand is projected by the Bureau of Labor Statistics to expand over the next 5 years.

Here are just examples of the fields it is possible to work in with a relevant computer qualification:

• A+ Certification Technician
• Database Administration
• Computer Maintenance
• Hardware Engineer
• Computer Security
• Computer Software Engineer
• Network Administration
• Network Security Administrator
• Network (Systems) Engineer
• Network Programmer/Analyst
• Network/Information Systems Manager

Also check out jobs for graduates of online IT programs in entertainment.

Which online IT programs should you take?

Most employers require a bachelor's degree in computer science, software engineering, information technology or related computer studies area. Employers sometimes also require industry certification such as the CompTIA A+/Network+ Service Technician, Microsoft Certified Systems Administrator (MCSA), Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA), Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP), Microsoft Certified Professional + Internet (MCP+I) and the Microsoft Certified Systems Engineer (MCSE).

How much can graduates of online IT programs earn?

Online IT programs or computing programs can be very rewarding financially. For example, Certification as a Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) can earn you a median salary of over $70,000.

Pursuing a masters degree in compuing can also be financially rewarding, with a starting salary of over $64,000. But pursuing a doctorate degree is not advised if you want high financial returns in the short term.

See the Payscales chart in the right-hand column for regularly updated details of actual salaries for someone with a Bachelor's degree in IT.