Is an Information Technology Degree Worth It?
If you’re considering a career in information technology, you may be asking yourself whether an IT degree is truly necessary. In an era where coding boot camps and certification programs offer quick and specialized training, it’s understandable to wonder whether formal education is still the best route. Although short-term programs may provide a fast path into the workforce, they often focus on narrow skill sets. A degree in information technology, on the other hand, offers a more comprehensive and enduring foundation for success in a dynamic and rapidly changing field.
A bachelor’s degree in IT prepares students for a wide range of technical roles across industries. From cybersecurity and cloud computing to database management and systems administration, graduates gain the knowledge and versatility to pursue meaningful, future-ready careers. Equally important, an IT degree fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills that are essential for collaboration, leadership, and long-term professional growth. Whether you’re new to the field or looking to advance, this is a valuable investment in your future.
What Are the Benefits of an IT Degree?
An IT degree benefits a wide range of learners, from recent high school graduates to working professionals looking to grow or pivot their careers. A few of the key advantages include:
- Broader career options across high-demand industries such as health care, finance, education, and government
- Stronger earning potential, with the median salary in IT exceeding $100,000 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
- Greater job security in a field projected to grow much faster than average over the next decade
- Transferable skills that apply across technical, analytical, and managerial roles
- Ongoing adaptability, as a degree equips students to keep pace with emerging technologies and shifting market needs
Whether you’re interested in managing networks, building digital platforms, analyzing systems, or protecting data, there’s no shortage of possibilities for what you can do with an IT degree.
What Skills Will You Pick Up in an IT Degree Program?
A well-rounded IT degree program blends technical training with professional development. It prepares students to solve real-world problems, communicate effectively with diverse teams, and make informed, ethical decisions in complex environments.
Students typically gain skills in:
- Programming languages such as Python, Java, and JavaScript
- Cybersecurity fundamentals and risk mitigation strategies
- Cloud computing, networking, and systems administration
- Database design, querying, and data governance
- Web design and user experience (UX) development
- Project management methodologies and collaboration tools
- Diagnostic thinking, systems analysis, and troubleshooting
- Ethical practices related to privacy, accessibility, and technology’s social impact
Together, these competencies create a strong base for future learning, industry certifications, and career advancement.
Why Earn an IT Degree at Excelsior?
Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program is specifically designed for learners at every stage. It serves working adults seeking a career change as well as students entering higher education for the first time. The fully online format offers flexibility without sacrificing quality and helps students balance academic progress with personal and professional responsibilities.
The program provides more than just technical training. It encourages strategic thinking, ethical awareness, and practical application. Graduates are prepared to lead and adapt in a digital world.
Future-Friendly
The IT curriculum at Excelsior is continuously updated to reflect current industry needs. Students take courses in cloud infrastructure, systems administration, data communications, and cybersecurity, all while building a strong foundation in programming, design, and integration. The focus is on not only learning new tools but also understanding how to apply them to solve business and societal challenges.
Workforce-Aligned
Through hands-on projects, case studies, and real-world scenarios, students learn to approach problems with both technical precision and human perspective. Ethical decision-making and inclusive design are woven throughout the curriculum and ensure that graduates understand the broader implications of the technologies they develop and manage.
Transfer-Friendly and Designed for Adult Learners
Excelsior accepts up to 113 transfer credits, enabling students to apply prior college coursework, military training, or professional certifications toward their degree. Courses are offered in eight-week sessions, with multiple start dates throughout the year. The program meets students where they are and helps them progress efficiently toward their goals, whether they’re looking to start a career in information technology or building on years of experience.
Study Abroad with Excelsior
Excelsior students may also participate in virtual or in-person study abroad programs. These experiences provide insight into global technology trends, foster collaboration across cultures, and help students build valuable international perspectives that can enhance their future roles in a global workforce.
Ready to Get Started?
A degree in Information Technology can unlock meaningful opportunities, increase your earning potential, and position you for long-term success in one of the world’s most resilient and fast-growing industries. Whether you’re starting fresh or expanding your skill set, a formal degree will give you the structure, credibility, and confidence to take the next step.
To explore how your experience and interests align with Excelsior University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology program, visit the program page or connect with our Admissions team.
