Your Guide to a Master’s Degree in Information Technology

Earning your master’s degree in information technology (IT)—or the practice of supporting and troubleshooting computer systems and network systems—can be a lucrative way to advance your knowledge or pivot from another area and prepare for a career in the field. 

These degrees tend to be somewhat faster to earn than other types of master’s degrees in related subjects, such as a master’s in computer science. Many programs are also available online so you can learn around your other responsibilities. 

Openings for IT professions should grow faster than average between 2023 and 2033, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics [1]. Beyond job demand, you may also find that IT roles earn a higher-than-average salary and that graduating with a master’s degree can add to your earning power [1, 2]. 

Learn what it takes to earn a master’s degree in IT, what you can do with it, and alternatives to bolster your education.  

Master's in information technology: Time and cost

At the master’s level, you can find programs in information technology (IT), information systems, or information systems management. Despite the difference in names, these programs tend to cover a similar curriculum. 

The time it takes to earn your master’s in IT will depend on the school you attend. While a master’s degree traditionally takes around two years to earn when you can go full-time, you may find more accelerated options for studying information technology. Several online degree programs require 10 courses—or 30 credits total—which can take around 16 months to complete.

As of November 2024, the average cost of a master’s degree was $59,684, though each school is different [3]. The total cost depends on whether you attend a public or private institution. 

Learn more: Do I Need an Information Technology Degree? What to Consider

Coursework 

Many master’s programs in IT combine theoretical and practical learning so you understand how to implement the concepts you study. While each school’s requirements will differ, you can expect to take several computer science courses that focus on: 

• IT research methods

• Managing technology

• Database management with SQL

• Information security 

• Algorithms and computation

• System administration 

• Distributed computing

Capstone or thesis

Some IT master’s degrees also require a capstone or thesis. Either of these culminating projects is an opportunity to apply what you’ve learned, develop an original project, or conduct original research. 

IT skills development

Thanks to the practical nature of an IT program’s curriculum, you may get an opportunity to develop or strengthen many valuable technical and workplace skills. You can integrate both types of skills into your resume as you look for new roles or to advance in your current workplace. 

Technical skills

Technical skills are specific abilities related to your role, such as knowing how to use a particular software program or, in the case of IT, installing hardware and software. In an IT master’s program, you may find an opportunity to strengthen some of the following skills: 

• DevOps

• Systems and networks

• Data analysis

• Cloud computing

Workplace skills

Workplace skills are more general because they describe how you do your work. They involve key abilities, like communicating with others and critical thinking. In an IT master’s program, you may be able to refine some of the following skills: 

• Leadership

• Collaboration

• Communication

• Problem-solving 

Learn more: 8 In-Demand IT Skills to Boost Your Resume

What can you do with an MS degree in information technology?

Many IT professionals pursue a master’s because they’re interested in advancing their careers and want more specialized knowledge and credentials. With a master’s degree and additional experience, you may qualify for the following roles:  

Is a master's in information technology worth it?

With a master’s degree in IT, you increase your earning potential, you can more likely find a job in the growing market, and you can more easily move into management positions. Evaluate your career goals to determine if a master’s in IT is worth it for you keeping in mind that earning a master’s degree is an investment in your skills, education, and career. 

Learn more: How to Get a Job in IT: 7 Steps

Other ways to accelerate your IT career

If you want to advance your career in IT—or pivot from another career into IT—other ways you can gain specialized education include:  

• Professional certificate: Designed for learners who want to move into a different field or excel in their current role, professional certificates typically take around six months to earn and emphasize practical and technical skills development.

• Graduate certificate: Many universities offer graduate certificates, which are similar to professional certificates in that they focus on skills development. However, they tend to cost less and take less time to complete than a master’s degree.  

• Individual courses: Strengthen your IT knowledge by taking individual courses meant to introduce or refine your understanding of various concepts, like data analytics or DevOps. You can find many options—many for free—on Coursera. 

• Projects: Completing projects independently can be an excellent opportunity to apply your learning and further develop your skills. You may find IT forums that offer project ideas or YouTube channels that post things to work on. Or complete a Guided Project on Coursera, like Introduction to Relational Database.

Learn more: Computer Science vs. Information Technology: Jobs, Degrees, and More

Earn a master's in IT through Coursera.

A master’s in information technology is an advanced degree that gives you specialized skills in IT and the opportunity to take on higher-level positions with more earning potential. Advance your education with online master's degrees available through Coursera. Rather than pull together a formal application, gain entry to Illinois Tech's Master of Information Technology by taking and passing a few courses. Or consider Northeastern's Master of Science in Information Systems—a program that sits at the intersection of IT management, business, and software engineering.