Open numerous doors into information technology careers with an IT associate’s degree online. There are a number of reasons why an associate’s degree is a great option—the primary one being tuition cost. Generally, associate’s are much more affordable than a bachelor’s, but considering the difference in tuition between the least expensive and most expensive IT associate’s degree online can hit over $36,300, it pays to pay attention to which program and which price tag fits your personal means. In the associate degree game, there exists a plethora of options for specific needs. Someone who has worked in IT for more than a few years could apply their work experience to an online AAS in information technology, pushing them ahead in the professional game. Aspiring students may be using an IT associate’s degree online to move ahead academically, and may be interested in AA or AS transfer programs, setting them up for success at four-year universities. No matter which path you choose, GetEducated is here to help navigate the financial aspects of earning a degree.
GetEducated compared 137 IT associate’s degree online options from 103 regionally accredited schools to create this “Best Buy” list. Our rankings reveal the most affordable options in the United States—69 online IT associate’s degrees with reasonable price tags. Become an informed consumer before making a difficult financial decision with GetEducated.
ARTICLE NAVIGATION: Rankings Table | Career Guide
Average Cost (In-state): ~$14,300
Least Expensive: Cerro Coso Community College ~ $2,768
Most Expensive: Central Penn College ~ $39,094
Our data-driven research creates a truly reliable system of scientific rankings. There are no fancy formulas here. We meticulously calculate total full-time tuition—including any fees—for the most accurate total cost. Our rankings cannot be bought, and therefore factually showcase the cheapest IT associate’s degree online. The online IT degrees listed above the gray dividing line are official 2020 “Best Buys” and cost less than the national average.
Most Affordable IT Associate’s Degree Online
| Rank | School / Degree | State | Price | Note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | Cerro Coso Community College | (CA) | $2,768.00 $19,748.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
2 | Clovis Community College | (NM) | $3,840.00 $7,260.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
3 | Rio Salado College | (AZ) | $4,140.00 $11,060.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
4 | Trident Technical College | (SC) | $5,095.40 $21,497.60 | In-State Out-of-State |
5 | Guilford Technical Community College | (NC) | $5,185.00 $17,857.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
6 | Forsyth Technical Community College | (NC) | $5,196.00 $17,484.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
7 | Fayetteville Technical Community College | (NC) | $5,221.00 $17,893.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
8 | Bladen Community College | (NC) | $5,255.00 $17,735.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
9 | Western Piedmont Community College | (NC) | $5,310.80 $17,982.80 | In-State Out-of-State |
10 | Rowan-Cabarrus Community College | (NC) | $5,632.00 $18,880.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
11 | Lenoir Community College | (NC) | $5,650.00 $19,090.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
12 | Nash Community College | (NC) | $5,796.00 $19,428.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
13 | Dona Ana Community College | (NM) | $5,845.00 $12,853.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
14 | Southwestern Community College - NC | (NC) | $5,848.00 $18,904.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
15 | Central Piedmont Community College | (NC) | $5,887.00 $19,711.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
16 | Nash Community College | (NC) | $6,024.00 $20,232.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
17 | Haywood Community College | (NC) | $6,138.50 $20,730.50 | In-State Out-of-State |
18 | State College of Florida-Manatee-Sarasota | (FL) | $6,328.80 $23,371.20 | In-State Out-of-State |
19 | Indian River State College | (FL) | $6,529.80 $23,729.40 | In-State Out-of-State |
20 | Craven Community College | (NC) | $6,679.00 $20,887.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
21 | Central Community College | (NE) | $6,741.00 $9,639.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
22 | York County Community College | (ME) | $6,912.00 $9,792.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
23 | Metropolitan Community College Area | (NE) | $7,029.00 $10,296.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
24 | Allen County Community College | (KS) | $7,040.00 | All Students |
25 | Central Texas College | (TX) | $7,140.00 $14,880.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
26 | Albany Technical College | (GA) | $7,192.00 $9,592.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
27 | Florida State College at Jacksonville | (FL) | $7,192.80 $14,013.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
28 | Western Nevada College | (NV) | $7,300.00 $10,510.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
29 | Broward College | (FL) | $7,374.00 $14,604.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
30 | Metropolitan Community College Area | (NE) | $7,384.00 $10,816.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
31 | St. Petersburg College | (FL) | $7,605.00 $24,114.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
32 | Hinds Community College | (MS) | $7,800.00 $13,900.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
33 | Tulsa Community College | (OK) | $7,973.00 $21,473.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
34 | Southeastern Technical College | (GA) | $8,050.00 $14,850.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
35 | Dallas College | (TX) | $8,100.00 $12,000.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
36 | Northwest Florida State College | (FL) | $8,315.40 $8,375.40 | In-State Out-of-State |
37 | Northern Wyoming Community College District | (WY) | $8,580.00 $20,460.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
38 | McHenry County College | (IL) | $8,623.00 | All Students |
39 | Carl Albert State College | (OK) | $8,777.50 | All Students |
40 | Volunteer State Community College | (TN) | $9,044.00 $15,680.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
41 | Barton Community College | (KS) | $9,600.00 | All Students |
42 | Peninsula College | (WA) | $9,657.60 $10,579.20 | In-State Out-of-State |
43 | Northcentral Technical College | (WI) | $9,942.00 $14,109.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
44 | Milwaukee Area Technical College | (WI) | $10,075.00 $14,152.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
45 | St. Philip's College | (TX) | $10,380.00 $28,140.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
46 | Ivy Tech Community College | (IN) | $10,473.00 $12,022.80 | In-State Out-of-State |
47 | Genesee Community College | (NY) | $10,710.00 $11,910.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
48 | Kentucky Community and Technical College System | (KY) | $11,220.00 $38,100.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
49 | Northern Virginia Community College | (VA) | $11,315.50 $23,683.25 | In-State Out-of-State |
50 | Bismarck State College | (ND) | $11,389.20 $16,205.40 | In-State Out-of-State |
51 | Jamestown Community College | (NY) | $11,463.00 $21,863.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
52 | Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology | (OK) | $11,739.45 | All Students |
53 | Iowa Central Community College | (IA) | $11,760.00 $16,940.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
54 | Utah Valley University | (UT) | $11,812.00 $33,612.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
55 | Oklahoma State University Institute of Technology | (OK) | $12,124.35 | All Students |
56 | University of the Cumberlands | (KY) | $12,340.00 | All Students |
57 | Minnesota State College Southeast | (MN) | $12,438.00 | All Students |
58 | Finger Lakes Community College | (NY) | $12,476.00 $17,340.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
59 | Lake Superior College | (MN) | $12,537.00 | All Students |
60 | University of the Cumberlands | (KY) | $12,539.00 | All Students |
61 | Tompkins Cortland Community College | (NY) | $12,566.00 | All Students |
62 | Minnesota West Community and Technical College | (MN) | $12,622.80 | All Students |
63 | Portland Community College | (OR) | $12,666.40 $25,086.40 | In-State Out-of-State |
64 | Minnesota State Community and Technical College | (MN) | $12,738.00 | All Students |
65 | Central Lakes College | (MN) | $12,870.00 | All Students |
66 | Northwest Iowa Community College | (IA) | $13,065.00 | All Students |
67 | Ocean County College | (NJ) | $13,580.00 $18,200.00 | In-State Out-of-State |
68 | NUC University | (PR) | $13,800.00 $24,530.00 $21,200.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military |
69 | Georgia Military College | (GA) | $14,220.00 | All Students |
| School / Degree | State | Price | Note | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Thomas Edison State University | (NJ) | $14,614.00 $18,854.00 $15,298.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military | |
Lake Superior College | (MN) | $15,044.40 | All Students | |
Vincennes University | (IN) | $15,356.00 $17,754.80 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Northern Essex Community College | (MA) | $15,503.00 $30,686.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
University of the Potomac | (DC) | $16,850.00 | All Students | |
Community College of Allegheny County | (PA) | $17,249.00 $24,329.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
University of Maine at Fort Kent | (ME) | $17,730.00 $26,550.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Indiana Wesleyan University | (IN) | $17,940.00 $15,000.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
University of Alaska Fairbanks | (AK) | $17,990.00 | All Students | |
 American Public University System | (WV) | $18,500.00 $15,100.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Kent State University | (OH) | $18,585.00 $19,215.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
 Southern New Hampshire University | (NH) | $19,350.00 $13,650.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Montgomery County Community College Associate in Science in Information Technology 14 | (PA) | $21,045.00 $30,439.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Dakota State University | (SD) | $21,075.00 $24,582.20 $15,000.00 | In-State Out-of-State Military | |
Bucks County Community College | (PA) | $21,102.00 $31,777.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
University of Toledo | (OH) | $21,892.80 $21,992.80 | In-State Out-of-State | |
University of Massachusetts-Lowell | (MA) | $22,920.00 | All Students | |
Saint Leo University | (FL) | $23,425.00 $15,625.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Indiana Institute of Technology | (IN) | $24,290.00 | All Students | |
Ohio Christian University | (OH) | $24,400.00 $16,600.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
South College | (TN) | $25,100.00 | All Students | |
Franklin University | (OH) | $25,537.00 $16,065.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Point University | (GA) | $25,600.00 | All Students | |
 Fisher College | (MA) | $25,900.00 | All Students | |
Salem University | (WV) | $25,900.00 $33,400.00 | In-State Out-of-State | |
Roger Williams University Associate of Science in Cybersecurity & Networking 14 | (RI) | $26,536.00 | All Students | |
Limestone University | (SC) | $27,467.00 $15,191.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Pennsylvania State University | (PA) | $27,976.00 | All Students | |
Campbell University | (NC) | $28,020.00 $15,620.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
San Joaquin Valley College | (CA) | $29,674.00 | All Students | |
 Colorado Christian University | (CO) | $31,020.00 $17,880.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
National American University | (SD) | $32,024.00 $15,574.40 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Florida Technical College (merged into NUC University) Associate of Science in Network Administration 14 | (FL) | $33,645.00 | All Students | |
Florida National University | (FL) | $34,360.00 $16,360.00 | In-State/Out-of-State Military | |
Bryant & Stratton College | (NY) | $37,020.00 | All Students | |
Peirce College | (PA) | $37,335.00 | All Students | |
Central Penn College | (PA) | $39,094.00 | All Students |
14 Options for this program have changed since publication.
Accreditation Note
To qualify for a ranking, a program must be regionally accredited. Additional programmatic accreditation is noted in the rank table.
ACBSP Accreditation Council for Business Schools and Programs
Rankings Note
These online college rankings are based on a GetEducated Fall 2020 review of regionally accredited IT associate’s degree online options. Associate ranks include Associate of Science, Associate of Arts and Associate of Applied Science degrees from both 4 & 2 year schools. AS & AA are typically best for transfer, while the AAS degree is career-oriented. Total cost includes full-time tuition and fees and was valid at the time of collection and specific to the online learning program. School profiles for the online associate degree programs in our directory may reflect a slightly different cost based on different editorial update schedules.
The published cost is an estimated sticker price for the entire online degree including fees. Actual costs may vary by student. Factors such as transfer credits, prerequisite courses, professional licensing and financial aid availability will affect final cost.
Editorial Note
Online schools do NOT pay to be included in any GetEducated online degree ranking. These rankings are editorially independent, open to any regionally accredited or candidate college that offers an associate degree that is available at least 80 percent through online learning and that is open to enrollment by the public. If your online college is regionally accredited and not currently reviewed by GetEducated, please contact us for inclusion.
These rankings of the cheapest online schools for IT may NOT be re-posted online or reprinted in any format without a license from GetEducated ®. Consumer finance bloggers and writers can contact our editors for a free custom article on the best IT associate’s degree online for use on your website. Our mission: Help consumers GetEducated ® about the best online colleges for cost and credibility.
Career Guide for an IT Associate’s Degree Grad
Want to launch an exciting career in the tech industry? Then an IT associate’s degree online may be perfect for you!
When you enroll in an associate’s program for IT, security, and network administration, you’ll be prepared for entry-level careers in some of the most exciting industries on the planet. You’ll learn skills that are important to all types of businesses, including data management, database design, and how to maintain the security for private technology systems. Depending on the program, you will likely graduate with skills in web design, as well as the use of hardware and software to achieve the specific goals for businesses and organizations.
Classes will range from highly technical to theoretical. You will take classes that focus on specific computer and information processing, as well as web programming, design, and development. You may also learn about database design using specific technologies like MySQL and XML.
The classes can also cover broad-range business related topics. You may learn about the basics of business communication, or take classes on the general use of technologies by organizations. All of these classes prepare you for real-world application of computers and networks.
Like most associate’s degrees, these programs generally take two years of academic study.
Best Careers in Information Technology, Security & Network Administration
With an IT associate’s degree online, you will be prepared for a wide range of careers. For the most part, an associate’s degree will prepare you for entry-level jobs, but as you gain experience and enhance your education, you can eventually move to more advanced positions.
Information Security Analyst
- Salary: $99,730
- Education: Bachelor’s
- Training/Experience: None
- Growth: 31%
Protecting information from cyber threats is one of the most important, evolving issues facing companies and organizations, which is why information security analysts enjoy such large incomes and massive expected growth. While a bachelor’s degree is often preferred by employers, people with an IT associate’s degree online may be able to find employment with certain companies.
These highly-trained professionals assist organizations by monitoring networks for security breaches and implementing changes that enhance overall security. Tasks may include installing software, preparing reports, developing security standards, and evaluating the extent of data violations.
Network & Computer Systems Administrator
- Salary: $83,510
- Education: Bachelor’s
- Training/Experience: None
- Growth: 4%
Computer networks have become a critical part of a modern company’s success. To ensure effective day-to-day operations of these systems, companies rely on the experience and knowledge of system administrators. Although generally requiring a bachelor’s degree, you may be able to find system administrator entry-level positions with only an associate’s degree.
Most computer, software, and IT jobs are expected to have rapid growth (31% for information security analysts, for example) but the expected growth for this career is only 4%. This is likely caused by cloud computing, which could automate many functions performed by administrators, reducing employment growth throughout multiple industries.
Computer Network Architect
- Salary: $112,690
- Education: Bachelor’s
- Training/Experience: None
- Growth: 5%
Computer networks are complex, requiring a vast assortment of hardware components and software applications. To keep everything running properly, companies turn to computer network architects. These professionals earn outstanding salaries, and the top 10% can expect annual earnings over $168,000.
Job growth is expected to be 5% between 2019 and 2029, which is higher than average but well below some of the numbers seen by other technology jobs. Many aspects could explain this, but the adoption of cloud computing, which means companies don’t have to build in-house networks, is expected to be the main cause.
Licensing & Exams After an IT Associate’s Degree Online
Technology careers often hold excellent pay and outstanding growth, but there is another advantage: there are usually no legally-required licenses or certifications; if you have the skills, regardless of education, you can work in the field.
However, ongoing education can be extremely useful for these positions. Technology is frequently changing, so staying up-to-date with the latest developments is crucial. Trade magazines, conferences, and informal classes can all help you stay at the top of your field.
Advancing your education after an IT associate’s degree online can also be useful. Many positions will prefer candidates with bachelor’s or master’s degrees, so building your education can expand your earning potential as well as your job options.