Accredited online technology degrees focus on applied computing, helping students gain hands-on skills that keep digital systems secure and efficient.
These programs prepare graduates for in-demand roles in IT support, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and system administration. Unlike research-oriented Computer Science programs, Technology degrees emphasize real-world implementation and industry certification readiness.

Quick Answers

What is an online technology degree? An online technology degree focuses on applied computing and hands-on skills used to keep digital systems secure and efficient.

How is a technology degree different from computer science? Technology degrees emphasize real-world implementation and industry certification readiness, rather than a research-oriented computer science focus.

What careers can technology programs prepare you for? Common roles include IT support, cybersecurity, cloud infrastructure, and system administration.

What types of online technology programs are common? Common options include information technology (IT), cybersecurity, cloud computing, network administration, DevOps and systems integration, and database and information systems.

What do you typically study in a technology program? Technology programs emphasize project-based coursework and labs, often using virtual environments that simulate real IT ecosystems. Typical coursework includes networking, operating systems, cloud deployment, cybersecurity tools, databases, scripting, and IT project management.

What accreditation or standards should you look for? Choose a regionally accredited institution. Some programs may also hold specialized accreditation or align with frameworks such as ABET (Computing Accreditation Commission) or CAE-CD recognition for cybersecurity programs.

At a Glance

  • Focuses on applied computing and hands-on IT skills.
  • Common specializations include IT, cybersecurity, cloud computing, networking, DevOps, and databases.
  • Coursework often includes networking, operating systems, cloud deployment and automation, and scripting.
  • Programs may integrate certification preparation for credentials like CompTIA, AWS, Cisco, Microsoft, CISSP, and LPIC-1.
  • Applied learning often uses projects, case studies, and lab simulations in virtual environments.
  • Accreditation matters; look for regional accreditation and relevant program standards or frameworks.

Schools to Compare

How we rank schools: Rankings are based on available IPEDS and College Scorecard data including graduation rate, admission rate, program availability, completions, and published tuition. Data is informational only—always confirm details directly with each school.

#1

Rochester Institute of Technology

Rochester, NY In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 71%
Graduation rate 72%
Tuition
In‑state$57,016
Out‑of‑state$57,016
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 45

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#2

Pennsylvania College of Technology

Williamsport, PA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 50%
Tuition
In‑state$17,940
Out‑of‑state$25,680
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 79

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#3

University of California-Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz, CA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 63%
Graduation rate 76%
Tuition
In‑state$14,560
Out‑of‑state$45,337
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 7

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#4

Iowa State University

Ames, IA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 89%
Graduation rate 75%
Tuition
In‑state$10,497
Out‑of‑state$27,683
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 26

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#5

Arkansas Tech University

Russellville, AR In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 96%
Graduation rate 49%
Tuition
In‑state$8,508
Out‑of‑state$14,502
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 61

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#6

Seminole State College of Florida

Sanford, FL In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 43%
Tuition
In‑state$3,227
Out‑of‑state$11,447
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 72

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#7

Palm Beach State College

Lake Worth, FL In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Graduation rate 41%
Tuition
In‑state$3,050
Out‑of‑state$10,910
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 98

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

#8

Temple University

Philadelphia, PA In-state option
  • 4 year
  • Accredited
Acceptance rate 83%
Graduation rate 76%
Tuition
In‑state$22,082
Out‑of‑state$37,462
Contact
Key stats
  • Programs offered: 42

Source:ACCSCIPEDSCollege Scorecard

How to Choose an Online Technology Program

  1. Confirm the institution is regionally accredited.
  2. Identify a specialization that fits your goals, such as IT, cybersecurity, cloud computing, network administration, DevOps and systems integration, or database and information systems.
  3. Review the curriculum for applied learning, including project-based coursework, lab simulations, and virtual environments that mirror real IT ecosystems.
  4. Check whether the program aligns coursework with certification preparation, such as CompTIA, AWS, Cisco, Microsoft, CISSP, or LPIC-1.

Why Study Technology Online

Online technology programs often fit learners who prefer practical problem-solving over theoretical study. Many are designed with working adults in mind, allowing flexible schedules and self-paced formats that align with professional experience.

Advantages

  • Learn current technologies and software used across industries.
  • Prepare for professional certifications like CompTIA, AWS, or Cisco.
  • Gain employable skills without relocating or attending in-person classes.
  • Build a portfolio of real-world projects and technical demonstrations.

These programs connect IT operations, networking, and cloud architecture, reinforcing applied skills used in tech-driven workplaces.


Common Online Technology Programs

Online Technology degrees cover a broad spectrum of applied specializations. The most popular include:

Information Technology (IT)

Covers computer systems, troubleshooting, and IT management. Students learn network fundamentals, server administration, and technical support skills.

Cybersecurity

Focuses on digital defense, ethical hacking, and system protection. Coursework addresses threat detection, penetration testing, and risk management.

Cloud Computing

Explores infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), virtualization, and cloud architecture using leading platforms such as AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.

Network Administration

Teaches routing, switching, and system configuration. Students gain hands-on experience with enterprise networking environments.

DevOps and Systems Integration

Combines development and operations principles to streamline software deployment, automation, and monitoring.

Database and Information Systems

Covers SQL, database design, and data management to support business analytics and enterprise applications.


Curriculum Overview and Applied Learning

Technology programs emphasize skill-building through project-based coursework and simulation environments.

Typical Courses

  • Networking and Infrastructure Fundamentals
  • Operating Systems (Windows, Linux, macOS)
  • Cybersecurity Principles and Tools
  • Cloud Deployment and Automation
  • Database Administration
  • Scripting and Automation (Python, Bash, PowerShell)
  • IT Project Management
  • Systems Analysis and Design

Labs often use virtual environments that simulate real IT ecosystems, helping students troubleshoot networks, configure servers, and secure cloud systems.


Certification Alignment

Accredited online Technology programs often integrate certification preparation into their coursework.
Earning these credentials validates technical competency and can accelerate career progression.

Common certifications supported by online technology programs include:

  • CompTIA A+, Network+, and Security+
  • Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
  • AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner / Solutions Architect
  • Microsoft Certified: Azure Fundamentals / Administrator
  • Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)
  • Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC-1)

These certifications are recognized industry-wide and often map directly to specific program modules or electives.


Skills Developed in Technology Programs

Graduates gain a mix of practical and analytical skills applicable to a wide range of IT and cybersecurity environments.

  • Network setup, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
  • Cloud computing deployment and virtualization.
  • Security risk analysis and mitigation.
  • Automation and scripting for systems management.
  • Data storage, retrieval, and protection.
  • Collaboration and technical documentation.

Programs emphasize hands-on experience through projects, case studies, and lab simulations, ensuring graduates can demonstrate applied competence.


Career Pathways in Technology

Online Technology degrees lead to versatile career options in high-demand fields across both public and private sectors.
Common roles include:

  • IT Support Specialist or Systems Administrator
  • Network or Cloud Engineer
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • DevOps or Infrastructure Specialist
  • Database Administrator
  • IT Project Coordinator

Graduates often pursue additional credentials or micro-certifications to specialize further in areas like automation, cybersecurity, or data analytics.


Accreditation and Program Standards

When selecting an online Technology degree, choose a regionally accredited institution. Accreditation guarantees quality instruction, credit transferability, and employer recognition.
Programs may also hold specialized accreditation or align with recognized industry frameworks such as:

  • Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET) - Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC)
  • National Centers of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD) recognition (for cybersecurity programs).

These credentials confirm academic rigor and alignment with evolving industry needs.


Next Steps

If you’re comparing majors, start with our online colleges guide and review popular options such as criminal justice degrees or healthcare degrees.


Online Technology degrees provide a direct, practical path into today’s digital workforce.
By combining accredited instruction with real-world projects and industry certifications, these programs equip students with the skills employers need most, bridging education and application in a rapidly changing tech landscape.