Technology Curriculum: Courses and Structure
Technology curricula are built around core subject areas plus electives or concentrations. Course titles vary by school, but the topics below are common.
Quick Answers
What is included in a technology curriculum?
Technology programs typically start with a shared core and add electives or concentration courses.
How does the curriculum change by degree level?
Associate programs emphasize fundamentals, bachelor’s programs broaden depth, and master’s programs focus on advanced topics.
Do online programs use the same curriculum?
Most online programs follow the same curriculum requirements as on-campus programs, with differences in delivery.
At a Glance
- Structure: Core subjects plus electives or concentrations
- Associate focus: Fundamentals and general education
- Bachelor’s focus: Depth, applied projects, and specialization
- Master’s focus: Advanced topics, leadership, and capstone work
- Online: Same curriculum as campus programs
Core course topics by degree level
| Course Topic | Associate | Bachelor’s | Master’s |
|---|---|---|---|
| IT Fundamentals | Core | Foundational | Review |
| Networking & Security | Intro | Intermediate | Advanced |
| Operating Systems | Intro | Intermediate | Elective |
| Cloud Computing | Elective | Core | Specialization |
| Databases & Analytics | Intro | Core | Advanced |
| Web/App Development | Intro | Core | Elective |
| IT Project Management | – | Core | Advanced |
| Systems Architecture | – | Elective | Core |
| Capstone Project | – | Required | Required |
| Research Methods | – | – | Core |
Core subject areas
| Subject Area | What You Learn |
|---|---|
| Systems Administration | Server management, user access, system configuration |
| Networking & Security | Network protocols, firewalls, security fundamentals |
| Cloud Computing | Cloud platforms, deployment, virtual environments |
| Databases & Data Analytics | Data storage, querying, analysis, and visualization |
| Web & Application Development | Front-end and back-end development fundamentals |
| IT Project Management | Planning, scheduling, and managing technology projects |
Skills you can compare across programs
Programs vary, but common skill areas include:
- Systems and network troubleshooting
- Security and risk fundamentals
- Working with cloud and virtual environments
- Project planning and documentation
How curriculum differs by degree level
- Associate programs focus on foundational coursework and general education
- Bachelor’s programs add depth, methods, and applied projects
- Master’s programs emphasize advanced topics, specialization, and capstone work
For degree-level options, see: Associate | Bachelor’s | Master’s
Technology curricula align with careers spanning a wide salary range. Computer user support specialists earn a median of $60,340, while IT managers earn $171,200 (BLS, May 2024). The degree level and specialization you choose directly affect career eligibility.
Example assignments and assessment types
Depending on the program, you may see:
- Reading and analysis tasks
- Applied projects or labs
- Case studies or scenario-based work
- Presentations or group projects
- Exams or proctored assessments