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Whether you’re attending college for the first time, returning to change your career or continuing your education in your field, pursuing a certificate in information technology online can be beneficial. These condensed and career-focused credentials provide direct and specialized training with a fraction of the commitment required for a full degree.
Many schools offer certificates in various subjects, particularly regularly evolving disciplines like IT. These flexible and accessible programs help you make significant life and career changes in a short period, while also offering transfer credits and certification preparation in some cases.
To help you choose among the growing number of study options available, we’ve ranked the 10 best certificates in information technology online. Find out what each program has to offer you.
A certificate in information technology online can open the door to new careers and fields, promotions, and transfer credits. These programs often feature flexible schedules and accommodating entrance requirements, but they don’t suit everyone equally.
When deciding on a program, you need to figure out if online learning works for you. These programs may require more independence, organization and motivation than their on-campus counterparts. They can also include less structure and interaction.
But online learning has many benefits as well, including the ability to fit your studies around your life. You can also save time and money on travel. You might even expand your search to schools and programs in other states, increasing your study options.
For schools to provide federal financial aid, they need to hold institutional accreditation from an accrediting agency approved by the U.S. Department of Education or the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
Not only is accreditation required for financial aid, but many schools and employers look for it when granting transfer credits and employment opportunities.
Programmatic accreditation can be valuable as well, but it is not required in every discipline. IT certificates, for example, don’t typically require programmatic accreditation. However, if you plan on pursuing professional certification afterward, look for a program that helps you prepare for it.
Earning a certificate in information technology can have many professional and academic benefits, but you need to think about what’s next when making your choice.
For example, you might choose a certificate that best prepares you for the specific IT career or certification you want after graduation. If you plan to continue your studies, you might prioritize a program that offers an adequate transfer credit policy.
You should also think about how the certificate compares to other study options, such as an information technology degree. Certificates can provide you with specialized skills in a short period, but you should be confident they will help you on your unique path before choosing.
The cost of a certificate in information technology online varies considerably. The programs on this list cost between $76 to $488 per credit and total between $912 and $8,784. The rate you pay may depend on the number of credits you take and your residency status.
Compared to degrees, the financial aid options for certificates might look different than you’re used to. While some programs offer standard financial aid options, including federal aid and scholarships, not all programs qualify. In these situations, you may need to rely on private funding sources.
A certificate in information technology can be very worthwhile, qualifying you for entry-level roles, career changes and advancements. You can also put the credits earned toward a degree, which can save you time and money later on.
You can pursue many IT certifications online, including both the preparation and the actual certification examination. Some IT certifications, however, may have in-person requirements.
