IT certificates include a series of college-level courses focused on information technology. These condensed programs may take a broad look at the field or cover more specialized areas. They may feature undergraduate-level or graduate studies.
With the ever-changing trends in the IT industry and the demand for professional improvement, IT certificates provide appealing opportunities for current and aspiring IT professionals. Rather than complete a full degree, learners can develop new skills and qualifications with certificates in areas like web development, cloud computing, or databases.
This guide explores some of the benefits and expectations of IT certificates. Discover the best IT certificates to get started with your search.
Why Get an Information Technology Certificate?
The history of information technology predates modern computing, with the term coming about in the late 1950s. Information technology refers to the access, storage, and application of information using computers. The sector comprises many subfields, including computer systems, networks, hardware, and telecommunications.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), computer and mathematical occupations employed more than 4.6 million people in May 2021. Major industries include computer systems design, management, software publishing, employment services, and consulting. The BLS projects an employment growth rate of 15% for computer and information technology roles from 2021-2031, far outpacing the average for all occupations.
It credits the considerable growth in IT to the drive for innovation and competitive advantage among employers. Organizations seek IT professionals in many sectors, including analytics, automation, cybersecurity, and data acquisition.
To succeed within this vast and growing landscape, professionals need to find new ways to compete in the job marketplace. While most IT careers require a bachelor's degree at minimum, the best IT certificates compete with and complement these traditional credentials.
IT certificates provide specialized training, allowing students to save time and focus only on the most relevant materials. They can help learners develop entry-level skills or field specializations. Since colleges and universities host these programs, their credits may also help prepare learners to pursue full degrees.
Stand Out Among the Competition: IT certificates help professionals distinguish themselves from peers who possess similar degrees and experience. These credentials demonstrate a commitment to continuing education and professional development.
Higher Earnings: Earning certificates can increase an IT professional's salary potential. IT certificates may help candidates access more desirable positions with higher pay.
Condensed Training: IT professionals often rely on continuing education to keep their skills and knowledge up to date. IT certificates provide updated training in a relatively short and flexible format — ideal for working professionals.
Information Technology Careers
IT careers encompass programming, administration, design and development, and architecture. The BLS projects 15% growth in this sector from 2021-2031 — tripling the average rate for all occupations. With a median annual salary of $97,430 as of May 2021 in the field, this figure more than doubles the median annual salary for all occupations.
IT certificates have many career development functions for IT professionals. They may lead to entry-level employment, such as computer support specialist positions, or help professionals pursue advanced information research roles as computer systems managers.
Computer Network Architect
IT architects design and build various systems and devices, such as data communication networks. They identify organizational needs and improve networking capabilities by upgrading hardware and software and integrating new technologies. IT certificates in this field can provide architects with knowledge of new practices and technologies, plus network security skills.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31): +4%
Median Annual Salary: $120,520
Information Security Analyst
Information security analysts handle organizations' systems and network security needs. They develop security practices, software, and investigation processes. IT certificates in this field help professionals learn new tactics for threat detection and risk evaluation, plus new concepts and technologies.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31): +35%
Median Annual Salary: $102,600
Software Developer
Software developers design applications for computer systems and networks. They communicate with clients and end users to identify software needs and then model and diagram the code needed. Developers can upgrade their skills and advance their careers with IT certificates by studying new methods, technologies, and practices.
Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2021-31): +25%
Median Annual Salary: $109,020
The 4 Best IT Certificate Programs
The four schools profiled in this ranking earned top honors as our picks for the best IT certificate programs of 2023. To learn about the criteria we consider when ranking schools and programs, click the link below.
#1 Best Certificates in Information Technology
University of Virginia-Main Campus
- Charlottesville, VA
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Founded in 1819 by Thomas Jefferson, the University of Virginia ranks among the most prestigious colleges in the United States. Notable alumni include Edgar Allan Poe, film producer Samuel Goldwyn, and Olympic gold medalist Dawn Staley.
Information Technology Certificate
UVA's Information Technology Certificate covers six courses. The certificate is geared towards graduates of nontechnical degree programs, and professionals seeking to change careers or upgrade their computer technology skills.
The program's structure includes five required courses and one elective. Required courses explore the following essential topics:
- Strategic fundamentals of information technology
- System design and architecture
- Database management and analytics
- Web development
- Web design
Learners supplement these core courses with an elective in cybersecurity, Java programming, project management, or applied data analytics.
UVA brands the program as suitable for career changers, and for recent college graduates and established professionals seeking to boost their employability and advancement prospects.
Applying to UVA
This is an undergraduate certificate program. UVA's admission requirements for undergraduate certificate programs include a high school diploma and unofficial transcripts. No application fees apply.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $8,784 (flat rate regardless of state residency)
- Required Credits: 18
- Program Length: 18 months
- Delivery Format: 100% Online
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#2 Best Certificates in Information Technology
Lake-Sumter State College
- Leesburg, FL
- 4 years
- Campus
Based in Leesburg, Florida, Lake-Sumter State College was founded in 1962 and serves a student body of approximately 6,000 people. Balancing affordability with educational rigor, the school consistently ranks among Florida's top community colleges.
Information Technology Analysis College Credit Certificate (CCC)
Lake-Sumter developed its Information Technology Analysis CCC for both experienced technology professionals and newcomers to the field. It trains students for entry-level supporting positions in technical fields including computer repair, software testing, user support, and information systems.
Course content covers essential IT, networking, hardware, software, server administration, and systems analysis concepts. It specifically prepares learners for many CompTIA professional certification examinations, including:
Graduates can also apply their credits toward advanced standing in LSSC's associate degree in information technology. For an alternate academic focus, students can also consider the school's Information Technology Support Specialist CCC program.
Applying to LSSC
LSSC's general admissions policies require all students to hold a high school diploma or GED for consideration, including non-degree programs. Applicants must submit high school transcripts and all college transcripts, if applicable.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Tuition: $81/ credit (in state); $329 /credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 27
- Program Length: 8-12 months
- Delivery Format: On campus
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
89%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#3 Best Certificates in Information Technology
College of Central Florida
- Ocala, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
College of Central Florida traces its history to 1957, when the institution began operations as Central Florida Junior College. As of the 2021-22 academic year, the school has an academic community of more than 8,700 students.
Information Technology Analysis, College Credit Certificate (CCC)
Information Technology Analysis CCC students build the skills needed to design and manage information systems in enterprise environments. The program's structure is an adjunct to the school's associate of science program in information technology. Graduates can pursue entry-level tech careers, or continue their studies at the degree level.
This nine-course program covers software basics along with a diverse set of IT topics including:
- CompTIA A+ fundamentals
- Internet technology
- Computer technical support
- Networking
Unlike most non-degree programs, CF's Information Technology Analysis CCC is eligible for student financial aid from both the federal and state levels. The program prepares learners for future employment in support positions as help desk, office systems, and user support specialists.
Applying to CF
CF maintains an open-access admissions policy. Applicants need only a high school diploma or the recognized equivalent to qualify for program entry.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
- Tuition: $2,888 /academic year (full-time, in state); $10,688 /academic year (full-time, out of state)
- Required Credits: 27
- Program Length: 8 months
- Delivery Format: On campus
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
92%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
#4 Best Certificates in Information Technology
Daytona State College
- Daytona Beach, FL
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Daytona State College originated in 1957 as one of Florida's first comprehensive vocational colleges. It has since grown into an academic community with more than 100 certificate and degree programs in various professional and technical fields.
Information Technology Analysis
Daytona State's certificate for Information Technology Analysis guides builds proficiencies in a versatile cross-section of technical tasks, including:
- Hardware and software installation and configuration
- Network design, testing, and troubleshooting
- Technical support
- System and network monitoring
- Systems analysis
Structured across two semesters, the program begins by exploring computer applications, repair fundamentals, and networking. It then builds on gained skills, introducing learners to information assurance, operating systems, Windows networking, and project management.
Most of the certificate program's credits qualify for transfer to Daytona State's associate program in networking systems technology. Students can also apply some credits toward the school's associate degree in computer programming, computer engineering, or computer information technology.
Applying to Daytona State
To apply, candidates must create a Daytona State account and fill out an application. Additional admission requirements may apply, depending on the student's academic background in English and mathematics.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: SACSCOC
- Tuition: $2,764 (flat rate for the program, in state); higher fees apply for out-of-state students
- Required Credits: 27
- Program Length: 30 weeks
- Delivery Format: 100% online, on campus, hybrid
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
77%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
What to Expect From Information Technology Certificate Programs
IT certificates offer accelerated and focused training for aspiring entry-level professionals or individuals looking to pivot or advance their careers. These programs typically require 12-30 college credits spread across 3-12 months. The best IT certificates provide transfer credits for graduates, allowing them to apply their training toward full degrees.
While tuition prices for IT certificates vary, the average annual tuition was $3,900 in two-year public schools and $9,400 in four-year public schools in 2021, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES). Since these programs often aim for flexibility and accessibility, students may encounter lower-than-average tuition, along with more online opportunities and accommodating schedules.
Students should verify any on-campus requirements or if in-person learning offers additional benefits, such as access to state-of-the-art IT labs.
Admissions Process
The IT certificate admissions process is usually more flexible than in traditional degrees. The condensed nature of these programs typically results in start dates, as well. Many undergraduate certificates also have accommodating entry requirements, though post-graduate certificates often require a bachelor's degree and a 2.5-3.0 GPA minimum.
Depending on the certificate level and the discipline, professional IT experience, test scores, and course prerequisites may be required. Schools usually give preference to current students or alumni.
Different Certificate Types
The various IT certificate types available offer something for every type of student. Learners can find undergraduate and graduate certificates, along with programs that focus on general or specialized topics. Prospective enrollees can find in-person, hybrid, and online IT certificates, which may feature asynchronous or synchronous course delivery.
While some organizations use the terms interchangeably, IT certificates differ from IT certifications. In general, certificates come from schools, whereas certifications come from third-party organizations. In most cases, students earn IT certificates after completing a training program, while professionals earn certifications after testing their knowledge through exams.
Popular IT Certificate Courses
IT certificates typically include core and elective classes, though some feature a more rigid set of required courses. The following list highlights some popular options.
Cloud Security: This course explores the principles and technologies used in cloud security architecture. Students also learn the industry standards and guidelines and examine current trends and possible directions for the future.
Information Systems Analysis: In this course, students learn how to analyze and solve business problems with information systems. They learn to identify how system upgrades and new technologies can improve existing operations and how to develop these improvements.
IT Strategy and Management: This course prepares students to capitalize on the strategic importance of organizations' IT needs. Students learn to discuss and manage IT strategy with executives, stakeholders, clients, and end users.
How Much Do IT Certificates Cost?
While some IT certificates offer special pricing, most adhere to their college's standard per-credit tuition prices. In public schools, credit prices fell between about $130-$780 in 2021, per the NCES. Private school tuition prices generally exceeded these rates.
Other factors that influence cost include school and program prestige, online or on-campus delivery, and in-state vs. out-of-state rates. In most cases, IT certificates provide a cost advantage over associate degrees and bootcamps. Some certificates even qualify for federal financial aid, loans, and scholarships.
Choosing the Right Certificate in Information Technology
Prospective enrollees should consider the following factors when researching certificates:
- Institutional accreditation
- Program cost and availability of financial aid
- Online, on-campus, or hybrid program options
- Program length and schedule flexibility
- Residency requirements
- School location
- Program curriculum and specialization options
- Campus and program facilities
- Extracurriculars
- School size and student/teacher ratio
- Faculty credentials and reputation
- Admission requirements
- School support resources and network
- Transfer credits
Should You Get Your Certificate in IT Online?
Online learning has grown immensely over the past decade, giving students access to more schools, programs, and flexible scheduling than ever before. According to McKinsey, the number of online-only and hybrid students increased by 36% from 2012-2019. In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic caused that number to soar an additional 92%.
While many students have since returned to the classroom, online learning remains extremely popular. Information technology and online learning go hand in hand, but learners still need to decide if online learning matches their learning style.
Should You Go to a Certificate, Associate, or Bootcamp Program?
IT certificates, associate degrees, and coding bootcamps offer benefits and potential drawbacks. The following table highlights some differences to help students identify their ideal option.
Comparing Certificate, Associate, and Bootcamp Programs
|
Comparison Point
|
Information Technology Certificates
|
Information Technology Associate Degrees
|
Bootcamp Programs
|
|
Course Load
|
Standard full-time and part-time options usually available
|
Standard full-time and part-time options usually available
|
Typically full-time and intensive, though part-time options may be available
|
|
Annual Cost
|
Average for two-year public schools, 2021: $3,900 ($130 per credit)
Average for four-year public schools, 2021: $8,900 ($780 per credit)
|
Public schools, 2021: $3,900
|
Median cost, 2017: $13,500
|
|
Program Length
|
Generally takes 3-12 months to complete
|
Typically requires two years to complete
|
Immersive full-time camps take 9-16 weeks to complete
|
|
Program Focus
|
IT certificates may focus on general or specialized fields at the undergraduate or graduate levels.
|
IT associate degrees focus on general and foundational studies.
|
Bootcamps may focus on general or specialized fields at the beginner, intermediate, or advanced levels.
|
|
Admission Requirements
|
Varies by school and certificate level. Often mirrors the undergraduate and graduate degree requirements.
|
Typically open admission requirements, though some programs may require a GPA minimum.
|
Usually open at the beginner levels, but intermediate and advanced bootcamps may require experience or previous training
|
Sources: NCES, RTI Press
Explore other IT education paths
Associate Degrees in Information Technology
Bachelor's Degrees in Information Technology
Online Bachelor's in Information Technology
Master's Degrees in Information Technology
Online Master's in Information Technology
Doctoral Degrees in Information Technology
Information Technology Certificate Questions
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Which certificates are best for getting a job in IT?
The best IT certificates depend on many factors, but some of the highest-growth fields include information security, web development, and software development.
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Can you get a job that pays well with a certificate in IT?
Yes. IT certificates can help experienced professionals advance into some of the top-paying positions in the industry and allow entry-level professionals to pursue high-paying jobs.
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Is getting an information technology certificate worth it?
Yes. IT certificates have value for many professionals, including individuals looking to break into the industry quickly and working professionals wanting to develop their skills and expertise.
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Is it harder to get into an IT certificate program or a bootcamp?
IT certificates and bootcamps generally have open admission requirements in undergraduate and beginner-level programs. At the graduate level, IT certificates typically require a bachelor's degree, with some applying GPA minimums. Advanced bootcamps may require experience and previous training.
