Computer and information technology professionals are in high demand because of the increased use of cloud computing, big data, and information security across organizations.The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects tech jobs to grow 15% from 2021-31, resulting in just under 700,000 new positions.
An online MBA helps professionals advance in their technology careers in a convenient and flexible format. MBA graduates with experience can pursue management positions with top technology companies or other sectors. Our guide highlights the top online technology MBA programs, including program requirements and outcomes. Learn more about earning an online MBA in technology and technology management and how to choose the right program.
What Is an MBA in Technology?
Technology is a thriving industry with high job growth and above-average salaries. An MBA in technology is a cross-discipline degree that includes coursework in information technology and business. An MBA provides students with an in-depth understanding of the specific needs and challenges of the industry.
Graduates of top online MBA programs develop the leadership and analytical skills to pursue roles as executives and administrators. Computer and information technology professionals earned a median salary of $97,430 in 2021, reports the BLS. This figure is more than twice the median salary for all occupations. Earning your MBA online makes you a competitive candidate for high-paying, in-demand technology careers.
Online MBA Programs for You
Grow your career, leadership, and business acumen with an accredited online MBA program.
Why Should You Get an Online MBA in Technology?
It's common to wonder if an MBA is worth it. As more companies integrate advanced technology and cyberthreats increase, organizations need innovative solutions. The need for advanced technology administrators also continues to grow. Graduates of the top online MBA in technology programs are well-positioned to lead the industry into the future. Salaries vary but are generally higher than average. Professionals with an MBA in technology earn an average salary of $119,000 as of November 2022, according to Payscale.
The best online MBA programs draw students and faculty from around the world, giving learners access to a global community of technology leaders. An online master's in technology offers greater flexibility than a traditional program. With flexible scheduling, degree-seekers can continue working while applying the knowledge they gain to their community. Online degrees often cost less than on-campus programs since learners do not incur campus fees, transportation costs, and childcare expenses.
What Can You Do With an MBA in Technology?
IT directors often oversee multiple departments while providing technical advice and managing operations. They interact with employees, vendors, and executive officers. Responsible for the overall security of corporate networks, IT directors develop guidelines and implementation strategies for information security. They also review the performance of computer systems and plan upgrades. IT directors earn an average salary of 123,238 as of January 2023, reports Payscale. However, salaries vary depending on years of experience, with entry-level directors earning 35% less.
IT managers supervise teams of IT professionals who oversee computer infrastructure and security. While specific duties vary by employer, managers typically supervise the use and transference of data within the company and between the company and the public. They research information products and implement services. These managers also hire and train IT employees. The average salary for an IT manager is $89,966
as of January 2023, according to Payscale. IT managers often need strong project management, network management, and administration skills.
CIOs are the executive-level information technology professionals for their companies. They make major decisions about information networks, including purchasing and installing IT equipment and implementing technology throughout the company. CIOs oversee technical personnel and departments and communicate with senior leadership. These professionals need advanced technology and management skills. CIOs also need strategic planning and leadership skills. CIOs earn an average of $171,586 per year as of January 2023, reports Payscale.
Project managers plan and execute information technology projects. They work closely with staff to achieve benchmarks and ensure the project remains on track. These project managers plan and evaluate the project and address problems during testing. Projects must meet quality assurance standards. Leadership, motivational, and problem-solving skills are critical to success. Pasycale reports that IT project managers earned an average salary of $89,725 as of January 2023. Experience in agile software development and strategic project management can boost your earning potential.
These managers comprise a broad category of IT management professionals. They share many of the duties of IT managers and project managers but are typically responsible for a specific set of operations depending on the company's size and IT needs. These managers may analyze, plan, and direct the implementation of information systems for a specific area. The BLS projects a 16% increase in IT management careers from 2021-31, which is much faster than average.
Online MBA in Technology Curriculum
Online MBA in technology programs offer various curricula, but they all include coursework in business management and technology. Prospective students can visit school websites to ensure the curriculum aligns with their goals.
- Future of Technology: Students participate in multiple seminars on emerging technologies and cutting-edge techniques. Degree-seekers learn how to research and forecast technologies decades before they enter the market, preparing them for leadership in a rapidly changing field.
- Strategy and IT Management: Coursework develops the skills needed by modern CIOs in a global information technology environment. Students learn the regulatory and compliance issues faced in IT management and create a portfolio of strategies and implementation techniques.
- Practicum: Students complete a practicum, internship, or capstone project in information and technology management. Learners develop skills in applied research while gaining hands-on professional experience.
See More Top MBA Programs
How to Choose the Right Online MBA in Technology Program
Individuals wanting to pursue or advance their tech careers should first select their degree focus. For example, a master's in instructional design and technology teaches software developers how to design instructional programs in technology, while a software engineering degree focuses on software analysis and architecture in the private and public sectors.
An MBA in technology combines traditional business acumen skills with a technology specialization. The best MBA technology programs partner with local and national businesses to provide valuable experience and networking opportunities. While internships provide valuable experience, learners should ensure the requirements fit their schedule. Some programs require a capstone or thesis project in lieu of an internship.
Students should also consider the a cost of an MBA , which varies by school and learners' enrollment status. Degree-seekers who cannot attend full time can pursue part-time enrollment to lower costs and provide flexibility. School location may also impact tuition costs. Prospective students should ask about residency requirements as some programs require students to visit campus for a residential period.
Scholarships for Technology MBA Programs
All college students, including students pursuing an online MBA in technology, can pursue scholarships to help fund their education. Many foundations and associations award MBA scholarships to students based on strong academic records, financial need, race, and other demographics.
Who Can Apply: U.S. residents attending an accredited graduate program in business administration may apply. Applicants need a 3.25 GPA and must submit an application and financial need form along with career objectives.
Amount: $2,000
Apply for Scholarship
Who Can Apply: NBMBAA members who are enrolled full time in an accredited MBA program with a 3.0 GPA may apply. Applicants must demonstrate academic excellence, leadership potential, and community involvement.
Amount: $5,000
Apply for Scholarship
Who Can Apply: Students accepted or enrolled at an accredited school with a minimum 3.0 GPA may apply with a 500-word essay and 60-second video describing their inspiration for entering the business field.
Amount: $7,500
Apply for Scholarship
Who Can Apply: This award is open to Canadian or U.S. citizens, or Green Card or student visa holders enrolled in a business program in the U.S. or Canada. Applicants need a 3.0 GPA and must submit an application and 750-word essay.
Amount: $1,500
Apply for Scholarship
Professional Organizations for Technology
Professional organizations provide many resources for students and professionals. As a hub of industry-leading thought and experience, professional associations drive progress and advocate for change. Students pursuing MBA careers in technology benefit from networking opportunities and professional experience. Many organizations offer scholarship opportunities and educational discounts, as well as mentorship programs.
Prospanica is home to the National Society of Hispanic MBAs. The group is the leading advocate for Hispanic professional achievement. Student members receive access to graduate scholarships, loans and refinancing programs, and internship opportunities.
CPSR advocates for the responsible implementation and use of computer technology. Members receive access to a global network of professionals and policymakers, event opportunities, healthcare, and activist resources.
Formerly known as AITP, CompTIA is an association of technology companies and professionals. The group provides industry-leading research, training, and public advocacy. Student members access career advice, scholarships, and networking opportunities.
WIT is a nonprofit for women that provides professional development and networking opportunities. Members can explore several special interest groups and programs, including mentorship opportunities.
Student members connect with active business and management professionals through this association of corporate, small business, and entrepreneurial leaders. Members receive discounts to a variety of educational opportunities and certifications.
2023's Top Online MBA Programs in Technology & Technology Management
Our rankings of the top online MBAs in technology and technology management take convenience, affordability, and educational quality into consideration to help you find your ideal program.
#1 2023’s Top Online MBA Programs in Technology & Technology Management
Western Governors University
- Salt Lake City, UT
- 4 years
- Online
Founded through the collective efforts of governors from several U.S. states in 1997, WGU provides accessible and affordable programs for working professionals. WGU delivers undergraduate and graduate degrees in business, teaching, information technology, and healthcare entirely online.
MBA in Information Technology Management
The online MBA in information technology management at WGU includes 12 courses. Eleven classes explore areas like IT project management, ethical leadership, and data-driven decision-making, followed by a capstone requirement.
Each course follows the same format except for the capstone. Students access materials and complete work on their schedules to prepare for performance assessments. Once a learner successfully demonstrates mastery of course content, they can move into their next class.
The capstone requirement allows students to apply content from the curriculum to real-world scenarios. At the end of the MBA in information technology management, enrollees possess valuable leadership, project management, and technology skills to pursue work as information technology managers.
WGU's Affordability
Each six-month term costs a flat fee of $4,530, allowing students to know the cost of the program upon entering. An enrollee who takes classes at an accelerated rate can earn their degrees in one year and for under $10,000.
Along with financial aid guidance, WGU provides students with general, partner, and business-specific scholarship opportunities.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: NWCCU, ACBSP
- Tuition: $4,530/six-month term
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 1-2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: Each applicant submits transcripts demonstrating the completion of a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Cost: None
Admission Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
147,866
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes
Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
#2 2023’s Top Online MBA Programs in Technology & Technology Management
Norwich University
- Northfield, VT
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Established in 1819 as the first private military college in the United States, Norwich is now home to more than 2,600 students. This university provides online degrees and certificates to over 1,400 learners annually.
MBA in Technology Management
At Norwich, the online MBA in technology management includes 36 credits of coursework. Core classes in strategic resources management, managerial finance, and operations management precede specialized courses in technology management.
The technology management MBA concentration emphasizes technology management strategy, supply chain management strategy and operations, and project management tools and techniques. All MBA students take a comprehensive exam at the end of the program.
No MBA course at Norwich has more than 15 students, allowing for cohesion among classmates and individualized attention from instructors. Each course spans 11 weeks, with students taking one class at a time.
Norwich's Affordability
Students can earn MBAs in technology management in as few as 18 months. Norwich accepts transfer credits and offers three start dates each year.
Norwich accepts military benefits and provides access to scholarship programs, including awards to active duty National Guard and Reserve personnel for each term of enrollment.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: NECHE, ACBSP
- Tuition: $808/credit
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 18 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online
- Admissions
- Process: Each candidate must submit a resume with three professional references, a letter of intent, and transcripts from an accredited undergraduate degree.
- GPA: 2.75
Percent Online Enrollment
65%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#3 2023’s Top Online MBA Programs in Technology & Technology Management
Southern New Hampshire University
- Manchester, NH
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Chartered in 1963, SNHU now offers more than 300 undergraduate and graduate degrees and certificates. The university provides academic programs to more than 160,000 students annually through on-campus and online programs.
MBA in Information Technology Management
At SNHU, the MBA in information technology provides coursework that matches the ever-changing technological landscape. The university integrates video content with industry leaders to maximize outcomes.
Along with 21 credits of core business classes, each enrollee takes nine credits of concentration coursework. Students without business backgrounds or previous coursework may need to complete an additional six credits of foundational classes.
Information technology management classes emphasize technical planning and strategy at the organizational level. These courses build upon major coursework in leadership, innovation, and strategy in organizations.
SNHU's Affordability
SNHU's rolling admissions allow students to enter the program five times during the year. Learners can earn an MBA in information technology management in as few as 12 months. SNHU offers tuition discounts to U.S. service members and the spouses of people on active duty.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: NECHE, ACBSP
- Tuition: $627/credit
- Required Credits: 30
- Program Length: 1-2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: Each candidate submits transcripts with a bachelor's education and any additional post-bachelor's degree coursework.
- GPA: 2.75
- Standardized Tests: None
- Cost: None
Students Enrolled
134,345
Percent Online Enrollment
96%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
New England Commission on Higher Education
#4 2023’s Top Online MBA Programs in Technology & Technology Management
SUNY Empire State College
- Saratoga Springs, NY
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
With more than 18,000 students, ESC joins 63 other schools within the SUNY system. The school's undergraduate and graduate programs offer flexible scheduling to meet the needs of working professionals.
MBA in Business Management with a specialization in Information Technology Management
The MBA in business management with a specialization in information technology at ESC includes 36 credits. Students who do not meet foundation requirements in statistics, economics, and accounting may be required to take additional classes.
After students complete classes in leadership, organizational behavior, and management strategy, they move on to 27 credits of specialized classes in information technology management. Learners explore aspects of information management, such as system design, electronic commerce, and management information systems. The program concludes with a capstone project.
ESC's online information technology MBA allows students to apply what they learn to various contexts throughout the program. Coursework fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and leadership abilities to facilitate career advancement.
ESC's Affordability
Along with affordable tuition for in-state and out-of-state learners, ESC allows students to use prior learning experience as transfer credits. Professional licensure, military occupations, certifications, and training can count toward an information technology management MBA. This policy allows students to earn degrees more quickly while paying less tuition.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Public
- Accreditation: MSCHE, IACBE
- Tuition: $625/credit (in state); $750/credit (out of state)
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 20-27 months
- Delivery Format: 100% online
- Admissions
- Process: Each candidate submits transcripts showing completion of a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, along with a resume.
- Cost: $50
Admission Rate
Not provided
Percent Online Enrollment
78%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Middle States Commission on Higher Education
#5 2023’s Top Online MBA Programs in Technology & Technology Management
Lawrence Technological University
- Southfield, MI
- 4 years
- Online + Campus
Established in 1932, LTU began offering online programs in 2006. The university enrolls nearly 3,000 students annually in more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs.
MBA, Information Technology concentration
At LTU, the online MBA with a concentration in information technology includes 36 credits of coursework. Core classes in accounting, finance, leadership, and management precede concentration courses. At the end of the program, each MBA enrollee completes a capstone requirement.
As part of the information technology MBA at LTU, learners enroll in a required project management course. Additional information technology courses in data modeling and administration, systems analysis and design, and business analytics and intelligence equip students with the practical skills to use, assess, and make decisions with business data. Students may also complete group projects.
Online lectures, which are shorter than 15 minutes, integrate audio and visual content.
LTU's Affordability
Enrollees working as a professional may receive a $200 discount per course. LTU also provides employees of Automation Alley members with a tuition discount of $250 per course.
Program at a Glance
- School Type: Private
- Accreditation: HLC, AACSB
- Tuition: $1,350/credit
- Required Credits: 36
- Program Length: 2 years
- Delivery Format: 100% online (asynchronous)
- Admissions
- Process: Each applicant provides transcripts from all previous undergraduate and graduate coursework with a professional resume.
- GPA: 3.0
- Standardized Tests: GMAT, in some cases
- Cost: $50
Percent Online Enrollment
46%
Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes
Higher Learning Commission
