As technology advances at a rapid pace, you need to stay ahead of the curve.
As an experienced IT professional, you have a wealth of knowledge and skills under your belt. But the field of IT never stands still; as it evolves, you need to evolve with it. Our online Ph.D. program in information technology could be what you need to ensure that you stay ahead.
More than a pathway to earning the highest credential in your field, our online doctorate program offers the chance to take a deep dive into the IT industry’s challenges and opportunities. That could mean gaining deep knowledge of how machine learning solves business problems, using analytics to plan for growing IT needs, responding to evolving cyber security threats, and much more. Pursuing your PhD in information technology offers the license to follow your scholarly interests and make discoveries that could potentially change the industry — and the world.
By the Numbers
$10.4K
30
Programs & Requirements
Online Doctorate in Information Technology
The PhD in information technology online degree program from ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is designed to help you take your IT career to new heights. The program is comprised of 60 required credit hours, which include professional research courses, content specialty courses, and a dissertation.
Our fully online curriculum focuses on predictive analytics, enhancing your credentials and giving you the tools you need to be your company’s IT expert in cybercrime security, big data, and smart technology. You’ll explore information governance, technology for a global economy, enterprise risk management, data science, big data, and more. You’ll also gain a comprehensive understanding of emerging threats to IT infrastructure and systems, plus identify countermeasures to keep cyberattacks at bay.
Course Requirements
- *
* If the dissertation is not completed at the end of , the candidate repeats as needed, for three (3) credit hours each term, until the dissertation is completed and successfully defended.
A content specialty area of at least eighteen hours (18) must be earned in one of several disciplines:
- Artificial Intelligence
- Blockchain
- Computer Science
- Cyber Engineering
- Data Science
- Information Systems Security
- Information Technology
Courses in the following UC Master's programs will matriculate as the Doctoral specialty if the courses are completed beyond the first Master’s degree:
- MS Information Technology
- MS Information Systems Security
- MS Cyber Engineering
- MS Blockchain
In the event a learner needs more classes, other related discipline courses could be considered with the discretion of the Department Chair and Program Director under the direction of the Dean of the School.
For a full list of course offerings or more program specific information, visit our Academic Catalog.
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Mission & Goals
The mission of the online IT PhD program at ºÚÁϲ»´òìÈ is to teach practitioners the theories, strategies, and tactics necessary to lead in today’s global technology management field. Through this program, you will strengthen your skills in:
Information Technology Careers & Outcomes
*All statistics from the U.S. Bureau of Labor and Statistics
Computer and Information Research Scientist: $136,620
Computer and Information Research Scientist: $136,620
Computer and information research scientists design innovative uses for new and existing computing technology.
Computer Network Architect: $126,900
Computer Network Architect: $126,900
Computer network architects design and build data communication networks, including local area networks (LANs), wide area networks (WANs), and Intranets.
Data Scientist: $103,500
Data Scientist: $103,500
Data scientists use analytical tools and techniques to extract meaningful insights from data.
Information Security Analyst: $112,000
Information Security Analyst: $112,000
Information security analysts plan and carry out security measures to protect an organization’s computer networks and systems.
Database Administrator/Architect: $112,120
Database Administrator/Architect: $112,120
Database administrators and architects create or organize systems to store and secure data.
Computer and Information Systems Manager: $164,070
Computer and Information Systems Manager: $164,070
Computer and information systems managers plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities in an organization.
Common Questions
A Ph.D. in Information Technology is a doctoral-level degree that focuses on advanced research and scholarly exploration within the field of IT. It emphasizes developing expertise in IT theory, research methodologies, and contributing to the knowledge base through original research.
The duration of a Ph.D. in Information Technology typically ranges from 3 to 5 years of full-time study. Part-time programs may take longer to complete.
Yes, many universities offer Ph.D. programs in Information Technology online. These programs are designed to accommodate working professionals and offer flexibility in completing coursework and research requirements remotely.
Earning a Ph.D. in Information Technology can be worth it for those interested in pursuing careers in academia, research, or advanced leadership positions in IT. It enhances career opportunities, potentially increases earning potential, and allows for deep specialization in a chosen area of IT.
Graduates with a Ph.D. in Information Technology can pursue careers as computer and information research scientists, IT managers, data scientists, information security analysts, and more. They often work in research institutions, academia, government agencies, or in senior-level positions within corporations.
To obtain a Ph.D. in Information Technology, you typically need to complete coursework, pass comprehensive exams, conduct original research, and write and defend a dissertation. Admission requirements often include a master's degree in a related field, relevant work experience, and strong academic qualifications.
Yes, the Ph.D. in Information Technology is a recognized doctoral degree that prepares individuals for advanced research and leadership roles in the IT field.
Faculty Experts
Learn more about the professors you will interact with in the Department of Information Technology
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