Bachelor of Applied Arts and Sciences in Information Technology
Enhance your knowledge with current and relevant coursework in core information technology areas such as programming, database management, networks and computer information systems. Through a variety of classes, you’ll gain a well-rounded academic experience while learning how to solve real-world problems in computer science and business.
Designed for working professionals who already have experience in information technology and want to advance their careers, our BAAS in Information Technology is an accelerated pathway to an affordable bachelor’s degree. You may receive 12 to 33 hours of prior learning credit, including training or technical certifications, toward degree program requirements that can potentially save you thousands of dollars in tuition and fees and help you earn your bachelor’s faster. The two-year bachelor’s completion degree program in information technology can be completed fully or mostly online, with just two evening classes on campus, for flexible options that fit your schedule.
What is Information Technology?
The challenging field of information technology involves the study or application of computers for storing, retrieving, sending and manipulating data to solve business and organizational problems. IT professionals support, manage and design telecommunications and computer systems, including storage, networks, infrastructure and processes. Information technology is often referred to in the same terms as computer information systems or management information systems.
At Tarleton, we are committed to serving the needs of nontraditional students throughout Texas who are motivated to earn a bachelor’s degree. Through an innovative curriculum, we provide a cost-effective, high-quality education that stays relevant in an ever-changing global economy while providing greater opportunity and prosperity for Texans.
What Can You Do With Your Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
A BAAS degree in information technology may help you qualify for diverse job opportunities and career advancement with IT companies and departments, as well as consulting, education and training.
We have graduates all across the United States and the globe who have been successful in computer information systems and other IT roles such as:
- Network and Computer Systems Administrator
- Information Security Analyst
- Computer Network Architect
- IT Specialist
- Computer Programmer
- Web or Software Developer
- Control Analyst
- Database Administrator
Estimated Completion
120 Credit Hours (4 years)
Application Process
Cost
Locations Available
1Admission to some outreach locations, excluding select programs in Fort Worth, requires a minimum of 24 transferable credit hours, a 2.0 GPA and that a student be TSI complete.
College
Additional Ceritificate
Our information technology bachelor’s degree also prepares you for graduate school programs, such as Tarleton’s MS in Information Systems.
Careers in Information Technology
BAAS IT program graduates are highly successful: 94% are employed full time.
How Much Do Information Technology Graduates Make?
The majority of IT majors earn an annual salary of $60,000 or more, with several earning over $100,000.
Why Major in Information Technology?
We offer hands-on learning and practice using technology to solve business problems through coursework, internships, study abroad, service learning, research and more.
Students majoring in information technology have a variety of opportunities for undergraduate research. You can work with faculty on their research projects, which could lead to journal publication and research presentations. You can also travel to regional academic conferences and competitions with other Texas A&M schools.
In a constantly changing field of information technology and computer information systems, we stay current in our knowledge and skills and share our practical work experience in the classroom. We are passionate about teaching and strive to provide high-quality instruction that's as engaging online as it is face to face.
You may be able to apply for program scholarships for IT majors. In Tarleton’s IT degree program, you may also be eligible for free software such as .NET applications, Windows operating systems and other Microsoft products, Visio and Visual Studio. , as well as private, college and university scholarships or federal financial aid.
What kinds of credit can I use for this degree?
Credit for Prior Learning (CPL)
- Workforce Hours: BAAS Information Technology degree will accept Workforce courses taught at a community college Focused on Computer Science and Information Technology
- Certifications related to Information Technology: The program will accept types of training documentation in Subjects such as programming, IT security, networking, web design, database, hacking, operating systems, firewalls, Microsoft, CISCO support, Cybersecurity, etc.
- Military Service: Your military experience, including IT or cybersecurity training, is documented on
your Joint Services Transcript (JST). Certified communication or IT-related MOS
training may qualify for academic credit
We offer online and hybrid formats on our Stephenville, Waco and Ft Worth campuses to accommodate your busy schedule.
Explore our Career Enrichment Scholarship for an affordable education. The Fixed-Price Degree Scholarship ensures your cost is capped at $200 per credit hour for five years. Secure your education confidently.
By leveraging your existing knowledge and skills, you will be able to complete your degree faster and at a lower cost.
Our instructors are industry professionals who understand the value of real-world experience and can help you connect your learning to your career goals.
What Classes Will You Take as an Information Technology Major?
Study topics in C# programming, computer forensics, management information systems and more.
View all required classes for the information technology bachelor’s degree.
Certificate in Cybersecurity
The BAAS-IT, BBA-MIS, and BS-CIS all include the opportunity for students to pursue an additional certificate in the field of cybersecurity during their studies at Tarleton State University. Work with your COB Academic Adviser to take advantage of this opportunity.
Included coursework:
| Class | Number | Class Name |
|---|---|---|
| BCIS | 4320 | Computer Forensics |
| BCIS | 4342 | Ethical Hacking & Network Defense |
| BCIS | 5345 | Network & Systems Security |
| CRIJ | 3315 | Rules of Criminal Evidence |
| CRIJ | 4353 | Global Cyber-Security |
The CIS side will prepare individuals to secure both computer systems and networks, as well as develop business security strategies. The courses utilize hands-on labs and include the use of current security, forensic, and penetration testing software. The student will also be preparing to take the CompTIA Security+ certification exam. The CJ side will prepare the student to recognize, gather, and report electronic evidence for analysis of security breaches, criminal or civil investigations, and any other legal or company procedural purpose.
Accelerated Program
The MS-Information Systems includes an accelerated option, allowing undergraduate students to begin their graduate studies early and shortening their time to graduation. Interested students should identify their interest in pursuing this option early in their program and work with their Academic Adviser to select the appropriate degree plan options:
- BS-CIS: Accelerated CIS/MS Information Systems
- BAAS-IT: Accelerated IT/MS Information Technology
- BBA-MIS: Accelerated MIS/MS Information Systems
Students in their final undergraduate semester, should work with the COB Graduate Manager to complete the Graduate Student Provisional Form, enabling them to register for their graduate classes. Students who choose the accelerated option will, in their final semester, take BCIS 5311 plus an additional BCIS graduate elective, to serve as undergraduate electives and also begin work towards their graduate studies. Students should also complete their application to the College of Graduate Studies during their final semester in preparation for admittance into the graduate program.
Accreditations
- The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
How Do You Get Started on Your Bachelor’s Degree in Information Technology?
Take the next step toward earning your bachelor’s degree in information technology. We have the resources to help you get started.
By extension, the accredited Dr. Sam Pack College of Business offers IT majors educational programming such as Executives in Residence and job fairs. COB leads with an entrepreneurial mindset to develop innovative and creative decision makers, meaningful engagement with the business community and global perspective in better understanding the interconnected business environment.
Our BAAS degree in information technology is a STEM-designated program as defined by the Department of Homeland Security. Under the optional practical training STEM extension, international students with F-1 visas can remain in the United States for an additional 24 months after graduating.
Get involved outside the classroom through student clubs and professional organizations. In particular, IT majors can join the Association of Information Technology Professionals, the Dallas Hackers Association and the Fort Worth Chapter of the Information Systems Security Association.
What Bachelor’s Degrees are Related to Information Technology?
- BBA in Computer Information Systems
- BS in Computer Information Systems
- BS in Computer Science
- BS in Applied Science