Information Technology Degree (Online), AAS

Why Study Information Technology?

Information technology (IT) uses computer systems and networks to process, store, and send data. That includes everything from product design to software development to protecting data. IT professionals work in various jobs depending on their skills and expertise and may be responsible for the following:

• Maintaining hardware and software
• Troubleshooting technical issues
• Developing and implementing new systems
• Securing sensitive data

In today's digital age, IT is essential for businesses and organizations of all sizes. By building IT skills, you can work in online banking, social media, e-commerce, and more. Find an in-demand career as a skilled IT professional by earning an Information Technology AAS degree.

Why Enroll in the Online Information Technology Degree Program at San Juan College?

Flexible Online IT Program

Jump-start your career in information technology in less than two years with SJC's fast-track program. You can complete our online Information Technology AAS degree program in just 18 months. In addition, the program's courses are offered in eight-week sessions.

National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (CAE-CD)

San Juan College holds an exclusive designation by the National Security Agency (NSA) as a National Center of Academic Excellence in Cyber Defense (NCAE-CD). As the only two-year institution in New Mexico with this designation, SJC is vital in advancing education and research in cyber defense. You'll receive top-tier cybersecurity education, develop key competencies, and gain hands-on experience. Our program ensures you're well-prepared to tackle real-world challenges, setting you apart in the cybersecurity field.

IT Program Perks

SJC wants to help you to have all the tools you need for a successful IT career. We offer a variety of benefits that will help you in your classwork and career:

• Free Books and Software: The Information Technology AAS core courses are all-inclusive. That means your registration and fees include books and software purchases for these courses. Note: You may need to purchase books and supplies separately for non-IT courses.
• Certification Exam Vouchers: Get vouchers to take IT certification exams for free.
• Membership to ACM (Association of Computing Machinery): Gain membership to ACM, the world's largest computing society. It offers benefits that can advance your career, such as free training, books, videos, and more.
• LinkedIn Learning: Gain access to expert-led training and learning that will help you advance your career.
• Lab Simulation Software: Practice your skills using various lab simulation software.

CompTIA Academic Partner

CompTIA is a leading IT industry association. SJC is proud to be a CompTIA Academic Partner, which means our IT program meets the highest industry standards and is current with the latest trends.
Our Information Technology AAS program maps its learning outcomes to specific CompTIA certifications. That means you'll be able to pass their certification exams, which are important for qualifying for IT jobs.

Certifications include:

• CompTIA IT Fundamentals
• CompTIA A+ Hardware
• CompTIA A+ Operating Systems
• CompTIA Network+
• CompTIA Security+

Be confident that you'll receive a high-quality education that prepares you for your future career with an education from SJC.

Affordable Online IT Degree Option

With SJC's low tuition rates and the growth in the IT industry, earning your Information Technology AAS is an excellent investment for you. You'll learn flexibly with our online courses and get the support you need. You may also qualify to get your degree tuition-free through the NM Opportunity and Lottery Scholarships. 

What You'll Learn in the Associate Degree in Information Technology

Study computer systems and networks with SJC's Information Technology AAS degree program. You'll learn about important topics, from network support to cybersecurity tools. Develop the knowledge and skills necessary for CompTIA and Microsoft certifications, which will help you stand out in your career search.

In your program core courses, you'll take:

• One business class (Introduction to Business)
• Three computer science courses in programming and spreadsheeting
• 11 information technology courses

Your IT courses covers topics such as:

• Cloud technologies
• Computer hardware
• Cybersecurity
• Databases
• Linux operating system
• Microsoft platforms and services such as Microsoft Azure and Microsoft 365

You are strongly encouraged or may be required to pursue CompTIA and Microsoft certifications throughout your studies.

Information Technology AAS Curriculum

Transfer Options for IT Graduates

Many SJC Information Technology AAS students begin a career once they graduate. If you would like to continue your education to earn a bachelor's degree, our advisors can help you to find the program and academic pathway that will work best for you.

SJC has a partnership with the New Mexico Institute of Mining and Technology (NM Tech), which may accept many of your courses.

Other schools that you may consider transferring to include:

• Carnegie Mellon University
• Fort Lewis College
• Georgia Tech
• Northern Arizona University
• The University of New Mexico
• The University of Arizona
• University of Colorado - Colorado Springs
• University of Colorado - Denver

Meet with your advisor if you wish to transfer to pursue your bachelor's degree in computer science or a similar field at any of the above institutions. You will need to coordinate your coursework at San Juan College with the transfer institution's requirements.

Learn More About the Transfer Process

Careers and Outcomes

SJC's Information Technology AAS program prepares you for exciting careers in this rapidly growing field. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in computer and information technology occupations to grow 15% from 2021 to 2031. As a graduate, you will have the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in the exciting IT industry.

Our online IT program graduates have found work as:

• Cybersecurity specialists
• Information technology specialists
• Network support specialists

Graduates of our associate degree in information technology program work for:

• City of Farmington
• Intel
• Los Alamos National Laboratory
• Sandia National Laboratories