Best Degrees for Business and Technology

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Updated October 12, 2023

Learn more about degrees in business and technology, and explore our ranking of the best schools for business and technology bachelor's and master's programs.

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A degree in business and technology combines two different fields into one practical program. A typical curriculum explores business management strategies, accounting, data analytics, and business computer applications. Students gain a relevant skill set that makes them desirable to employers in many industries.

A degree in this field can open the door to high-paying opportunities in both business and information technology (IT). This type of degree can help business and IT professionals advance their careers. It may also appeal to workers in other fields seeking a change. Potential jobs include data analyst, information security officer, and information security analyst.

This page explains why earning a business technology degree is beneficial and what to expect from a typical program. We also cover career opportunities and potential salaries for degree-holders. Explore the best schools for business and technology bachelor's and master's degrees with our ranking lists further below.

Why Get a Degree in Business and Technology?

Earning a degree in business and technology can prepare students to apply for diverse jobs in in-demand sectors. Graduates hold a blend of technical and general business mastery that can make them competitive candidates across many fields.

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects faster-than-average growth for information technology occupations from 2020-2030. The agency reports that business professionals earned a median of $76,570 a year as of 2021, higher than the $45,760 median salary for all occupations.

Below, we describe some of the benefits of getting a business technology degree.

  • Versatile Skills: Business technology programs help students develop desirable technical and general business skills. Learners also gain communication, leadership, problem-solving, and interpersonal skills that can benefit nearly any industry.
  • High Salaries: Graduates with a business and technology degree can apply for high-paying jobs. Information security analysts, one potential occupation, earned a median annual salary of $102,600 as of 2021.
  • Job Stability: A business and technology degree can lead to many different career paths in growing fields. This can make it easier to find and keep a job.

Should You Get a Degree in Business and Technology or Cybersecurity?

Business technology programs and cybersecurity programs share some similarities, but they also differ in key ways. Below, we explain factors to consider when choosing between a business and technology program and a cybersecurity program.

Learners should consider a business technology degree if:

  • They want to focus more on business than technology
  • They want a versatile degree that can prepare them to apply for a broader array of jobs
  • They want to pursue a higher degree in business

Students should consider a cybersecurity degree if:

What degree do you need to work in cybersecurity?
Explore top HBCUs with cybersecurity programs
Discover the most diverse cybersecurity programs
What's the difference between a computer science and cybersecurity degree?

Top Online Programs

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Degree Options for Studying Business and Technology

The top business tech schools deliver different levels of business and technology degrees and describe them using various names. Most programs offer a degree in business with a specialization in an area like general IT, computer science, software design, or information systems. The IT focus varies by program.

The higher the degree level you earn, the better opportunities you will likely encounter for job possibilities and salary potential. Below, we explain what to expect from associate, bachelor's, master's, and doctoral programs in business and technology.

Associate Degrees in Business or Technology

Business technology degrees are less common at the associate level than at other degree levels. Many associate degrees focus solely on either business or technology.

A typical associate degree in a business or technology field requires about 60 credits. Students usually graduate after two years of full-time study. Common courses introduce subjects like financial accounting, management principles, and business law.

Associate degree graduates can continue their education by transferring to a four-year program. They can also apply for entry-level positions like computer support specialist, sales representative, and administrative assistant.

Learn more about associate in cybersecurity programs

Bachelor's Degrees in Business Technology

A bachelor's in business technology degree typically emphasizes general business administration concepts with a secondary focus on solving business problems through technology. Business and technology majors usually graduate in four full-time years.

Bachelor's in business technology programs go by various names, including business information technology. Many programs in this field confer a business degree with a concentration or minor in an area of IT. For example, students can earn a bachelor of business administration with a computer science minor or an emphasis in information systems.

A typical business and technology bachelor's curriculum varies by degree focus. Typical course topics include database management systems, quantitative business analysis, programming fundamentals, and computer organization. Other common classes cover business computer applications, principles of finance, and computer information systems. Some programs conclude with an internship or capstone course, giving learners hands-on experience while still in school.

Application requirements may include transcripts, essays, and recommendation letters. Many top business tech schools accept applications through Common App, which allows candidates to apply to multiple schools at once.

Learn more about bachelor's in cybersecurity programs
Consider a bachelor's in data analytics

Master's Degrees in Business Technology

Master's in business technology degrees typically include master of business administration programs with an IT-related concentration or emphasis. Business technology MBAs offer concentrations in areas like data analytics, business analytics, technology and innovation management, and technology management.

Common tech-focused master's courses include artificial intelligence and machine learning, advanced topics in data analysis, and data strategy. Master's business courses explore topics like strategic leadership, operations management, financial management, and organizational change. Many master's in business and technology programs feature a capstone project.

Admission requirements often include a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution and a minimum GPA. Applicants may need to submit GRE or GMAT scores and letters of recommendation. Students can usually graduate with a master's degree in business and technology in 1-2 years. Working tech and business professionals can pursue a master's to expand their career opportunities.

Learn more about master's in cybersecurity programs
Consider a master's in data analytics

Ph.D.s in Business Technology

Ph.D. in business technology programs help students develop high-level tech expertise that can make companies more efficient, effective, and profitable. Doctoral business technology degree-holders can pursue opportunities in research and development, university teaching, and entrepreneurship.

Business and technology Ph.D. students complete required courses in microeconomics, machine learning, and econometrics. They must usually pass a comprehensive exam. Ph.D. candidates also research, write, and defend a doctoral dissertation that addresses a field-relevant question.

Learn more about doctorates in cybersecurity

Top Online Programs

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

Jobs for Graduates of Top Business Tech Schools

Business technology colleges prepare students to pursue roles like chief information security officer, web developer, and IT security manager. Other possibilities include information security analyst and data analyst. Potential salaries start around $77,000 for web developers and rise to more than $168,000 for chief information security officers.

Below, we describe what to expect from some business and technology careers. We outline frequent duties, advancement opportunities, and the types of sectors that hire these positions.

Chief Information Security Officer

Chief information security officers oversee their employers' overall information security. They may manage IT teams, create budgets, develop security best practices, and track emerging security trends.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree; some employers prefer applicants with a master's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): Not available
Average Annual Salary: $168,530

Web Developer

Web developers create websites. Typical tasks include writing code, determining a website's layout and contents, and meeting with clients. Some web developers also maintain sites. Many professionals in this field are self-employed. Others work in computer systems design, publishing, and advertising. Web developers can advance to become project managers.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): +13%
Median Annual Salary: $77,200

IT Security Manager

The position usually requires a bachelor's, but IT security managers with a master's degree may find better job opportunities and higher salaries. Specific job duties vary by organization. Security managers at smaller companies often work directly on security-related technical issues. Professionals at larger organizations may focus more on management duties.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): Not available
Average Annual Salary: $117,030

Information Security Analysts

Information security analysts plan and launch security efforts to protect data and computer systems. Common tasks include looking for security threats and breaches, researching IT trends, and helping computer users. Security analysts can advance to become computer and information systems managers.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): +33%
Median Annual Salary: $102,600

Data Scientist

Data scientists use data to ask and answer questions. They often clean, organize, mine, and present data. Data scientists need cybersecurity, programming, statistical analysis, and machine learning skills.

Required Education: Bachelor's degree
Job Outlook (2020-30): Not available
Average Annual Salary: $97,290

Learn more about jobs in cybersecurity
Transition from general IT into cybersecurity

Top Online Programs

Explore programs of your interests with the high-quality standards and flexibility you need to take your career to the next level.

Choosing the Best Business and Technology School for You

Finding the business and technology school for you takes research. Our rankings provide a good place to start, but many other factors go into this decision. Below, we outline some important considerations that can help you make your choice.

  • Accreditation: Attending an accredited institution makes it easier to qualify for financial aid, transfer credit to another school, and apply for higher degrees or professional certifications later. Many top business and technology programs also hold separate programmatic accreditation from organizations like AACSB International or the International Accreditation Council for Business Education.
  • School size: Some people look for a small, intimate school that makes it easier to develop relationships. Others prefer the resources and diversity of a large university.
  • Location: Do you want the familiarity and affordability of going to school in your home town, or would you prefer the excitement of moving to a new city?

Should You Get Your Degree Online?

Schools offer online, in-person, and hybrid business and technology degrees. Online programs sometimes take place synchronously, requiring students to log on at specific times. Others offer asynchronous classes, letting learners complete coursework whenever they want. Online programs are increasingly easy to find and successful at providing a strong education.

Online degrees can offer affordability, flexibility, and convenience compared to traditional on-campus options. Business technology programs may be especially well-suited to online learning, since students gain high levels of comfort using technology to communicate and solve problems. Some people may prefer the structure and familiarity of an in-person program.

Identify your priorities and weigh the pros and cons to determine if an online degree is the right fit.

Should you attend a top-rated bootcamp instead?

Top Bachelor's in Business and Technology Programs

Explore the ranking of 2022's five best schools for business and technology bachelor's programs. The link below explains how we rank schools for all degree levels.

View our ranking methodology

#1 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

University of Florida-Online

  • Gainesville, FL
  • 4 years
  • Online

A public school, University of Florida-Online educates students from its Florida campus. The institution delivers four-year bachelor's programs for undergraduate degree-seekers, including a bachelor's in computer and information sciences. Bachelor's degree-holders can pursue entry-level positions or a master's degree. Undergraduate degree-seekers take major classes and complete general education requirements. Students customize their program with a minor or concentration. 

The institution's affordable tuition rates help degree-seekers minimize out-of-pocket expenses. The institution charges in-state degree-seekers $3,358 annually and out-of-state learners $15,000 per year. The school accepts 32% of undergraduate applicants. University of Florida-Online holds accreditation from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. Prospective applicants can contact the admissions department to learn about pursuing a bachelor's degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$3,358
Out-of-state
$15,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
63%
Acceptance Rate
32%
Students Enrolled
3,926
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#2 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

The College of Idaho

  • Caldwell, ID
  • 4 years
  • Campus

A private institution, The College of Idaho is located in Idaho. The school offers four-year bachelor's programs for undergraduate degree-seekers. After completing a bachelor's program, individuals can pursue entry-level roles or further education. Students earning a bachelor's degree fulfill general education and major requirements. 

Students can use elective credits to obtain a specialized minor or concentration. Degree-seekers benefit from an 11-to-1 student-to-faculty ratio, which allows students individual time with faculty members. To get the most out of their educational experience, degree-seekers can participate in extracurricular activities through campus organizations.

The institution charges in-state and out-of-state learners $31,000 annually and accepts 49% of applicants. The school holds accreditation from the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities, an independent accrediting body. Prospective applicants can contact the admissions department for information about admission requirements.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,000
Out-of-state
$31,000
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,340
Out-of-state
$18,340
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
49%
Students Enrolled
1,091
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

#3 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

Grove City College

  • Grove City, PA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Pennsylvania-based Grove City College delivers 53 online and on-campus programs. Students can pursue a bachelor's in business analysis with a concentration in software design. General education requirements for bachelor's degree-seekers include classes in areas such as English and mathematics. Undergraduate students gain knowledge and skills to impress employers. While earning major credits, students learn about subjects relevant to their field. Online degree-seekers can specialize by adding a minor.

Degree-seekers may receive credit for hands-on learning opportunities, such as internships. Students can explore the school’s website to learn how to earn credit for internships and service learning. The institution delivers in-person and virtual student support services, such as tutoring and career counseling. Student organizations provide degree-seekers with professional development and networking opportunities.

To fund their degree, 77% of the school's students obtain financial aid. Students can reduce out-of-pocket costs by applying for grants and scholarships. Prospective enrollees can expect an admission rate of 79% to this bachelor’s degree.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$18,470
Out-of-state
$18,470
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
90%
Acceptance Rate
79%
Students Enrolled
2,272
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
14% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

Juniata College

  • Huntingdon, PA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Juniata College offers online programs that prepare students for new job opportunities and career advancement. Students at the school can enroll in a bachelor's program in business information technology. While completing their bachelor's program, degree-seekers gain the knowledge and skills necessary to secure roles in their field. 

Bachelor's programs require general education coursework. Major classes explore topics specific to the learner's field of study to prepare them for the workforce. Adding a minor to their bachelor's degree can help individuals qualify for specialized roles after graduation.

As an accredited institution, the school can distribute federal financial aid. The school offers support services for online and on-campus students and provides peer and professional tutoring.

According to the school, 100% of degree-seekers receive financial aid and 64% take out loans. Learners can apply for grants and scholarships to minimize student debt. The institution accepts 71% of applicants.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$46,250
Out-of-state
$46,250
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$24,800
Out-of-state
$24,800
Retention Rate
86%
Acceptance Rate
71%
Students Enrolled
1,429
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
2% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Middle States Commission on Higher Education

#5 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

Dordt University

  • Sioux Center, IA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Graduates of Dordt University often use experience from the bachelor's of business administration with an emphasis in information systems to secure entry-level positions and gain experience before pursuing career advancement. The business management program features a rigorous curriculum, helping enrollees develop foundational knowledge in the field.

Learners pursuing the bachelor's degree take general education courses, along with core and upper-division major classes. Degree-seekers can select electives to prepare for careers in certain business management areas. Many undergraduates pursue internship opportunities to gain professional experience while earning their degree.

Admissions advisors provide prospective learners with program-specific application details. Undergraduate students usually earn their bachelor's in four years of full-time study.

Dordt University Fast Facts:

Percentage of Students Awarded Financial Aid: 100%

Percentage of Students Awarded Loans: 54%

Number of Bachelor's Programs: 109

Accepts Transfer Credits: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$31,210
Out-of-state
$31,210
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$5,940
Out-of-state
$5,940
Retention Rate
81%
Acceptance Rate
75%
Students Enrolled
1,547
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
16% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

Top Master's in Business and Technology Programs

The following ranking spotlights 2022's top five business tech schools for master's programs. Check our methodology page for information about how we rank institutions.

#1 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

Lake Forest Graduate School of Management

  • Lake Forest, IL
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Located in Illinois, Lake Forest Graduate School of Management delivers online and on-campus programs. Master's degree-seekers gain advanced knowledge from high-level courses in their field. While completing their master's program, degree-seekers gain the knowledge and skills necessary to impress employers.

Online and on-campus learners can access student support services. Students can also access peer tutoring to improve their academic performance.

Lake Forest Graduate School of Management Facts:

Number of Students: 451

Master's Degrees: 2

The school holds accreditation from the Higher Learning Commission, a regional accrediting body.

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
Not provided
Out-of-state
Not provided
Retention Rate
Not provided
Acceptance Rate
Not provided
Students Enrolled
451
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
64% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Higher Learning Commission

#2 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

Hult International Business School

  • Cambridge, MA
  • 4 years
  • Campus

Learners at Hult International Business School can pursue a variety of respected degrees, including a master's in business management. Hult International Business School is a private institution delivering academic programs, including a business analytics specialization, from its campus in Cambridge. Learners currently employed in the business management field often qualify for career advancement after graduation.

The business management program's rigorous curriculum helps enrollees develop field-specific knowledge and transferable skills. Master's students gain specialized knowledge during elective classes and apply theoretical knowledge during experiential learning opportunities. Student support services, including faculty mentorship and career counseling, help learners succeed academically and professionally.

Students enrolled full time typically need 1-2 years to graduate with a master's in business management. Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal grants and loans.

Hult International Business School Numbers:

Total Master's Programs: 6

Students Receiving Aid: 77%

Students Receiving Loans: 7%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$38,458
Out-of-state
$38,458
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$43,307
Out-of-state
$43,307
Retention Rate
78%
Acceptance Rate
43%
Students Enrolled
2,349
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
Not provided
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#3 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

Babson College

  • Wellesley, MA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Babson College offers a respected master's-level business administration program. Graduates can transition to a business administration career or advance their current career in the field after earning their master's degree.

Enrollees in the business administration master's program complete core and specialized coursework meeting high academic standards. Experiential learning opportunities help graduate students gain practical skills and prepare to impress employers after graduation. The school delivers faculty mentorship and career counseling for graduate degree-seekers.

Full-time students typically complete the master's program in 1-2 years. At the accredited institution, degree-seekers who demonstrate financial need can qualify for federal aid.

Babson College Fast Facts:

Average Per-Credit Tuition: $1,888

Total Master's Programs: 5

Students Receiving Aid: 51%

Students Receiving Loans: 31%

Transfer Credits Toward Degree: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$52,608
Out-of-state
$52,608
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$89,550
Out-of-state
$89,550
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
26%
Students Enrolled
3,325
Institution Type
Private
Percent Online Enrollment
1% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes New England Commission on Higher Education

#4 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

  • Chapel Hill, NC
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

A public institution, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill delivers academic programs, such as the MBA with a concentration in technology and innovation management, from its campus in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. The master's program can benefit learners who are new to the field and those with established business management careers.

Enrollees develop specialized knowledge in the field and soft skills that apply to experiential learning opportunities and professional roles. Graduate students can complete internships to gain experience and bolster their resume. The school provides support services, such as academic advising and career counseling, to support master's degree-seekers' overall success.

Master's programs typically take 1-2 years for full-time master's students to complete. Degree-seekers with financial need can apply for federal aid, including grants and loans.

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Numbers:

Average Per-Credit Tuition: $1,767

Total Master's Programs: 84

Number of Online Master’s Programs: 14

Students Receiving Aid: 65%

Students Receiving Loans: 25%

Accepts Transfer Credits: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$7,019
Out-of-state
$34,198
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$10,552
Out-of-state
$28,278
Retention Rate
96%
Acceptance Rate
23%
Students Enrolled
29,877
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
12% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges

#5 Best Degrees for Business and Technology

University of Washington-Seattle Campus

  • Seattle, WA
  • 4 years
  • Online + Campus

Learners attending University of Washington-Seattle Campus can earn a master's in business administration. Students pursuing the technology management MBA can attend classes at the school's campus in Seattle, Washington. Learners currently employed in the business administration field often qualify for career advancement after graduation.

The business administration program features a rigorous curriculum and meets high academic standards for graduate studies. Electives and experiential learning opportunities allow students to prepare for niche careers in the field. The school offers learners access to faculty mentorship and career counseling.

Most graduate students can finish the master's program in 1-2 years of full-time study. Degree-seekers at the accredited institution qualify for federal financial aid programs.

University of Washington-Seattle Campus Numbers:

Per-Credit Tuition: $896

Total Master's Programs: 273

Online Master's Options: 10

Students Receiving Aid: 57%

Students Receiving Loans: 24%

Permits Transfer Credits: No

Average Undergrad Tuition
In-state
$10,370
Out-of-state
$37,071
Average Graduate Tuition
In-state
$18,198
Out-of-state
$32,439
Retention Rate
95%
Acceptance Rate
52%
Students Enrolled
47,576
Institution Type
Public
Percent Online Enrollment
8% Percentage of all students who are enrolled online.
Accreditation
Yes Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities

Frequently Asked Questions About Business and Technology

What can I do with a degree in business and technology?

Business technology colleges can prepare students to apply for jobs like information security analyst, web developer, and data scientist. Career opportunities vary depending on your experience, degree level, and location.

Are colleges with business and technology programs hard to get into?

Admission standards for business technology programs vary by institution. The best schools for business and technology may maintain tough criteria, including minimum GPA and test scores.

Which MBA is best for working in tech?

An MBA in technology provides good preparation for tech roles. The best degree depends on what industry you prefer to work in and what job you want to get. For example, if you want to apply for jobs in software development, find a program that offers courses in that area.

Can I work in cybersecurity with a bachelor's degree in business and technology?

A business technology degree may prepare you for some cybersecurity jobs, like information security analyst or chief information security officer. However, the amount of time that business technology programs spend on cybersecurity varies.


Featured Image: metamorworks / iStock / Getty Images Plus

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