Information technology, or IT, is one of the fastest-growing fields, in part because it is so deeply connected to nearly every other industry out there. As an IT profession, you could work not just in a technological company, but also in fields such as healthcare, green energy, security, education, and more. While at one time, IT professionals weren’t even required to have a formal education, today’s employers usually want to see at least a bachelor’s degree and the best positions in this field require even more. If you earn a PhD in IT, you can qualify for some of the most high-paying positions, working with government authorities, world-wide organizations, and other employers who will gladly pay a six-figure salary to those who have this level of education.

Base Salary for IT Workers

With a PhD in IT, you can take on a variety of roles, but one of the most commonly held positions is computer and information systems manager. According to government reports, the average annual wage for all managers in this field is $120,640 annually, so with a PhD, you can expect to earn even more. The highest paid positions are found in New Jersey, New York, and California, with the most just being available in Washington, D.C. Indeed.com reports that those starting out in an IT career with a PhD can expect to earn an average of $96,000 annually, so even with little job experience, you can earn a high salary in this field.

Benefits for IT Workers with PhDs

Keep in mind that the base salary you earn as someone with a PhD in IT doesn’t necessarily reflect all the job has to offer. IT workers who earn their PhDs hold some of the most well-respected jobs in the industry, and these jobs typically come attached to lucrative benefits packaged, which include retirement plans, health and dental coverage, paid vacation days, travel cost reimbursement, and other perks.You may even be able to get your PhD or continuing education for free through your employer if you have a master’s degree and are working in the IT field.

Self-Employment

With a PhD in IT, you’ll also be qualified to work for yourself as an IT consultant. In this role, earning potential is only limited by the amount of work you do, as IT consultants are in high demand around the world.

According to the Information Technology Association of America (ITAA), information technology is "the study, design, development, application, implementation, support or management of computer-based information systems, particularly software applications and computer hardware." The Internet Security (IS) and Computer Science fields are closely related to the IT industry. The PhD in IT is the highest degree awarded in this subject, and readies graduates for positions teaching in academia or doing research within the field. Below are the best accredited online colleges that offer PhD in IT and related degrees, including IS and Computer Science.

PhD in I.S. Mgmt DBA in I.S. Mgmt	Walden University -- Walden University's PhD in Information Systems Management and the DBA in Information Systems Management help students manage information, get the most value from investments in organizational systems, learn about e-commerce, security management and risk assessment, and system design. Students also learn to manage people effectively to create a positive and energetic working environment.
PhD in IT PhD in IT Mgmt PhD in IT Education PhD in IT Project Mgmt	Capella University -- Capella University's PhD programs in IT, IT Management, IT Education, and IT Project Management teach current IT workers all the skills they need to effectively lead and manage their IT departments. Students learn to lead IT employee development classes, manage projects, and create new programs and policies that will allow their IT departments and the larger organizations to function at a higher capacity.
DBA in Computer Sci.	Northcentral University -- Northcentral University's DBA in Applied Computer Science prepares students to take on executive roles in information technology through advanced education in the information technology field. Coursework combines leadership principles with the latest technology, and emphasizes the intersection of management principles with emerging media, as well as database management and troubleshooting.
Doctor of Computer Sci.	Colorado Technical University -- The Colorado Technical University's Doctor of Computer Science program prepares students to evaluate and analyze digital systems using theoretical knowledge and research. The program offers a concentration in digital systems security which is increasingly important to large organizations. The Doctor of Computer Science focuses on training students to predict future trends and act strategically in their areas of technical expertise.
PhD in C.I.S. PhD in I.S.	Nova Southeastern University -- The Graduate School of Computer and Information Sciences at Nova Southeastern University offers high level programs for IT professionals who need advanced degrees to further their careers. The PhD programs in computer information systems and information systems both focus on the leadership component of Information Technology, as well as information security.
DBA in I.S.	California InterContinental University -- California InterContinental University's DBA in information systems & enterprise resource management helps students improve their analytical ability and strategic thinking, preparing them for careers in Information Systems management and consulting. Information security is emphasized, as are leadership skills, and systems evaluation and optimization, allowing graduates to jump into any organization's IT department and implement positive and effective change.
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