2027 Does an Online Information Technology Degree Qualify You for Licensure?

Imed Bouchrika, PhD

by Imed Bouchrika, PhD

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Does an Online Information Technology Degree Qualify You for Licensure?

Online education has become a prevalent option across many licensure-track fields, reflecting a broader acceptance of flexible learning formats. Enrollment in fully online postsecondary programs increased by over 5% from 2017 to 2020, signaling growing demand and expansion in this mode of education. As a result, many online degree programs now qualify for licensure if they meet established criteria. This growth invites students to explore the requirements that influence state licensing eligibility for online information technology graduates.

The qualification of an online information technology degree for professional licensure depends largely on institutional recognition, the program's curriculum structure, and the presence of practical training components. The degree must come from a properly accredited institution and ensure the curriculum covers competencies aligned with licensure standards. Practical experience, such as labs or hybrid learning models, often plays a critical role in meeting these requirements. Students seeking pathways to licensure should carefully evaluate whether their program meets these essential conditions to maintain eligibility, especially when considering masters degrees online.

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Which Information Technology Careers Require Professional Licensure?

Licensure in certain information technology careers ensures public safety, data protection, and ethical standards by verifying that professionals meet strict competence requirements. Approximately 10% of tech workers hold roles that mandate some form of certification or professional licensure, especially where legal compliance and security are critical. Below are several IT careers that commonly require professional licensure before individuals can provide services legally.

  • Cybersecurity Specialists: Positions such as Certified Information Systems Security Professionals (CISSP) often require formal licensure or certification, particularly when working on government contracts or protecting sensitive infrastructure. Licensing confirms expertise in defending critical systems from cyber threats.
  • Network Architects and System Engineers: These professionals design and manage crucial communication networks for sectors like utilities and healthcare. Licenses or security clearances are essential to safeguard these networks against vulnerabilities and unauthorized access.
  • Forensic Computer Analysts: Analysts who collect digital evidence and provide expert testimony in legal cases must be licensed or certified to ensure their methods meet legal standards, maintaining the integrity of investigations.
  • Medical Device Software Engineers: Engineers developing software for medical devices are often subject to regulatory licensing requirements. This oversight helps guarantee patient safety by enforcing compliance with strict standards such as those from the FDA.

When asked about which information technology careers require professional licensure, a graduate shared his experience navigating the process. He recalled feeling overwhelmed by the complexity and time commitment needed to gather documentation and pass certification exams. "It was intimidating at first, but understanding that licensure proves my capability to work responsibly in sensitive areas helped me stay motivated," he explained. His journey illuminated the importance of licensure in not only protecting clients but also in boosting his own professional confidence.

What Accreditation Is Required for Information Technology Licensure?

Accreditation is a key factor in determining whether an online Information Technology degree qualifies graduates for professional licensure. Studies show that candidates from ABET-accredited programs have up to a 20% higher pass rate on certification exams, highlighting the importance of program quality in licensure success. The following are some recognized accrediting bodies that influence eligibility and ensure educational standards in this field.

  • Computing Accreditation Commission (CAC) of ABET: CAC accreditation is a highly regarded standard within STEM disciplines, including Information Technology. It assures that programs meet rigorous criteria related to curriculum design, faculty expertise, and resource adequacy, which many licensing authorities recognize.
  • Accrediting Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET): Beyond the CAC, ABET broadly evaluates engineering and technology programs, verifying that graduates possess the professional competencies required to meet industry and licensure standards.
  • Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC): DEAC accredits online and distance education providers, ensuring that remote IT programs uphold quality instruction and resources comparable to traditional offerings, an increasingly important consideration for online licensure qualification.
  • Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE): As a regional accreditor, MSCHE validates institutions for overall academic excellence and institutional integrity, which supports the credibility needed for IT licensure pathways.
  • Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU): This regional accreditation confirms that an institution's IT programs maintain educational standards consistent with those demanded by licensing bodies.

What Graduates Say About Online Information Technology Degree Licensure Qualifications

  • Shane: "Choosing to pursue an online information technology degree was a strategic decision for me, especially because I wanted to balance work and study. I was initially unsure if this path would qualify me for licensure, but thorough research and consultations confirmed that accreditation matters more than delivery mode. Ultimately, obtaining licensure enhanced my credibility and opened doors in cybersecurity roles I once thought were inaccessible."
  • Emiliano: "Reflecting on my journey, pursuing licensure with an online information technology degree was both challenging and rewarding. The flexibility of online learning allowed me to deepen my technical skills while preparing for certification exams simultaneously. Achieving licensure validated my expertise and proved essential in gaining trust in competitive IT consulting markets."
  • Samuel: "From a professional perspective, I can attest that an online information technology degree does qualify for licensure, provided it's from an accredited institution. This recognition was a critical factor in my decision to enroll online while continuing my full-time job. Licensure has since been instrumental in career advancement and in securing higher responsibility within network administration."

Other Things You Should Know About Information Technology Degrees

Are there additional certifications needed beyond an online information technology degree for certain licensed IT roles?

Often, an online IT degree alone is insufficient for licensed professional roles that require specific certifications such as CISSP, CISM, or CompTIA Security+. Candidates must pursue these certifications separately to meet licensure or registration criteria in specialized areas like cybersecurity or network administration.

Which agencies set licensure rules for IT-related occupations?

State licensing boards set most rules for licensed IT-related occupations, while federal agencies set certification standards for specific jobs. For example, the Federal Communications Commission regulates some telecommunications credentials, and state boards may require 120 semester credits, a background check, and a passing score on a board-approved exam.

How do employers view online information technology degrees when hiring for positions that require licensed or certified IT professionals?

Employers increasingly recognize online information technology degrees from accredited institutions as valid credentials. Nevertheless, for roles requiring licensure or certification, employers often prioritize candidates who hold the required licenses or industry certifications in addition to their degree.