Online Associate of Applied Business in Information Technology

Information Technology (IT) is at the core of every business. As an academic discipline, IT focuses on meeting the needs of users within an organization through the selection, creation, application, integration and administration of computing technologies.

IT is distinct from computer engineering, computer science, and information systems. UC's AAB IT program provides a broad foundation in areas such as software application development (web, enterprise, and desktop); networking and systems administration (including data centers and storage); database management (design and administration); digital media (images, audio, video, IT support); and cybersecurity.

• UC has received numerous awards and grants from the NSA, NSF, CyberCorps, GenCyber and the State of Ohio in support of its IT and cybersecurity education programs.
• UC is home to the Ohio Cyber Range Institute, a virtual environment where participants can learn about cybersecurity and practice defending networks against threats of all kinds.
• UC's online programs continue to rank among the"Best in the Nation" by U.S. News & World Report, a leading rankings site for education. Other awards include Study.com's "#1 Online College in Ohio," "Best Online College for Veterans" and "Best Value in an Online College or University" by College Consensus. 
• All of UC's programs (on campus and online) are led by nationally-recognized, award-winning faculty.
• A degree from UC is prestigious, nationally-recognized and highly respected.
• UC students have access to a variety of resources and 1:1 support from their Advisor - from registration to graduation!

Whether you are seeking entry-level knowledge or looking to sharpen your skills in the information technology field, our Associate in Information Technology program may just be the perfect fit for you. Earning your associate's degree from the University of Cincinnati Online can help you gain a fundamental understanding of technology’s role in the workplace and grow the skills you need to enter or advance in the field. IT associate degree students are given the necessary skills to process, maintain, and analyze technology and the world around it.

In addition, our information technology associate program provides students with a set of skills that are in high demand, including software proficiency, communication, critical thinking, analysis, and problem-solving. As businesses continue to grow, the need for well-trained, highly educated online associate degree IT graduates will be in high demand.

• PEO1. Graduates of the IT program will be prepared for employment in entry-level positions in the Information Technology field.
• PEO2. Graduates of the IT program will be prepared for transfer to a four-year bachelor’s degree in information technology or related disciplines.
• PEO3. Graduates of the IT program will possess the necessary communication and critical thinking skills to function effectively in organizations and collaborate with a broad community.
• PEO4. Graduates of the IT program will possess the skills necessary to remain lifelong learners in the ever-evolving field of Information Technology.

Currently, we use the outcomes that are the standard ABET Computing Accreditation Commission required outcomes for information technology programs. Graduates of the program will have the ability to:

1. Analyze a complex computing problem and apply principles of computing and other relevant disciplines to identify solutions.

2. Design, implement, and evaluate a computing-based solution to meet a given set of computing requirements in the context of the program’s discipline.

3. Communicate effectively in a variety of professional contexts.

4. Recognize professional responsibilities and make informed judgments in computing practice based on legal and ethical principles.

5. Function effectively as a member or leader of a team engaged in activities appropriate to the program’s discipline.

6. Use established approaches to apply, integrate, and administer secure computing technologies to accomplish user goals.

The University of Cincinnati Online offers two certificates for those interested in entering the field of IT. Credits earned from either certificate apply directly to the Associate of Applied Business in Information Technology:

• Certificate in Information Technology is a perfect stepping stone to help you enter the IT workforce.
• Application Software Support Specialist Certificate helps students learn job-ready skills in the computer support workforce.

UC Clermont is pleased to offer micro-credentials in IT. These short, focused credentials are designed to provide in-demand skills, know-how, and experience. Upon successful completion of the micro-credential academic requirements, students will earn a digital badge that demonstrates evidence of their discipline-specific knowledge to employers. Credits earned in either micro-credential program apply directly toward the Associate of Applied Business in Information Technology.

• Computer Support Specialist
• Programming Primer: Fundamentals and Foundations

After earning your Associate of Applied Business in Information Technology degree, you can transition seamlessly into another program within the School of IT. With the credits earned from your associate's degree, you can complete a bachelor’s in just three years, with both online and on-campus options:

• Bachelor of Science in Information Technology
• Bachelor of Science in Cybersecurity