Online Associate of Applied Business in Information Technology
The Associate of Applied Business in Information Technology program is a fully online, two-year degree program that develops the skills necessary to establish a career as a professional in the field of IT upon graduation.
Our information technology associate degree offers students a learning schedule where they can access the coursework at the times that work best for them.
AAB Information Technology Overview
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.
Information Technology Program Highlights
High Quality Education
- The online AAB IT program is fully accredited by the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET)
- 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
- There's a multitude of IT pathways offered through certificates, microcredentials, and bachelor's degree programs
Flexibility
- 100% online
- Option to transfer credits
- Multiple program start dates per year
Support from Application to Graduation
At UC, you’ll have a full support team behind you:
Enrollment Services Advisor: Your go-to resource during the application process
Student Success Coordinator: Helping you prepare for classes and stay on track
Access to Resources: Access to university resources that will support you through your program including online learning expectations and resources, health and wellness resources, and academic support
The online Associate in Information Technology is a 63 credit hour program.
UC’s Online AAB Information Technology program is a proud recipient of the Quality Matters Exemplary Online Program Certification for the following courses:
- IT 2020 Implications of Information Technology
- IT 2040C Fundamentals of Web Development
UC Online’s commitment to providing learners with an exceptional online learning experience was recognized by Quality Matters (QM) – the international leader in quality assurance for online and innovative digital teaching and learning environments.
| Course | Title/Description | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| COMM1076 | Introduction to Interpersonal Communication Introduction to theory and practice in interpersonal communication. Topics include verbal and nonverbal communication, perception, listening, emotions, relationship development, conflict and power. Focus is on the development of an understanding of fundamental interpersonal dynamics and basic skills. |
|
| ENGL1001 | English Composition English Composition 1001 is a writing-centered course that emphasizes the careful reading, analytical thinking, and persuasive strategies inherent in researching and writing within an academic community. Students learn that rhetorical knowledge is the basis of composing while learning to write with purpose, audience, context, and conventions in mind. Students develop rigorous academic research practices: how to locate and evaluate primary and secondary sources relevant to their line of inquiry and position their own ideas in conversation with public writing. Students also engage in regular self-reflection: articulating what they know, what they can do, and how to apply their knowledge and skills in various contexts. |
3 |
| ENGL2089 | Intermediate Composition Intermediate Composition is a writing-centered course that builds on what students learn in first-year composition and focuses students’ attention on theoretical underpinning of how meaning is made, understood, and communicated within and across various discourse communities and genres. The course emphasizes critical reading and writing, advanced research and analysis skills, and rhetorical sensitivity to differences in academic, professional, and public composing. This course challenges students to engage in substantive projects drawing on primary research and source analysis methods and asks students to document, communicate, and reflect on their research. |
3 |
| IT1050 | Fundamentals of Information Technology This course is an introduction to the field of Information Technology including technology concepts, terminology, hardware components and software applications. Students will be introduced to and asked to apply basic skills in the core areas of information technology such as programming, database management, networking, systems administration, and web development and the basic research, problem solving and decision making skills required to be successful in this field. The course emphasizes the role of technical communication, project management, languages, tools, models and application architectures within the IT development process. |
3 |
| IT1051C | Fundamentals of Digital Media This course provides an introduction and overview of software tools and techniques for creating digital media including text, images, sound, video, and interactive media. The focus is on using multimedia to communicate technical information effectively to technical and non-technical audiences. Hands-on active learning required. |
3 |
| IT1080C | Computer Networking The Computer Networking course explains, in a theoretical and practical framework, how communication occurs across a network. Students study such topics as computer/network hardware, network media, topologies, protocols, security, network architectures, IP addressing, and the Transmission Control Protocol/Internet Protocol (TCP/IP) model. Hands-on, active learning is required. |
3 |
| IT1081C | System Administration This course will provide the knowledge and hands-on skills necessary to manage networked computer systems and their resources. Students will learn the process of planning, designing, and implementing a functional and secure server/client environment utilizing heterogeneous operating systems. Topics covered include command line interfaces, graphical user interfaces, server management, user management, network services, and system security. This course requires active hands on learning. |
3 |
| IT1090C | Computer Programming I The course introduces learners to computer programming and problem solving. In this course, students will learn about the basic elements of a computer program. Learners will learn and practice using expressions, repetition and decision-making mechanisms and structures. The concept of modularity will be introduced with the implementation of methods (functions). The Java programming language will be used for this course. Topics coverage focuses on console programming and general language syntax and carries through the use of file handling for data processing. It is designed to give general learners enough coding skills to support their day to day work. It is designed to give learners who are interested in pursuing software further a basis for Object Oriented Programming and advanced topics. |
3 |
| IT2020 | Implications of Information Technology This course focuses on the impact brought upon our society by computers and its related technologies.Issues related to privacy, ethics, law, encryption, copyright, computer crimes, professional ethics and responsibilities will be critically examined. |
3 |
| IT2030C | Information Security and Assurance An introduction to the various technical and administrative aspects of information security and assurance. This course provides the foundation for understanding the key issues associated with protecting information assets, determining the levels of protection and response to security incidents, and designing a consistent, reasonable information security system, with appropriate intrusion detection and reporting features. |
3 |
| IT2035C | Network Infrastructure Management This course provides the knowledge and hands-on skills to design and implement network infrastructure components. Topics include: network models; current Internet Protocol addressing; Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol; Domain Name Service; Network Address Translations; Virtual Local Area Networks; trunking; routing protocols; and network hardware. Students will set up, manage and troubleshoot multiple topologies. Hands-on active learning required. |
3 |
| IT2040C | Fundamentals of Web Development This is a foundation course in Web Technology that covers the underpinnings of the technology and a variety of modern standards. The course covers modern web standards, well-formed and valid documents, semantic HTML, user-centered design of static web sites, styling and layout of Web documents with CSS, common tools for Web Site development. Emphasis is on coding syntactically correct Web documents which are also visually appealing, and accessible to users using assistive technologies. You will learn HTML5, CSS3, responsive and user-centric design, XML, and SVG. Hands-on active learning required. |
3 |
| IT2045C | Computer Programming II This is the second course on Object-Oriented computer programming and problem solving. Students learn and practice Object Oriented concepts such as inheritance and polymorphism. The course will cover advanced topics such as threads, data structures, files, database and network application programming. Hands-on active learning required. |
3 |
| IT2060C | Database Management I This is an introductory course to the technology used for database development. Topics include the key database concepts, writing queries to retrieve, insert, update, and delete data from databases, and additional database features. Enterprise database management system will be used. Hands-on active learning required |
3 |
| IT2090C | Fundamentals of Open Source Web Server Application Development This course covers development of dynamic web sites using open source technologies. It will cover form processing, regular expressions, accessing files and directories, open source database back-end, managing state information, website deployment and error handling using an open source web scripting language. Hands-on active learning is required. |
3 |
| IT3045C | Contemporary Programming This course deals with advanced programming techniques and design issues relating to enterprise-wide development. Topics include advanced object-oriented programming and techniques, database processing and database interfaces, and application testing and deployment using current enterprise application development tools and development and design methodologies. The course will cover both on presentation-tier development and back-end development. Hands-on active learning required. |
3 |
| IT3046C | Client-Side Web Programming Students will learn how to write a client-side web application using current technologies. Topics could include modern JavaScript programming, manipulating XHTML documents via the DOM, XML DOM programming, separation of code from page content and style information, creating rich interactive user interfaces and applications with AJAX, validation of form data using RegEx, using external data in XML, JSON, and other data formats in mashups, common JavaScript libraries. Hands-on Active learning is required. |
3 |
| IT3060C | Database Management II The course covers database design and advanced database development. Topics include, but are not limited to, logical and physical database design, stored procedures, triggers, back up, security, transaction management, concurrency control, etc. An enterprise database management system will be used in the course. Hands-on active learning required. |
3 |
| BoK: HU | Humanities and Literature Elective Select one course. |
3 |
| BoK: NS | Humanities and Literature Elective Select one course. |
3 |
| Course | Title/Description | Credit |
|---|---|---|
| MATH1008 | Foundations of Quantitative Reasoning Project-based course, emphasizing problem-solving, model-building, and basic data manipulation in real world contexts. Topics include: problem-solving, statistical reasoning, linear and exponential modeling, and modeling with geometry. Prerequisite: at least 30 on the ALEKS Math test or 420 on the Math Placement Test (MPT) is recommended. |
3 |
| STAT1034 | Elementary Statistics I An introduction to statistics for students without a calculus background. The course covers data analysis (numerical summaries and graphics for describing and displaying the distributions of numerical and categorical data), the basic principles of data collection from samples and experiments, elementary probability, the application of the normal distribution to the study of random samples, statistical estimation (construction and interpretation of one sample confidence intervals), and an introduction to hypothesis testing (the structure of one sample hypothesis tests and the logic of using them to make decisions). |
3 |
Prerequisites
Admission into the University of Cincinnati’s online Information Technology Associate degree is open to all students with a high school diploma or GED and the desire to succeed in college. Although admission is open, students accepted into the program must meet the academic standards of the program to advance to upper levels of study.
First-Year:
- You are currently a high school senior or have a high school diploma, GED, or home-school equivalent.
- As a first-year student, you will need to take an English and mathematics placement test if you have not obtained the minimum ACT/SAT score required for exemption. These tests do not affect your admission; however, the results are essential for your proper placement in classes. You must complete placement tests before you register for English or mathematics courses. All placement tests are given free of charge.
Transfer:
- Transferability is based on school accreditation, course/content comparability (including evaluation of practical assignments), year taken, and final grade.
- Submit all official transcripts for every school attended. Learn more about requesting your transcripts.
- If you have earned fewer than 30 semester or 45 quarter college credits, you must submit high school transcripts as part of your transfer application.
Complete the online application and submit the application fee.
Standard Application Fees:
- $50.00 for domestic applicants to most degree programs
- $100.00 for international applicants to most degree programs
- Application fees for UC Online programs are waived through Summer 2026 for all applicants
- Fee waivers are automatically applied for applicants who:
- are currently serving in the US armed forces
- are veterans of the US armed forces
Applications are accepted continuously throughout the year. Our staff will review your application based on the following:
After submitting your application form, all applicants are required to have official transcripts sent directly to University of Cincinnati in order to be eligible for admissions review.
- First-Year and Transfer Applicants with Fewer Than 24 Completed Semester Hours at a Prior College:
- Order official transcripts from your high school and all prior colleges (if applicable) for delivery directly to University of Cincinnati.
- Transfer Applicants with 24+ Completed Semester Hours at a Prior College:
- Order official transcripts from all prior colleges for delivery directly to University of Cincinnati.
- You are exempt from the High School transcript requirement, this item will be removed from your application checklist once your college documents are received.
Please review the section below for guidance on how to submit your transcripts.
Online transcript request systems are the preferred method to deliver official transcripts electronically. To see if your transcript(s) can be ordered electronically, visit the links below and search for your previous school(s).
- Parchment
- Please select “University of Cincinnati – Main Campus” as the recipient of your transcript.
- National Student Clearinghouse
- Please have your transcript sent directly to admissions@uc.edu.
If you do not see your past school(s) listed on either site, please contact the school(s) directly to determine their ordering process.
If a physical copy must be sent, DO NOT request it be delivered to you. It must be sent directly from your prior school to the following address:
University of Cincinnati
Office of Admissions
PO Box 210091
Cincinnati, Ohio 45221-0091
| Term | Application Deadline | Classes Start |
|---|---|---|
Summer 2026 Fall 2026 Spring 2027 |
March 15, 2026 July 15, 2026 November 15, 2026 |
May 11, 2026 August 24, 2026 January 11, 2027 |
The University of Cincinnati's online course fees differ depending on the program. On average, students will accrue fewer fees than students attending on-campus classes.
The one fee applied across all UC Online programs is the distance learning fee. Students living outside the state of Ohio must also pay an additional “non-resident” fee to enroll in courses at UC Online. This fee is lower than the out-of-state fee for traditional on-campus programs.
To view tuition information and program costs, visit the Online Program Fees page.
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.
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:
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.
UC’s online AAB IT program is accredited by the Computing Accreditation Commission of the Accreditation Board for Engineering and Technology (ABET). ABET is the recognized accrediting body for programs in applied science, computing, engineering, and technology. ABET accreditation assures programs meet quality standards and produces skilled graduates who are ready to enter, and lead, in today’s workforce.
Your degree is a significant achievement and perhaps the largest investment you will make toward your future. The quality of education you receive makes a big difference in your career success!
Benefits of Accreditation:
- Verifies that your educational experience meets the global standard for technical education in your profession.
- Enhances employment opportunities – multinational corporations require graduation from an accredited program.
- Supports your entry to a technical profession through licensure, registration and certification (all of which often require graduation from an ABET-accredited program as a minimum qualification).
- Establishes your eligibility for many federal student loans, grants, and/or scholarships.
- Paves the way for you to work globally. ABET accreditation is recognized worldwide via international agreements, and many other countries’ national accrediting systems are based on the ABET model.
To learn more about ABET and the benefits of accreditation, visit: https://www.abet.org/accreditation.
Our Program Educational Objectives Are:
- 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.
Student Outcomes
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.
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.
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