NCCU Online BS in IT, Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Concentration

Three concentration options

Faculty with real-world experience in IT

Focus on professional development

Focus Your Education in Information and Communications Technology

Do you see yourself thriving in various information technology (IT) environments while managing and implementing advanced communication systems? NCCU Online’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology (BS in IT) program provides the training you need to become an in-demand technology expert, and the Information and Communications Technology (ICT) concentration prepares you to support and innovate in the fast-paced world of technology.

Through NCCU Online’s intentional approach to virtual learning, you’ll experience the support you need to thrive in your studies and advance your career. We offer a career-focused curriculum, personalized attention, and immersive courses that position you for success — both academically and professionally.

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What Is a Degree in ICT?
The NCCU Online: BS in IT Flight Path Program empowers you to drive innovation in tech and boosts your employability through individualized guidance and industry-relevant instruction. Focusing your studies with the foundational information and communications technology (ICT) degree will augment your learning with advanced skills in networking, wireless communications, and top ICT tools.
By choosing this concentration, you’ll be equipped with core information technology skills like business programming and systems analysis, as well as ICT-specific skills including:
  • Network management

  • Entrepreneurship

  • IT strategy

  • Web development

Focus on Information and Communications Technology Careers

The information and communications technology (ICT) degree prepares you to work in core areas of the tech industry, so you can take on roles in areas such as business programming, project management, database oversight, and systems evaluation.

Take a look at some potential careers you can pursue with the BS in IT, ICT concentration at NCCU Online:*

Cloud Solutions Architect

Average Base Salary: $135,783

IT Director

Average Base Salary: $128,869

IT Project Manager

Average Base Salary: $96,994

Telecommunications Specialist

Average Base Salary: $69,975

Curriculum & Courses

The BS in IT requires 36 hours of general education courses and 27 hours of information technology courses, with between 32 and 36 core business credits. The information and communications technology (ICT) degree requires a combination of 15 credits in concentration-specific electives and six credits in general electives.

Keep in mind that you’re required to transfer in with at least 24 credit hours and any additional transfer credits may significantly reduce your required hours to graduate.

The required information communications and technology concentration courses include:

This course describes the computer science, information systems, and business disciplines, the synergy between them, and the career opportunities in these fields. It emphasizes computational thinking and the strategic use and implication of information technology in the business environment. To illustrate the use of technology to solve business problems, the following topics will be covered: fundamental systems components, business processes, data management, security, and systems development. Additionally, career options in topic areas will be elucidated by guest speakers from industry and academia and through multimedia presentations such as the “A Day in the Life of…” series.

This course introduces the theory and application of programming logic, algorithm development, and concepts for business applications. Concepts introduced include data types, constants, variables, assignment statements, arithmetic expressions, string expressions, logical expressions, if statements, case statements, loop structures, and arrays.

The goal of the course is to introduce students to the world of computer security, cybercrime, and cyberterrorism. The course accomplishes these goals by exposing students to concepts in cyberstalking, denial of service attacks, malware, hacking techniques, espionage, encryption, and security software and policies. The course also covers topics addressing issues related to network scanning and vulnerability, cyber terrorism, cyber detectives, and forensics.

This course is a continuation of CIS 2000. It involves the manipulation of sequential files, databases by graphical user interface (GUI)-based applications, and arrays. Proper organization and documentation of applications are stressed.

This course covers the fundamentals of computer hardware and software as well as advanced concepts. Students who complete this course will be able to describe the internal components of a computer, assemble a computer system, install an operating system, and troubleshoot using system tools and diagnostic software. This course enables systems development personnel to understand tradeoffs in computer architecture for effective use in a business environment. It includes system architecture for single-user, central, and networked computing systems and single and multi-user operating systems.

This course introduces the concepts and techniques of project management for a broad range of tasks, including information systems and business projects. Topics include resource management, organizational factors, project manager responsibilities, team building, and risk management. Tools and techniques for project estimating and scheduling will be presented. Students will complete case studies to apply the knowledge they learned to practical experiences.

This course provides an overview of the skills and knowledge necessary for the development and management of database systems. Topics include modeling, normalization, structures, physical databases, logical databases, and accessing techniques.

This course utilizes the systems development life cycle, rapid applications development, prototyping, and project management concepts and tools to plan, analyze, design, and prototype computer-based systems, both concurrently and dynamically. Mini real-world cases are initiated by students as individual, group, and teamwork assignments.

This is the first course of the capstone two-semester sequence which will address challenging computing and business problems. The course draws on the students’ technological capabilities, creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills. An individual student or team of two students will work on designing and implementing software programs. Teams will experience the entire software development project cycle, including user requirements, feasibility assessment, project planning, project implementation, performance testing, and documentation. Projects may be from industry partners, entrepreneurial, or in-house. This course requires the submission of a written project report and an oral public presentation of the project. The students will work on the same project for CSB 4900 & 4910 over the span of two semesters. This course will satisfy the Speaking Intensive and Writing Intensive requirements of general education curriculum (GEC).

Why Choose the ICT Concentration?

Pursuing a BS in IT with an ICT concentration positions you for an in-demand career. According to Mordor Intelligence, the global ICT market is projected to expand from approximately $6 trillion in 2025 to nearly $8 trillion by 2030. Additionally, Expert Market Research estimates that in the U.S. alone, the ICT market reached around $1.3 trillion in 2024, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 7.7% through 2034.

Employment prospects in ICT are equally promising. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects that computer and information technology occupations will grow much faster than average through 2033, with about 356,700 openings projected each year. The median annual wage for this group was $105,990 in May 2024, significantly higher than the median for all occupations.

Moreover, the ICT sector is integral to various industries, including finance, health care, education, and manufacturing, driving digital transformation and innovation. This broad applicability ensures that skills acquired through an ICT concentration are versatile and in demand across multiple sectors. Therefore, specializing in ICT not only enhances employability but also positions graduates at the forefront of technological advancement and economic development.

Explore the BS in IT at NCCU Online

Ready for more details about the online BS in IT program? Click “Learn More” to access tuition information, admission requirements, and program highlights.

*General labor market and salary data are sourced from Payscale. Salary and employment outcomes vary by geographic area, previous work experience, education, and opportunities for employment. NCCU does not guarantee employment placement, salary level, or career advancement. Additional training and experience may be necessary for leadership positions.