At a Glance

Completion Time
8
Months
Credits Required
16
Tuition
$16,230
Part-Time*

*Based on 2025–2026 Boston University tuition and fees.

Learn to Command Cutting-Edge Technologies in Software, Systems, and Security

The online Graduate Certificate in Information Technology offers hands-on experience in various aspects of software design and implementation, while providing comprehensive knowledge about the state-of-the-art in information technology. Industry reports reveal that today’s business world seeks graduates who possess broad business perspectives; systems/IS skills, including hardware and software programming; a strong grasp of communication and teamwork; analytical abilities; and cutting-edge technology knowledge in areas of systems analysis, web technology, data communications, and database systems.

The Information Technology Graduate Certificate is also available on campus in Boston.

Curriculum

Boston University’s Graduate Certificate in Information Technology consists of four required online courses (16 credits).

Academic credits earned toward the online Graduate Certificate in Information Technology may be transferred to the Master of Science in Computer Information Systems.

Prerequisites

Applicants are not required to have a degree in computer science for entry to a program within the Department of Computer Science. Upon review of your application, the department will determine if the completion of prerequisite coursework will be required, based on your academic and professional background.

A maximum of two graduate-level courses (8 credits) taken at Metropolitan College before acceptance into the program may be applied towards the certificate.

Requirements

Visit the BU MET Website for Admission Details.

Dates & Deadlines

View BU MET’s academic calendar for online programs, including important dates and deadlines.

Application Requirements

Learn about application requirements for BU MET graduate degree and certificate programs.

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How You Benefit from a Boston University Education

A BU credential can help lay the foundation for career advancement and personal success.

10th in the nation

The Information Technology graduate certificate shares courses with the MS in Computer Information Systems, which is ranked #10 in the nation by U.S. News & World Report 

#4

America’s Top Online Colleges 

  • Benefit from a 15:1 student-to-instructor ratio.
  • Boston University is recognized by the National Security Agency and the Department of Homeland Security as a Center of Academic Excellence (CAE) in Cyber Defense and Research. BU MET’s information security programs are certified by the Committee on National Security Systems (CNSS). 
  • Computer science courses ensure you get the attention you need, while introducing case studies and real-world projects that emphasize technical and theoretical knowledge—combining in-depth, practical experience with the critical skills needed to remain on the forefront of the information technology field. In addition, BU’s Center for Reliable Information Systems and Cyber Security (RISCS) offers opportunities to collaborate and participate in research on system reliability and information security.
  • Work closely with highly qualified faculty and seasoned industry leaders in a wide range of technology fields who are committed to teaching the latest technologies within the framework of ideas, concepts, and methods that drive innovation.
  • BU MET’s Department of Computer Science was established in 1979 and is the longest-running computer science department at BU. Over its four decades, the department has played an important role in the emergence of IT at the University and throughout the region.

US citizens and permanent residents are automatically considered for Merit Scholarships during the application process and nominated based on eligibility.

Graduate with Information Technology Expertise

Students who complete the Graduate Certificate in Information Technology will be able to demonstrate:

  • Advanced knowledge of the goals, functions, and operations of an IT organization
  • Proficiency in analytical and technical skills in various aspects of software design and implementation
  • Competence in the field of information technology, and the ability to contribute to its advancement
  • Competence in communication, collaboration, teamwork, and professionalism.

Along with building these qualities and skills, the online Information Technology program prepares students to:

  • Assess the information needs of different organizational levels within an organization
  • Design or fully participate in designing systems for an organization that are both competitive and efficient
  • Create an information systems architecture that aligns with organization goals
  • Design systems that people can control, understand, and use in a socially and ethically responsible manner

Advance Your Career

BU MET’s Information Technology Graduate Certificate you for a wealth of different roles, such as IT Support Specialist, Help Desk Technician, Network Technician System Administrator (Jr.), and more.

Take Advantage of Career Resources at BU MET

You will find the support you need in reaching your career goals through MET’s Career Development office, which offers a variety of job-hunting resources, including one-on-one career counseling by appointment for online students. You can also take advantage of tools and resources available online through BU’s Center for Career Development.

Farshid Alizadeh-Shabdiz

Associate Professor of the Practice
Computer Science

Scott Arena

Master Lecturer
Computer Science

Lou Chitkushev

Senior Associate Dean for Academic Affairs, Associate Professor
Computer Science

Director
Health Informatics & Health Sciences

John Day

Master Lecturer
Computer Science

Andrew Gorlin

Lecturer
Computer Science

Suresh Kalathur

Assistant Professor
Computer Science

Director
Analytics

Vijay Kanabar

Associate Professor
Computer Science and Administrative Sciences

Director
Project Management

Jae Young Lee

Assistant Professor
Computer Science

Coordinator
Databases

Avinash Mohan

Assistant Professor
Computer Science

Eugene Pinsky

Associate Professor of the Practice
Computer Science

Coordinator
Software Development

Reza Rawassizadeh

Associate Professor
Computer Science

Anatoly Temkin

Assistant Professor Emeritus
Computer Science

Ming Zhang

Assistant Professor
Computer Science

Yuting Zhang

Assistant Professor
Computer Science

Director
Cybersecurity

Tanya Zlateva

Dean
Metropolitan College & Extended Education

Professor of the Practice
Computer Science and Education

Education Director
Information Security, Center for Reliable Information Systems & Cyber Security

Interested in Learning More?

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