American National University

Information Technology

Salem Campus (Roanoke Valley)
Salem, VA
Associate Of Science · 100% Online
Information Technology
ANU is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC).
Fully online through Canvas with scheduled live Global Learn video sessions; any externship or clinical hours are completed in person at approved sites.
Tuition is $271 per quarter credit hour, per ANU’s current catalog.
This program is 92 quarter credit hours; ANU does not publish a set program length.
No application or registration fee is charged.
Federal financial aid is available to those who qualify (FAFSA code 003726), along with VA education benefits and ANU institutional grants.

Information Technology is an Associate Of Science program (100% Online) offered by American National University in Salem, VA. Tuition is $271 total.

Program Overview

This program prepares graduates as network and computer systems support engineers or analysts. These professionals respond to the challenges of today's technologically complex workplace with skills in computer hardware, software, Local and Wide Area Networking, basic and advanced server configuration, server management and security, and emerging virtualization and cloud technologies.

The associate of science program will prepare graduates to sit for recognized industry certifications, including CompTia's A+ and NET+ and is the foundation for pursuing a baccalaureate degree in technology-related fields at ANU. Students can continue to our Information Technology bachelor's degree program or our Cybersecurity bachelor's degree program.

Program outcomes. Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

  • Demonstrate understanding of routing concepts by configuring, testing, and implementing functional and secure networked systems that support reliable connectivity and meet organizational requirements.
  • Apply configuration and maintenance practices to implement secure network server infrastructures supporting reliable operations.
  • Explain and apply authentication and authorization configurations to implement, monitor, and maintain secure network and server operations that protect system resources and support organizational requirements.
  • Apply structured problem-solving techniques to install, configure, support, and troubleshoot network services, ensuring secure, reliable operations and maintaining optimal system performance to meet organizational requirements.
  • Configure and verify network systems to meet technical requirements, ensure reliable connectivity, and support secure operations across information technology infrastructures in alignment with organizational standards.

What sets this Program apart

All-inclusive tuition. ANU tuition includes all fees (application, course, technology, graduation, etc.), textbooks, and lab equipment (where applicable).

Refresher privilege. As part of our commitment to keeping graduates' skills and training up to date, the University allows its graduates to return at any time to retake courses in their respective fields, subject to availability. No tuition fees will be charged for this benefit; graduates will be responsible for any additional costs associated with books, equipment, or third-party testing fees.

Admission Requirements and Process

To be admitted to any undergraduate (i.e., associate or baccalaureate) program at the University, applicants must show a completed high school (or equivalent level) education, met through a completed high school education, a completed home school education program at the high school level, or an earned GED or other state-authorized high school equivalency examination. Applicants may also qualify with an official transcript showing any degree earned at the associate level or higher, or at least 60 semester credits (90 quarter credits) that count toward a baccalaureate degree. All undergraduate students must complete placement evaluations in English and mathematics before beginning classes (students entering a healthcare program also complete a science placement evaluation).

General Requirements

  • High school completion
    Applicants must show a completed high school (or equivalent level) education: a high school diploma, a completed home school program at the high school level, or a GED or other…
  • Placement evaluations
    All undergraduate students must complete placement evaluations in English (passing score 85%) and mathematics (65%) before beginning classes; students entering a healthcare…
  • Pre-entrance courses if needed
    A student who does not earn a passing placement score is enrolled in the corresponding self-paced Pre-Entrance Requirement course (ENG090, MAT090 or SCI090), which must be passed…
  • English language proficiency
    Applicants whose native language is not English and who have not earned a degree where English is the main language of instruction must demonstrate English proficiency (for…
  • Identity verification
    ANU initiates student identity verification during the admissions process using ID-Pal, which authenticates a government-issued photo ID.

Application Process

  1. 1
    Meet our Admissions Staff
    The first step towards expanding your career opportunities is to meet our admissions staff through video conferencing. Call the Admissions Department at 833-388-1100 for a telephone interview or submit a Request Information form and an Admissions Representative will contact you.
  2. 2
    Fill out an Application
    The cost to submit an application to ANU is now $0. Begin the online application process.
  3. 3
    Application Review
    Your application will be reviewed promptly and a determination will be made as soon as possible. Applying early is to the student's advantage in obtaining financial assistance for those who qualify, scholarships, part-time employment, and desired class schedules.
  4. 4
    Complete Placement Evaluations
    All undergraduate students must complete placement evaluations in English and mathematics (and science for healthcare programs) before beginning classes; each evaluation may be retaken once before the first day of scheduled classes.
  5. 5
    Financial Services
    The Financial Services team will provide you with a Financial Overview with resources to review to support you in your search for funding options. Complete the FAFSA using ANU's school code 003726 (Virginia Campus).
  6. 6
    Complete Orientation
    All students are required to complete the Online Orientation prior to beginning coursework. The orientation introduces course navigation, communication tools, and system requirements.

Program Schedule

For the convenience of its students, the University operates on a quarter-based schedule with year-round classes. Students may begin their programs at any of the starting dates during the year.

Full-time undergraduate students enroll in at least 12 credit hours per 10-week term. This typically includes three different 4-credit courses offered across either 5-week or 10-week sessions.

The University courses use both synchronous (live) and asynchronous (on-demand) interactions. Courses are delivered online (delivered through Canvas with scheduled Global Learn™ sessions) and through hybrid instruction (combining online coursework with required in-person residencies).

Students attend a live session at specific times and days each week through video conferencing. Many classes offer scheduling options to meet different circumstances, such as frequency of meetings, daytime meetings, evenings, and weekends.

Upcoming start dates: November 15, 2026; January 3, 2027; February 7, 2027; March 21, 2027; April 25, 2027; June 6, 2027; July 11, 2027; August 22, 2027; September 26, 2027; November 7, 2027; December 12, 2027.

New cohorts start regularly throughout the year. Our start dates are as follows:
  • November 15th, 2026
  • January 03rd, 2027
  • February 07th, 2027
  • March 21st, 2027
  • April 25th, 2027
  • June 06th, 2027
  • July 11th, 2027
  • August 22nd, 2027
  • September 26th, 2027
  • November 07th, 2027
  • December 12th, 2027

Cost of Attendance and Financial Aid Information

Cost and Financial Aid Information is an estimate for general reference only. It is not an offer or guarantee of financial aid or of any price, and what a School charges you may differ.
Total Program Tuition
≈ $271
FAFSA Code
Net Price Calculator

Tuition. Tuition is charged on a per-credit-hour basis and billed each academic term according to the published tuition rate for the student's specific program of study. ANU's current catalog and its Tuition & Fees page publish different per-credit rates for this program; confirm the rate with Financial Services.

All-inclusive pricing. ANU tuition includes all fees (application, course, technology, graduation, etc.), textbooks, and lab equipment (where applicable). The University's all-inclusive pricing provides the equipment needed to complete all coursework; some items are loaned and must be returned within 15 days after graduation or withdrawal.

Fees applicable to all students. Transcript fee $10 (first copy free); returned check/declined credit card fee $25; transaction chargeback 10% + $15; diploma reprint $50; duplicate ID $10; experiential learning evaluation $50 per course; challenge exams $50 per exam. Fees are non-refundable after 5 calendar days from enrollment.

Estimated annual cost of attendance (three terms). Tuition: review program cost. Food and Housing $9,344 (living with parent/guardian) or $9,312 (not living with parent/guardian); Transportation $2,864; Books, Course Materials, Supplies, and Equipment $936; Personal Expenses $2,752 or $4,816.

Payment. All students must pay tuition in full before the term begins, unless they are enrolled in a program with limited seats. Students using federal aid or loans must have all forms completed and payment schedules finalized before the term starts; students using employer, Veterans Education Benefits, or other third-party tuition assistance must have an approved contract on file for delayed payment.

Federal aid. Students seeking to participate in federal and/or most state financial aid programs must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA); ANU's school code is 003726. Federally funded aid available to eligible students includes the Federal Pell Grant, the Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grant (FSEOG), William D. Ford Federal Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, and Federal Work-Study.

Military and veterans. American National University is approved by the State Approving Agency for the education and training of eligible veterans and their dependents. Military education benefits include the Montgomery GI Bill®, the Post-9/11 GI Bill®, the Yellow Ribbon Program and Military Tuition Assistance; ANU's Blue Ribbon Grant provides up to 35% of the total amount paid toward direct educational costs (up to $18,000) after military education benefits are exhausted.

Institutional grants. ANU institutional aid includes the Business Partnership Grant, President's Grant, Private Loan Supplemental Grant, Refer a Friend Grant ($750), Workforce Development Grant, University Transfer Grant and ANU Legacy Merit Scholarship, each subject to its eligibility terms and available funding.

Net price calculator. Estimate your yearly cost with ANU's net price calculator: https://an.edu/admissions/financial-assistance/net-price-va/

Curriculum

The program requires a minimum of 92 quarter credit hours.

Required Courses

Subject #NameCredits
BUS270Introduction to Project Management4
CS105Introduction to Relational Database Management Systems4
CS120Introduction to Python4
CS125Introduction to Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning4
CS250Systems Analysis and Design I4
CY200Security+4
IT101Implementing and Troubleshooting Operating Systems Technology4
IT102Computer Hardware Technology4
IT110Network I4
IT111Network II4
IT125Introduction to Cloud Technology4
IT215Client Configuration I4
IT216Client Configuration II4
NET205Windows Server Administration I4
NET227Network Server Installation and Configuration4
NET236Introduction to Firewalls and Network Security4
NET298Network Administration Certification and Career Success4
AI101Introduction to Generative AI4
BIO101Introduction to Biology4
ENG101Composition4
ETH201Ethics4
MAT201Algebra and Applied Data Analysis4
PSY101Psychology4

Career Outcomes

Where could your degree take you?

  • Network support specialist
  • Network Technician
  • Computer systems support specialist
  • Desktop Engineer
  • Computer network architect

Certifications and licensure.

  • CompTIA A+ (optional)
  • CompTIA Network+ (optional)

What to expect as a American National University student

High Tech, High Touch. Our eLearning environment utilizes advanced technology for a highly interactive experience. We offer much more than simply an "online degree", but rather a holistic educational experience combining multiple modes of course delivery with comprehensive financial aid, student services, library resources, and career services support.

Global Meet. Access to education and career counseling services from anywhere is a key component of our Global eUniversity: admission counseling, student services, financial aid planning, career counseling and academic advising through live video, live chat, phone, email, web portal, or in person at one of our learning sites.

Global Teach. We provide educational services at the university level anywhere you are located: through e-books, virtual labs, online research libraries and databases.

Global Learn. eLearning takes the distance out of "distance learning" by providing the environment we're famous for through online delivery combining Canvas LMS (learning management system) with Global Learn Video Conferencing. For certain healthcare programs, such as our medical assisting and pharmacy technician programs, each student is provided with a lab kit, with which they complete assignments while under the watchful eyes of their instructors.

Campus Address

Salem Campus (Roanoke Valley)
1813 East Main Street
Salem, VA 24153

Why Accreditation Is Important

American National University (Virginia and Tennessee locations) is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC), listed by the U.S. Department of Education as a recognized accrediting agency and recognized by CHEA. ANU is authorized by the State Council of Higher Education for Virginia (SCHEV) to offer educational programs beyond secondary education in Virginia.

  • A reliable indicator of quality
  • Approved program of study
  • Qualified instructors
  • Recognition by employers nationwide

Accreditations

DEAC

Student Demographics

These are demographics for all students at the Salem Campus (Roanoke Valley) Campus (IPEDS, 2024).

Gender Distribution
Women72.2%(556)
Men27.8%(214)
Race/Ethnicity Distribution
Primary Ethnic Group
White
36% · 277 students
White36% · 277
Black/African American33% · 254
Asian21.8% · 168
Two or More Races3.9% · 30
Hispanic/Latino3.5% · 27
American Indian/Alaska Native1% · 8
International Students0.5% · 4
Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander0.3% · 2

Images

Information technology student at American National University
Information technology student at American National University
American National University eLearning: live Global Learn video classes

Videos

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I do my degree program while still working full time?
Absolutely! Distance education degree programs were developed with working adult students in mind. We recognize that not everyone can leave their responsibilities behind in order to start or finish a degree. Online courses offer flexibility to working adults through easy access to class materials, instructors, and video conferencing for live lectures. Our High Tech, High Touch™ eLearning environment utilizes advanced technology for a highly interactive experience. You receive face-to-face instruction from anywhere you can access the internet.
What does High Tech, High Touch mean?
We offer much more than simply an online degree; you receive face-to-face instruction from anywhere you can access the internet. We bring our university to you. We provide you educational services anywhere you are located through e-books, virtual labs, online research libraries and databases that contribute to your learning experience. For example, for certain healthcare programs, such as our medical assisting and pharmacy technician programs, each student is provided with a lab kit, with which they complete assignments while under the watchful eyes of their instructors.
Do I need to be tech-savvy to take online courses?
You do need to have some basic technology skills. Common tasks include accessing websites, writing papers using word processing platforms, and uploading/downloading documents. If you can do this than you are tech-savvy enough for an online degree program.
Are your online degree programs accredited?
American National University is institutionally accredited by DEAC (Distance Education Accrediting Commission). American National University of Kentucky is institutionally accredited by the Accrediting Bureau of Health Education Schools (ABHES). DEAC and ABHES are listed by the U.S. Department of Education as recognized accrediting agencies. The Distance Education Accrediting Commission is also recognized by the Council for Higher Education (CHEA). For more information on DEAC, see: https://www.deac.org/. For more information on ABHES, see: https://www.abhes.org/.
Is the quality of education lower in online classes?
No, students follow the same curriculum whether their classes are synchronous online or hybrid. Additionally, online classes at American National University has regular, synchronous class sessions. The only thing you’ll miss is the commute!
Will my degree say online?
No, there is no difference in the appearance of your transcript or your diploma, regardless of the modality in which you earned your degree.
Do employers value online degrees equal to degrees earned in person?
Employers evaluate candidates using many factors, including education, experience, certifications, technical skills, and interview performance. Requirements vary by employer and industry, so students should research expectations within their intended career field.
Are online courses easier than in-person study?
No, courses in an accredited university must adhere to the same quality standards as in-person courses, therefore the difficulty-level should be the same. All online courses use the same syllabi and course materials as the in-person version of the same course. Some students report that online courses are more difficult than in-person courses due increased accountability.
Are classes self-paced?
No, like their in-person counterparts, fully online classes have a set start date and end date. Assignments have deadlines and time limits to keep you on track. Additionally, all online courses have synchronous class meetings using Zoom.
Will my credits transfer?
Transfer credit decisions are made by the receiving institution. Colleges and universities evaluate transfer requests based on factors such as course content, grades earned, accreditation, and program requirements. Students considering a future transfer should contact prospective institutions directly to understand their specific policies before enrolling.
What is the attendance policy like?
The best interest of the student of the University will be served by maintaining the same attitude towards coursework that is required for a career. Therefore, regular attendance will be expected as a necessary part of the student’s career training. Good attendance frequently means the difference between success and failure. The importance of regular attendance cannot be overemphasized. Experience indicates that there is a direct relationship between grades and attendance. Non-College Degree and Institutions of Higher Learning, Chapter 33 veteran students must verify their enrollment status each month to continue receiving their Monthly Housing Allowance (MHA) and/or kicker payments. Students may verify their enrollment status in one of two ways with text messaging or by telephone.
Do your online classes have set meeting times?
Yes, students attend a live session at specific times and days each week through video conferencing. Many classes offer scheduling options to meet different circumstances, such as frequency of meetings, daytime meetings, evenings, and weekends. All online degree programs use synchronous learning, and this sets us apart from the others. Live engagement with your instructor and peers is a valuable characteristic of any learning experience. We want you to feel like you are in a physical classroom.
Will I be able to interact and engage with my instructor and peers?
Yes, the synchronous class meetings bring you and your classmates together with your instructor to promote discussion about assignments and class topics. Instructors also make themselves accessible outside of the classroom through email, phone, and video conferencing. Your class meetings are interactive and engaging. Instructors like to get to know their students and make them feel comfortable asking questions during class. Depending on the class, there may assignments and projects that allow the students to work together with the instructor or other students. There is ample opportunity to network and interact with your instructor and classmates, it is just like being in a real classroom.
Do I have to teach myself the material?
No, instructors are there to engage and teach the course material, just as they are in a physical classroom. The student should ask questions when instructions are not clear or if they need additional help understanding a concept.
Who supports students in an online environment?
All our faculty and staff are there to support students through their online learning experience.
Can international students (residing outside of the USA) complete distance education degree programs?
Yes! Our High Tech, High Touch eLearning environment utilizes advanced technology for a highly interactive experience. You receive face-to-face instruction from anywhere you can access the internet.
What if I can't afford internet or a laptop?
There are programs that can assist students in acquiring low cost internet and laptop devices. For assistance with a low-cost device, check out PCsforPeople and PlaniTROI. For assistance with low-cost internet service, check out USAC Affordable Connectivity Program. This site provides low-cost internet and computers, check out EveryoneOn.
Can I attend graduate school after ANU?
Graduate school admission requirements vary by institution and program. Many graduate schools evaluate applicants based on factors such as academic performance, prerequisite coursework, professional experience, and institutional policies. Students who plan to pursue graduate education are encouraged to research prospective schools and review admission requirements early in their academic journey.
What if I need help with a course?
You’re never on your own at American National University. If you’re struggling with a course, your first resource is your instructor, who can answer questions, provide guidance, and help clarify course concepts. In addition, students have access to academic support services designed to help them succeed throughout their educational journey, such as Grammarly.com and ANUs LIRN Library. Because many ANU courses include live online instruction, students can ask questions, participate in discussions, and receive feedback in real time. Whether you need help understanding a difficult topic, managing your coursework, or accessing resources, support is available to help you stay on track toward your academic goals.
How do labs, clinicals, or hands-on learning experiences work online?
Many ANU programs incorporate practical, hands-on learning experiences to help students apply what they learn in the classroom. Depending on the program, this may include virtual labs, simulation software, at-home lab kits, clinical experiences, externships, or other experiential learning opportunities. Program requirements vary, so students should review their specific curriculum for details. Healthcare and technical programs, for example, may include clinical placements, laboratory activities, or other hands-on experiences that provide real-world practice and help prepare students for their future careers. Share on Social
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Information Technology