2024 Best IT Schools & Programs

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An information technology bachelor’s degree is one of the most versatile, market-ready choices for new college students. It provides a broad foundation in the systems that make modern life possible, giving students the opportunity to begin a career right out of the gate or setting the stage for more advanced degrees, certifications, and specializations. From data management to information systems to networking, a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology is a launchpad for a rewarding career.

When it comes to looking for information technology degree programs, college students need to be cautious; not all degrees are the same. A bachelor’s in information technology might get you a job, but it takes a quality IT program to really set a graduate off into a successful career. Strong mentorship, access to the latest technology, internship opportunities, hands-on research, and a strong job market network are the features to look for in an IT degree program. Value Colleges knows what prospective IT students are looking for, and our ranking of the Best Value Campus Information Technology programs is dedicated to return on investment.

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Methodology: How We Ranked the Best Bachelor’s in Information Technology Programs

Our Best Value IT ranking is designed to point prospective IT professionals to the information technology program more likely to make a real difference in their careers. For that reason, VC editors focused our research on information technology programs from accredited, reputable institutions. From our initial list, we ranked IT degree programs according to four quantifiable factors:

  • U.S. News Ranking
  • Niche Student Reviews
  • Cost
  • Alumni Salary

Data on online bachelor’s degree programs comes from IPEDS, Niche, College Scorecard, and U.S. News & World Report, and is intended to show college students what programs have demonstrated their commitment to student and graduate success, in the classroom and on the job market.

1. Purdue University

When you are looking for a bachelors in information technology to help with your long-term career goals, Purdue University offers a program to help with your plans. The BS in Computer Information Technology degree program at Purdue University focuses on data security and system function, which plays a key role in modern business. Since companies need professionals to protect their client’s data and limit the risks to the business, the training in proper data security helps you obtain a job to start your career.

Purdue University stands apart from online degree IT programs by focusing on the security aspects of information technology. Since more companies and areas of life rely on computers and technology, education must focus on methods of maintaining security as well as the technical skills to handle the challenges of a career in technology. Purdue University offers online degree programs in computer information technology that focuses on a combination of technical expertise and security skills designed to help you obtain your career goals.

  • Degree: BS in Computer Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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2. University of Arizona

The University of Arizona offers a BS in Information Science and Technology that provides students with the training and skills to work in a technology career. The degree program builds mathematical and computational skills you need to analyze technology and address challenges within a system. Since the degree combines technical expertise with mathematics, you will have a variety of career options after completing the degree.

A key way the University of Arizona stands apart from other programs is the focus on mathematics as it relates to computation and computer science. The degree program recognizes that intensive computing requires the logical and problem-solving skills that come from mathematics. It also requires a strong foundation in math to understand the full scope of the computer network and systems.

  • Degree: BS in Information Science and Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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3. Brigham Young University

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Brigham Young University provides students with a strong foundation in computing skills and technology skills that give them an opportunity to focus on a career goal. The degree program teaches students problem analysis as part of the development of computing skills to ensure that you can identify problems and take steps to resolve the concerns. It also teaches the relevant design, programming, and computer-based skills you need for your career.

Brigham Young University offers a degree program that gives college students analytical skills that build on the computing skills to help you think of solutions to potential concerns. The focus on providing students with the skills to address and resolve problems gives them a chance to focus on long-term plans for a career. BYU ensures that students have the problem-solving skills to handle the challenges of working in the technology industry.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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4. Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute

Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute offers a BS in Information Technology and Web Science that recognizes the importance of information technology in our daily lives. It also recognizes the growing importance of the Internet and web science as it relates to information technology. By focusing on an interdisciplinary approach to technology, it prepares students for the rapid changes associated with the technology industry.

A key way Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute differs fromonline degree IT programs is its interdisciplinary approach to learning. The college focuses on teaching college students the skills they need to handle the challenges that may arise in the future as it relates to the development of the web as well as the development of information technology and computing.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology and Web Science
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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5. Temple University

The BS or BA in Information Science and Technology from Temple University prepares students for the challenges of computing in the technology industry. The degree program teaches students valuable programming languages and the use of computer graphics for specific goals. It also teaches students information management and operating systems to prepare for the security concerns that may arise in a corporate environment. The skills prepare students to handle the challenges of a career in technology.

Temple University offers students a well-rounded education with a focus on programming, computer graphics, and data management within a corporation or business administration. The focus on relevant skills ensures that students are ready to handle the challenges of their career and focus on accomplishing long-term goals. It gives you the tools you need to work in the technology industry.

  • Degree: BA or BS in Information Science and Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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6. New Jersey Institute of Technology

The New Jersey Institute of Technology offers a BS in Information Technology that focuses on the practitioner and not the system. By taking a practitioner approach to design, programming, and software management, the college gives students a balanced view of technology and the industry. That balanced approach ensures that you are prepared for the challenges you will face in your career.

A key way the New Jersey Institute of Technology differs from other programs is the focus on the practitioner. That unique focus ensures that students are prepared to handle the challenges of a career in technology. It gives you an opportunity to focus on specific areas of information technology and work on realistic solutions to help with your long-term goals. This practitioner-focused approach to learning that gives students a balanced view of technology and systems.

  • Degree: BS in Computer Science
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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7. Rochester Institute of Technology

When you are looking for a degree in Information Technology, you may want to consider the BS in Computer and Information Technologies from the Rochester Institute of Technology. The degree program focuses on teaching prospective students every aspect of IT solutions from the development and testing of a system to the management of a network. That focus on technical skills gives students an opportunity to reach their goals for a career in technology.

The Rochester Institute of Technology stands out from other programs with its straight-forward curriculum and focus on IT solutions. It focuses on the technical expertise a student needs to work in the technology industry. That focus allows students to develop skills that have high demand within companies and address problems that may arise when dealing with a network or system. A key reason the Rochester Institute of Technology differs from other programs is the focus of its curriculum and the high standards as it relates to IT skills.

  • Degree: BS in Computer and Information Technologies
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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8. Illinois Institute of Technology

The Bachelor of Information Technology and Management from the Illinois Institute of Technology takes a comprehensive approach to the technology industry and the training students need for their career goals. The degree program requires students to take courses that complement their training in information technology, such as business technology or industrial technology. The additional courses ensure that students have a well-rounded view of the IT industry and understand the role they play when they are working in their field.

The Illinois Institute of Technology offers undergraduate and graduate degrees that encourage studies in complementary topics to ensure that they are ready for the challenges of working in a corporate environment. By focusing on technology within specific industries and fields, you gain the relevant skills to handle the challenges that may arise in that career setting. It gives you an opportunity to focus on your long-term goals as a technology professional.

  • Degree: Bachelor of Information Technology and Management
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
[/list]

9. University of Washington

The University of Washington offers a BS in Information Technology that is ABET-accredited and focuses on teaching computer science students relevant skills to identify emerging trends in technology and online design. That understanding of emerging trends ensures that students are able to stay up-to-date in an industry that changes at a rapid pace due to new innovations and ideas.

A key way the University of Washington stands out from other programs is the focus on real-world experience combined with an understanding of modern trends in technology. It ensures that students have a strong foundation to handle programming and related projects while still identifying emerging trends that may allow a company to improve their current network and systems for improved efficiency. The University of Washington prepares students to handle the challenges of a fast-paced industry with a strong foundation in basic computing skills.

  • Degree: BS in Computer Science
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
[/list]

10. Florida State University

The IT degree from Florida State University offers students the opportunity to focus on their goals for a career in the technology industry. The degree program teaching prospective students the computing skills they need for their career as well as the leadership skills to take on more advanced roles in their field. That allows students to improve their opportunity for promotions by ensuring they have proper communication skills for a leadership position.

Florida State University offers online information technology programs by giving students more skills than the basic IT skills they need for a career in the technology industry. They also learn leadership skills and effective communication to prepare for more advanced roles in their career. By teaching computer science students skills that apply to leadership positions, the degree program ensures that students are ready for more complex projects and the ethical challenges that may arise when working on new technology.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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11. University of South Florida

The University of South Florida offers a BS in Information Technology that focuses on networking, databases, programming, and related topics with an understanding that students will use their skills in specific roles in business, government, or corporations. The program ensures that students are prepared for their role in the technology industry and have the right skills for their situation.

A key way the University of South Florida stands apart fromonline degree IT programs is the well-rounded view of the topic. The school offers related majors that allow them to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of computing, programming, and skills related to information technology. That gives students an advantage when dealing with large corporations or government programs.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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12. Ohio University

Ohio University offers a BS in Information and Telecommunications Systems that helps you focus on a career in technology. The degree program recognizes that information technology goes beyond the basic computing skills and programming associated with the degree. It applies to all forms of communication and telecommuting. By combining the computing and technical knowledge with communication skills and the challenges of maintaining a communication network, students are able to start a career in telecommunication and related fields.

Ohio University differs fromonline degree IT programs by clarifying the role of telecommunication in technology and providing students with an education that includes telecommunication skills. It goes beyond the basic information technology skills and helps students understand the way networks work at every level of technology. That allows students to identify potential concerns and address the problems before it causes complications with a company’s communication strategies.

  • Degree: BS in Information and Telecommunications Systems
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
[/list]

13. University of Tulsa

The BS in Information Technology from the University of Tulsa gives students a strong foundation in computer science and prepares students for the complications of working in the technology industry. The degree program combines mathematics and statistics with computer science and business to ensure that students have a well-rounded view of their field.

The University of Tulsa stands apart from other programs by giving students the computer science skills they need to handle different challenges in their work. It also ensures that students understand mathematics and statistics as part of their degree. That focus on math and computer science gives students problem-solving skills to help with their long-term career goals.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
[/list]

14. Towson University

When you want to work on a bachelors in information technology, Towson University offers a solution to help with your goals. The BS in Computer Science focuses on building hands-on skills and practical knowledge to help students with their career goals. The program also works on effective communication to help students with the challenges of working on a team.

Towson University offers a hands-on approach to information technology skills. The program focuses on teaching prospective students to handle the challenges that may arise in relation to a computer system or network. It also recognizes that students need problem-solving skills for their career and provides an opportunity to learn strategies for problem-solving.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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15. Montclair State University

If you want a Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, then Montclair State University offers a program to help with your goals. The program prepares students for a job in programming or video game design to help with personal plans for a career. It also recognizes that students may face a variety of challenges based on their role in a company and provides the training you need to work with different computers and networks.

A key way Montclair State University stands apart from other bachelor’s degree programs is the well-rounded approach to information technology. The program recognizes that students may take on a role as a video game designer, a computer programmer, an analyst, or a variety of other jobs in technology. By giving students a well-rounded education as it relates to information technology and the skills associated with technological tools, the program helps students clarify their personal plans and work toward a career that fits their needs.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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16. Oakland University

A BA in Information Technology from Oakland University provides a strong foundation in the technology industry and gives students the tools they need to handle the challenges of their career. The school focuses on providing hands-on training and giving students versatile skills that apply to multiple careers and opportunities. By focusing on developing useful skills that apply to different jobs, the degree program ensures that you are competitive and capable.

Oakland University provides students with hands-on training and works with corporate sponsors to give students an opportunity to work on real-world projects before moving into a career. The unique opportunity to learn from experienced professionals helps students prepare for the challenges of their career. The university also offers students a chance to network with professionals in their field for career opportunities.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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17. Elmhurst College

When you are looking for a degree program for a bachelor’s in information technology, Elmhurst College offers a program to help with your goals. The degree program provides students with a well-rounded understanding of programming and database development with a key focus on Java and SQL database strategies. Students prepare to handle the challenges of their career by finishing up their degree with the development of an application or a website.

Elmhurst College stands out from otherbachelor’s degree programs by offering students a strong foundation in programming. The degree focuses on common types of programs and gives students the hands-on experience they need to develop a website, create an online application, or develop programs for an employer. By gaining experience in a classroom setting, students have a chance to prepare for their career without worrying about mistakes.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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18. Ferris State University

A Computer Information Technology degree from Ferris State University gives you the tools and skills to take on a career in the technology industry. The degree helps students accomplish their career goals by teaching programming and network management skills. The degree program also gives students opportunities to build a network with experienced professionals in the information technology industry to advance in their career opportunities.

Ferris State University stands out from otherbachelor’s degree programs by offering a hands-on approach to the learning process. You have opportunities for internships and training programs that give you the experience to handle a fast-paced work environment. Students also gain the opportunity to create a network before they start looking into career opportunities that may assist with long-term goals.

  • Degree: BS in Computer Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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19.Lindenwood University

The Bachelor of Science in Information Technology from Lindenwood University prepares you for a career building, maintaining, and programming computer data. The degree program recognizes the fast pace of the technology industry and provides students with a broad-based curriculum that helps with long-term goals. When you get a bachelor’s degree from the university, you will be able to handle the challenges of working in the technology industry.

Lindenwood University stands out for their accelerated IT program and its focus on providing a strong foundation in technology-related topics. It helps you understand computers and database information to address problems that may arise. The fast pace of the program helps you accomplish your goals for your education without wasting time.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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20.La Salle University

La Salle University offers a BS or BA in Information Technology that prepares you for a career in the technology industry. The degree programs focus on providing students with the information they need to provide client support or to address problems with a computer network. It also gives you the tools to manage a network and engage in programming work.

A key reason La Salle University differs from otherbachelor’s degree programs is its flexibility. La Salle offers flexible classes to help with your situation and allow you to keep up with your studies when you have other obligations to an employer or family members.Students are able to take night classes to help address problems with their schedule. It also gives you a chance to focus on your degree at a pace that fits your situation. You can take extra time for your degree with the five-year program if you have limitations in your schedule and need to take night classes to keep up with your goals.

  • Degree: BA or BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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21. Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago’s online Information Technology bachelor’s program gives students a well-rounded view of the skills they need to handle working in the technology field. The degree program recognizes that corporations and businesses need professionals to manage the networks and design programs to fit the needs of the company. By taking measures to develop your technical skills with an IT degree from the university, you will have new opportunities for your career.

Loyola University Chicago focuses on the relevant skills you need to keep up with the modern work environment. It focuses on developing the skills a corporation needs to keep up with the computer systems and network. It also allows you to develop programs that a company may use for specific purposes or projects.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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22. Texas Christian University

Obtaining a BS in Computer Information Technology from Texas Christian University gives you an opportunity to develop the relevant skills you need for your career in the technology industry. The degree program teaches students the skills associated with system and network administration, web technology for online websites, and scripting fundamentals you need to improve your skills in programming.

Texas Christian University stands apart from otherbachelor’s degree programs by offering students a strong foundation in technology. It does not limit your education to programming. The program gives you the tools to program, manage networks, and set up a secure network. The skills allow you to take on several roles within a company and handle the challenges of data management.

  • Degree: BS in Computer Information Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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23. East Carolina University

The BS in Information and Computer Technology from East Carolina University prepares students for a career in the technology industry. The degree program focuses on teaching students to create systems of computers that work together for a specific goal. It also teaches students proper cyber security, data management, management information systems and systems administration skills that enhance their career opportunities.

East Carolina University stands out for offering a well-rounded view of technology. The degree program prepares students to take on different roles within the industry based on their interests and goals. You can work in security and network safety, or you can take on a role in network development and data management. The degree gives you a broad view of technology so you can apply the skills to different tasks and projects.

  • Degree: BS in Information and Computer Technology
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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24. Idaho State University

Idaho State University offers a BAS in Information Technology Systems that takes a hands-on approach to the technology industry. The degree program gives students a chance to fix computers and wire networks to give them a strong foundation in the way computers work. Students also learn programming skills that prepare them for a career in the technology industry.

A key way Idaho State University stands out fromonline degree IT programs is its focus on hands-on skills. Students complete their degree by building a computer from scratch to ensure they have the skills to fix broken computers and devices. It also gives students a strong understanding of the intricacies associated with technology and computers.

  • Degree: BAS in Information Technology Systems
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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25. Marist College

Marist College offers a BS in Information Technology and Systems that provides students with skills related to computing and business. You are not limited to the technical skills associated with computers and networks. You also learn the relevant business skills that give you the opportunity to add value to a company and advance in your career. The degree program prepares students to handle their goals by offering two concentrations: information technology and management information systems. The concentrations give you a specific route for your career.

Marist College stands apart by taking a business approach to technology. Although the degree program does focus on the use of technology and the skills you need to maintain a system, it also teaches you the skills you need to manage a business or add extra value to a company with business-related skills. That gives you a strong understanding of how a corporation or business improves over time.

  • Degree: BS in Information Technology and Systems
  • Annual Tuition: $$$$$
  • Format: Campus
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What Should I Look for in an IT Degree Program?

The best information technology degrees come from colleges with cutting-edge computer science departments. The college should be involved in a significant number of research projects with large annual endowments to fund the studies. Top ranked information technology schools will also have the latest technologies installed in their laboratories. Many of the best schools will have tech that includes virtual reality, augmented reality, human computer interaction, data science, management information systems, and simulation technologies. Students should be able to complete general education requirements for their degree online.

Another key feature of top ranked information technology schools is the engagement between students and professors. Mentorship opportunities provide more one on one time between an IT student and an established expert in the field. Prospective information technology degree seekers will want to review the current faculty on staff at the university. Top ranked information technology schools around the country have Rhodes scholars, National Medal of Science recipients, and Nobel laureates.

Where are the Best Schools for Information Technology?

The best information technology degrees comes from colleges with a robust internship program that offers chances to gain field experience. Ideally, the college will be nearby a cluster of technology firms where online students can intern and add essential experience to their resumes. Colleges located nearby cities, such as Boston and New York, are usually among the top ranked information technology schools; institutions near a tech hub like Silicon Valley are the most-coveted. Internships offer a good networking opportunity too when it’s time for information technology degree graduates to find permanent employment. For students looking into career advancement, they will want to check on what the school has to offer as far as graduate school and certification programs.    

Academic and career goals for information technology students include:

  • information technology management
  • computer support specialists
  • computer network architect
  • software developers
  • information security

Colleges should be accredited by an organization like the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges .

Do I Need an Internship to Get My Bachelor’s in Information Technology?

Information technology internships vary from college to college. Some universities may require an internship to receive an information technology degree, while others may not. However, an IT internship is a vital part of a student’s post-secondary education. During an internship, the student learns to apply all that he or she has learned throughout college.

Although tech internships have a reputation of being unpaid, paid internships are available. For unpaid information technology internships, there are usually state laws in place to protect the student. For instance, in many states, unpaid internships must be eligible for college credit.

Research internships are also beneficial to students in the IT field. During this type of IT internship, a student conducts research on behalf of a company and uses the findings to produce an academic paper.

Tech internships are also useful for testing out different jobs. An internship is a short-term commitment and gives the student a chance to decide if the job is the right fit. Information technology internships are usually very hands-on. This makes it perfect for honing soft and hard skills. Also, making mistakes are not significant at internships, since they are meant to be learning experiences.

Information technology degree requirements will differ at each college. Information technology course subjects won’t only focus on computer topics. The curriculum will also include business and communications subjects. The information technology degree requirements may leave room for a specialization such as cyber security or web development.

What are the Top Universities for Artificial Intelligence that also have On-Campus Information Technology Schools?

Finding the best ai universities worldwide that offer on-campus information technology schools can be a daunting task. However, there are a few renowned institutions that excel in both areas. Stanford University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT), and University of California, Berkeley are among the top choices. These universities provide exceptional AI programs while also offering comprehensive IT education on campus.

What Will I Learn in an IT Degree Program?

Besides general education college credits, information technology course subjects build a strong foundation in understanding how computer systems work. Examples of information technology course subjects include:

  • Cloud Foundation
  • Information System Management
  • IT Applications
  • Linux Foundation
  • Management Principles
  • Mobile App Development
  • Network and Security
  • User Interface Design
  • Web Development
  • Mobile and Web Development
  • human computer interaction
  • data science
  • management information systems

During information technology major subjects, computer networks and computer systems will be explored. College students also receive an introduction to software development, web design, and software testing. An internship and capstone project may also be a requirement listed on a bachelor of information technology syllabus. To receive a bachelor degree in information technology, many colleges require 120 credit hours completed. Online programs have becoming increasingly common, especially for graduate degree programs.

Related Online Programs Rankings: 

 

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Aya Andrews

Editor-in-Chief

Aya Andrews is a passionate educator and mother of two, with a diverse background that has shaped her approach to teaching and learning. Born in Metro Manila, she now calls San Diego home and is proud to be a Filipino-American. Aya earned her Masters degree in Education from San Diego State University, where she focused on developing innovative teaching methods to engage and inspire students.

Prior to her work in education, Aya spent several years as a continuing education consultant for KPMG, where she honed her skills in project management and client relations. She brings this same level of professionalism and expertise to her work as an educator, where she is committed to helping each of her students achieve their full potential.

In addition to her work as an educator, Aya is a devoted mother who is passionate about creating a nurturing and supportive home environment for her children. She is an active member of her community, volunteering her time and resources to support local schools and organizations. Aya is also an avid traveler, and loves to explore new cultures and cuisines with her family.

With a deep commitment to education and a passion for helping others succeed, Aya is a true inspiration to those around her. Her dedication to her craft, her community, and her family is a testament to her unwavering commitment to excellence in all aspects of her life.

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ValueColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.

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