Career roadmap
How to Become an IT Manager
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an IT manager, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an IT manager: (1) build IT experience, (2) earn a degree, (3) take on leadership, (4) earn certifications, (5) advance. Most people need about Bachelor’s plus 5+ years of IT experience. BLS lists “bachelor's degree” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an IT manager
Build IT experience
Work in support, networking, security or development.
Earn a degree
Computer science, IS or business.
Take on leadership
Lead projects or small teams.
Earn certifications
Add PMP, ITIL or security credentials.
Advance
Become IT director, VP of IT or CIO.
Education and training requirements
A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems or a related field plus five or more years of IT experience is typical. Many IT leaders have MBAs.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | Bachelor's degree |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | 5 years or more |
| On-the-job training | None |
| Typical training time | Bachelor’s plus 5+ years of IT experience |
Certifications and licenses
- Project Management Professional (PMP): Project leadership certification.
- ITIL 4: IT service management certification.
- CISSP or CISM: Security leadership certifications.
- Cloud certifications: Such as AWS or Azure architect credentials.
Skills to build now
Start with it strategy, budgeting, and infrastructure and cloud, and practice leadership and communication. Learning the IT manager vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- IT Specialist or Engineer: Build technical expertise.
- IT Team Lead or Supervisor: Lead a team.
- IT Manager: Manage IT functions.
- IT Director or CIO: Lead technology strategy.
Get a head start
Our self-paced IT Manager training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
What certifications help?
PMP, ITIL, CISSP and cloud credentials.
How long does it take to become an IT manager?
Most people need about Bachelor’s plus 5+ years of IT experience of training. A bachelor’s degree in computer science, information systems or a related field plus five or more years of IT experience is typical. Many IT leaders have MBAs.
Do you need a degree to be an IT manager?
Usually. BLS lists a bachelor’s degree as typical plus years of experience, though some IT managers rise from technical roles with strong certifications and leadership experience.
What certifications are available for IT managers?
Common credentials include Project Management Professional (PMP), ITIL 4, CISSP or CISM, and Cloud certifications. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 11-3021 (Computer and information systems managers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Computer and information systems managers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.