How to Become an IT Manager in India: Step-by-Step Career Guide for 2026

As more companies adopt digital transformation, the role of an IT manager has shifted from simply keeping systems up to being the driving force behind innovation. They have now become indispensable partners in digital transformation processes, helping make the effective use of new IT tools in business operations. Check out our blog to learn how to become an IT manager, what educational qualifications are needed, and which skills are the most important to acquire.

Who is an IT Manager?

An IT manager is a highly skilled IT specialist who takes responsibility for overseeing an organisation's tech infrastructure, ensuring that systems run smoothly, projects are delivered on time, and technology resources align with the company's goals. He/she leads the IT teams, manages budgets, and implements solutions that make the company's operations more efficient and further support business growth.

• Governance and compliance of technological systems
• Maintenance and support of the IT infrastructure
• Enhance the overall functionality and reliability of systems

It is a highly dynamic job role that incorporates technical knowledge with leadership and problem-solving skills. While the team may handle coding and design, the IT Manager serves as the backbone of IT operations, ensuring that technology consistently supports the organisation’s goals.

What Should You Study to Become an IT Manager?

To become an IT manager, you would need a technical degree, like a B.Tech or B.E. in Computer Science or Information Technology.  Here is the eligibility criteria to become an IT manager.

How to Become an IT Manager

To build a career in IT management, students need a strong background in computer science and information technology, as well as management skills. Here is the educational pathway you can follow to become an IT Manager.

Step 1: Pursue an Undergraduate Technical Degree

The role of an IT manager requires a specific skill set, and companies look for certain degrees when hiring one. 

The eligibility criteria to pursue a bachelor’s degree in IT or computer science are to study Physics, Chemistry, Math (PCM), or Physics, Chemistry, Biology (PCB) + Math. Here is some information about 

Top Undergraduate Courses to Become an IT Manager

• B.Tech / B.E. in Computer Science or Information Technology
• B.Sc. in Computer Science / Information Technology
• BCA 
• Diploma in Computer Science or IT (after Class 10)

Entrance Exams for Admission to Undergraduate Courses

Step 2: Go for Advanced Education (Postgraduate Level)

Although not mandatory, pursuing a postgraduate degree adds significant value and improves career prospects for aspiring IT managers.

Popular Postgraduate Programs

• MBA in Information Technology
• PGDM in IT Management
• M.Tech in Information Systems / Computer Science

Eligibility

• A bachelor’s degree (in any stream, preferably IT-related) with at least 50% marks from a recognised university.

Entrance Exams for Admission:

Distance and Online MBA Options:
Working professionals can pursue online or distance MBA in IT Management from reputed institutions such as:

• NMIMS Global 
• Amity University Online
• Manipal University Jaipur (Online)
• Symbiosis Centre for Distance Learning (SCDL)

These programs allow students to work and study simultaneously, making them ideal for those seeking career advancement.

Step 3: Develop Relevant Skills 

To become a successful IT Manager, students should focus on building both technical and managerial skills, such as:

• Network and systems management
• Information Technology Infrastructure Library (ITIL) framework
• Disaster recovery
• Cybersecurity basics
• Project management (Agile, Scrum)
• Database and cloud computing 
• Leadership and strong communication skills
• Technical Expertise
• Budget Management
• Vendor Management
• Problem Solving
• Communication
• Strategic Planning
• Change Management 

Step 4: Career Growth

After completing your degree(s), you can start your career as:

• IT Support Engineer
• System Analyst
• Network Administrator
• Project Coordinator

With experience and additional certifications (like PMP, ITIL, or CompTIA), you can progress to roles such as:

• IT Project Manager
• IT Infrastructure Manager
• Chief Information Officer (CIO)
• Chief Technology Officer (CIO)

Top Courses to Become an IT Manager

Listed below are some of the best courses in a varying price range for you to consider, based on your career goals and budget:

IT Manager Salary in India

An IT Manager with 3-5 years of experience earns around INR 3-15 LPA, with an average annual salary of INR 7.2 LPA. Salaries go up with increased experience, enhanced skill sets, the company where you are working, and the location of work. 

Listed below are the salaries of an IT Manager across different locations in India.

Salary Source: Ambitionbox