A problem of the dual role of information technologies’ introduction to the educational process and its institutionalization in the higher education system are analyzed in the article. From sociological perspective the authors distinguish the factors of the influence of globalization and commercialization on structure of higher education, as well as to its implementation approaches. Such crucial social problems as social inequality and "digital divide", "managerialism" of the university structure with lack of creative selforganization, and the strengthening of ethical concerns of academic integrity standards in education are highlighted.