Information Technology (MS)

The MS program in information technology is a transdisciplinary program that prepares students to be industry leaders in the public and private sectors. Students gain the technical competencies they need to design and develop information technology projects that interconnect people, process and technology to meet the needs of stakeholders and users.

The coursework emphasizes core technologies, and students select from two areas of focus: information technology security or information systems management.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

• This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 24 months. This OPT work authorization period may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. 

Degree requirements

• 30 credit hours and a portfolio, or
• 30 credit hours including the required applied project course (IFT 593)

Required Core (12 credit hours)

• IFT 510 Principles of Computer and Information Technology Architecture (3)
• IFT 520 Advanced Information Systems Security (3)
• IFT 530 Advanced Database Management Systems (3)
• IFT 540 Information Systems Development (3)

Open Elective (3 or 6 credit hours)
Focus Area Electives (12 credit hours)

• Culminating Experience (0 or 3 credit hours)
• IFT 593 Applied Project (3) or
• Portfolio (0)

Additional Curriculum Information

• Students should see the academic unit for a complete list of approved coursework.

Admission requirements

• Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.
• Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in information technology, computer science, applied computing, computer engineering or a closely related field from a regionally accredited college or university.
• Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in their first bachelor's degree program or in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program; a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in nine semester hours of graduate coursework from a U.S. institution; or a cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") from an applicable conferred master's degree program in a regionally accredited college or university.

All applicants must submit:

• Graduate admission application and application fee
• Official transcripts
• Personal statement
• Professional resume
• Proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. Applicants should see the graduate admission services website.

• Unofficial transcripts may be submitted at time of application. If admitted, applicants must then submit official transcripts to graduate admission services.
• If the applicant does not meet the minimum GPA requirements, the application may still be considered. In certain cases, demonstrated aptitude through professional experience or additional postbaccalaureate education is considered.
• The applicant's undergraduate GPA and depth of preparation in information technology and computer science are the primary factors that affect admission.

Program learning outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:

• Integrate theories and concepts of information technology in their master applied technology research and industry careers.
• Build client-centered technology solution through the synthesis of best practices and transdisciplinary research.
• Conduct industry relevant research and communicate results effectively to diverse audiences.

Career opportunities

• Graduates of the information technology program, which couples technical skills with the business skills needed to manage technical functions, are well qualified for careers in the management of IT departments. Some graduates pursue careers as technical support staff based on the focus area and secondary skills they achieve. Graduates also have the ability to manage technical professionals within their focus areas.