Program Overview

Information Science and Technology, MS

The Master of Science in Information Science and Technology (MSIST) degree at the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee's School of Information Studies provides advanced skills needed to succeed in the field of information technology. The program addresses two critical areas of modern information technology: data science and information security.

Program Overview

The MSIST degree is designed for experienced IT professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve or aspiring technologists ready to make their mark in the field. The program emphasizes the importance of protecting sensitive information in an increasingly digital world and prepares students for leadership roles.

Program Type and Format

• The program type is a Master's degree.
• The program format is Hybrid, On Campus.

Why Study Information Science and Technology at UWM?

• Enhance problem-solving and critical thinking skills for complex IT challenges.
• Stay ahead of trends in technology with regularly updated course content.
• Boost earning potential and open doors to senior positions in IT.
• Benefit from a fully online program designed to accommodate both working professionals and distance learners.
• Learn from instructors who are industry professionals and teach in-person and online classes.
• Tailor courses to match career goals through a variety of electives.

Program Details

The information science master's degree is composed of 30 credit hours and supplements the Bachelor of Science in Information Science & Technology. The MSIST provides essential skills and knowledge in:

• Data Science: Provides students with advanced knowledge and skills to manage data sets generated by applications.
• Information Security: Focuses on techniques to ensure the security of all data captured, stored, and analyzed through applications.

Admission Requirements

The admission process for the information science master's program is the same for full-time or part-time, onsite or online (including blended/hybrid) students. An applicant must meet all UWM Graduate School and School of Information Studies admission requirements to be considered for the MSIST program.

Admission Deadlines

• MSIST Online Program: Rolling admissions, but the recommended deadline is November 1 for spring and March 1 for summer and fall.
• MSIST On-Campus Program: Fall-only start, with a priority deadline of March 1.

Application Checklist

• UWM Graduate School Application
• Reason Statement: Brief 1-2 pages outlining background and focusing on educational and professional goals.
• Transcripts: Unofficial transcripts from each institution attended.
• Resume
• Application Processing Fee
• GRE Test: Not Required
• Letters of Recommendation: Not Required

Financial Aid

UWM and the School of Information Studies offer scholarship opportunities and financial assistance resources. Scholarship opportunities may increase with academic standing.

Program Requirements

The Master's of Information Science and Technology program requires the completion of 30 credit hours. All degree requirements must be completed within five years from the enrollment start date.

Courses

• Required Courses:
  • COMPST 701: Computing Fundamentals for IT Professionals
  • COMPST 703: Software Development Life Cycle
  • INFOST 582: Introduction to Data Science
  • INFOST 583: Survey of Information Security
• Culminating Course:
  • INFOST 790: Project Design, Implementation and Evaluation
• Elective Courses: Select four or five elective courses, depending on whether programming competency has been demonstrated.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the online MSIST program at UWM pursue a wide range of careers in the information technology sector and beyond, including:

• Assistant Director Software Engineering
• Business Growth Consultant
• Cyber Security Analyst
• Director of IT
• Information Technology System Analyst
• IT Service Support Analyst
• IT Support Specialist
• Lab Information Systems Analyst
• Laboratory Operations Analyst II
• Programming Analyst
• Senior Consultant
• Senior Database Engineer
• Senior Technical Analyst

Median National Salary

• Computer and Information Research Scientists: $131,490
• Computer Network Architects: $120,520
• Computer Systems Analysts: $99,270
• Database Administrators: $101,000
• Information Security Analysts: $102,600
• Network and Computer Systems Administrators: $80,600
• Software Developers: $109,020
• Web Developers and Digital Designers: $78,300