Program Overview

MS in Information Systems and Technology

The Master of Science in Information Systems and Technology (MSIST) program is designed to provide the technical and managerial knowledge to work successfully in careers associated with the design, development, and management of information systems. The MSIST is a 30-credit hour STEM designated degree where students gain advanced knowledge and skills in application development, business intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud computing, and other emerging areas that impact organizational information systems strategies.

Program Overview

This program was designed with the busy working adult in mind, and it can be completed in 12 to 18 months. Flexible class schedules (day and evening, weekends, 8- or 16-week sessions) and course delivery formats (in-person, blended, and online) enable students to balance school, work, and life.

Program Type and Format

• Graduate, MS
• Format: On-Campus, 100% Online, 100% Evenings

Degree Overview

The program is designed for students and professionals with diverse undergraduate backgrounds. MSIST students interact extensively with their peers as well as with industry executives in a carefully curated academic environment to gain a well-rounded perspective on the strategic role of IT in contemporary organizations. Students are able to customize their degree by choosing two four-course sequences that permit them to specialize in areas of interest. These specializations include:

• Information Systems and Technology
• Business Intelligence
• Enterprise Systems Development
• Information Security Management and Auditing
• Cybersecurity

Outcomes and Career Outlook

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be able to:

• Evaluate and implement effective IS leadership principles and strategy.
• Prioritize and propose managerial practices to develop and deploy technological innovations that produce business advantage.
• Explain best practices in systems analysis and design.
• Support and improve current best practices in application development, business intelligence, cybersecurity, and legacy systems.
• Exhibit specialized leadership and technical expertise.

Employment of Computer and Information Systems Managers is projected to grow up to 15% by 2032, with a median annual salary of $164,070, according to wage and employment data from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Career Opportunities

• Information Systems Manager
• Application Analyst
• Business Intelligence Analyst
• Cloud Computing Architect
• Computer Network Architect
• Cybersecurity Analyst
• Database Administrator
• Data Scientist
• IT Consultant

Admission Requirements

Graduate Business Programs take a holistic approach when evaluating student applications. Grade point average (GPA), letters of recommendation, and professional experience are all considered when making an admissions decision. The GMAT is not required for admission to this program.

Applicants with a 3.0 GPA or higher (on a 4.0 scale) qualify for regular admission. Students may be admitted on a restricted status if their GPA is slightly below 3.0.

Application Deadlines

• Domestic Applicants:
  • Fall - July 1
  • Spring - December 1
  • Summer - May 1
• International Applicants:
  • Fall - May 1
  • Spring - October 1

Plan of Study

Review the full degree requirements for detailed information on the program's structure and courses.

Professional and Career Resources

• Student Organizations: Make new friends and learn new skills by joining one of the Recognized Student Organizations.
• Career Services: Students have access to professional career counselors who can assist in everything from resume development and interview preparation to lining up an internship or connecting you with your next full-time career.
• Networking: With the largest alumni network in the region, UMSL graduate students have access to leading professionals engaged in business, research, entrepreneurship, non-profit, government, and community organizations.

Research Opportunities

There are many opportunities for graduate students to showcase their research, including the annual Graduate Research Fair, which is open to students from all graduate programs. Doctoral and thesis master's students can also compete in the Three Minute Thesis challenge to be evaluated by a panel of judges for a chance to win cash prizes.

Related Majors

Explore more degree options:

• Information Systems and Technology, MBA
• Cybersecurity - IST, MS
• Supply Chain Analytics, MS

About the College

The UMSL Ed G. Smith College of Business is accredited by the Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business, in both business and accounting. This places UMSL among the top two percent of business schools worldwide.

Faculty and Research

UMSL College of Business faculty are inspirational teachers and top researchers. You'll learn from highly qualified educators and researchers who hold terminal degrees from some of the world's most prestigious academic institutions.

Support and Resources

About 150 local executives serve on UMSL College of Business advisory boards, assisting with current trends, mentorships, internships, jobs, advice, and financial support. This means that the curriculum remains up to date and relevant to your eventual job search.