Program Overview

Program Overview

The Accelerated Master's in Information Systems (MSIS) program at Northwestern University is designed to prepare graduates for careers in IT management or to transition into an IT career and progress to management level. The program emphasizes the development and management of software projects in the workplace and offers two specializations: Information Systems Management and Information Systems Security.

Program Features

• An accelerated pace that allows for completion of the program in one year
• A blend of day, evening, and online classes
• Intense interaction with faculty and a dedicated cohort of classmates from the U.S. and around the globe
• Exclusive access to Immersion Week and career and industry networking events
• Opportunities for Curricular Practical Training (CPT) and Optional Practical Training (OPT)
• Each cohort begins in fall quarter and students complete their degree the following summer quarter

Program Goals

The Accelerated MSIS program aims to equip graduates with the knowledge, skills, and aptitude to:

• Develop and manage software projects
• Build effective leadership techniques and communication skills necessary to implement change management and innovation
• Network within a population of peers and leading information systems professionals from prominent public and private organizations

Specializations

The program offers two areas of specialization:

• Information Systems Management
• Information Systems Security

Courses

The program requires 11 units of graduate credit and includes a range of courses that provide a hands-on, laboratory-based experience. Students can explore the course catalog to find detailed information on each course.

Admission

Applicants must hold a U.S. bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution or foreign equivalent. A variety of factors are considered when reviewing applications, including background and experience.

Tuition and Financial Aid

Tuition for the Accelerated Master's in Information Systems program is comparable to similar U.S. programs. Financial aid opportunities exist for students at Northwestern, and complete details can be found on the program's website.

Registration

Already accepted into the Accelerated Master's in Information Systems program? Students can register for classes as soon as possible to ensure maximum efficiency in their trajectory.

Careers

Information systems impacts virtually every industry, field, and activity in today's society. Those with appropriately rigorous education in the field will likely find significant professional opportunity.

Faculty

Instructors in the one-year Master's in Information Systems program are leaders in the field, bringing practical real-world experiences to the classroom and engaging with students on an interpersonal level.

Related Programs

If you want to complete your degree in 12 to 18 months and have the time to take a full-time course load, but you can’t come to Chicago for the Accelerated MSIS program, the part-time online MS in Information Systems program offers a course path that will allow you to earn your MSIS degree in 12 to 18 months.