Information Technology (IT) is the general term for the use of technology in a company to process information, solve business problems, and manage workflows. Many accredited universities offer master’s programs in Information Technology. Students enrolled in the program will gain knowledge of the fundamental technological, business, and human components of the information-technology world. It blends aspects of design, sociology, psychology, business, and entrepreneurship with an emphasis on computer science and engineering.
It is a demanding program comprising a curriculum that covers big data, predictive analytics, AI, machine learning, cybersecurity, IT services, and other topics that can help bridge the gap between technology and business. The intended audience consists of professionals seeking a hands-on, lab-based experience to deepen and broaden their grasp of emerging IT.
Duration and Budget of Masters in Information Technology Program
A master’s degree in information technology’s duration depends on the university and credit requirements. Students can complete a master’s program in two to three years. Additionally, some students finish their master’s degree in less than a year. The credit requirement too varies for every university. Generally speaking, most universities offer masters in IT programs that can be completed with 30 to 40 credits.
The cost is another differentiating factor. On average, the total cost of completing a master’s program in IT is between $60,000 to $70,000. Many universities have started offering affordable master’s programs in information technology (both online and on-campus). The low cost of obtaining a degree from these schools is one advantage. Many students can fund their studies while still receiving an excellent education because of the affordable tuition fees.
Curriculum of Masters in Information Technology
The Master’s in Information Technology program offers a comprehensive and diverse curriculum. Certain concepts are general to all information technology graduate programs, even though the criteria for coursework vary throughout colleges.
The program introduces students to the fundamental business, human, and technical aspects of the intersection of information and technology. In addition to focusing on computer science and engineering, the program also incorporates elements of business, entrepreneurship, sociology, psychology, and design. The curriculum offers outstanding preparation for a wide range of professions that demand a deep comprehension of the human dimensions of technology and can be found in academia, business, or government.
Thesis or Capstone Project of Masters in Information Technology
A thesis or capstone project is a crucial element of a master’s program. Capstone projects are now often given precedence over theses at several universities. The capstone project’s main goal is to integrate technical and theoretical knowledge with real-world experience. Through these projects, students also acquire abilities like judgment, ethical reasoning, and investigation.
For example, MS in Information Technology program is offered at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. The program can be completed with 30 credits. The knowledge and professional practice from the IT core and concentration courses are integrated into the capstone course. The capstone puts the key ideas of the IT master’s degree into practice through an information technology team project with a legitimate organization. Another program, MS in Computer Information Systems is offered at Florida Institute of Technology. Students in the master’s program engage in a faculty research project as part of their capstone research experience to develop their advanced research abilities.
Some of the best universities offering master’s programs in information technology include:
Master of Computer and Information Technology (MCIT) – University of Pennsylvania
The University of Pennsylvania’s Master of Computer and Information Technology (MCIT) is a 30-credit program designed for students who may have never taken a computer science course and want to launch a lucrative career in technology and computing. These students frequently land highly sought-after positions in software development. The sought after program can be completed in two years.
The curriculum consists of six courses intended to give first-year students a strong foundation in computer science. After that, each student selects four advanced electives of their choice. The program is also available in the online mode.
Dual degree option: Another option that the students possess is to pursue Continuing in the Master of Science in Engineering in Computer and Information Science (CIS/MSE) Program. In order to pursue this dual degree option, students must meet certain prerequisites, including having completed most of the MCIT requirements, earning a high mark in at least one CIS elective, and having a minimum GPA.
Admission Requirements: Admission to the master’s program at the University of Pennsylvania is a competitive process. However, one of the advantages that students possess is that the GRE scores are optional. It is at the student’s discretion if they wish to submit their GRE scores. The cost of tuition for the master’s program is $235,950 with each credit unit costing $7865. There are certain admission requirements that need to be fulfilled by all students including:
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Transcripts
Career aspects: Former students of the University of Pennsylvania have gone on to work in a variety of capacities at both start-ups and smaller businesses around the country, as well as at major corporations like Google, Microsoft, and Facebook. Our students are also well-positioned to fill technical positions in a variety of industries, including bioinformatics, medicine, finance, telecommunications, media, and many more, because of their diversified backgrounds.
MBA in Information Technology Management- Florida Institute of Technology
MS in Computer Information Systems offered at Florida Institute of Technology focuses on computer-related problem-solving, with particular attention on building software and services, integrating databases, designing and maintaining data-driven systems, and being knowledgeable about emerging technologies across a range of platforms.
The 30-credit degree in computer information systems equips graduates with in-depth technical knowledge in a variety of fields, including database administration, computer programming, system design, implementation, and maintenance.
Capstone project: In order to acquire advanced research skills and gain a more thorough understanding they would need in the workplace, master’s students pursuing computer information systems participate in a faculty research project as part of their capstone research experience. The capstone research experience is a practical method that encourages students to share their own ideas for problem-solving. Students employ their creativity and knowledge in collaborative learning with teachers.
Admission Requirements: In order to get admission to the MBA program at Florida Institute of Technology, students need to submit:
- Transcripts
- A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Resume
GRE scores are not required for admission. The total cost of the program is $38100 with each credit costing $1270.
Career opportunities: The career opportunities after pursuing a master’s degree from Florida Institute of Technology are favorable. Students can work in a variety of industries as System administrator, Network administrator, Computer programmer, Systems programmer, Systems analyst and Software engineer among others.
MS in Information Technology Leadership- Keiser University
Keiser University offers an MS in Information Technology Leadership, focusing on providing the foundational knowledge in corporate leadership and information technology that managers need for success in the twenty-first century. The curriculum covers essential skills such as leadership, human resources, project management, communications, technical management, and strategic planning.
It is a 30-credit program. The program trains students to become leaders in the field of information technology. Students learn to utilize marketing techniques, international business theories, research, and managerial leadership abilities to apply to the critical analysis and resolution of technological issues in uncertain contexts.
Capstone Project: The capstone project is completed by students in their last semester of study. This allows them to get a better understanding of concepts and use them in their professional roles. It is a 3-credit project.
Admission Requirements: To get into the MS in Information Technology Leadership program, students need to provide:
- An unofficial baccalaureate or master’s transcript from an accredited school.
- Minimum 3.0 CGPA
- Resume or Curriculum Vitae
- Personal statement
- Letters of recommendation
GRE or GMAT scores are needed for admission. It is a cost-friendly program with a total cost of $9750 with each credit costing $325.
Career prospects: The multidisciplinary program has a focus on careers that aims to give students the necessary technological and management skills. Students are mostly trained for leadership roles upon their graduation.
MS in Information Technology- Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
MS in Information Technology program is offered at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute. Within the context of global e-business strategy, expertise in database systems, data analytics, networking, software design, decision sciences, technology management, human-computer interface, and ethics are included in the master’s program.
The program can be completed with 30 credits. Students can pursue the program both full-time and part-time. While full-time students can complete the master’s degree in as less as two semesters, part-time students have the option to complete in 2.5 years.
Capstone Project: The knowledge and professional practice from the IT core and concentration courses are integrated in the capstone course. The capstone puts the key ideas of the IT master’s degree into practice through an information technology team project with an accredited organization. Systems development, technology deployment, and business and strategic planning are all part of the Team Project.
Concentrations: Students also get a chance to choose a concentration of their choice within the MS program. Some students choose a Concentration that relates to their previous experiences, and then they take more advanced courses to build on that background. Some of the concentrations/specialization options include data science and analytics, cognitive computing and information dominance among others.
Admission Requirements: To get admission at the Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute, students need to submit:
- Transcripts
- Bachelor’s degree
- Resume
- Letters of recommendation
GRE or GMAT scores are also required for admission to the MS in Information Technology program. The total cost of the program is $51000.
Career options: Students have the option to pursue doctoral programs after completing their graduate studies. Some of the job roles available to them include Network Administrator, Information Technology Manager, Computer Support Specialist, Data Security Administrator, and Computer Technician among others.
MS in Computer and Information Technology- Purdue University
MS in Computer and Information Technology is offered at Purdue University. Students are prepared to make significant contributions to the information and computer technology fields. Students collaborate with their faculty mentors to develop a customized academic plan of study that will support them in achieving their professional objectives.
It is a 33-credit program. As a part of the curriculum, students need to complete both core and elective courses. Also, they are expected to take advanced research projects or specialized coursework.
Thesis: A thesis or dissertation forms a vital component of the program’s curriculum entailing the academic research work done by the student throughout the program of study.
Admission Requirements: The admission requirements to get into the MS program are:
- A relevant, earned baccalaureate degree in computer science, information technology, computer engineering, information systems, informatics, or other computer-related field of study.
- An undergraduate grade point average of 3.00 or better (on a 4.00 scale) from accredited institutions.
- Statement of purpose
- A prior thesis
GRE scores are required for admission to MS in Computer and Information Technology program. The total cost of the program is $28794.
Career aspects: The career opportunities available to graduates of information technology are immense. They are prepared for leadership roles in applied research, solution development, entrepreneurship, and management in business, academia, and government.
Online M.S. in Information Systems- New Jersey Institute of Technology
Online M.S. in Information Systems is offered by the New Jersey Institute of Technology. Systems analysts solve problems in the real world quickly by utilizing strategies including database construction, analytics, and business data mining. This is all covered in the M.S. in the program at NJIT. NJIT is the top-ranked computer information systems college in the country according to College Factual.
It is a 30-credit program. Students receive assistance from academics who are also highly accomplished practitioners in the field while they work on assignments that involve theory and applications on actual data.
Specializations: Students get the opportunity to choose a specialization of their choice and gain a deeper understanding of concepts. Some of the specializations include Healthcare Informatics, Business Decision Making, and Data Analytics, Designing User Experiences, Network administration and security, and System Design and Analysis.
Admission Requirements: Admission Requirements for Online M.S. in Information Systems:
- Transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.
- Letter of recommendation
GRE or GMAT scores are needed for admission to the online MS in Information Systems program. The total cost of the program is $34290 with each credit costing $1143.
Career opportunities: The career opportunities are varied for graduates of information technology. Students are trained to be system analysts. Techniques used by systems analysts include database construction, analytics, and corporate data mining. The average salary of NJIT graduates is $70,000.
MS in Computer and Information Technology – Harvard University
Harvard University offers an MS in Computer and Information Technology that is designed to equip students with advanced skills and knowledge in the field. The program emphasizes a comprehensive understanding of computer science and information technology, preparing students for leadership roles in various industries.
The program consists of 36 credits, covering core and elective courses. Students have the option to choose between a thesis or non-thesis track. Those opting for the thesis track engage in advanced research projects, while the non-thesis track includes additional elective coursework. A thesis or dissertation is a crucial component of the thesis track, reflecting the student’s academic research throughout the program.
Admission Requirements: Admission requirements for the MS in Computer and Information Technology program at Harvard university include:
- A relevant baccalaureate degree in computer science or a related field
- A minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.50 or higher
- A compelling statement of purpose
- Prior research experience
GRE scores are required for admission. The total cost of the program is $35,000.
Career Aspects: Graduates from Harvard’s MS program secure job roles as research scientists, technology architects, and senior consultants. The average starting salary ranges from $110,000 to $130,000, reflecting the high demand for expertise across various sectors, including academia, and the military.
MS in Computer and Information Technology – Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT)
Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) offers an MS in Computer and Information Technology program that is designed for students seeking a cutting-edge education in computer science and technology. The program focuses on innovation, research, and practical applications to prepare students for impactful roles in the IT industry.
The program comprises 32 credits, encompassing core and elective courses. Students can opt for either a thesis or a non-thesis track. Those pursuing the thesis track engage in advanced research projects, while the non-thesis track includes additional elective coursework. A thesis or dissertation is a mandatory component of the thesis track.
Admission Requirements: To get into the MS in Computer and Information Technology program at MIT, students need to submit:
- A relevant baccalaureate degree
- A minimum GPA of 3.70 or higher
- A compelling statement of purpose
- Prior research experience
GRE scores are required for admission. The total cost of the program is $32,500.
Career Aspects: MIT graduates are well-positioned for leadership roles in applied research, technology development, entrepreneurship, and management, with diverse career opportunities in business, academia, and government. They command roles as senior software engineers, data scientists, and technology managers. The average starting salary ranges from $120,000 to $140,000.
MS in Computer and Information Technology – Stanford University
Stanford University’s MS in Computer and Information Technology program is renowned for its cutting-edge curriculum and commitment to fostering innovation in the field. The program aims to prepare students for leadership roles in the dynamic and evolving landscape of computer science and information technology.
The program consists of 35 credits, covering both core and elective courses. Students have the option to choose between a thesis or non-thesis track. The thesis track involves advanced research projects, while the non-thesis track includes additional elective coursework. A thesis or dissertation is a fundamental requirement for the thesis track.
Admission Requirements: Admission requirements for MS in Computer and Information Technology include:
- A relevant baccalaureate degree
- A minimum GPA of 3.60 or higher
- A well-crafted statement of purpose
- Prior research experience
- GRE scores are required for admission.
Cost: The total cost of the program is $34,000.
Career Aspects: Graduates from Stanford’s program secure roles as machine learning engineers, technology strategists, and research analysts. The average starting salary ranges from $130,000 to $150,000, reflecting their contributions to technology innovation and entrepreneurship in business as Stanford graduate’s home ground.
A comparative analysis of master’s in information technology programs among universities:
The table showcases a comparative understanding of information technology graduate programs across distinct universities based on multiple factors:
| University | Program name | Mode of delivery | Credit requirement | GRE requirement | Cost |
| University of Pennsylvania | Master of Computer and Information Technology | On-campus | 30 | GRE scores are optional. | $58987 |
| Florida Institute of Technology | MBA in Information Technology Management | Online | 30 | GRE scores are not required. | $38100 |
| Keiser University | MS in Information Technology leadership | Online | 30 | GRE or GMAT scores are needed. | $9750 |
| Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute | MS in Information Technology | On-campus | 30 | GRE or GMAT scores are needed. | $51000 |
| Purdue University | MS in Information Technology | On-campus | 33 | GRE scores are required. | $28794. |
| New Jersey Institute of Technology | Online MS in Information Systems | Online | 30 | GRE or GMAT scores are needed. | $34290 |
| Harvard University | MS in Computer and Information Technology | On-campus | 36 | Required | $35,000 |
| Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) | MS in Computer and Information Technology | On-campus | 32 | Required | $32,500 |
| Stanford University | MS in Computer and Information Technology | On-campus | 35 | Required | $34,000 |
Career outlook after completing a Master’s degree in Information Technology
A Master’s is a sought-after degree as the demand for IT professionals is expected to increase many folds in the future. Many universities have also started offering online programs in information technology allowing students to fulfill both personal and professional goals. The degree equips students with multiple skills including leadership, teamwork, problem solving among others.
Graduates are prepared to work across industries including applied research, solution development, entrepreneurship, and management in business, academia, and government. Some of the common job positions for graduates of information technology include information technology managers, computer Support Specialist, Data Security Administrator, and Computer Technician among others. Graduates with an M.S. in Information Technology and Management go on to work as project managers, program managers, scrum masters, business/data/BI/systems analysts, technology strategists, consultants, information security managers, information technology managers, consultants for information/privacy risk, fintech specialists, and more. The average salary of an information technology manager is $119853.
- Information Technology Generalist: The role of an IT generalist is installing, configuring, and updating hardware, software, and networks; providing infrastructure support, maintenance, and operations for IT systems, hardware, and software; answering, monitoring, and recording technological problems that are brought in by walk-ins, phone calls, and/or helpdesk visits among others. The average salary is about $56,000 to $71,000 per year.
- Information Technology Manager: An IT manager oversees, plans, and assesses the development team’s work to make sure that technical discipline is offering all users accurate and timely services. The practical management and guidance of engineering experts falls within the purview and accountability of the Technical Manager. The average salary for an IT manager is $401K.
- Data Warehouse Architect: Data warehouse architects are responsible for creating logical and physical data models, designing database systems, and creating and managing a variety of database tools and scripts. They decide which tools to utilize to finish projects and specify their scope. The average salary is $131479.
- Research Analyst: A research analyst gathers and examines data in order to assess the markets for current and future goods and services. They identify and keep an eye on rivals, and study market circumstances or shifts in the sector that could impact sales. The average salary is $100,791.