M.S. in Information Systems

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate Programs

1. Academic Qualifications:

• A completed bachelor's degree: Prospective postgraduate students must hold a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. Typically, this should be a four-year undergraduate degree.

• Minimum GPA: Rider University often requires a minimum undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale or the equivalent. 

2. English Language Proficiency:

• IELTS (International English Language Testing System): An overall band score of 6.5 or higher is commonly required, with no individual band score below 6.0.

• TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) iBT: A minimum total score of 79 is required.

• DET (Duolingo English Test): Rider University accept a DET score of 100 or higher as evidence of English proficiency.

• PTE (Pearson Test of English): A PTE score of 53 or higher is accepted.

3. Standardized Tests:

• GRE (Graduate Record Examination): A minimum GRE score of 300 is required.

Rider University offers various scholarship opportunities to international students to help alleviate the financial burden of pursuing higher education in the United States. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, leadership qualities, and other criteria. 

1. Global Leaders Scholarship: This prestigious scholarship is designed for international undergraduate students who have demonstrated exceptional academic achievement. It covers a significant portion of tuition costs.

2. Phi Theta Kappa Transfer Scholarship: International transfer students who are members of Phi Theta Kappa Honor Society may be eligible for this scholarship. It recognizes academic excellence and provides financial assistance.

3. Presidential Scholarships: Rider University awards Presidential Scholarships to top-performing international undergraduate students. These scholarships are highly competitive and provide substantial financial support.

4. Dean's Scholarship: Dean's Scholarships are available to international undergraduate students who have a strong academic record. The scholarship amount varies based on academic qualifications.

5. International Achievement Award: This scholarship acknowledges the accomplishments of international undergraduate students. It is based on a combination of academic achievement and extracurricular involvement.

6. Graduate Assistantships: Rider University offers graduate assistantships to international students pursuing master's degrees. These assistantships provide tuition remission and a stipend in exchange for work on campus.

7. Talent Scholarships: Rider provides talent-based scholarships for students with exceptional abilities in areas such as the arts, music, and athletics. International students with exceptional talents can apply for these scholarships.

8. Honors Program Scholarships: Students accepted into Rider's Honors Program may be eligible for additional scholarships, which recognize outstanding academic achievement and commitment to intellectual growth.

9. Corporate and Foundation Scholarships: Rider University has partnerships with various corporations and foundations that offer scholarships to international students. These scholarships may have specific eligibility criteria.

10. Study Abroad Scholarships: Rider encourages international students to participate in study abroad programs. Scholarships are available to support students who wish to study in another country as part of their academic experience.

It's important for international students to review the specific eligibility criteria and application deadlines for each scholarship.

Rider University offers an esteemed Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Systems program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to excel in the dynamic field of information technology. Graduates of this program are well-prepared for diverse and rewarding career opportunities in the ever-evolving realm of information systems. 

1. IT Manager or Director: Graduates often pursue roles as IT managers or directors, overseeing an organization's technology infrastructure, strategy, and operations. They are responsible for aligning IT with business objectives.

2. Systems Analyst: Systems analysts evaluate an organization's information systems, identify inefficiencies, and propose solutions for improved functionality and performance.

3. Database Administrator: Database administrators manage and maintain an organization's databases, ensuring data integrity, security, and accessibility.

4. Network Administrator: Network administrators are responsible for the design, implementation, and maintenance of an organization's computer networks, including local area networks (LANs) and wide area networks (WANs).

5. Cybersecurity Specialist: With the increasing importance of cybersecurity, graduates can specialize in roles such as cybersecurity analyst or security consultant, protecting organizations from cyber threats.

6. Cloud Solutions Architect: Cloud solutions architects design and implement cloud computing solutions, leveraging platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud to enhance scalability and flexibility.

7. Business Intelligence Analyst: Business intelligence analysts gather and analyze data to provide valuable insights that support informed business decisions.

8. Data Scientist: Data scientists use advanced analytics and machine learning techniques to extract valuable insights from data and inform business strategies.

9. IT Consultant: IT consultants work with organizations to assess their technology needs and recommend solutions to optimize efficiency and competitiveness.

10. Software Developer or Engineer: Graduates with programming skills may choose to become software developers or engineers, creating custom applications or software solutions.

11. Project Manager: Project managers oversee IT projects from initiation to completion, ensuring that they are delivered on time, within budget, and in alignment with project goals.

12. ERP (Enterprise Resource Planning) Consultant: ERP consultants specialize in implementing and configuring ERP systems like SAP or Oracle for organizations to streamline processes and data management.

13. Healthcare IT Specialist: Graduates may enter the healthcare industry as IT specialists, focusing on electronic health records (EHR) systems, health information management, and HIPAA compliance.

14. E-commerce Manager: E-commerce managers oversee online sales platforms, ensuring their functionality, security, and user experience.

15. Data Analyst: Data analysts collect and analyze data to provide insights for decision-making, often working in industries such as finance, marketing, or healthcare.

16. IT Auditor: IT auditors assess an organization's IT systems and controls to ensure compliance with regulations and identify potential risks.

17. Telecommunications Specialist: Telecommunications specialists manage communication networks and systems, including voice, data, and video communications.

18. Digital Marketing Manager: Graduates interested in marketing can leverage their IT knowledge in roles such as digital marketing manager, focusing on online advertising and customer engagement.

19. Higher Education IT: Some graduates find employment in colleges and universities, managing IT infrastructure and services for academic institutions.

20. Entrepreneurship: Graduates with an entrepreneurial spirit may choose to start their technology-related businesses, offering services or solutions to various industries.