M.S. in Information Systems

Application Fees : US$ 70

Postgraduate Admissions:

• A minimum undergraduate degree with a cumulative grade point average (CGPA) of 60% or higher.
   
• English Language Proficiency: International students must demonstrate English language proficiency by achieving satisfactory scores in one of the following standardized tests:
  • IELTS: Minimum score of 6.5 overall.
  • TOEFL: Minimum score of 80 on the internet-based test (iBT).
  • PTE: Minimum score of 55.
  • DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 105.
     
• Standardized Tests: A GRE score of 300 is required. A GMAT score of 550 is required.
   
• WES Evaluation Required.

It is important to note that meeting the minimum entry requirements does not guarantee admission to specific programs at CSULA. Some programs may have additional requirements or criteria, such as a portfolio review or an interview. CSULA encourages international students to apply early and submit all required documents by the specified deadlines. 

California State University, Los Angeles (CSULA) provides several scholarship opportunities for international students to support their educational journey. These scholarships recognize academic achievement, leadership potential, and contributions to the university community. 

1. International Eagle Scholarship: The International Eagle Scholarship is designed for undergraduate and graduate international students who demonstrate academic excellence. The scholarship amount varies and is renewable based on maintaining a specified GPA. Eligible students must have completed at least one semester at CSULA.

2. President's Scholarship: The President's Scholarship is a prestigious award offered to outstanding international undergraduate students. It covers full tuition and fees for up to four years of study. Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, leadership potential, and extracurricular involvement.

3. Graduate Equity Fellowship: The Graduate Equity Fellowship provides financial assistance to international graduate students who come from disadvantaged backgrounds or groups underrepresented in higher education. The fellowship supports full-time enrollment and offers a stipend to cover living expenses.

4. CSU Trustees' Award for Outstanding Achievement: The CSU Trustees' Award for Outstanding Achievement is a system-wide scholarship program that recognizes exceptional undergraduate students across the California State University system. International students who meet the eligibility criteria, including academic achievement and community service, can apply for this competitive scholarship.

5. College-Specific Scholarships: CSULA's colleges and departments also offer discipline-specific scholarships for international students. These scholarships may be based on academic merit, field of study, or specific criteria set by the respective college or department.

It is important to note that scholarship availability, criteria, and application deadlines may vary.

Graduates of the M.S. in Information Systems program at CSULA have excellent career prospects in a wide range of industries.  

1. Business Systems Analyst: Graduates can work as business systems analysts, bridging the gap between business needs and technology solutions. They analyze business processes, identify opportunities for improvement, and design information systems that align with organizational goals.

2. Data Analyst/Scientist: Graduates can pursue careers as data analysts or data scientists, working with large datasets to extract valuable insights. They apply statistical techniques, data visualization, and machine learning algorithms to support data-driven decision-making.

3. IT Project Manager: With their strong technical and managerial skills, graduates can work as IT project managers, overseeing the planning, execution, and successful delivery of IT projects. They manage resources, budgets, and timelines to ensure project success.

4. Cybersecurity Analyst: Graduates with a specialization in cybersecurity can work ascybersecurity analysts, protecting organizations' information systems from threats and vulnerabilities. They assess security risks, implement security measures, monitor systems for potential breaches, and respond to security incidents.

5. Data Architect: Graduates can pursue careers as data architects, responsible for designing and managing the structure and organization of databases and data systems. They ensure data integrity, scalability, and performance to support efficient data storage and retrieval.

6. IT Consultant: Graduates can work as IT consultants, providing expertise and guidance to organizations in leveraging information systems for strategic advantage. They assess technology needs, develop IT strategies, and recommend solutions to optimize business processes and improve efficiency.

7. Business Intelligence Specialist: Graduates can specialize in business intelligence, working with data analytics tools and techniques to transform raw data into actionable insights. They develop reports, dashboards, and data visualizations to support business decision-making.

8. IT Auditor: Graduates can pursue careers as IT auditors, evaluating the effectiveness and compliance of organizations' IT systems and controls. They assess risks, perform audits, and provide recommendations for improving IT governance and security.

9. Systems Analyst: Graduates can work as systems analysts, analyzing organizations' information systems and processes to identify opportunities for improvement and efficiency. They gather requirements, design system solutions, and collaborate with stakeholders to implement changes.

10. Research and Academia: Graduates interested in research and academia can pursue advanced studies or teaching positions in universities and research institutions. They can contribute to the advancement of knowledge in the field of information systems through research projects and publications.

The M.S. in Information Systems program at California State University - Los Angeles provides students with a solid foundation in information systems, equipping them with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in the dynamic and evolving field of technology. The program's STEM designation offers additional benefits for international students, including extended Optional Practical Training (OPT) opportunities and eligibility for certain visa programs. Graduates are well-prepared to embark on rewarding careers in various industries or pursue further studies in the field.