M.S. in Counseling - Clinical Mental Health Counseling
The CMHC program at Missouri State University leads to a Master of Science (M.S.) degre...
M.S. in Information Technology
Springfield, Missouri
INTAKE: August
Program Overview
The M.S. in Information Technology is a 30-credit-hour program that provides relevant and timely graduate education to professionals seeking to enhance their skills in the effective management, development, and implementation of information technology. The program is designed for students and professionals from diverse undergraduate backgrounds and offers flexibility with options for online, blended, and in-person course delivery, including day and evening sessions. It can often be completed in a condensed timeframe, such as 12 to 18 months, making it appealing to working adults. Students gain advanced knowledge and skills in areas like application development, business intelligence, cybersecurity, and cloud computing.
STEM-designated: Yes, the M.S. in Information Technology program at Missouri State University is officially STEM-designated. This designation is highly beneficial, particularly for international students on F-1 visas, as it allows for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension of 24 months beyond the initial 12 months, totaling up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. This STEM designation underscores the program's rigorous technical and analytical focus, preparing graduates for high-demand careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics fields.
AACSB Accredited: The M.S. in Information Technology program at Missouri State University is housed within the College of Business, which holds the prestigious AACSB International (The Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business) accreditation. This accreditation is a hallmark of excellence in business education, ensuring that the program meets rigorous standards for quality in faculty, curriculum, strategic management, thought leadership, and student outcomes. Earning a degree from an AACSB-accredited institution signifies a high-quality education recognized globally by employers.
Curriculum: The MSIT curriculum is a 30-credit-hour program that builds upon a student's prior academic and professional experience. Core coursework typically covers fundamental areas such as Strategic IT Planning, Data Communications and Networking, Information Technology Project Management, IT System Development, Information Systems Management, Data Management, IT Legal Issues, and Principles of Information Security. The program also integrates advanced topics like Data Analysis and Visualization, Organizational Transformation, Technological Innovation, Predictive Artificial Intelligence, and Enterprise Data Analytics. Students often have the opportunity to specialize by choosing course sequences in areas like Business Intelligence, Enterprise Systems Development, Information Security Management and Auditing, or Cybersecurity.
Research Focus: While the MSIT program is primarily practitioner-oriented, focusing on the application and management of IT, it emphasizes developing critical thinking skills and the ability to leverage information technology for problem-solving. Students engage with case studies and applied, real-world examples throughout the curriculum. The coursework, particularly in areas like data analysis, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, introduces students to current research and best practices in the field. Although a formal thesis may not be a universal requirement, the program aims to equip graduates with the skills to analyze complex IT challenges and implement research-informed solutions within organizational contexts.
Industry Engagement: Missouri State University's MSIT program demonstrates strong industry engagement by designing its curriculum with input from IT industry leaders. This ensures that the skills and knowledge acquired are highly relevant and in demand in the job market. The program actively prepares students for leadership roles across a broad field of IT careers. Opportunities for networking with industry executives and professionals are often integrated, providing students with valuable connections. The emphasis on practical skills, such as application development, cybersecurity, and business intelligence, directly aligns with the needs of contemporary organizations, fostering direct and immediate industry readiness.
Global Perspective: The M.S. in Information Technology at Missouri State University inherently incorporates a global perspective by addressing the strategic role of IT in contemporary, interconnected organizations. Information technology, by its nature, transcends geographical boundaries, and the program's focus on areas like cloud computing, global data management, and cybersecurity necessitates an understanding of international standards, legal frameworks, and diverse business environments. Furthermore, Missouri State University maintains a broader institutional commitment to global education and engagement, which indirectly enriches the learning environment by fostering cross-cultural understanding and preparing students to operate effectively in a globally diverse workforce.
Location
Springfield, Missouri
Score
IELTS 6.5
Tuition Fee
USD 17042
Postgraduate Entry Requirements
Application Fee: $72
Academic Qualifications: Applicants for postgraduate programs typically require a minimum academic achievement of 65% or above in their bachelor's degree.
English Language Proficiency:
- IELTS: Overall band score of 6.5 or 7.0 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component.
- TOEFL: Overall score of 79 or higher.
- PTE: Overall score of 53 or higher.
- DET (Duolingo English Test): Minimum score of 110.
Missouri State University offers several scholarship opportunities designed specifically to support international students in pursuing their higher education goals. These scholarships aim to recognize academic excellence, leadership qualities, and contributions to campus life, helping reduce the financial burden for international learners.
International Excellence Scholarship: This merit-based scholarship awards to outstanding first-time international freshmen. The scholarship is renewable for up to three additional years. Eligibility is based on strong academic records, and recipients must maintain satisfactory academic progress to continue receiving the award.
International Leadership Scholarship: Targeting international freshmen who demonstrate exceptional leadership and academic achievement. It is renewable for up to four years. Applicants are required to submit an essay highlighting their leadership experiences and vision. The scholarship is competitive, with only about 10 awards granted each year.
Additional Scholarships and Grants: Besides the primary scholarships, Missouri State University provides various other financial awards through departmental scholarships, honors programs, and special initiatives. Some scholarships may require separate applications or nominations based on the student's major or area of study.
A Master of Science (M.S.) in Information Technology from Missouri State University positions graduates for leading roles in the dynamic and ever-evolving IT sector. The program's blend of technical expertise and managerial acumen, coupled with its STEM designation and AACSB accreditation, makes graduates highly desirable to employers seeking professionals who can strategically leverage technology.
IT Project Manager: With a strong foundation in IT systems and project management principles, graduates can lead and oversee IT projects from conception to completion, ensuring they align with organizational goals, stay within budget, and meet deadlines.
Information Security Analyst / Cybersecurity Analyst: This highly in-demand role involves protecting an organization's computer networks and systems from cyber threats. Graduates identify vulnerabilities, implement security measures, respond to incidents, and ensure data integrity and confidentiality.
Computer and Information Systems Manager: Often referred to as IT Managers, these professionals plan, coordinate, and direct computer-related activities within an organization. They oversee IT departments, manage budgets, and make strategic decisions about technology infrastructure and systems.
Business Intelligence (BI) Analyst: Graduates in this role use data analysis tools and techniques to interpret complex data, identify trends, and provide actionable insights that help businesses make informed decisions and improve efficiency.
Database Administrator (DBA): DBAs are responsible for the design, implementation, maintenance, and security of an organization's databases. They ensure data availability, performance, and recoverability, which is crucial for modern businesses.
Cloud Architect / Cloud Engineer: With expertise in cloud computing, graduates can design, implement, and manage cloud-based solutions and infrastructure for organizations. They leverage platforms like AWS, Azure, or Google Cloud to optimize scalability, efficiency, and cost.
Systems Analyst: These professionals analyze an organization's existing IT systems and procedures to identify areas for improvement. They then design and recommend new or modified systems that enhance operational efficiency and solve business problems.
Network Architect / Network Engineer: Graduates can design, build, and maintain data communication networks (LANs, WANs, intranets) for organizations. Their role is critical in ensuring seamless and secure data flow within and between systems.
IT Consultant: Leveraging their comprehensive IT knowledge, graduates can work as external consultants, advising businesses on how to effectively use information technology to achieve their objectives, improve processes, and solve technical challenges.
Enterprise Systems Analyst / ERP Specialist: Many organizations rely on integrated enterprise resource planning (ERP) systems (like SAP or Oracle). Graduates can specialize in implementing, customizing, and managing these complex systems to optimize business processes across departments.
