Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)
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Master of Science in Information Technology
Degree:
Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) Degree
Application:
$0 application fee. No essays/exams.
Magnify your technical skills with the 100% online Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) degree program at National University. Learn to administer IT systems and services and incorporate project management methodologies into technical planning, analysis, design, development, implementation, response, and documentation of IT solutions to support and improve enterprise operations.
NU’s MSIT program is designed to help IT professionals like you achieve management-level knowledge in technology concepts and tools. Designed and taught by experienced professionals, you’ll learn about project management, contingency planning, and IP law so you’re prepared to take on technology-related leadership roles in government and private organizations. Additionally, you’ll learn about the design of technological information systems, computing systems, and the principles of computer hardware and software components.
Expand Your Education as a Tech Leader
If you want to help people who have behavioral and social challenges, NU’s MS in Applied Behavioral Analysis can provide you with the skills you need to accomplish your goals. To learn more about ABA Psychology and autism, please click here.
You can tailor your NU online MSIT to match your interests with one of these four specializations:
- Cloud and Networking Infrastructure Management
- General Information Management
- Information Technology Project Management
- Network Risk Management and Control
Degree Requirements
- Credit Hours: 30
- Courses: 10
- Estimated Time to Complete: 16 months
The Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program can be completed in 30 credits. Each course runs 8 weeks and you’ll receive 3 semester credits per course.
The Master of Science in Information Technology is a 30 credit program comprised of 15 core credits, 12 specialization credits and 3 capstone credits.
Students assume full responsibility for understanding both the foundational, specialization and capstone requirements of the program. Switching programs after completing coursework may result in reevaluation, monetary loss, loss of credit hours and/or the need to take additional credit hours. Students’ Academic Finance Advisors can assist with any questions related to program requirements.
The University may accept a maximum of 12 semester credits in transfer toward the Master of Science in Information Technology for graduate coursework completed at an accredited college or university with a grade average of “B” or better. Courses considered for transfer must mirror courses in the program. The Dean of the School Technology must approve any courses considered for transfer. See the Transfer Credit Policy in the Course Catalog for additional information.
Course Sequence
The Master of Science in Information Technology program can be completed in 30 credit hours.
Students who complete at least 15 semester credit hours in a single area of specialization at NU (not counting foundational courses) may elect to have the specialization recorded on their transcript and diploma.
The Master of Science in Information Technology program requires the foundation courses to be completed prior to enrolling in specialization courses. The program capstone will be completed as the last course in the degree program.
In some cases, specialization courses listed on the initial degree plan can be changed at the student’s request. Please contact your Academic Finance Advisor for more information.
PRogram Requirements
9 Courses
Principles of Information Technology for the IT Professional
3.0 Credit Hours
Information technology is an evolving profession where professionals must remain current with emerging technologies to reliably support enterprise or organizational operations. During this introductory course, you will learn about the evolution of information technology, the primary IT components and functions, the IT solutions development process, and the role of technical policies and IT protocols to provide a baseline of knowledge to support you through the program. You will also explore relevant legal, ethical, privacy, and security issues affecting information technology in today’s technology environments.
Networks, Clouds and Mobile Computing
3.0 Credit Hours
This course introduces the networks, and the accommodation of cloud, IoT, and mobile computing environments that are essential components of today’s successful organizations. During this course, you will study the features, topologies, protocols, and services that contributed to the evolution of global communications and data exchange. You will also explore the architectures, components, and structures for telecommunications related devices, and examine the tools and methods used to configure and manage remote and virtual environments. By the end of the course, you will model a network architecture with basic network security considerations to support all devices and services.
Cybersecurity, Risk Management and Policy for IT Professionals
3.0 Credit Hours
As more applications and data are migrated to the cloud and mobile environments, risks, threats, and vulnerabilities are on the rise. IT professionals must be able to establish protection mechanisms to support secure hardware configurations and implementations. During this course, you will study the concepts and application of cybersecurity, privacy, and information protection frameworks in IT environments. You will also explore the standards, mechanisms, tools, and policies needed to protect data and network infrastructures from internal and external cybersecurity threats.
Systems and Architectures for IT Professionals
3.0 Credit Hours
Computers and information technology are present in all layers of today’s modern organizations and are vital to business success. Thus, IT professionals must be able to implement and manage every component in the technical landscape. During this course, you will explore computing platforms and peripherals, identify the internal components and functions of a computer, and examine the internal architecture and systems configuration of real and virtual servers. You will also evaluate different operating systems and examine some of the best ways to configure and manage patches and upgrades.
Principles of Project Management
3.0 Credit Hours
This introductory course provides an overview of the principles of project management. The course is aligned with international principles, standards, and methodologies that are used to support project teams as they work to achieve projects’ objectives. You will learn about the role of a project manager, project management scope, schedule management, cost management, resource manage, identify risks and opportunities, and communications with stakeholders. The course will culminate with an integrative project where you will apply the concepts and techniques to develop and present a project plan.
Specialization Course 1
Specialization Course 2
Specialization Course 3
Specialization Course 4
Strategic Management of IT Systems and Services
3.0 Credit Hours
Effective information technology professionals must be able to assess, plan, implement, and manage technical systems and services to ensure their integrity. During this capstone course, you will demonstrate the knowledge and skills gained throughout the Master of Science in Information Technology program by creating and presenting a comprehensive IT implementation plan. The strategic implementation plan should integrate strategies for improvement, including industry standards, metrics, procedures, and tools. It should also integrate hardware and software configurations, multiple operating systems, applications, and data protection rules to support organizational operations.
Specializations
Information Technology Project Management, MSIT
The MSIT Information Technology Project Management Specialization focuses on developing the skills and knowledge needed to lead or support information technology projects and programs. As part of this specialization, students will explore strategies to control project risk and manage project teams and resources to ensure the delivery of quality technical products and services.
Specialization Courses – 12 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Network Risk Management and Control, MSIT
The MSIT Network Risk Management and Control Specialization focuses on developing the skills and knowledge needed to ensure network integrity, functionality, and security by using assessment tools and procedures to evaluate network health and effectiveness of control structures.
Specialization Courses – 12 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Cloud and Networking Infrastructure Management, MSIT
The MSIT Cloud and Networking Infrastructure Management Specialization focuses on developing the knowledge and skills needed to model, configure, and administer traditional and cloud network infrastructures, using an applied experiential approach.
Specialization Courses – 12 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
General Information Management, MSIT
The MSIT General Information Management Specialization focuses on developing the skills and knowledge needed to manage and support technical teams. This specialization provides students with a general overview of systems analysis and design, cybersecurity, data integration, IT asset management.
Specialization Courses – 12 Credit Hours Total. Each course is 3 semester credits and runs 8 weeks.
Career Outlook
Here are some careers this degree could prepare you for:
- Top Jobs in this field
- Median Salary (USA)
- JOB Openings (USA)
- General and Operations Managers
- $100,939 avg. salary (USA)
- 320,505 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Operations Management
- Marketing
- Merchandising
- Inventory Management
- Profit And Loss (P&L) Management
- Project Management
- Finance
Top companies hiring for this role
- CVS Health
- AutoZone
- Buckle
- Walmart
- Menards
- Enterprise Mobility
- Enterprise Rent-A-Car
- Computer and Information Systems Managers
- $168,530 avg. salary (USA)
- 45,716 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Computer Science
- Project Management
- Cyber Security
- Continuous Improvement Process
- IT Infrastructure
- Information Systems
- Agile Methodology
Top companies hiring for this role
- Marriott International
- KPMG
- Gartner
- Cardinal Health
- Unum
- Lincoln Financial Group
- Prime Therapeutics
- Information Security Analysts
- $120,010 avg. salary (USA)
- 15,219 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Cyber Security
- Auditing
- Vulnerability
- Computer Science
- Incident Response
- Information Systems
- Risk Analysis
Top companies hiring for this role
- Deloitte
- General Dynamics
- Leidos
- Lockheed Martin
- GovCIO
- Marriott International
- Booz Allen Hamilton
- Computer Network Support Specialists
- $71,576 avg. salary (USA)
- 12,221 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Network Routing
- Network Switches
- Telecommunications
- Local Area Networks
- Networking Hardware
- Computer Networks
- Technical Support
Top companies hiring for this role
- TEKsystems
- AT&T
- Contact Government Services
- CarMax
- Lumen Technologies
- Windstream
- Black Box Corporation
- Computer User Support Specialists
- $59,252 avg. salary (USA)
- 52,477 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Technical Support
- Help Desk Support
- Operating Systems
- Computer Science
- Active Directory
- Technical Issues
- Computer Hardware
Top companies hiring for this role
- TEKsystems
- Apple
- Cai
- GovCIO
- General Dynamics
- Nelnet
- United States Department of the Treasury
- Computer Network Architects
- $129,216 avg. salary (USA)
- 10,213 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Network Engineering
- Network Routing
- Automation
- Computer Science
- Firewall
- Network Switches
- Wide Area Networks
Top companies hiring for this role
- Amazon
- Leidos
- Lumen Technologies
- Marriott International
- TEKsystems
- GovCIO
- Acosta Group
- Database Administrators
- $101,006 avg. salary (USA)
- 5,108 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- SQL (Programming Language)
- Data Engineering
- Python (Programming Language)
- Computer Science
- Extract Transform Load (ETL)
- Amazon Web Services
- Data Modeling
Top companies hiring for this role
- Amazon
- Accenture
- Deloitte
- TEKsystems
- Olsson
- GovCIO
- Cai
- Database Architects
- $133,851 avg. salary (USA)
- 3,932 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- SQL (Programming Language)
- Computer Science
- Data Management
- Data Analysis
- Data Governance
- Project Management
- Data Architecture
Top companies hiring for this role
- PricewaterhouseCoopers
- Accenture
- Amazon
- Capital One
- Molina Healthcare
- Ernst & Young
- Lumen Technologies
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators
- $95,102 avg. salary (USA)
- 20,432 job openings (past yr.) past year
Most desired skills
- Operating Systems
- Linux
- Computer Science
- System Administration
- Active Directory
- Scripting
- Automation
Top companies hiring for this role
- GovCIO
- Leidos
- Canonical Group
- General Dynamics
- TEKsystems
- CACI International
- Northrop Grumman
Program Learning Outcomes
As a graduate of National University’s Master of Science in Information Technology program, you’ll be able to:
- Demonstrate an applied knowledge of IT industry standards, resources, and techniques.
- Administer IT systems and services to optimize operations.
- Conduct technical analysis, design, response, and documentation to support enterprise operations.
- Incorporate project management methodology into planning, development, and implementation of IT solutions.
- Assess legal, ethical, privacy, and security considerations throughout the information technology life cycle.
Admissions
Next start date: Every Monday
Year-round enrollment
Transfer Students Welcome
Enrolling in a university is a big decision. That’s why our dedicated admissions team is here to guide you through the admissions process and help you find the right program for you and your career goals.
To that end, we’ve simplified and streamlined our application process, so you can get enrolled in your program right away. Because we accept and review applications year round, you can begin class as soon as next month, depending on your program and location of choice.
Learn more about undergraduate, graduate, military, and international student admissions, plus admissions information for transfer students. You can also learn more about our tuition rates and financial aid opportunities.
To speak with our admissions team, call (855) 355-6288 or request information and an advisor will contact you shortly. If you’re ready to apply, simply start your application today.
Scholarships and Financial Aid
National University is dedicated to making higher education affordable, as well as accessible. Through NU scholarship offerings, eligible students are able to reduce the financial burden of college, start classes sooner, and finish their programs faster while focusing on achieving their goals.
Accreditations
The Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) accredits public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the U.S.
Why National University?
We’re proud to be a Veteran-founded, San Diego-based nonprofit. Since 1971, our mission has been to provide accessible, achievable higher education to adult learners.
Today, we educate students from across the U.S. and around the globe, with over 240,000 alumni worldwide.
“National University has impacted my career. You can immediately apply what you learn in class to your business.”
Francisco R.,
Class of 2016
What makes a degree
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Transfer Students Welcome
NU makes it easy to get your degree, even if you started it with another university. Learn more about transferring to NU.
Accelerate Your Career With NU
At National University, you’re part of a family. As a student, you’ll have the support of staff, faculty members, students, and alumni who will be there with you every step of the way, cheering you on as you pursue your goals.
Our network of 240,000 alumni is a large global community that provides our graduates with the professional connections to get a leg up in your new career.
FAQs
Career Potential*
- Computer and Information Research Scientists
- Computer and Information Systems Managers
- Computer Network Architects
- Computer System Analysts
- Information Security Analysts
- Software Developers, Applications
- Software Developers, Systems Software
*Positions may require additional experience, training, and other factors beyond successfully completing this degree program. Depending on where you reside, many positions may also require state licensure, and it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all licensure requirements are met. We encourage you to also review program specific requirements with an NU advisor. Any data provided on this page is for informational purposes only and does not guarantee that completion of any degree program will achieve the underlying occupation or commensurate salary.
4 Professionally Relevant Specializations
Total Credit Hours: 30 Credit Hours
Courses: 10 Courses
Recommended Completion Time: 16 Months
Next Start Date: Every Monday
Classroom Size: One
Program Disclosure
Successful completion and attainment of National University degrees do not lead to automatic or immediate licensure, employment, or certification in any state/country. The University cannot guarantee that any professional organization or business will accept a graduate’s application to sit for any certification, licensure, or related exam for the purpose of professional certification.
Program availability varies by state. Many disciplines, professions, and jobs require disclosure of an individual’s criminal history, and a variety of states require background checks to apply to, or be eligible for, certain certificates, registrations, and licenses. Existence of a criminal history may also subject an individual to denial of an initial application for a certificate, registration, or license and/or result in the revocation or suspension of an existing certificate, registration, or license. Requirements can vary by state, occupation, and/or licensing authority.
NU graduates will be subject to additional requirements on a program, certification/licensure, employment, and state-by-state basis that can include one or more of the following items: internships, practicum experience, additional coursework, exams, tests, drug testing, earning an additional degree, and/or other training/education requirements.
All prospective students are advised to review employment, certification, and/or licensure requirements in their state, and to contact the certification/licensing body of the state and/or country where they intend to obtain certification/licensure to verify that these courses/programs qualify in that state/country, prior to enrolling. Prospective students are also advised to regularly review the state’s/country’s policies and procedures relating to certification/licensure, as those policies are subject to change.
National University degrees do not guarantee employment or salary of any kind. Prospective students are strongly encouraged to review desired job positions to review degrees, education, and/or training required to apply for desired positions. Prospective students should monitor these positions as requirements, salary, and other relevant factors can change over time.
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