Degrees & ProgramsBusinessMaster of Science in Information SystemsCurriculum at a Glance

Curriculum: Master of Science in Information Systems

Curriculum: Master of Science in Information Systems
12.01.2024
36-44 credit hours
01.13.2025
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Master of Science in Information Systems

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Become a Leader in Information Systems

In a technology-driven world, information systems are more important than ever. Business leaders are increasingly called upon to use data and technology to innovate, transform, and drive business decisions. Because of this IS professionals are in-demand across a variety of industries—from consulting, finance, technology, retail, and more.

The Carl H. Lindner College of Business Master of Science in Information Systems degree will provide you with the knowledge and hands-on experience to effectively design and implement technology, manage projects, drive business decisions, and communicate data insights.

UC’s online Master’s in Information Systems program provides a flexible, innovative curriculum, accommodating students with diverse educational backgrounds and work experiences. The program is known for its strengths in the areas of ERP, business intelligence, database design and modeling, and project management. Flexible class options accommodate working, part-time students.

Experience-based learning

We understand the importance of hands-on learning. That why you won’t just learn about business and technology, you’ll gain real-life experience that will set you a part in the workforce. To meet the credit hours for the industry practicum (also known as the experiential component of this program), MS Information Systems students have three options:

  1. Engage in a six-to-eight month internship (co-op).
    • Obtaining a co-op/internship is very much like obtaining a full-time job, and it will be up to you to obtain the position. We will, however, do all we can to help you get placed through partnerships we have with companies and through resources provided by the Lindner College of Business Career Services office.
  2. Work on a meaningful, in-depth independent information systems project.
    • Most part-time students choose this option. If applicable and the project has been approved, this can be completed at your current place of employment.
  3. Conduct information systems research.
    •  The information systems research option should culminate in a written research paper and is geared toward students on a Ph.D. path.
To receive an MSIS degree, there are certain requirements that need to be obtained. Completion of the following categories:

For students with an undergraduate business degree from an AACSB school (36-44 credit hours)

  • 20 hours core
  • 14 hours elective
  • 2 hours Industry Practicum
  • 8 hours Basic Business Knowledge (BBK) will be considered for waivers at the time of application review

Note: Credits earned from the Artificial Intelligence in Business Graduate Certificate or the Data Analytics Graduate Certificate can be applied toward the Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) program. These certificate programs can also be pursued concurrently with the master’s degree. To ensure your goals align and all credits are transferable, please consult with your Student Success Coordinator before enrolling in these certificate programs.

MSIS Core Courses

Students must take 20 hours of core courses.

Course Title / Description Credit
IS7012
Web Development with .Net
Course: IS7012
Credit: 2
This course is an introduction to the development of web-based applications, using Microsoft's Visual Studio and covering ASP.Net using Visual C#. Students will be expected to develop a simple web application that incorporates these technologies. Students will learn how to integrate the front-end (web site) with the back end (database) of an application. The course will cover the implementation of navigational structures, input and validation controls, and data controls in web applications.
2
IS7020
Systems Analysis and Design
Course: IS7020
Credit: 2
There is no activity more fundamental to the field of information systems (IS) than the analysis, design, and development of systems. In this course, students will learn to analyze and document the requirements for a system, using two distinct approaches to process modeling. The first of these is BPMN (Business Process Modeling Notation) - a technique that is quickly becoming the standard for business process modeling. The second is an Object Oriented approach, using UML (Unified Modeling Language) - specifically, students will learn to draw use-case diagrams, class diagrams, and sequence diagrams.
2
IS7024
XML and Web Services
Course: IS7024
Credit: 2
This course introduces the concept of Service-Oriented Architecture (SOA) and its two main components - web services and XML. First, the course covers the structure of XML files, including XML Schemas and namespaces. Next, techniques to transform (XSLT) and extract information from XML files (XPATH) are presented. Finally, the main components of Web Services, such as WSDL and SOAP, are discussed. The course uses Visual Studio 20008, Visual C#, ASP .Net, and Windows Communication Foundation as a way for students to practice the concepts discussed in the lectures.
2
IS7030
Data Modeling
Course: IS7030
Credit: 2
This course provides in-depth coverage of the principles of data modeling. Starting at the highest level of abstraction, the data requirements culled out from user requirements specification are rendered as a conceptual data model using Entity-relationship modeling grammar. Students then learn how to map the conceptual model to the logical tier using relational modeling grammar, in preparation for the ultimate database design. Workshop sessions are included to provide students hands-on modeling opportunities. A basic introduction to Structured Query Language (SQL) is also included.
2
IS7032
Database Design
Course: IS7032
Credit: 2
This course provides in-depth coverage of the principles of database design. It is a follow on to IS 7030. Having learned to develop relational data models in the first course, students start this course with concepts related to validating and revising the database design using normalization theory. This is followed by relational algebra and structured query language (SQL) for data definition (DDL), data manipulation(DML), data control (DCL), and deeper level of data querying (DQL) for the implementation of the database design. Finally, higher level normalization concepts are introduced. Workshop and laboratory sessions are included to provide hands-on learning experience in normalization procedures and SQL.
2
IS7034
Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence
Course: IS7034
Credit: 2
This course is designed for the comprehensive learning of data warehousing technology for business intelligence. Data warehouses are used to store (archive) data from operational information systems. Data warehouses are useful in generating valuable control and decision-support business intelligence for many organizations in adjusting to their competitive business environment. This course will introduce students to the design, development and operation of data warehouses. Students will apply and integrate the data warehousing and business intelligence knowledge learned in this course in leading software packages.
2
IS7036
Data Mining for Business Intelligence
Course: IS7036
Credit: 2
This course is designed for the in-depth learning of data-mining knowledge and techniques in the context of business intelligence. The topics include association rules, classification, clustering and text mining. Students will apply and integrate the business intelligence knowledge learned in this course in leading software packages.
2
IS7050
Enterprise Resource Planning 1
Course: IS7050
Credit: 2
Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Systems are large, cross-functional systems designed to promote integration among the various business areas. While there are many ERP systems, SAP has, by far, the highest market share. An important step in implementing SAP is configuration, which involves selecting options in SAP to align with the specific requirements of the business. This course is a hands-on introduction to SAP configuration. Specifically, students will go through the process of setting up a small trading company on SAP, including setting up the organization structures, master data, and rules; and processing transactions to test the setup. The course covers three SAP modules - FI, MM, and SD.
2
IS7060
IS Project Management
Course: IS7060
Credit: 2
This course focuses on the management of IS projects, although many of the concepts examined also apply to other projects. Planning, organizing, staffing, and controlling projects require traditional management skills as well as an understanding of specific project management tools and techniques. This course starts with an overview of project management concepts. It then discusses project planning, monitoring, and controlling. It also covers the politics of projects, project staff, and teamwork issues. The Project Management Institute's "A Guide to the Project Management Body of Knowledge," along with current research and management trends related to IS project management, provide the framework for the material covered in this class. The course uses Microsoft Project for hands-on exercises.
2
IS8044
IS Security
Course: IS8044
Credit: 2
This course is an overview of the field of Information Security, Privacy, and Assurance. It introduces students to the key issues associated with protecting information assets, determining levels of protection and response to security incidents, and designing a consistent, reasonable information security system, with appropriate intrusion detection and reporting features. Topics covered in the course include: inspection and protection of information assets, detection of and reaction to threats to information assets, pre- and post-incident procedures, technical and managerial responses, and an overview of the Information Security Planning and Staffing functions.
2
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Electives

Students must take 14 hours of electives.

Course Title / Description Credit
BANA6043
Statistical Computing
Course: BANA6043
Credit: 2
This is a course on the use of computer tools for data management and analysis. The focus is on a few popular data management and statistical software packages such as SQL, SAS, SPSS, S Plus, R, and JMP although others may be considered. Data management and manipulation techniques including queries in SQL will be covered. Elementary analyses may include measures of location and spread, correlation, detection of outliers, table creation, graphical displays, comparison of groups, as well as specialized analyses.
2
BANA6037
Data Visualization
Course: BANA6037
Credit: 2
This course provides an introduction as well as hands-on experience in data visualization. It introduces students to design principles for creating meaningful displays of quantitative and qualitative data to facilitate managerial decision-making.
2
BANA7025
Data Wrangling
Course: BANA7025
Credit: 2
This course provides an intensive, hands-on introduction to data management and data manipulation. You will learn the fundamental skills required to acquire, munge, transform, manipulate, and visualize data in a computing environment that fosters reproducibility.
2
BANA7038
Data Analysis Methods
Course: BANA7038
Credit: 2
This course covers the fundamental concepts of applied data analysis methods. Various aspects of linear and logistic regression models are introduced, with emphasis on real data applications. Students are required to analyze data using major statistical software packages. BANA 7038 should not be taken for credit by MS-Business Analytics students.
2
BANA7046
Data Mining I
Course: BANA7046
Credit: 2
This is a course in statistical data mining with emphasis on hands-on case study experiences using various data mining/machine learning methods and major software packages to analyze complex real world data. Topics include data preprocessing, k-nearest neighbors, generalized linear regression, subset and LASSO variable selection, model evaluation, cross validation, classification and regression trees.
2
IS7052
Enterprise Resource Planning 2
Course: IS7052
Credit: 2
This course is a follow on to IS 7050. Students will continue their study of SAP configuration, focusing on the CO and PP Modules. Specifically, students will set up the organization structures, master data, and rules needed to run a manufacturing company on SAP, and process transactions to test the setup.
2
IS8012
Advanced Web Development with .Net
Course: IS8012
Credit: 2
This course is a follow on to IS 7012 and uses the.Net framework introduced in that course to explore advanced topics. Specific topics covered in the course include: advanced programming techniques in C# to manipulate classes and tables,the creation and use of AJAX controls in .Net web applications, Dynamic Data web sites, and the MVC framework, including how to create a database-bound web application following the MVC pattern.
2
IS8034
Big Data Integration
Course: IS8034
Credit: 2
This course presents an overview of the principles of data integration, the fundamental basis for developing useful and flexible business intelligence platforms. Modern data integration needs differ from traditional approaches in four main dimensions that parallel differences between big data and traditional data: volume, velocity, variety, and veracity.
2
IS8036
Survey of Machine Learning and Artificial Intelligence
Course: IS8036
Credit: 2
This course is a survey of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) from the Data Scientist’s perspective. It explores ML and AI topics, current and emerging technologies, and applications for students to gain understanding of the successful implementation of ML and AI to address key business and industry problems.
2
IS8040
Enterprise Architecture
Course: IS8040
Credit: 2
Enterprise Architecture represents the structure and operation of an organization to effectively and efficiently achieve its current and future business objectives. This course is designed to expose the student to the elements of Enterprise Architecture and to the roles and necessary skills required by the Enterprise Architect. It is a combination of theory and the practical, but the emphasis and focus will be on the practical. The problems addressed are real-world problems currently faced by organizations.
2
IS8064
CIO Forum
Course: IS8064
Credit: 2
As an IS professional, the ultimate accomplishment is often to become the CIO of a major corporation.In this course CIOs and their associates will share their perspectives on what makes a successful CIO in an enterprise. A particular focus of the course will be strategic and operational aspects of a CIO's job. Time will be spent on the challenges, opportunities, environmental factors, organizational dynamics and other aspects that are incorporated as part of the CIOs leadership and operational responsibilities. Students will also be educated on how practices and approaches differ based on leadership styles, company operating principles, corporate culture, and inherent aspects of industry segments. The course will include presentations by various CIOs, business leaders, entrepreneurs and partner company leaders that comprise the ecosystem of the larger operating framework. The course will also address IT Career Perspectives from the viewpoint of industry thought leaders. How did successful CIOs get there? What are some of the career choices they made, and why? It is an opportunity for students to learn from senior executives, thus bridging the gap between theory and practice in IT.
2
OM7083
Supply Chain Strategy and Analysis
Course: OM7083
Credit: 2
Presents an overview of issues relating to the design and operation of an organization's supply chain. Information is presented as a mix of technical models and applied case studies. Topics may include inventory planning, logistics, sustainability, global operations, supply chain collaboration and contracting.
2
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Industry Practicum

Students must complete an industry practicum.

Course Title / Description Credit
IS7092
Industry Practicum 2
Course: IS7092
Credit: 1-3
This course is associated with the experiential component of the MS-IS program. It is a follow on to IS 7090. The purpose of this course is to allow students to engage in longer and more complex projects (whether as part of a co-op/internship, or an independent project) that go beyond the scope of a single course (IS 7090).
1-3
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Basic Business Knowledge (BBK)

These courses are required for students without an undergraduate business degree accredited by AACSB.

Course Title / Description Credit
ACCT 7000
Foundations in Accounting
Course: ACCT 7000
Credit: 2
This course educates students in the fundamentals of finance and accounting. The methods covered are used extensively throughout the MBA program. Topics include: the accounting process that results in the preparation of financial statements for external users, techniques for analyzing a basic set of financial statements, using accounting information to support management decisions, and using time value of money techniques to evaluate capital asset decisions. (MS Accounting students cannot earn credit by taking this course.) This course cannot be used as an elective course for Lindner College of Business Master's programs.
2
IS 7011
Information and Technology Management
Course: IS 7011
Credit: 2
This course employs the case method to discuss the managerial and strategic implications of the use of Information Systems in organizations. The course starts with a review of concepts related to Information Technology in the realm of networking,databases, application development, and architecture. Next, it examines the value of Information Technology in modern organizations. Finally, multiple cases are discussed, covering themes like Enterprise Resource Planning, Digital Convergence, e-Marketing and Social Media, Disruptive Innovations, Virtual Teams, and IT Resources and Capabilities.
2
BANA 7011
Data Analysis
Course: BANA 7011
Credit: 2
Introduction to data analysis and statistical methods with focus on practical decisions using quantitative models in a spreadsheet environment. Topics include sources of data, descriptive and graphical statistical methods, probability, distributions, sampling and sampling distributions, estimation, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. This course may not be used as an elective course for Lindner College of Business Master's programs.
2
FIN 7000
Foundations in Finance
Course: FIN 7000
Credit: 1
Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: 1. Apply concepts and perform Time Value of Money calculations 2. Understand differences in interest rates (due to differences in risk, horizon, and compounding) 3. Use present value calculations to solve bond pricing and risk applications 4. Use present value calculations to solve stock valuation applications This course cannot be used as an elective course for Lindner College of Business master's programs.
1
MKTG 7000
Marketing Foundations
Course: MKTG 7000
Credit: 1
The purpose of this course is to provide students with a foundation in Marketing. Concepts such as segmentation, targeting, positioning, customer and market analysis, and basic marketing planning will be introduced. This course cannot be used as an elective for Linder College of Business master's students.
1
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FAQs

  • What do MS in Information Systems Graduates do after Graduation?

    MSIS students come to the program with very diverse backgrounds and professional goals, and they pursue a variety of roles after graduation. The Masters of Science in Information Systems program equips students with broad technical skills to be at the forefront of technological innovation and open doors in many technology management fields.

    An example of our alumni job titles includes Data Analyst, Business Intelligence Consultant, Information Technology Consultant, IT Risk and Compliance Consultant, Product Intelligence Manager, Technical Program Manager, and more.

    Learn more about the career services offered by the University of Cincinnati Online and the Lindner College of Business, by speaking with an Enrollment Services Advsior today.

  • What skills will I learn with a MS in Information Systems?

    University of Cincinnati Lindner College of Business students will learn a variety of skills from their MS in Information Systems.  Those skills include:

    • Hardware, software development and programming
    • Systems analysis
    • Database systems and design
    • Networking and operating systems
    • Data mining
    • Emerging technologies
    • Mobile applications
    • Computer security

    If you are data driven, and highly analytical, a MS in Information Systems is the graduate degree you’ve been looking for.

  • Is the GMAT or GRE required for MSIS?

    The GMAT/GRE is required for the MSIS program; however, waivers are available. Factors determining eligibility are listed below.

    We highly recommend applying to your program of choice before taking the GMAT/GRE or sending us your scores.

    You may be eligible for an entrance exam waiver if you:

    • Completed at least 6 graduate credits in a relevant field with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher
    • Have a professional certification or licensure (via exam) in a relevant field
    • Have numerous years of relevant work experience (7+) with demonstrated advancement
    • Have an undergraduate business degree from a domestic AACSB-accredited institution with a cumulative 3.5 GPA or higher
View Additional FAQs

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