Master of Science in Information Technology

Master of Science in Information Technology
12.01.2023
30
01.08.2024
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MSIT Program DirectorThe University of Cincinnati’s approach to Information Technology is built around 3 core principles: Hands on technical skills, problem-solving skills, and communication skills. Our students graduate with an understanding of technology but more importantly they understand people and organizations that allow them to create solutions that enhance lives.

Our Master’s in Information Technology is designed as a flexible space for IT professionals to expand their knowledge on the subject. Whether you are just graduating with a Bachelor’s in IT, worked in IT for years, or are looking to change career paths completely, UC Online’s MSIT program can help.

Learning about new technology and how it can be used to solve the world’s most pressing issues is a driving force for those who pursue a Master of Science in Information Technology degree.

 

Master’s in Information Technology

Earn your Master degree from the world renowned University of Cincinnati School of IT. Create a pathway that fits your needs and will help you achieve your career goals and aspirations. Our online program was named the #14 MSIT program in the country by US News & World Report and is ranked as one of the best schools for online learning at the master’s level by OnlineMastersDegrees.org. Our smaller class sizes are intimate and designed to provide each student the opportunity to connect with their professors. The faculty and staff will work with you to guide you to the career of your dreams. Whether you have years of experience or are looking at changing careers, we have a pathway for you. We offer support both in and outside the classroom to ensure you graduate with the knowledge and skills you want.

US News Ranking - Best Online MSIT programs

Why the University of Cincinnati Online?

Consists of 10 courses, totaling 30 credit hours, and can be completed in less than two years 100% online.

Has part-time flexibility & asynchronous scheduling which means you can create a schedule that fits around your busy life.

IT Support

Is led by a faculty of technology professionals at the forefront of the industry with extensive real-world experience and academic expertise.

Receive a dedicated Student Success Coordinator to provide support from enrollment through graduation.

IT Network

In addition to your in-class experience, there are several professional development opportunities.

Connect with students from across the world and utilize their expertise both in class and in your career. Students utilize several platforms to network, including Discord.

IT Pathways

Full-Time vs Part Time

Our Student Success Coordinators will work with you to find a schedule that works with your life. The full-time pathway can  be completed in less than 2 years. The part-time pathway is a great option for students looking to continue working while in the program.

Part-Time IT

Capstone vs Thesis

Our Student Success Coordinators will work with you to create a curriculum that fits your needs. The capstone pathway allows you to gain experience in project management. The thesis pathway allows you to explore a novel problem at depth and learn research methods.

IT Capstone and Thesis

Jump In vs Introductory Courses

The IT Bridge Certificate is a great option for students with little to no computing background who would like to focus on foundational concepts that lay the groundwork for future graduate coursework. This four-course certificate allows you to jump right into the master’s program without a bachelor’s in IT. This certificate is offered year-round and is a great way to kickstart your IT career while working toward your master’s.

IT Beginner Classes

Master of Science in Information Technology Program at UC Online

Students in the MSIT program are required to complete the 3 core IT classes that give you the skills needed to be successful in a future information technology career. These core courses will also provide you an overview of the IT landscape so that you can better choose which electives align with your interests. We provide the flexibility for you to build your own personal curriculum around subject matter that will help support your goals. Since we are an online program, we have students from all over the world with differing backgrounds and career aspirations. When you join our MSIT program, you are also joining a network of students all with similar goals that are willing to share their experience and knowledge to help you grow professionally.

Some of our areas of focus include:

 

Machine LearningApplied machine learning is the use of machine learning algorithms and techniques to solve real-world problems in various industries such as healthcare, retail, finance, and education. Machine learning involves training computer algorithms to automatically improve their performance based on experience, and applied machine learning involves using these techniques to tackle specific problems in various fields. This area of study includes techniques like deep learning, which involves training neural networks to perform tasks such as image recognition or natural language processing.

Recommended Courses: Advanced Storage Technologies, Special Topics in IT: Azure Data Engineering, Machine Learning and Data Mining for IT, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Intelligent Data Analysis.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Machine Learning Engineer, Business Intelligence (BI) Developer, Data Scientist, AI Engineer.

Cybersecurity

Cybersecurity is one of the fastest growing fields and has become an integral part of a company infrastructure. By analyzing data patterns, organizations can identify malicious activity and protect their systems and networks. In addition to earning your master’s degree, UC Online also offers a graduate certificate in Cybersecurity.

Recommended Courses: Principles of Cybersecurity, Enterprise Security and Forensics, Advanced Systems Administration, Machine Learning and Data Mining for IT, Data-Driven Cybersecurity, Computer Criminology: Cybercrime and Digital Security, Network Security.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Information Security Analyst, Cybersecurity Engineer, Information Security Manager, Security Engineer

User ExperienceUX/Human-centered design career involves designing technology products and services that are centered around the needs and experiences of the people who use them. This approach takes into account the social and cultural context in which technology is used, and involves collaboration between professionals with backgrounds in computer science, content creation, research, and design. Graduates of this field often work as user experience (UX) practitioners in the technology industry, creating products that are intuitive, user-friendly, and effective.

Recommended Courses: Technologies for Mobile Applications, Games for Learning & Simulation, Advanced Technologies for Game Development, Learning Sciences and Technology.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: UX Designer; Senior Product Designer, Lead UX Designer, Social Media Manager.

Game DesignGame design and development career path focuses on creating video games and simulations. It involves using programming skills and creativity to develop games from concept to completion. Students in this program will learn how to use game engines and programming languages to bring their ideas to life, as well as the art of storytelling, visualization, and incorporating social elements for maximum entertainment value.

Recommended Courses: Technologies for Mobile Applications, Games for Learning & Simulation, Advanced Technologies for Game Development.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Game designer, Lead UX Designer, Game Programmer, Level Designer.

IT InfrastructureInformation Technology infrastructure encompasses hardware, software, and networks that are necessary to support the delivery of technology services. This includes servers, storage systems, computer networks, and other equipment that is used to store, process, and transmit data. Jobs in IT infrastructure can involve a wide range of responsibilities, and provide opportunities for professionals with a variety of skills and interests.

Recommended Courses: Enterprise Security and Forensics, Infrastructure Sustainability, Advanced Storage Technologies, Advanced Systems Administration, Network Security.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Infrastructure Engineer, Information Security Analyst, Information Technology Manager, Information Technology Director.

Cloud ComputingCloud computing is a way for companies to store and access data and applications over the internet, rather than physical computers and servers. This approach offers many benefits, including cost savings, improved access to data and applications from anywhere with an internet connection, and increased reliability through off-site backups. As more and more organizations adopt cloud computing, it’s likely to have a significant impact on the IT industry.

Recommended Courses: Principles of Cybersecurity, IT Infrastructure Sustainability, Advanced Storage Technologies, Machine Learning and Data Mining for IT, Special Topics in IT: Azure Data Engineering, Network Security.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Software Engineer, Development Operations (DevOps) Engineer, Solutions Architect, Senior Developer.

Data Science- Data MiningData Science career involves extracting insights and knowledge from large sets of data. It involves the use of statistical and computational techniques to gather, process, analyze data, and then using those insights to inform business decisions and drive innovation. This field is in high demand, as companies across a variety of industries seek to leverage the power of data to improve their operations and gain a competitive advantage.

Recommended Courses: Advanced Storage Technologies, Advanced Systems Administration, Special Topics in IT: Azure Data Engineering, Machine Learning and Data Mining for IT, Social Network Analysis, Artificial Intelligence, Intelligent Data Analysis,  Health Informatics-Information Systems and Technology, Introduction to Healthcare Data Science II, Leveraging Analytics & Business Intelligence Tools for Healthcare, Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence II, Data Mining I, Data Mining II, Statistical Computing, Data Analysis Methods, Statistical Computing, Data Analysis Methods, Statistical Data Analysis I, Biostatistics for Public Health, Statistical Computation and Software I, Biostatistics in Research.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Software Engineer, Development Operations (DevOps) Engineer, Solutions Architect, Senior Developer.

IT NetworkingNetworking refers to the design, implementation, and maintenance of computer networks, which are collections of connected devices that allow for the exchange of data and information. Networking professionals are responsible for analyzing, planning, and implementing these networks, as well as maintaining and managing them to ensure their smooth operation. This field is in high demand, with a wide range of job opportunities available for network specialists in organizations of all sizes and types.

Recommended Courses: IT Infrastructure Sustainability, Advanced Storage Technologies, Advanced Systems Administration, Network Security.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Network Administrator, Network Analyst, Network Engineer, Network Manager.

Software DevelopmentSoftware Development career involves the creation of computer programs and applications. It requires a deep understanding of programming languages and software design principles, as well as the ability to use cutting-edge technologies to bring new products and services to market. Software developers work to create products that meet the needs of businesses and consumers, and are in high demand as technology continues to play an increasingly important role in our daily lives.

Recommended Courses: Technologies for Mobile Applications, Advanced Storage Technologies, IT Infrastructure Sustainability, Machine Learning and Data Mining for IT.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Software Engineer, Software Developer, Software Programmer, Software Architect.

IT Instructional Design and TechnologyInstructional Design and Technology involves creating effective and engaging learning experiences. It involves using technology and instructional design principles to develop educational materials, programs, and courses for a wide range of settings and learners. This field is highly adaptable, and there will always be a demand for professionals who can design and develop effective teaching materials, making it a valuable area of study for anyone interested in the intersection of education and technology.

Recommended Courses: Technologies for Mobile Applications, Games for Learning & Simulation, Advanced Technologies for Game Development, Learning Sciences and Technology.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Instructional Designer, Training Manager, Cheif Learning Officer, Instructional Design Manager.

Mobile ComputingMobile Computing refers to the use of portable devices such as smartphones and tablets to access information and perform tasks. With the increasing availability of high-speed internet connections and the growing popularity of these devices, mobile computing is becoming increasingly important and accessible. This field involves developing and improving mobile technology and applications, and exploring new and innovative ways for people to use their mobile devices to stay connected and get things done.

Recommended Courses: Technologies for Mobile Applications, Advanced Storage Technologies.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Application Manager, Mobile Application Engineer, iOS Developer, Software Engineer.

Health Informatics and Health ITHealth Informatics/Health IT is a field that involves using technology to improve and transform the healthcare industry. It involves the application of information technology to support and improve clinical care, public health, and biomedical research. With the rise of innovations such as artificial intelligence and 3-D bioprinting, health informatics is playing an increasingly important role in shaping the future of healthcare and advancing medical specialties. This field provides a unique opportunity for professionals to apply their technical skills to improve patient outcomes and make a real-world impact.

Recommended Courses: Health Informatics-Information Systems and Technology, Introduction to Healthcare Data Science II, Leveraging Analytis and Business Intelligence Tools for Healthcare, Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence II, Biostatistics for Public Health, Statistical Computation and Software I, Biostatistics in Research.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Chief Information Officer, Information Systems (IS) Manager, Clinical Informatics Specialist, Health Information Technician.

Upon completion of your core and elective classes, you will be asked to complete a thesis or capstone project of your choice. These final courses will give you a chance to showcase your work and highlight the knowledge you gained while in the program.

Nationally Recognized Cybersecurity Program

National Security AgencyThe University of Cincinnati is one of only a few institutions in the country to have a National Security Agency (NSA)-sponsored National Centers of Academic Excellence in both cyber defense and cyber operations.

Our School of Information Technology received several grants from the NSA, National Science Foundation and Ohio state government to support its cybersecurity education program.

We are also home to the Ohio Cyber Range Institute, a virtual environment where participants can learn about cybersecurity and practice defending networks against threats of all kinds.

You can now earn a Certificate in Cybersecurity alongside your master’s degree at no additional cost. Learn more about our Data-Driven Cybersecurity Certificate.

Best Online College for Vets
UC Online is a member of the Yellow Ribbon Program and believes in providing opportunities to Veterans not only locally, but across the United States. Our flexible and fully online curriculum makes it easy for veterans to balance school and life by logging on to class when it is convenient to you. For more information check out our military page or reach out to an advisor.
Military Benefits & Financial Aid
Student Testimonials
Headshot of Andrew H. an expected MS IT Spring 2020 graduate
“I’ve been extremely pleased with my experience so far in the MS IT program here at the University of Cincinnati. The professors have been responsive and available when I’ve needed help, and have designed their courses in ways that encourage online interaction among students. I’m excited to continue my studies and get my degree!”

Andrew H.
MSIT Student

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