Master of Science in Information Technology

April 24, 2023
30
May 08, 2023
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GIA Scholarship

UC is now offering a tuition scholarship to around 40% of the new students to the online program for the summer semester. Students must be confirmed before April 23. See if you qualify.

Active Military & Veteran Scholarship

You could be eligible for up to $2500 per semester. Learn more today.

The 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 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 UC 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 process of using data and technology to predict future trends or questions. This tool has become extremely important to businesses looking to become more efficient in the data science area. Learn problem-solving techniques and the programming behind the algorithms.

Recommended Courses: Advanced Storage Technologies, Machine Learning and Data Mining for IT, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Intelligent Data Analysis, Pattern Recognition.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Machine learning engineer; AI engineer; Intelligence Designer.

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, Software Application Security, Advanced Systems Administration, Machine Learning and Data Mining for IT, Computer Criminology: Cybercrime and Digital Security, Machine Learning, Network Security, Security Vulnerability Assessment, Cryptography 1, Malware Analysis: Introduction to Reverse Engineering.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Information security analyst/engineer; Penetration Tester.

User ExperienceUser experience/human-centered design is all about creating something with the end user in mind. The goal when thinking through a user’s experience is to create something both easy to use and intuitive. From overall layout to the minute details, user experience can translate to all facets of the IT industry.

Recommended Courses: Technologies for Social Networking, Technologies for Mobile Applications, Usability for Mobile Applications, Games for Learning & Simulation, Learning Sciences and Technology.

Jobs that leverage this focus area: UX designer; UX researcher; interaction designer.

Game DesignGame design/development is a popular area for MSIT students to pursue. You will learn how to Create objectives and develop the mechanics of a game, as well as overall structure and flow needed to create a successful game. Start with the basics of game design theory and finish with the skills needed for full game development.

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

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Game designer; creative game director; QA Game Tester.

IT InfrastructureIT infrastructure is often thought of as the backbone of an organization. It is what enables a business to store and access data, run applications, and connect with customers and partners. IT infrastructure is also responsible for ensuring the security and reliability of company systems. Learn how to meet your companies’ current needs, as well as scale to meet your future requirements.

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

Jobs that leverage this focus area: Computer support specialist; infrastructure software manager.

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

IT Career Paths

Information Technology Careers

While it is hard to predict the technologies that will shape the Information Age in the future, skilled IT workers with experience in current and new technologies will continue to be in demand and IT careers are among the highest paying today.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, the fields of computer and information technology are expected to grow at a rate of 11% in the next 10 years and the median salary is $91,250, which is nearly double that of annual wages for all occupations.

Professionals that graduate with a masters in IT work in public and private companies, for small and large enterprises, in a variety of roles – from software architects to cybersecurity analysts. IT professionals who have earned a Master’s in Information Technology degree online can use their education to distinguish themselves from others in the workforce.

IT Careers
  • Chief Data Officer
  • Chief Information Officer
  • Chief Information Security Officer
  • Cloud Architect
  • Computer and Information Research Scientist
  • Computer Network Architect
  • Computer Systems Analyst
  • Cybersecurity Analyst
  • Data Science/Analytics Manager
  • Information Security Analyst
  • IS/IT Manager
  • IT Risk Manager
  • Management Consultant
  • Video Game Designer
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

Is UC Online right for me?

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