Registration is still open for Indiana University Northwest’s new master’s degree program in computer information systems, with classes beginning in-person/online on August 24.

The new degree program is ideal for those seeking to increase their skills and advancement potential in systems analysis, data bases, data mining, big data, networking and security, systems management and administration, and other information technology-related occupations. It also prepares students for continued study, including doctoral degrees in computer science or informatics.

The primary goals of the curriculum are to prepare students to analyze and anticipate computing problems, formulate solutions, and develop new approaches in the field of computer science.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), employment of computer and information systems managers is projected to grow 12 percent between 2016 and 2026, faster than the average for all occupations. This is largely happening as more businesses strive to expand their operations to digital platforms. The mean annual wage for computer systems analysts was $93,610 in May of 2018, according to the BLS.

Bhaskara Kopparty, chair for the department of computer information systems, sees the new master’s degree as a natural response to the information technology explosion, not only in Indiana, but the nation, with the Chicago metropolitan area cited as one of the country’s largest employment areas.

Requirements for admission

“Anyone with an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution can apply for admission,” Kopparty said. “Applicants with a computer science-related undergraduate degree will be given direct admission and all others will be considered for conditional admission. The applicant’s work experience will be given due consideration.”

Students should have obtained an undergraduate grade point average of at least 3.0. Students with a GPA slightly below 3.0 who are returning to college with relevant work experience may be admitted if their applications contain sufficient evidence of their skills and ability to succeed in graduate work. 

Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores are not required. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

The degree requirements consist of 30 credit hours (18 hours of core requirements and 12 hours of electives) with a minimum grade of a B- in each course and a 3.0 overall GPA. A project/internship component is also required. A full-time student could complete the program in two years.

“In our technologically dependent world, employees with significant computer skills are the key players in most industries,” said Mark Hoyert, dean of the College of Arts and Sciences. “At IU Northwest, we can help you become one of those employees with an affordable education, excellent faculty, and state-of-the-art classes, all located close to home.”

For more information, read more here. Or, contact the Department of Computer Information Systems at 219-980-6638 or cisms@iun.edu.