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Information Technology, MS

Information Technology, MS

Academic programs / Graduate degrees / Information Technology, MS

Computer, Cybersecurity, Game Development, Graphic, Information Management, Information Security, Information Security Specialist, Multimedia, Network Administrator, Network Security, Software, Web, Web Application, World Wide Web, approved for STEM-OPT extension, computing

Program description
Degree awarded: MS  Information Technology

The MS program in information technology is a transdisciplinary program that prepares students to be industry leaders in the public and private sectors.

Students gain the technical competencies they need to design and develop information technology projects that interconnect people, process and technology to meet the needs of stakeholders and users.

The coursework emphasizes core technologies, and students select from two areas of focus: information technology security or information systems management.

STEM-OPT for international students on F-1 visas

This program may be eligible for an Optional Practical Training extension for up to 36 months. This OPT work authorization term may help international students gain skills and experience in the U.S. Those interested in an OPT extension should review ASU degrees that qualify for the STEM-OPT extension at ASU's International Students and Scholars Center website.

The OPT extension only applies to students on an F-1 visa and does not apply to students completing the degree through ASU Online.

At a glance
Accelerated program options
This program allows students to obtain both a bachelor's and master's degree in as little as five years. It is offered as an accelerated bachelor's plus master's degree with:

Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.

Degree requirements

30 credit hours and a portfolio, or
30 credit hours including the required applied project course (IFT 593)

Required Core (12 credit hours)
IFT 510 Principles of Computer and Information Technology Architecture (3)
IFT 520 Advanced Information Systems Security (3)
IFT 530 Advanced Database Management Systems (3)
IFT 540 Information Systems Development (3)

Open Elective (3 or 6 credit hours)

Focus Area Electives (12 credit hours)

Culminating Experience (0 or 3 credit hours)
IFT 593 Applied Project (3) or
portfolio (0)

Additional Curriculum Information
Students should see the academic unit for a complete list of approved coursework.

Admission requirements

Applicants must fulfill the requirements of both the Graduate College and the Ira A. Fulton Schools of Engineering.

Applicants are eligible to apply to the program if they have earned a bachelor's or master's degree in information technology, computer science, applied computing, computer engineering or a closely related field from a regionally accredited college or university.

Applicants must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in their first bachelor's degree program or in the last 60 hours of their first bachelor's degree program; a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") in nine semester hours of graduate coursework from a U.S. institution; or a cumulative GPA of 3.00 (scale is 4.00 = "A") from an applicable conferred master's degree program in a regionally accredited college or university.

All applicants must submit:

  1. graduate admission application and application fee
  2. official transcripts
  3. personal statement
  4. professional resume
  5. proof of English proficiency

Additional Application Information
An applicant whose native language is not English must provide proof of English proficiency regardless of their current residency. Applicants should see the graduate admission services website.

Unofficial transcripts may be submitted at time of application. If admitted, applicants must then submit official transcripts to graduate admission services.

If the applicant does not meet the minimum GPA requirements, the application may still be considered. In certain cases, demonstrated aptitude through professional experience or additional postbaccalaureate education is considered.

The applicant's undergraduate GPA and depth of preparation in information technology and computer science are the primary factors that affect admission.

Tuition information
When it comes to paying for higher education, everyone’s situation is different. Students can learn about ASU tuition and financial aid options to find out which will work best for them.
Attend online
ASU Online

ASU offers this program in an online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. Applicants may view the program’s ASU Online page for program descriptions and to request more information.

Application deadlines
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 04/01Priority
Session A/COnline 07/01Priority
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/CIn Person 09/15Priority
Session A/COnline 12/01Priority
SessionModalityDeadlineType
Session A/COnline 04/01Priority
Program learning outcomes

Program learning outcomes identify what a student will learn or be able to do upon completion of their program. This program has the following program outcomes:

  • Integrate theories and concepts of information technology in their master applied technology research and industry careers.
  • Build client-centered technology solution through the synthesis of best practices and transdisciplinary research.
  • Conduct industry relevant research and communicate results effectively to diverse audiences.
Career opportunities

Graduates of the information technology program, which couples technical skills with the business skills needed to manage technical functions, are well qualified for careers in the management of IT departments. Some graduates pursue careers as technical support staff based on the focus area and secondary skills they achieve. Graduates also have the ability to manage technical professionals within their focus areas.

Contact information

Information Technology | SUTON 240
polygrad@asu.edu
480-727-1874

What are accelerated programs?
Accelerated programs allow students the opportunity to expedite the completion of their degree.

3 year programs

These programs allow students to fast-track their studies after admission and earn a bachelor's degree in three years or fewer while participating in the same high-quality educational experience of a 4-year option. Students should talk to their academic advisor to get started.

Accelerated master's

These programs allow students to accelerate their studies to earn a bachelor's plus a master's degree in as few as five years (for some programs).

Each program has requirements students must meet to be eligible for consideration. Acceptance to the graduate program requires a separate application. Students typically receive approval to pursue the accelerated master’s during the junior year of their bachelor's degree program. Interested students can learn about eligibility requirements and how to apply.
What are concurrent programs?
Concurrent degrees allow students to pursue their own personal or professional interests, earn two distinct degrees and receive two diplomas. To add a concurrent degree to your existing degree, work with your academic advisor.
What are joint programs?
Joint programs, or jointly conferred degrees, are offered by more than one college and provide opportunities for students to take advantage of the academic strengths of two academic units. Upon graduation, students are awarded one degree and one diploma conferred by two colleges.

What constitutes a new program?
ASU adds new programs to Degree Search frequently. Come back often and look for the “New Programs” option.
What are online programs?
ASU Online offers programs in an entirely online format with multiple enrollment sessions throughout the year. See https://asuonline.asu.edu/ for more information.
What is WRGP (Western Regional Graduate Program)?
The Western Regional Graduate Program (WRGP) provides a reduced tuition rate to non-resident graduate students who qualify. Visit the WRGP/WICHE webpage for more information: https://graduate.asu.edu/wiche.

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