The Master of Science in Information Technology program gives students the tools to excel in an evolving industry.Program Overview
The MSIT program is housed within the Electrical and Computer Engineering Department in Northwestern’s McCormick School of Engineering. Nationally, the engineering school is ranked 19th, the Electrical Engineering and Computer Engineering graduate programs are ranked 32nd and 23rd, respectively. MSIT professors are pulled from these selective programs as well as other highly ranked programs at Northwestern.
The Master of Science in Information Technology program uses a cohort model in which students progress through the program as a group. They take courses covering computer and networks technology, as well as key business elements involving finance, marketing, and project management. This provides students with a competitive edge and the ability to transform organizations with their unique understanding of the business implications of IT strategies.
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Why Earn an MSIT Degree?
Professor and program director Dr. Randall Berry discusses the value of the MSIT degree.
Program Goals
Our program teaches students and working professionals the necessary skills to:
- Implement better IT solutions that reflect the demands of today's evolving marketplace
- Understand the cross-functional perspective of information technology and its place in business operations
- Bridge the gap between fundamental technologies and business strategies
- Lead information technology teams and projects
Unique Curriculum
Northwestern's unique MSIT curriculum blends technical (70%) and business management (30%) coursework, while focusing on three fundamental areas:
- Communication systems and networks
- Computing systems engineering
- Business and management principles
Courses typically require both individual and team-based assignments and involve collaborative work in study groups. The program culminates with a 10-week capstone course that requires students to apply their new-found technology and business skills to a case study presented by a practicing IT professional.
Part-Time Option
The part-time degree is ideal for working professionals. The program is completed within two years, from September to June each year. Students take two courses each quarter from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m on Saturdays.
An ideal option for those who:
- Wish to continue working while in the program
- Have obligations that would prevent them from attending weekday classes
Learn more about part-time study
Full-Time Options
The full-time degree is completed in either 10 months or in 12 months. Full-time students take courses on weekdays and on Saturdays.
An ideal option for those who:
- Are interested in completing a summer internship (optional)
- Are international students
- Come from a technical background
- Have proficiency in math and programming
Learn more about
Our Faculty
MSIT faculty members provide a balanced view of academic principles and practical applications, and bring research accomplishments and industry success to their classrooms.
The MSIT faculty is drawn from:
- The Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering in the McCormick School of Engineering
- The Medill Integrated and Marketing Communications program
- Northwestern's School of Law
- Industry experts
