Master of Science in Information Technology

The Empire State College, Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) degree is a thirty-three (33)* credit, online program designed to attract IT professionals in the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields who wish to advance their career opportunities in information technology industries. The mission of the MSIT program is to equip students with the advanced knowledge, skills and IT competencies required to be effective leaders in diverse, multi-disciplinary IT enterprises. The program offers an in-depth understanding of information technology and security as well as social, legal, and managerial issues in the field.

*The MSIT degree will require 33 to 36 credits based on whether the student can demonstrate competencies in the foundation areas. Along with general requirements for a graduate degree, applicants must demonstrate foundation knowledge in computer programming and computer networks. Applicants who are lacking these prerequisites will take one MSIT foundation course as a part of their degree program.

Ideal for those working or planning to work in the following areas:

  • Information security
  • Web technology
  • Digital forensics
  • Web programming
  • Client and server site technology
  • Cyber security

Program Design

This program is delivered through online instruction, providing flexibility and convenience for busy individuals balancing work, family and personal obligations. Students may complete the program on a full-time or part-time schedule. Full-time enrollment for students who want to complete the program in 20 months requires enrolling in 9 credits per term and in 3 to 6 credits during the summer terms. Part-time students may complete the program in 24-27 months.

Prerequisites

It is preferred that applicants for the MSIT have a bachelor's degree in information technology/systems, computer science, web technology, Math Science, technology, business, library science, and any range of educational and professional backgrounds in related fields. Applicants must demonstrate foundation knowledge in computer programming and computer networks. Applicants who are lacking these prerequisites will take the one three credit MSIT foundation course.

Program Curriculum

Foundation Course (3 credits)

(Only for students who are lacking prerequisites.)

  • INFT 6122 - Essentials of Information Technology: Programming and Networking

Core Courses (12 credits)

  • INFT 6127 - Information Technology in Organizations (3 credits)
  • INFT 6132 - Advanced Networking and Telecommunications (3 credits)
  • INFT 6137 - Enterprise Systems Architecture (3 credits)
  • INFT 6142 - Computer Systems Security (3 credits)

Concentrations (12 credits)

Choose one concentration: Cyber Security or Web Technology.

Cyber Security

  • INFT 6147 - Enterprise Information Security (3 credits)
  • INFT 6157 - Data and Application Security (3 credits)
  • INFT 6045 - IT Security Policies and Procedures (3 credits)
  • INFT 6055 - Computer Forensics (3 credits)

Web Technology

  • INFT 6125 - Enterprise Web Systems (3 credits)
  • INFT 6040 - Advanced Internet Application Development (3 credits)
  • INFT 6050 - Mobile Systems Development (3 credits)
  • INFT 6015 - Database Design and Management (3 credits) (beginning Fall 2021)

Electives (6 Credits)

Students choose two elective courses to reflect their interests and to reinforce the individual focus of their degree.

Capstone Course (3 credits)

Students complete a 3-credit capstone project in their concentration.

  • Cyber Security track - INFT 7005 - Cyber Security Integration Strategies
  • Web Technology track - INFT 7010 - Web Systems Integration Strategies