Master of Science in Computer Information Systems (MCIS)
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The M.S. in Computer Information Systems is a 36 credit-hour program. It focuses on the information technology foundations of computer information systems including areas such as database systems, human-computer interaction, data and computer communications, artificial intelligence, information security, computer graphics, and software engineering. It is designed to give students a thorough knowledge of the field and to provide an enduring foundation for future professional growth. The program blends theory and practice into a learning experience that develops skills applicable to complex real-world problems. Its formats offer full-time students the opportunity to earn the degree in 12 months and working professionals the opportunity to earn the degree in 16–24 months.
In addition, students have the option to earn the M.S. in Computer Information Systems with Concentration in Information Security, which requires a total of 42 credit hours (14 courses). The concentration is recognized by the National Security Agency (NSA) based on its certification of the school’s curriculum for compliance with the requirements of NSA national training standards NSTISSI No. 4011 (Information Systems Security Professionals) and CNSSI No. 4013 (System Administrators). As a result of this certification, Federal agencies may sponsor civilian and military personnel to take the school’s certified graduate courses, and the school is authorized to issue certificates to students who complete such courses. Individuals may apply to take one or more certified information security courses as non-degree students. These programs are available online or on-campus. Students who complete the concentration may also request a graduate certificate.
Graduates with the M.S. in Computer Information Systems are able to (1) communicate computer information systems concepts, designs, and solutions effectively and professionally; (2) apply knowledge of computer information systems to produce effective designs and solutions for specific problems; (3) identify, analyze, and synthesize scholarly literature relating to the field of computer information systems; and (4) use software development tools, software systems, and modern computing platforms.
Program-Specific Admission Requirements
These programs are designed for students with undergraduate majors in computer science, information systems, information technology, engineering, mathematics, or physics. Applicants must have knowledge of data structures and algorithms, assembly language and computer architecture, programming in a modern high-level language, and discrete mathematics. Applicants who do not have an adequate background may be required to take one or more of the following 500-level graduate courses during the first two terms of the student’s program.
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These are in addition to the required 36 credit hours at the 600 level. Courses at the 500 level, when required, must be completed prior to taking courses at the 600 level; however some exceptions may be permitted by the program director. All 500-level courses must be completed with a grade of ‘B’ or higher to continue in the program. MCIS 501 is prerequisite to MCIS 503.
Option for Early Admission into the Ph.D. Program
This option provides the opportunity for master’s students in computer information systems to earn the Ph.D. in computer information systems or information systems in a shorter time. In addition to the requirements specified in the section Early Admission into the Ph.D. Program, the student must have completed CISC 610 Programming Languages, CISC 640 Operating Systems, MCIS 630 Database Systems, CISC 680 Software Engineering, and CISC 650 Computer Networks.
Curriculum for the M.S. in Computer Information Systems
Core courses and electives are listed below. Students must take all ten core course and two electives. If the thesis option is elected, students must take all ten core courses plus six thesis credits. Students who wish to take an additional elective must request approval from the program office prior to registration. Plans for the thesis option must be made with and approved by the program office.
Core Courses (three credits each)
Electives (three credits each)
Curriculum for the M.S. in Computer Information Systems with Concentration in Information Security
Required Courses (three credits each)
