Master of Science in Information Systems

Program Description

The Master of Science in Information Systems program (program brochure) addresses the effective analysis, design, creation, management and evaluation of information systems for individuals and organizations. The role of the Information Systems professional is to understand and improve the ways organizations derive value from information. The Lewis College of Business Information Systems graduate degree program offers an immersive educational experience blending business, information technology and the human element. An MS in IS degree provides graduates with the knowledge and skills to:

• Use information technology to improve organizational effectiveness
• Manage complex business and information system challenges
• Apply design thinking, critical thinking, problem solving, and information technology skills to assist organizations meet current needs, changing demands and future growth.

A STEM-designated program

Information Systems is part of the burgeoning science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) field and qualifies as a STEM-designated degree program by the US Department of Homeland Security. In this way, the Information Systems degree at Marshall is ideal for students wishing to work in value-based environments and is beneficial for international students trying to extend their OPT status. This MSIS degree is also part of the HSTA graduate waiver program for WV students who were a part of that program.

Admission Requirements

A four-year bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 2.75 or higher out of 4.0 is required. Students must also have taken a programming language class with a C or better, or complete one during their first semester of coursework with a C or better.

Applicants should follow the admissions process described in the Graduate Catalog or on the Graduate Admissions website www.marshall.edu/admissions/graduate/. If you are from outside the US, you may find Marshall’s International Student Information website a useful resource www.marshall.edu/cip.

Program Requirements

Students must complete 36 graduate credit hours, as follows:

Certificate in Technology Management

Overview

The Graduate Certificate in Technology Management is designed primarily for working professionals with both technical and non-technical backgrounds who want a better understanding of technological relevance to competitiveness and business strategy. Certificate coursework has a practical emphasis, with real-world projects designed to develop skills that can be put to use on the job immediately. Courses taken for this certificate may be applied to the M.S. in Information Systems degree (contact the program coordinator for information).

Admission Requirements

Applicants interested in the certificate program should apply for admission to Marshall University as a Certificate/Professional Development student and indicate the Certificate in Technology Management on the application. The admissions requirements for the certificate program are the same as for the M.S. in Information Systems degree.

Curriculum

• MGT 615 – Technology and Innovation Management
• MIS 620 – Technology Planning
• Any four courses from the MS in Information Systems program

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