- Master of Science in Information Technology (Computing or Management Concentration)
Program Description
This 37-credit program is intended to prepare students having undergraduate background in computer science, engineering, information technology, or related fields with the knowledge, skills, and perspective for successful careers in the field of Information Technology in both the US and abroad. Students choose from two concentrations, management or computing, which allow them to specialize their degrees toward their career interests and goals. Students whose backgrounds include a solid foundation in computing and programming may find the management concentration suitable while students whose backgrounds lie outside computer science will likely find greater utility in the computing concentration.
The program is distinguished from other IT programs in a number of ways. These include:
- A highly applied approach, with emphasis on hands-on learning;
- Requirement of an internship experience or research-based project on campus or at a local technology firm;
- Incorporation of emerging technologies into all coursework;
- Emphasis on a collaborative and teamwork approach;
- Development of skills in technology leadership;
- Elective coursework from other professional based programs, including Master of Business Administration and International Commerce & Policy
Students are required to take coursework in the core competency areas in information technology and management as outlined below. They then choose coursework within their particular concentration. All students complete a 300 hour internship or a major research project.
IT Core (8 - 12 credits) IT 500 Fundamentals of Programming I 2 cr IT 501 Fundamentals of Programming II 2 cr IT 602 Introduction to IT 2 cr IT 603 Information Management 3 cr IT 633 Datamining 3 cr Management Core (6 - 7 credits) IT 604 Project Management 3 cr IT 689 Professional and Career Development 0 - 1 cr One of the following writing/language courses: ENGL 502 Introduction to Professional Writing 3 cr ENGL 511 Introduction to Technical Writing 3 cr LS 604/605 Intensive English Language or English for Business 4 cr LS 608 Professional Writing and Research 3 cr Select either the management or computing concentration Computing Concentration (14 - 20 credits) IT 530 Operating Systems 2 cr IT 535 Networking 2 cr IT 540 Web Programming 2 cr IT 558 Software Development and Programming 3 cr IT 560 Mobile Computing 2 cr IT 590 Topics in IT 3 cr IT 630 User Interface 3 cr IT 632 Instructional Design in IT 3 cr IT 640 System Integration and Administration 3 cr IT 642 Information Assurance and Security 3 cr IT 652 Integrative Programming and Technology 3 cr IT 654 Internet and Web Technologies 3 cr IT 664 Natural Language Technologies 2 cr IT 670 Professional Development 3 cr CS 545 Artificial Intelligence 2 cr CTS 565 Integrative Computer Graphics 3 cr or additional coursework approved by the adviser from management core,management concentration, IT or CS Management Concentration (14 - 20 credits) At least six credits from: IT 535 Networking 2 cr IT 540 Web Programming 2 cr IT 560 Mobile Computing 2 cr IT 630 User Interface 3 cr IT 640 System Integration and Administration 3 cr IT 642 Information Assurance and Security 3 cr IT 654 Internet and Web Technologies 3 cr CS 545
Artificial Intelligence 2 cr At least six credits from: COMM 500 Graduate Digital Media 3 cr COMM 512 Leadership Communication 3 cr COMM 572 Intellectual Property 3 cr MBA 550 Psychological Foundations of Management 2 cr MBA 540 Statistics 2 cr ICP 612 International Business Relationships 2 cr ICP 614 International Marketing 2 cr ICP 620/621 Cross Cultural Management or Global Leadership 3 cr ICP 670 Law and Legal Principles 3 cr additional graduate courses approved by the adviser from management concentration, computing concentration, MBA courses at the 500 level, IT or CS IT Capstone Experience (3 credits)
One of: IT 786 Internship 3 cr IT 792 Research Project 3 cr Early Entry Option for VU Undergraduates
Qualified VU juniors and seniors may apply to begin graduate course work in Information Technology prior to graduation. This unique program allows students to save time and money on their graduate programs. For more information, students should speak with their academic advisers and contact an admissions counselor at the Graduate School.
Criteria for Admission
Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate School, which include:- Valparaiso University Graduate Application form;
- An equivalent of a minor in computer science, information technology, or a related field (e.g., information and decision sciences); Students without adequate background or preparation will be required to complete a bridge program prior to beginning the MS in Information Technology Program;
- Official transcripts of all prior undergraduate and graduate coursework. If you have received an undergraduate or graduate degree from Valparaiso University, you are not required to submit an official transcript from Valparaiso University;
- Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of at least 550 (paper version), 213 (computer-based), or Internet Based Test (TOEFL iBT) score of at least 80; minimum IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score of 6; CET score of 6, or an INTERLINK Language Center Level 5, or the equivalent for non-native English speakers;
- Two letters of recommendation submitted on their behalf;
- A reflective essay indicating the reasons for undertaking graduate study in Information Technology;
- Application fee: $30 for U.S. citizens and $50 for international applicants.
The MS in Information Technology & program features a continuous admission process, so application materials may be submitted at any time. Once received, the admission decision normally takes 2-3 weeks.
Financial Considerations
Students may be surprised to discover the affordable tuition rate at Valparaiso University. Tuition for the 2012-2013 academic year is $560 per credit hour which is highly competitive for a private institution of recognized national quality. Full-time graduate students pay a $378 general fee each fall and spring semester. Financial aid is available through direct and indirect student loans for students taking 6 credits or more during fall and spring semesters. Because most course offerings are scheduled for the evening, many students hold part- or full-time employment during their study.For more information about the Master of Science in Information Technology program :
Interested students should request an information packet from the Office of the Graduate School through our website or by e-mailing Graduate.School@valpo.edu.Click here to apply online!