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.
The Master of Science in Information Technology and Management (ITM) provides basic coverage of the fundamental areas of information technology and offers depth in three areas: Application Development, Network Management, and User Interfaces. The program is distinguished from other ITM 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 three core competency areas. All students complete a 300 hour internship or a major research project. Students also complete elective coursework in any of the competency areas.
| Core Requirements & Competencies | 7 credits | |
| IT 500 | Fundamentals of Computing | 0 cr |
| IT 602 | Introduction to Information Technology | 2 cr |
| IT 603 | Information Management | 3 cr |
| MBA 540 | Managerial Statistics (or equivalent) | 2 cr |
| Management Core |
10-13 credits | |
| IT 604 | Project Management | 3 cr |
| Choose one of the following: | ||
| ICP 620 | Cross-Cultural Management | 3 cr |
| ICP 621 | Global Leadership and Team Development | 3 cr |
| MBA 550 | Psychological Foundations of Management | 2 cr |
| Choose one of the following: | ||
| CS 593 | Seminar in Professional Practices | 2 cr |
| ICP 670 | Law and Legal Principles | 2 cr |
| IT 670 | Professional Development | 3 cr |
| Choose one of the following: | ||
| ENGL 502 | Introduction to Professional Writing | 3 cr |
| ENGL 511 | Introduction to Technical Writing | 3 cr |
| LS 605 | English for Business | 4 cr |
| LS 608 | Professional Writing and Research | 3 cr |
| IT Concentrations | 12 credits | |
| Choose at least one course from each of the three groups: | ||
| Application Development | ||
| IT 558 | Software Development and Programming | 3 cr |
| IT 652 | Integrative Programming and Technologies | 3 cr |
| IT 654 | Internet and Web Technologies | 3 cr |
| Network Management | ||
| IT 540 | Digital Systems and Telecommunications | 3 cr |
| IT 547 | Platform Technologies and Networking | 3 cr |
| IT 640 | System Integration and Administration | 3 cr |
| IT 642 | Information Assurance and Security | 3 cr |
| User Support and Services | ||
| IT 630 | User Interface | 3 cr |
| IT 632 | Instructional Design in Information Technology | 3 cr |
| IT 634 | Search Engine Optimization and Marketing | 3 cr |
| IT Electives | 2-5 cr | |
|
Additional coursework from the ITM concentrations list, the
Management Core |
||
| IT Capstone Experience | 3 cr | |
| 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 & Management 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 advisors 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 & Management 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), 230 (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 & Management 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 2011-2012 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 $183 general fee each fall and spring semester. Part-time graduate students pay a $100 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 & Management 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!