Accelerated MSM-Information Systems

The Program:

The successful collaboration between the various stakeholders in global software teams is now a necessity. Project management has assumed a key role in determining the success of information technology-based initiatives in this complex and dynamic environment. Most entry to medium level IT positions increasingly require some level of project management skills.    

The fast track proposal is designed for students in undergraduate information systems or related programs who are interested in pursuing graduate work with a project management emphasis. The goal of the program is to prepare students for eventual positions in strategic IT leadership.

Who Should Apply?

The MSM - Fast Track Information Systems option has been designed for students in undergraduate information systems or related programs such as Computer Science who are interested in pursuing graduate work with a project management emphasis. Additional requirements for students wishing to pursue this option include:

• Undergraduate degree in Information Systems (from AACSB accredited institution) or related fields with a Pre-MBA minor
• Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 with successful course completion in programming, database, and networking (B or better)
• Documented completion of an IS related internship (or other IS work experience) with a letter summarizing project and work scope from supervisor
• Letters of reference from undergraduate program director or faculty
• Undergraduate students who wish to count 6200:554 Information Systems Security and 6500:520 Data Networks & Security toward their graduate degree may take these classes during their senior year and must receive a grade of B or better. These classes must be taken exclusive of students requirements toward the baccalaureate degree.
• Undergraduate degree must be completed at the most two years prior to planned date of program entry

When should students apply?

Undergraduate students who wish to be considered for the Fast track MSM should contact the Graduate School Programs Office or Dr. Steven Ash toward the end of their Junior year.

Admission Requirements

The MSM - Fast track Information Systems option has been designed for students in undergraduate information systems or related programs who are interested in pursuing graduate work with an information systems management emphasis. Additional requirements for students wishing to pursue this option include:

• Undergraduate degree in Information Systems (from AACSB accredited institution) or related fields with a Pre-MBA minor
• Undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 with successful course completion in programming, database, and networking (B or better)
• Documented completion of an IS related internship (or other IS work experience) with a letter summarizing project and work scope from supervisor
• Letters of reference from undergraduate program director or faculty
• Undergraduate students who wish to count 6200:554 Information Systems Security and 6500:520 Data Networks & Security toward their graduate degree may take these classes during their senior year and must receive a grade of B or better
• Undergraduate degree must be completed at the most two years prior to planned date of program entry

Application Deadline

• August 1 for Fall enrollment
• December 1 for Spring enrollment
• May 1 for Summer enrollment

International Student Applications

It is recommended that international students apply six weeks prior to these dates to allow time for admission and I-20 visa processing.  I-20 forms are processed by UA Immigration Services in the International Center, Buchtel Hall. Proof of English Proficiency is required by producing an acceptable TOEFL or IELTS score.

Additional Information

Program Requirements:

Students in the MSM Fast track program will complete 30 credits of graduate coursework to fulfill the requirements for the master’s degree. To ensure that there is no duplication from the undergraduate programs, the graduate coursework has been carefully selected to give them marketable skills. The fast track program is comprised of required classes in management, information systems and elective choices. As part of a practicum requirement, students will have to complete a Study Abroad program or an internship. Students who are in the program will be considered for funding opportunities such as graduate assistantships and scholarships.

Guidelines for receiving credit for the IS Internship:

1. Students are required to at least 20 hours of work per week.
2. The internship must be approved by the Department Chair.
3. Internships will be approved based on the type of business and the scope of the work to be done.
4. Interns will complete a report based on MIS faculty specifications.
5. The internship should be in an area directly related to any of traditional Information Systems functions related to systems planning, analysis, design, programming, implementation, networking operations and infrastructure, technical documentation, systems installation, maintenance and IT auditing.

Assistantship/Scholarship Information

Not all departments offer graduate assistantships. Students should inquire with the department directly to determine assistantship availability.

Financial Aid Information

Paying for college is a vital part of the education process. It is important to be informed of the many sources of aid available. Student loans are available to degree-seeking graduate students. Information on student loans can be found through the Office of Student Financial Aid. The Office of Student Financial Aid is located in Simmons Hall.

Tuition and Fees

Current tuition and fees schedules can be found through the Office of Student Accounts.