MS in Information Systems Technology
MS in Information Systems Technology
The Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (MSIST) at the George Washington University School of Business prepares you to lead at the intersection of technology and strategy. This STEM-designated program equips you with the technical expertise and business acumen to design, manage, and implement complex information systems that drive organizational success. Whether you're advancing your current role or pivoting into tech leadership, you’ll gain the skills to translate data into insight, optimize operations, and power innovation across industries.
STEM-Designated, Future-Focused Curriculum
Prepare for high-growth careers with in-demand skills in cybersecurity, cloud computing, data analytics, and IT project management—supported by a STEM-designated program.
Double Your Expertise: Technology + Strategy
Develop both advanced technical skills and business insight in one degree. Learn how to build and manage systems while aligning technology decisions with organizational goals.
Flexible Format, Capital Advantage
Designed to fit your busy schedule, learn online or on campus while accessing Washington, D.C.’s network of global institutions, industry leaders, and immersive learning opportunities.
Hands-On, Real-World Experience
Apply what you learn through a culminating capstone project, solving real business challenges using tools like Python, SQL, Java, and HTML.
Jump to: Curriculum | Info Sessions | Admissions | Tuition & Funding | Careers | Meet Your Team | FAQs
Program at a Glance
Total Credits: 33 | Commitment: Part-Time or Full-Time | Delivery: In-Person or Online | Entry Semester: Fall, Spring
Average Completion: 1.5 years (full-time) or 2 years (part-time)
The MSIST curriculum blends core information systems and technology management with specialized, career-focused learning—spanning database management, business intelligence, cybersecurity, cloud applications, big data analytics, and IT project management, all within a business context. You’ll engage in hands-on expertise using tools like Python, SQL, Java, and HTML, and a culminating capstone project brings it all together, allowing you to apply your technical and strategic skills to real-world technology solutions.
Sample Courses Below (* indicates an elective course)
Programming & Development
- Information Systems Development and Applications
- Relational Databases
- Web Application Development
- Mobile Application Development
- Information Technology Project Management
Data Analytics, AI & Security
- Information Systems Security
Web and Social Analytics - Foundations of Artificial Intelligence
- Business Applications of Artificial Intelligence
- Emerging Technologies
Generative AI for Business*
Technology Strategy
- Information Technology Project Management
- Integrated Information Systems Capstone
- Management of Technology and Innovation
- Cloud Foundations
- New Venture Financing
- Program Outcomes
Here’s What You’ll Learn:
- Critical & Analytical Thinking: Analyze complex challenges and make informed decisions about the effective use of information technology and data-driven models.
- Information Systems Expertise: Apply core concepts in information systems to support the analysis, design, and implementation of technology solutions.
- Team Leadership & Collaboration: Build experience leading and contributing to teams through collaborative, goal-oriented projects.
- Project Management: Leverage project management principles to successfully plan, execute, and deliver IT initiatives.
- Communication Skills: Communicate clearly and effectively through professional writing and presentations, tailored to diverse audiences.
- Ethics & Social Responsibility: Evaluate the ethical and societal impact of technology decisions in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.
- Online Learning: Flexible + Interactive
- GW Business' online courses combine live engagement with asynchronous flexibility to create a dynamic learning experience.
- Courses include a weekly one-hour live classroom session, offered evenings or weekends, that feature lectures, case discussions and group activities.
- Real-time interaction allows students to collaborate with faculty and classmates.
- Sessions are recorded and available on demand, allowing you to learn on your schedule.
- Faculty host online office hours to provide personalized guidance, answer questions and discuss assignment feedback.
View Curriculum + Degree Requirements
Maximize Your ROI: Customize Your Degree Path
- The 4+1 Program: Earn Your Bachelor’s and Master’s in Five Years
Students pursuing a bachelor's degree in an eligible GW school have the opportunity to accelerate the path to earning a Master's in Information Systems Technology.
- Dual Degree Opportunity: MBA + MSIST
Double your impact with GW’s Master of Business Administration (MBA) and Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (MSIST) dual degree.
By allowing select credits to count toward both degrees, students complete 18 fewer credit hours—saving time and cost compared to pursuing each degree separately.
The Online MBA and the Healthcare MBA degree programs are available options to those pursuing the MSIST degree online.
- Graduate Certificates: Deepen Your Knowledge at No Additional Cost
Tailor your MSIST to your professional goals by adding a graduate certificate that builds specialized expertise alongside your core business education. These stackable certificates allow you to deepen your knowledge in a focused area—at no additional credit cost.
Choose from the following 12-credit graduate certificates:
Artificial Intelligence
On-Campus
Prepares business leaders to advance in AI and machine learning through a 12-credit program focused on foundational knowledge and hands-on skills in real-world business applications. Collaborate with leading tech organizations while building connections to support your career growth.Cloud, Applications & Information Technology
On-Campus
Build the skills to design and implement cloud architecture using platforms like Amazon Web Services, Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud. This 12-credit program develops the technical and strategic expertise to manage cloud solutions that meet real organizational needs.Management of Technology & Innovation
On-Campus
Explore how to develop, manage, and commercialize new technologies and innovations. Gain the strategic skills to drive business impact or launch new ventures—ideal for professionals across product, project, operations, and strategy roles.
Why GW Business?
Expand your network and find your next opportunity in Washington, D.C., in close proximity to alumni working with multinational corporations, government agencies and global institutions. This real-world experience enhances your understanding and application of classroom knowledge delivered by a well-respected faculty with decades of leadership in the field. Engage in hands-on learning experiences through internships and projects that offer practical insights into the information technology field. The program offers both full-time and part-time and hybrid/online study options, providing the flexibility to fit your professional and personal commitments in Washington, D.C.
Admissions
Admission to GW's MS in Information Systems Technology program is competitive, with limited enrollment to support a collaborative, cohort-based learning experience.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged.
Our admissions team is here to guide you through the process and answer any questions along the way. Learn more about application requirements and next steps on our How to Apply page.
Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and early submission is encouraged. The admissions committee takes a holistic approach, considering academic performance, professional experience and achievements, and letters of recommendation.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
- Transcripts from all previously attended colleges or universities
- Current résumé
- Statement of Purpose: In no more than 500 words, describe how this program fits into your professional life and your career objectives.
- One letter of recommendation from a professional and/or academic reference
- Application fee (non-refundable)
- Completed online application form
No GRE or GMAT is required. However, applicants who feel their test scores strengthen their candidacy are welcome to submit them.
Applicants who require a visa to study in the United States must also fulfill additional requirements in order to be considered for admission to a graduate program at the School of Business.
It is recommended that candidates have programming experience using either Python or R.
Students must complete up to 6 credits in prescribed foundation courses in the areas of computer programming language and database design and applications. If a foundation courses was not completed with a minimum grade of B at an accredited institution within five years of matriculation, it must be completed before beginning the program, or within the first year of study in the program.
| ISTM 3119 & ISTM 4121 | Introduction to Programming and Database Principles and Applications |
| or | |
| ISTM 6200 | Python Program Database Applications |
Application Deadlines
Candidates seeking financial assistance and international students requiring visas are encouraged to apply early. Only completed applications, with all required materials, will be considered for admission.
- Spring 2026 - Closed
- Summer 2026 - April 15, 2026
- Fall 2026 - April 15, 2026
Please note: Admission to the Global MBA, Accelerated MBA, Master of Accountancy in Accounting Analytics, M.S. in Applied Finance, and M.S. in Business Analytics programs is only offered for the fall semester. Summer admissions deadlines apply only to our online MBA and Specialized Master's degree programs. Admission to all other programs is only offered for the fall and spring semesters. Additionally, our doctoral and executive education programs may have different admissions deadlines.
Tuition, Fees & Funding
Funding your graduate education is an important step in your journey, and there are a number of resources that can help you navigate tuition information, costs and fees and financial aid opportunities.
A Scholarship Built Into Your Degree
If you’re accepted to our ONLINE MS in Information Systems Technology for the Summer or Fall 2026 semesters, you’ll automatically receive a scholarship to save up to 30% off tuition.
No additional applications. No special requirements. Just a world-class education that’s more affordable.
Career Outlook
A GW MS in Information Systems Technology prepares you for high-impact roles across the technology and business landscape. GW Business graduates are data experts serving as the digital backbone of Fortune 500 companies, spearheading multimillion-dollar technology transformations and translating complex data into strategic business decisions that reshape industries.
Boost Your Earning Potential: Graduates of Master of Science in Information Systems Technology programs report average earnings of $100,000 after just one year, $145,000 after ten years, with an estimated lifetime ROI of $585,000 (Source: FREOPP, a trusted non-profit think tank).
Learn More About Information Systems Technology Career Paths
Explore median salary ranges for common career paths pursued by MSIST graduates, reflecting the versatility and earning potential of the degree:
| Job Title | Median Salary |
|---|---|
| Business Intelligence Analysts | $112,590 |
| Computer and Information Systems Managers | $171,200 |
| Computer Network Architects | $130,390 |
| Computer Systems Analysts | $103,790 |
| Computer Systems Engineers/Architects | $108,970 |
| Database Administrators | $104,620 |
| Database Architects | $135,980 |
| Information Security Analysts | $124,910 |
| Information Technology Project Managers | $108,970 |
Where Our Alumni Are Leading
Our graduates advance into roles spanning IT management, systems leadership, and senior or C-suite technology positions at leading organizations.
Computing & Software
- Amazon Web Services
- Cisco Systems
- IBM
- Microsoft
- Oracle
Defense & Aerospace
- Boeing
- CIA
- Lockheed Martin
- U.S. Military Services
Financial & International
- Federal Reserve
- International Monetary Fund
- The World Bank
- US Dept of State
Media & Comms
- AT&T
- Gannett Company Inc.
- Sirius XM
- Verizon
Career Support
Personalized Career Coaching
Experienced career coaches—who have a proven track record of supporting student placement and career advancement—help refine your goals and build an effective job search strategy.
Dedicated Career Center
Gain exclusive access to employer connections, recruiting opportunities and career resources through the GW Business F. David Fowler Career Center.
Mentorship Opportunities
Participate in the Careers360 program to connect with industry mentors in consulting, finance or marketing.
Global Alumni Network
With more than 60,000 alumni spanning 260+ organizations, Fortune 500 companies, startups, and nonprofits around the world, you’ll gain access to mentorship, connections, and career opportunities that open doors and accelerate your impact.
"GW is very diverse, and getting to learn from their various backgrounds allows you to learn from your classmates, not just professors."
Sara Khan
MS in Information Systems Technology '24
Meet Your Team
Admissions Team
business
gwu [dot] edu (subject: MS%20in%20Project%20Management%20admissions) (Email Admissions Team)
Faculty Director
Academic Advisor
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is the MSIST program accredited?
Yes, the GW Business MSIST program is accredited by AACSB and STEM-certified, ensuring it meets rigorous standards for science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.
- What’s the difference between a master’s in information technology program, a master’s in information systems program, and a master’s in information systems technology program?
- A master’s in information technology (MSIT) focuses on building and maintaining technology systems. Students in these programs learn to build robust IT infrastructure and maintain critical systems security.
- A master’s in information systems (MSIS) emphasizes designing and managing internal systems that support business operations and decision-making.
- The MSIST brings both together—combining technical expertise with business strategy and organizational insight.
GW’s STEM-designated MSIST program takes this hybrid approach further, preparing you to analyze business needs, design effective solutions, and implement systems that drive organizational success. With a dual focus on technology and business processes, the program is ideal for professionals at any stage who want to expand their skills and lead across both technical and strategic domains.
For a more detailed look, read our article comparing MSIT, MSIS, and MSIST degrees.
Considering a leadership role? Review our article, "MSIT vs. MBA: Which Is Better for IT Leaders?"- What Makes an MSIST from a Business School More Valuable?
Technology and business are no longer separate domains. The MSIST prepares you for roles that require both technical expertise and business knowledge.
Earning your MSIST from a business school provides additional value because you'll learn information technology and systems in the context of real business challenges. Business schools immerse you in case studies about financial decisions, market strategy, and organizational behavior, giving you perspectives that more technical programs don’t always teach.
- Why an MSIST Is a Strategic Advantage in Your Career?
Advance from IT expert to tech leader.
A master’s in information systems technology deepens your technical leadership capabilities, and the GW Business name opens doors across the technology industry and beyond.
MSIST graduates will be prepared for careers where technology decisions and business priorities meet. They understand both technical minutiae and financial realities, which helps them answer the essential question: "What does this mean for the business?"
These skills become especially valuable when:
- Evaluating new technologies: Your expertise helps you distinguish worthwhile tech investments from passing trends.
- Getting projects approved: You can explain technical work in ways that make financial sense to business leaders.
- Working with tight budgets: You’ll be able to identify technology initiatives that directly impact business outcomes and improve operational efficiency.
- Setting up company-wide systems: You can adapt large software systems to fit business needs.
- Using data effectively: You’ll be able to collect, analyze and present data to support recommendations and decisions.
Considering a position as a Product Manager? Read our article, "From Business Analysis to Product Management: How an MSIST Bridges the Gap."
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