Online MS in Information Systems Technology

The Online Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (OMSIST) program teaches technology for today and management skills for tomorrow. Established in 1980, our MSIST program is one of the longest-running programs in Information Systems. Since it was first offered, the program has earned a reputation for producing graduates with a thorough understanding of information systems and the relevant management, communication, and decision-making skills. The Online MSIST degree was introduced in 2013, continuing this tradition of academic excellence and reaching students across the U.S. and around the world.

Through our suite of dynamic, hands-on, laboratory online classes, students learn how to integrate information systems technology expertise and management skills to effectively implement business solutions. This combination of advanced technical knowledge and management skills with proven business strategy put OMSIST graduates in a position to succeed.

Flexibility That Works

Proven Online Program: Students who complete the degree via our distance learning program experience the same quality of material as our on-campus students. In fact, the majority of OMSIST coursework has been offered and available to our students online for over a decade, giving busy professionals the freedom to choose the right mix of on-campus and online coursework for their schedules.

Campus Visits: Students may attend an optional orientation on campus at the beginning of the program. All students are required to attend the capstone residency at the end of the program.

Full-Time and Part-Time Options: Students may complete the degree through full-time or part-time study. Typically, students complete degree requirements in the following time frames:

• Part-Time: 24-30 months
• Full-Time: 18-24 months

Mission & Learning Goals

The mission of the OMSIST program is to prepare future leaders in the area of information systems and technology management. Graduates of our program will help companies manage their information systems and technology resources efficiently to attain organizational goals and objectives.

Learning Goals

• Oral & Written Communication
  Communicate clearly and effectively in both writing and oral presentations. This involves clarity of purpose and an understanding of the audience.
• Ethics & Social Responsibility
  Weigh the ethics and the impact on society as a whole when making a decision.
• Critical & Analytical Thinking
  Think critically, analyze the facts, and make intelligent choices regarding the efficient use of information technology and decision models.
• Body of Knowledge
  Use knowledge of information systems to support a successful analysis, design, and implementation project.
• Team Management & Effectiveness
  Work effectively as a team leader as well as a member, by actively participating in the team, completing assigned tasks on schedule, and working toward a common goal to successfully complete the project.
• Project Management
  Use knowledge of project management to support a successful analysis, design, and implementation of an IT project.

Degree Requirements

The Online Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (OMSIST) program curriculum offers an innovative mix of information and technology management courses and specialized electives. Throughout the program, faculty challenge students to think critically, analyze problems and effectively acquire and integrate knowledge, strategies, and key technologies to solve the business problems faced by IT management.

Admissions

Admission to the OMSIST program is highly competitive and enrollment is limited. Students operate in two cohorts throughout the academic year.

Due to the rolling admissions policy, it is highly recommended that candidates submit applications early. The candidate’s major and trend in grades, personal achievements, and letters of recommendation also affect the admission decision. This program seeks social, ethnic, cultural and geographical diversity in its student body.

Prerequisites

• Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university
• Strong academic performance
• Demonstrated professional interest in interdisciplinary business studies

Admissions Process

Applying to a program at the GW School of Business may seem like a complicated process, but the GWSB admissions team is here to help. The application process for this program can be found on our How to Apply page. All application materials should be sent to the GWSB Graduate Admissions Office. The GRE or GMAT test is not required — however, if you feel that submitting your scores will strengthen your application, you are welcome to submit them. We also offer a wealth of resources to help you finance your degree, from scholarships and fellowships to loans and work-study arrangements.

Application Requirements

To be considered complete, the following must be included in the application:

• Completed online application form
• Application fee (non-refundable)
• Current résumé uploaded through the online application system
• One letter of recommendation from a professional and/or academic reference
• Statement of Purpose: In no more than 500 words, describe how this program fits into your professional life and your career objectives.

Additional Application Requirements

• Upload copies of your transcripts from all colleges/universities attended, whether or not the program was completed or the credit appears as a transfer credit on another transcript. Note that admitted students will be required to submit official, sealed transcripts with proof of bachelor’s degree. There is no need to submit them at the time when you first apply.
• The GRE or GMAT test is not required for this program — however, if you feel that submitting your scores will strengthen your application, you are welcome to submit them. Learn more about our test-optional policy on the How to Apply page. GW School of Business applicants interested in taking the exam can benefit from 10% off any Kaplan GMAT or GRE preparation course. Use discount code GWUSB10.

International Applicants

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. Please visit our How to Apply page for further details.

Admissions Process

Applying to a program at the GW School of Business may seem like a complicated process, but the GWSB admissions team is here to help. The application process for this program can be found on our How to Apply page. All application materials should be sent to the GWSB Graduate Admissions Office. The GRE or GMAT test is not required — however, if you feel that submitting your scores will strengthen your application, you are welcome to submit them.