Overview
The Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) program, offered by the School of Professional Studies (SPS) at Clark University, is designed to equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving IT industry. Information Technology is a dynamic field that drives business and social value across various enterprises. The continuous integration of IT with business operations and the swift advancement of technology underscore the need for IT leaders who possess a practical understanding of technology’s impact on business growth, can articulate their vision effectively, and lead successful implementations.
Clark University’s MSIT program aims to develop these competencies in our students. The curriculum includes four core courses that provide a solid foundation in key IT domains and essential business skills. Additionally, students can tailor their education by selecting six electives or focusing on specialized areas such as Cyber Security, Business Intelligence, and IT Leadership.
Regardless of the chosen path, our program emphasizes the development of leadership skills, including collaboration, negotiation, and effective communication techniques. These are the qualities that senior executives seek in the next generation of IT leaders.
Departmental Eligibility Requirements
The 4+1 Accelerated Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) Program is open to Clark undergraduate students in the College of Arts and Sciences. For consideration, students must successfully complete at least two (2) 100-level CSCI courses, from the following list with a minimum grade of B in each and have earned a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.4 in their bachelor’s degree.
Complete at least 2 of the following courses:
As part of the admissions process, all applicants must meet with the 4+1 Accelerated MSIT Program advisor to discuss how the intended degree aligns with their professional aspirations. They then must complete an online application no later than April 15 of their junior year. Please note that application deadlines differ for students who are graduating off cycle (either a semester early or late) or who have advanced standing; such students should contact Graduate Admissions for alternative dates.
Internship
Completing an internship is a requirement in this graduate program. Students are responsible for securing their own internship. While students will gain valuable experience, they will not earn academic credit for their internship.
Internship requirements:
- Must include a minimum of 120 hours
- Must be directly related to the student’s program of study
- Must be approved by the Director of Career and Professional Development
Exceptions:
- Students who have seven (7) or more years of professional work experience directly related to their program of study may seek to waive the internship requirement.
- Students who currently work full-time in a field/industry directly related to their program of study.
Students seeking to waive the internship requirement must receive permission from the Director of Career and Professional Development by the end of their second semester in the master’s program.
Review the Internship Handbook for more information. Please connect with your academic advisor to plan your studies accordingly.
Program of Study
Course of Study
This is a 10 course curriculum consisting of four (4) required core courses, four (4) courses from a required concentration of your choice, and two (2) electives.
Required Core Courses:
MSIT 3000 - IT Foundations
MPA 3200 - Leading Teams
MSIT 3050 - Information Systems Analysis and Design
MSIT 3999 - Capstone Practicum
MSIT Concentrations
The program’s four concentrations-Healthcare Technology, Product Development, Cloud Computing, and Generative Artificial Intelligence-are designed to address high market demand.
The Healthcare Technology concentration equips students to develop innovative digital solutions that enhance patient outcomes and improve healthcare delivery. The Product Development concentration focuses on fostering innovation and entrepreneurial skills for creating impactful technologies. The Cloud Computing concentration prepares students to design and manage scalable and secure cloud systems to support organizational agility. The Generative Artificial Intelligence concentration provides expertise in AI applications, enabling graduates to lead projects in this transformative domain.
See full program description Information Technology, MSIT and requirements for additional information on Concentrations and Electives.
Senior Year:
Students must take two MSIT foundation courses during their senior year. Selection of these courses should be made in conjunction with the MSIT Program Advisor.
Summer between Senior Year and Graduate/Fifth Year:
We recommend completing your internship during the summer. You are also welcome to complete 1-2 graduate program classes during this time, in consultation with the MSIT Program Advisor.
Graduate/Fifth Year:
The remaining courses should be completed during the Fifth Year. No more than 8 of the required courses may be taken in the fifth year.
Fees
This program is eligible for up to 100% tuition remission rate for a student’s fifth year graduate program. There is a one-time program fee in the first semester of graduate study. The student continues to be responsible for paying other enrollment and activity fees as well as their housing, books and personal items. Tuition and fees are set annually by the Board of Trustees.
Program Advisor
Students are required to meet with the designated program advisor.
The designated program advisor is:
Tara Mason
Jonas Clark Hall
School of Professional Studies
508-793-7219
tmason@clarku.edu
Once you have started your fifth year, you may be assigned a different academic advisor. Any student considering applying to the Accelerated Degree Program should read and understand the Accelerated Master’s Degree Program Policies and Procedures .
Advice for prospective students
The MSIT degree program students are a mix of recent undergraduate degree holders and working professionals. The teaching methods in the degree program are designed to be highly interactive and project-oriented supplemented by theory and current practice readings and lectures. The program works best for students who are clear about their career goals and how the degree can help them attain their professional objectives.
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