Computer Information Systems

Online master’s in computer information systems from CSU

Gain the tools to build or advance your career in computer information systems and keep up with the technology as it changes. This CIS degree program uses a cutting-edge curriculum in information technology, project management, and business systems to help you meet the demands of the fast-paced and challenging field of CIS.

Offered through the College of Business Department of Computer Information Systems, this program trains you in the methods needed to keep information flowing through organizations, improving efficiency, effectiveness, and profitability. You will be on the front lines of technology, keeping business operations running smoothly by managing databases, networks, and websites, or even training employees on how to utilize the most recent innovations.

The computer information systems master’s offers:

• Excellent job placement: Nearly 100% of the graduates of this master's program are placed in the IT field.
• High salary potential: CIS graduates have some of the highest starting salaries among majors at Colorado State University.
• Flexibility: Study full- or part-time, with degree completion in as little as three semesters or with the flexibility to take up to 5 years.
• Opportunity: Move into a new career or strengthen your position in your current career as the program is designed for both non-IT and IT professionals.

What kind of advice and support can I expect as I move through the degree program?

We want to make sure you have the support you need to succeed in achieving your graduate degree and offer numerous services in the College and in the Graduate School to ensure this.

Students have access to the CIS Advisor and CIS faculty throughout their program. The CIS Advisor is available for approval of programs of study and for assistance with program planning as well as many other areas of student academic life.

Additional resources:

• The CSU Career Center
• The College of Business Career Management Center
• The CIS Department Chair and other faculty members provide career counseling and facilitate networking.

What should my resume include?

A complete resume should include a description for each full-time professional position you've held in addition to the length of time you were at each position. List the month and year you began and ended each position. Include a reference from each place of employment, so that your length of employment, position, and responsibilities can be verified if required.

What should my cover letter include?

A cover letter or statement of purpose must accompany your application. This letter should address your reasons for pursuing a graduate degree as well as those points from your background and experiences that bring value to the program. These letters are usually about one page in length. The cover letter may be included with your online graduate application or sent under separate cover to the College of Business.

Who should I approach to write a letter of recommendation for me?

Ask for recommendations from those who can comment objectively on your performance in an academic or professional setting. Usually these recommendations are from a supervisor or manager, co-workers or peers, former professors, or other individuals who are able to judge your strengths and on-the-job or academic performance. Friends and relatives are not suitable for recommendations.

Students from the CSU MCIS Program have been hired by some of these recognized businesses:

• Accenture
• Amazon
• Amazon Web Services
• Arrow Electronics
• Candium
• Deloitte
• Hewlett-Packard Company
• JBS USA
• Kimberly-Clark
• Lonza
• MedPace
• Lumen Technologies
• Lockheed Martin
• And many, many more...

Students who graduate with an MCIS Degree can consider these job roles:

• Administrator: Web, Systems, IT
• Analyst: Application Development, Business Intelligence, Cybersecurity, Data, Privacy, Quality Assurance, Research, Systems, IT
• Consultant: BI, Operations, Product Solutions, Strategy, Technology
• Designer/Developer: Applications, Full-Stack, Software, Web
• Director: Data & Analytics, IT, Web Development
• Engineer: Cloud, Cybersecurity, Data, Data Visualization, DevOps, Infrastructure, Software, Systems, Test
• Manager: Client Services, Cloud & Network Operations, Data Platform, Information Security, IT, Product, Program, Project, Release & Configuration
• As well as Chief Information Officer & Chief Technology Officer

Increase your long-term earning potential

According to the Institute for Business and Information Technology 2022 Report, students graduating with a Master’s in the Information Field, receive job offers that are “19% higher than the average offer to all business school Master’s graduates” with an average salary of $94,839 in 2022. Source: IBIT.

CSU ranks high within this field

CSU ranked #8 for Best Online Master's in Computer Information Technology Programs for Veterans and #14 for Best Online Master's in Computer Information Technology Programs

Source: US News & World Report

Requirements

• A minimum of 33 credits (11 classes) must be completed to earn a degree.
• Students may take up to 12 credits of coursework prior to admission and, if a grade of B or better is awarded in those courses, the credits will count towards the master's degree.
• The Graduate School requires that 21 credits be completed after admission to the program.
• The program can be completed in as few as three semesters or flexed up to 5 years.

Curriculum

Although each course may have prerequisites, they can be modified, depending on prior coursework or work experience, to fit within your program of study and intended semester of admission.

Core courses

Select at least one course from the following:

Select a minimum of six courses from the following (not previously taken):

Application Deadlines

Students can be admitted in the Fall, Spring, and Summer. The program has 2 entry points to provide students an opportunity to begin when they are ready.

Please be aware that financial aid deadlines may occur before the application for admission deadlines.