Master’s in Information Systems
Combine management skills with cutting-edge technology through CU Denver’s online MS in Information Systems degree
Empowering the next generation of IT leaders, CU Denver’s AACSB-accredited MS in Information Systems blends managerial training with technical expertise.
- Fully online program designed for working professionals.
- Tailor your education with specializations in Business Intelligence or Cybersecurity and Information Assurance.
- Hands-on learning with software projects and practical applications.
- Graduate equipped to lead teams, implement solutions, and harness technology for business success.
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Degree LevelMaster's -
School & CollegeBusiness School -
Total FeesIn-State: $21,600*, Out-of-State: $25,170* -
Total Credit Hours30 -
Class Type100% Online -
Time CommitmentFull-Time or Part-Time -
Start Term(s)Fall, Spring, Summer
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Program Overview
The Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) degree from the CU Denver Business School empowers the next generation of IT leaders by layering managerial training with technical concepts to help you take the next step in your tech career. Our MSIS program is AACSB accredited and offered 100% online, giving you the flexibility to earn your graduate degree while balancing work and other commitments. With hands-on software projects and practical learning opportunities, each course will help you discover how to harness the power of technology for business.
Our fully online specializations allow you to focus your education in the high-demand areas of business and technology that are most relevant to your career goals.
Tuition Breakdown
| Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|
| $750 per credit | $875** per credit |
*Estimated tuition costs based on full credit hours for the MSIS degree (30 credits). Complete the form at the top of this page to contact our CU Denver Enrollment Team for more details.
**Out-of-state students may qualify for discounted tuition through the Western Undergraduate Exchange (WUE) program.
Courses
Throughout your information systems master’s degree, you’ll dive into a wide range of managerial and technical courses ranging from business analytics and project management to network design and software development. Our core curriculum serves as the foundation for understanding the complex issues that occur when designing, implementing and managing information systems within an organization. You’ll take several elective courses as well, either within your chosen specialization or as a more general course of study. Your graduate degree will culminate in a capstone course that includes a project or a research paper.
MS in Information Systems Core Courses (15 credits)
| Course Number | Course Description |
|---|---|
| ISMG 6080 | Database Management Systems |
| ISMG 6180 | Information Systems Strategy |
| ISMG 6430 | Information Systems Security and Privacy |
| Plus, select two of the following courses: | |
| ISMG 6060 | Analysis, Modeling and Design |
| ISMG 6220 | Business Intelligence Systems and Analytics* |
| ISMG 6450 | IT Project Management |
| ISMG 6830 | IT Governance and Service Management |
| ISMG 6020 | Programming Fundamentals with Python** |
| ISMG 6120 | Network Design and Analysis** |
*Course is required for the Business Intelligence specialization.
**Course is required for the Cybersecurity and Information Assurance specialization.
To graduate with your master’s degree in information systems, you’ll be required to complete a total of 30 credit hours (10 courses). If you plan to take two classes each semester, you could complete your information systems master’s degree in as few as five semesters. Our flexible start dates in the fall, spring, and summer semesters allow you to begin working toward your MSIS degree as soon as you’re ready.
Our information systems curriculum is thoughtfully designed to equip you with the in-demand skills and practical experience you need to build a career. We focus on keeping the number of credits required low, which helps reduce costs for you as well. Many of our students choose to complete their degree on a part-time basis while continuing to work full-time. We allow students to take up to five years to complete their degree, but students who take one course every semester can expect to graduate in about three years.
The MSIS program is 100% online, which means you will never be required to attend classes in-person. Our students come from Denver, other parts of Colorado, throughout the United States, and from around the world. The fully online format of the program also means you have the flexibility you need to fit your education into your busy lifestyle. Our asynchronous courses and innovative online learning technologies give you access to the best education that the University of Colorado has to offer at the time and place that’s right for you. You’ll share ideas with your classmates, collaborate on projects, and connect directly with faculty through Canvas, our easy-to-use remote learning platform.
As you start your CU Denver program, our student support team will offer guidance regarding any technical requirements for the MSIS degree, help you register for courses, provide useful academic resources, and more. We’re here to offer the support and encouragement you need not just to make it to graduation, but to enjoy your journey along the way.
Specializations
When you earn your MSIS degree online, you’ll have the opportunity to tailor your degree to fit your career path with our unique specializations. Customizing your degree can help you build the specific skills you need for your desired career path and give you an edge in a competitive job market. After taking core courses in information systems, you may choose to stay on a general degree track or specialize in Business Intelligence or Cybersecurity and Information Assurance.
Business intelligence systems combine data with analytical tools to present complex technical information in a usable format. With this degree specialization, you will learn how to analyze business data to make strategic decisions and better understand future market directions, regulatory environments, and actions of competitors. You’ll dive deep into course topics including text analytics, data warehousing, predictive analytics, and business intelligence in finance and healthcare.
Business Intelligence Specialization Courses (15 credits)
| Course Number | Course Title |
|---|---|
| ISMG 6220 | Business Intelligence Systems and Analytics |
| Choose four of the following courses: | |
| ISMG 6470 | Text Data Analytics |
| ISMG 6480 | Data Warehouse and Administration |
| ISMG 6810 | Business Intelligence in Healthcare |
| ISMG 6820 | Business Intelligence and Financial Modeling |
| BANA 6660 | Predictive Analytics |
Students who pursue the Business Intelligence specialization will also select one free elective course from a list of approved courses in business, computer science, or civil engineering.
Cybersecurity is an issue of increasing importance to our global society, as businesses and government organizations work to secure private information and protect against security breaches. If you specialize your MSIS degree in Cybersecurity and Information Assurance, you will learn how to utilize data to create effective security solutions and prevent cyberattacks. You’ll hone your cybersecurity skills through course topics in network design, Python programming, cloud computing, ethical hacking, and more.
Cybersecurity and Information Assurance Specialization (15 credits)
Cybersecurity and Information Assurance students must complete the following MSIS core courses:
| Course Number | Course Description |
|---|---|
| ISMG 6020 | Programming Fundamentals with Python |
| ISMG 6120 | Network Design and Analysis |
Students must also complete the following five courses:
| Course Number | Course Description |
|---|---|
| ISMG 6340 | Cloud Computing Concepts, Tools, and Security |
| ISMG 6860 | Ethical Hacking Concepts and Methodologies |
| ISMG 6890 | IT Risk Management |
| ISMG 6865 | Digital Forensic Analysis |
| ISMG 6865 | Design Science Practicum–or an approved internship, with a required paper and presentation to be completed during the final 9 credit hours of the program |
If you’re looking to earn a master’s degree in information systems that has a broader focus, you are welcome to select a general track instead of our two specialization options. When you choose to complete your MSIS degree with a general track, you will select approved courses in business, computer science, civil engineering, and GIS to meet your degree requirements. Your advisor will work with you to create a degree plan that helps you build a strong foundation for a successful career in business and technology.
General Degree Track (15 credits)
Students who choose to pursue a more general MSIS degree path may take information systems graduate courses and related graduate technology courses from across the business school, computer science, or GIS programs. If you are interested in choosing a general track, you’ll work with an advisor to create a customized degree plan.
Career Outlook
What is the Projected Salary of an Individual Working in Information Systems?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, individuals working in information systems earned annual median salaries of the following in 2023:
- Computer Systems Analysts: $103,800
- Database Administrators and Architects: $117,450
- Information Security Analysts: $120,360
- Network and Computer Systems Administrators: $95,360
- Software Developers, Quality Assurance Analysts, and Testers: $130,160
What Can I Do with a Master’s in Information Systems?
Careers in information systems are growing rapidly as businesses, government organizations, and nonprofits all continue to increase their focus on developing creative tech solutions to complex challenges. Earning your master’s in information systems from CU Denver can help you stay ahead of the digital curve through hands-on business experience and cutting-edge technologies.
Your graduate degree will equip you with a career in areas such as:
- Business Intelligence
- Database Management
- Project Management
- Computer and Network Support
- Cybersecurity
- Web and Mobile App Development, and more
Our program’s focus on the intersection of technology and business strategy offers you the opportunity to pursue a strategic or technical career path. Strategic careers allow you to focus on the broader business applications of information systems through jobs such as:
- System Analyst
- Supply Chain Manager
- Chief Technology Officer
If you are passionate about using your technical expertise to improve business functions, you may choose a more technical career as a:
- Web Developer
- Data Analyst
- Cybersecurity Analyst
- Systems Architect
Regardless of the type of IT career path you pursue, there is an increasingly high demand for well-trained information systems professionals. According to a study by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, there is a 26% average increase in salary for IT professionals who earn a master’s degree, and tech jobs are expected to increase by more than 500,000 jobs by 2029.
Center for Information Technology Innovation (CITI) Access
The Center for Information Technology Innovation (CITI) matches the resources of the University of Colorado Denver with those of its member companies to provide a forum for exploring and creating innovative solutions to today’s information technology challenges.
As an MS in Information Systems student, you will have access to CITI’s resources, forums, and events. You’ll connect with students, faculty members, and industry leaders to talk about current technology and business trends, build your professional network, and gain insight from executives about what the top tech companies are looking for in new hires.
CITI is part of the CU Denver Business School and includes prominent Colorado businesses as corporate sponsors and members.
Admissions
Our MSIS degree is designed for students from diverse academic backgrounds, so students from all undergraduate majors are welcome to apply. In order to apply to the Master of Science in Information Systems program, you will need to have completed an undergraduate degree from an accredited institution. No prerequisite courses are needed to join the program.
Admission Requirements
Once you’re ready to apply to the MSIS program, you’ll need to submit the following application materials by the deadline:
- $50 application fee for domestic applicants; $75 fee for international applicants
- Online application
- Official transcripts from every college or university attended
- Essay responses
- Resume/CV
- Letters of recommendation, if applicable
- GRE or GMAT test scores, if required
- English Language Proficiency scores (international applicants only)
Get Personalized Support for Your Application
When you’re ready to apply to the MS in Information Systems, our CU Denver Enrollment Team will help walk you through the entire process, from gathering required materials and submitting your application to checking your admission status and enrolling in CU Denver. After you submit your completed application and required materials, you will be able to check your admission status online. You’ll receive a final admission decision by email within two to three weeks of completing your application.
GMAT/GRE Optional
Applicants who meet the following criteria are not required to submit GMAT or GRE scores for admission to the MSIS program:
- Cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.30 or better from a US-accredited four-year undergraduate institution
- 3+ years of professional work experience, or successful completion of a graduate degree program
If you received your bachelor’s degree with a grade point average of less than 3.30 or have less than 3 years of professional work experience, you will be asked to submit a statement that outlines other indicators of exceptional motivation, such as solid upper-division performance, GMAT or GRE scores, and other relevant professional experience. The MS Information Systems admissions committee may require a minimum GMAT or GRE score for students that do not automatically qualify by GPA and prior work experience.
Testimonial
Tuition & Financial Aid
At CU Denver, we strive to keep our tuition costs affordable so that you can get a world-class education that fits your budget. When you earn a degree, you’re not simply getting a diploma—you’re making a lifelong investment in yourself and empowering your future career. We know that affordability is an important factor, and that’s why we’re here to help you explore all of the options available to fund your education.
Our CU Denver Enrollment Team can answer any of your questions about tuition and financial aid, help you take care of the paperwork, and make sure you’re able to focus on reaching your goals. From financial aid and scholarships to corporate tuition assistance programs, we’ll work with you to find the best way to finance your CU Denver degree.
Application fee: $50 for domestic applicants; $75 for international applicants
Total tuition for the MSIS program*:
- In-state tuition: $21,600
- Out-of-state tuition: $25,170
*Estimated tuition costs based on full credit hours for the MSIS degree (30 credits). Complete the form at the top of this page to contact our CU Denver Enrollment Team for more details.
Financial Aid
Financial aid is available for eligible students to use toward paying educational costs while enrolled in a CU Denver program. To determine your eligibility and apply for financial aid, you’ll need to fill out the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). When you submit your FAFSA, you will be considered for three types of aid: grants, work-study, and student loans. To be considered for federal financial aid, you will need to apply early and annually.
Ways to Save Money
Scholarships
Once admitted to CU Denver, you can access our scholarship portal to apply for various funding opportunities. Scholarships don’t need to be repaid and are available each semester.
Transfer Credits
As a transfer student, your previous coursework may count toward your CU Denver degree, saving you tuition costs and time. A transfer credit evaluation will be done upon admission.
Veteran & Military Student Benefits
CU Denver offers military-friendly support, including waived application fees, GI Bill benefits, and credit for military training through the Veteran & Military Student Services.
This accreditation represents the highest standard of achievement for business schools, with less than six percent of the world’s business programs obtaining AACSB accreditation.
The CU Denver Business School is accredited by AACSB International, a global nonprofit association that is committed to providing excellence in education for future business leaders. As an AACSB accredited degree, the MS in Information Systems program must meet rigorous academic standards and commit to providing high-quality education through strategic curriculum design and dynamic thought leadership.
Experience flexible, career-focused programs with CU Denver’s renowned quality—100% online—taught by expert faculty in engaging courses within a supportive community, all at an affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships available.
Flexible, career-focused programs with the same CU Denver quality—100% online.
Expert faculty, engaging courses, and a supportive online community.
Affordable tuition with financial aid and scholarships for online students.
Take The Next Step
Ready to advance your career in IT? Take the first step toward earning your online degree by filling out the form above for more information or calling us at 303-860-5604.