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Master of Science in Information Technology

The Aspen University 36 semester credit MS in Information Technology (MSIT) program prepares students for mid-level careers in information technology in a variety of business settings. The MSIT equips learners with fundamental technical skills coupled with vendor-neutral information technology principles including data communications, intranet development and project management.

MSIT Degree Completion Requirements:

36 Total semester credits consisting of:

  • 8 Core Courses and 3 Elective Courses (3 semester credits each)
  • A Final Project (3 semester credits)
  • One Proctored Exam

Core Courses:

645 Project Management Essentials
PME introduces students to the fundamental elements of effective project management. It provides students with the opportunity to apply these elements using exercises and examples based on real-time projects. The required tools and techniques used to plan, measure, and control projects and the methods used to organize and manage projects are also discussed.


515 Management of Information Systems

In this course, students gain valuable insight into the planning, organizing, and controlling of user services, as well as the management of the information systems development process. The course also examines organizational learning curves, dealing with vendors, budgeting, accounting, management reporting, and legal considerations of information systems.


525 Information Systems Strategic Planning

Information systems are an integral part of corporate operations. This course examines guidelines for developing an information systems plan, selecting systems projects, assessing current systems, and planning future systems expansion that supports organizational growth.


535 Telecommunications

This course provides a brief history of telecommunications, a look at the field's structure and regulation, information on networks and telecommunications services, the basics of traffic engineering, and an introduction to primary data communications systems. The underlying principles and functions of telecommunications management are also introduced.


545 Emerging Technologies

Through this course, students explore state-of-the-art and emerging technologies in information processing (software development, hardware, and computer networking strategies). Students will learn techniques and metrics managers can use to evaluate a new technology's benefits and potential pitfalls. Students will also learn best practices for integrating technology without disrupting a company. Students will establish techniques for staying current with new technologies in today's age of dynamic innovations.


665 Data Communications
Data Communications develops students' essential skills and knowledge for designing communication systems. Students examine network protocols and wide and local-area networks in detail. Topics include the seven layers of the Open Systems Interconnection (OSI) Model, client-server technology, and comparison of different network architectures.


675 Systems Design
This course reviews efficient processes for information systems analysis and development. It also covers state-of-the-art techniques for information systems specifications and design. Other topics covered include real-time structured analysis and design, and object-oriented analysis and design.


695 Intranets
This course develops students' essential skills and knowledge for designing and managing Intranets, i.e. internal Web (TCP/IP-based) networks. Students will learn how the Internet model applies to business, how developments in technology have made Intranets possible, and the impact they may have for organizations in the future. Students will also examine the role of extranets in business-to-business (B2B) transactions. Students will examine the key security considerations that allow a company to protect, yet use, its business knowledge.


685 eBusiness
The Internet and related technologies pose enormous opportunities for developing new business models and significant threats to existing models. Information Professionals must be prepared to recognize opportunities and overcome challenges posed by the electronic economy. This course defines the core elements of developing an eBusiness strategy, including branding, competitive analysis, technology assessment, business method models, and preparing for emerging trends. Course assignments involve extensive case studies and online research using the latest e-tools. Students collaborate to create a prototype eBusiness venture.


646 Project Management Organization Framework
PMOF introduces the fundamental concepts of scope, time management, human resource planning and project communications as presented in the Project Management Institute's Project Management Body of Knowledge. Emphasizing both theory and practical application, PMOF provides students with an opportunity to apply these concepts using real-life exercises, examples, and software tools..


647 Project Management Integration Framework

PMIF completes the topics presented in the Project Management Institute's Project Management Body of Knowledge and includes project cost, quality, procurement, and risk management. Continuing the work from PMOF, PMIF provides students with additional opportunities to apply these concepts using real-life exercises, examples, and software tools. Special consideration is given to preparing students for the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification exam.


649-Information Technology Project Management
(Prerequisite: 645-- Project Management Essentials or prior consent of the instructor)
In today's fast-paced and dynamic environment, innovative information technology and system development projects are critical to many companies' success. The emphasis on such projects creates greater demand from senior management to deliver quality information technology projects on time, within budget, and which add functionality and value to their customers and clients. IT Project Management will teach the project manager how to integrate sound project management principles in the information technology project's development profile in order to assure every aspect of the project is under control and delivers the technical objectives. This course will also cover the IT project's life cycle from initiation through closeout and address all the components of project management as they relate to IT projects, based on the Project Management Body of Knowledge (PMBOK) as defined by the Project Management Institute (PMI).


599 Capstone Project
The capstone project allows students to apply the knowledge and skills acquired in their courses to the work environment. This project is completely individualized; students are encouraged to select work-related projects that are of particular interest to them and that will result in professional growth and benefit the organization.