Master of Science in Information Technology

The Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) is a 16-20 month (3-4 semesters) program that includes technology, business, and innovation, preparing the next generation of information and communication technology (ICT) leaders in Africa. The program is for students interested in an interdisciplinary curriculum that covers key topics in data science, cybersecurity, software engineering, and networks, among others.

MSIT program objectives

1. To equip students with technical ICT knowledge and enhance their systematic problem-solving skills to create and innovate sustainable solutions to African and global problems
2. To empower students to identify and exploit opportunities for the application of ICT solutions to societal challenges
3. To equip students with essential skills in communication, presentation, leadership, and teamwork to work effectively in multicultural environments

MSIT tracks

The MSIT degree curriculum offers three different areas of focus. All three tracks lead to the same MSIT degree and are distinguished by the coursework and the type of project completed as part of the degree.

The professional track is designed for students interested in developing project implementation and collaboration skills toward pursuing a career in the information technology (IT) industry. Students undertake a 24-unit practicum project.

The research track is designed for students interested in developing research skills toward pursuing advanced study such as Ph.D. study or a research-based industry career. Students undertake a research project.

The entrepreneurial track aims to instill innovation skills and help students to develop business concepts and run a business. Students undertake a 24-unit entrepreneurship project.

Possible career paths for MSIT graduates

Graduates of the MSIT program possess a diverse set of skills and deep understanding of IT principles, preparing them for various career opportunities in both technical and managerial roles. Whether they choose to pursue technical roles, leadership positions, or entrepreneurial ventures, the MSIT program equips students with the knowledge, skills, and flexibility to succeed in a rapidly evolving field and pursue rewarding careers in various sectors. The following are some common career paths pursued by MSIT graduates:

• Software developer/engineer: Design, develop, and maintain software applications and systems to meet organizational needs.
• Data scientist: Analyze complex datasets to extract insights and drive data-driven decision-making.
• Cybersecurity consultant: Provide expert advice and solutions to organizations to enhance their cybersecurity posture.
• Technology strategy consultant: Advise businesses on aligning technology initiatives with their strategic objectives
• Ph.D. candidate: Pursue further studies and research in information technology by enrolling in a Ph.D. program.
• Research and development: Design, develop, and test new products, or redesign existing products to meet customer needs.
• Entrepreneurship/startup founders: Some MSIT graduates choose to start their own businesses or tech startups, leveraging their technical expertise and entrepreneurial spirit to innovate and create new solutions within the IT industry.

Graduation requirements for the MSIT degree

To complete the MSIT degree, students are required to complete 144 units, but no more than 168, and a cumulative quality point average of at least 3.0 (i.e., a B grade in each course) by passing several core across the core thematic areas, domain courses, and elective courses in addition to a project course and a mandatory three-month master’s internship.

All MSIT students are required to take 72 units of MSIT core courses and 36 units of domain courses as outlined in the curriculum. It is mandatory for students to select 12 units from each of the six core areas for a total of 72 units. The six core areas are:

1. Software Engineering
2. Applied Machine Learning
3. Cybersecurity
4. Network Technologies
5. IT Entrepreneurship
6. Leadership and Professional Skills

For the professional track, the 144 units include 72 units of core courses, 36 units of domain courses, 12 units of elective courses, 24 units of MSIT Practicum (04–900), and a three-month master's internship. Domain or elective courses can include up to 12 units of undergraduate credit (courses with numbers less than XX–600) and up to 15 units of MSIT Independent Study (04–980).

For the research track, the 144 units include 72 units of core courses, 36 units of domain courses, 36 units of Engineering Research Project (04–990), and a three-month master's internship. Domain courses can include up to 12 units of undergraduate credit (courses with numbers less than XX–600).

For the entrepreneurial track, the 144 units include 72 units of core courses, 36 units of domain courses, 12 units of elective courses, 24 units of Entrepreneurship Project (04–910), and a three-month master's internship. Domain and elective courses can include up to 12 units of undergraduate credit (courses with numbers less than XX–600).