COURSE CURRICULUM

The Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (MSIST) is a 36-unit program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in cyber security and business intelligence and analytics. The program begins with two foundational courses, Foundations of Analytics and Big Data (IST 6110) and Foundations of Business Systems (IST 6030), totaling six units, which develop essential analytical and programming skills. Students then complete five core courses (15 units) in areas such as information systems management, systems analysis, database management, information networking, and enterprise architecture, providing a strong understanding of technology and business issues.Students select one of two career tracks—Cyber Security or Business Intelligence and Analytics—comprising 12 units of specialized courses. The Cyber Security track includes courses on incident handling, cyber investigation, risk management, vulnerability analysis, and cybersecurity theory and practice. The Business Intelligence track focuses on business analytics, data warehousing, business applications using web technologies, and an additional elective in advanced marketing research or a seminar in information systems. Course selection for these tracks is guided by consultation with a faculty career track mentor to align with the student’s professional goals.All students complete a culminating experience project (3 units), which includes the MSIST Culminating Project (IST 6960) and the MSIST Portfolio (IST 6980). This project allows students to demonstrate their mastery of technical, analytical, and managerial skills, applying their knowledge to real-world problems in their chosen concentration. The program equips graduates to use analytics and information systems to drive evidence-based decision-making, secure organizational data, and implement business intelligence solutions. With its combination of foundational skills, core knowledge, and specialized career-track expertise, the MSIST prepares students for leadership roles in both technical and strategic positions, such as information security analyst, business intelligence analyst, IT project manager, or Chief Information Officer, across a wide range of industries.The program is structured to ensure a balance between technical proficiency, business acumen, and practical application, culminating in a comprehensive project that integrates and demonstrates the student’s skills across their selected concentration.