Master of Science in Information Systems

Program overview

Analyze and synthesize information systems concepts and skills and apply management principles to the information technology industry with Athabasca University’s online Master of Science in Information Systems.

You will develop innovative strategies to address issues in systems integration, project and change management, digitalization, and new trends in computing such as:

• Data analytics
• ubiquitous computing
• social computing
• green ICT (also called green IT or green computing)
• cloud computing
• adaptivity
• intelligence

Our curriculum emphasizes the tie between information systems (IS) and other disciplines, such as computer science and software engineering. Core courses cover both technical and managerial topics, including:

• database design
• enterprise-wide network infrastructure
• human-computer interaction
• IS project management
• ethical, legal and social issues in IT

Elective choices include courses in:

• IS technology
• IS management
• IS development
• intelligent information systems
• e-services

The program also includes an integrating capstone component and a required course in research methodology. Current and emerging concepts and technologies are studied through focus areas.

Why take the Master of Science in Information Systems?

The Master of Science in Information Systems program will prepare you for key positions in the growing IT and services sector, including:

• information systems management
• IT project management
• software design
• research implementation and development

Choosing the thesis route will prepare you to pursue your PhD in information systems.

Program details

The Master of Science in Information Systems is a 39-credit online graduate program.

There are 2 intakes each year: in September and January.

• Application deadlines

Most courses are online grouped study, with defined start and end dates.

Routes and options

There are 3 options for the career track component:

• integration project
• integration essay
• integration thesis

Learn more about career track options.

Completion times

Finish this program in as little as 2.5 to 3.5 years of full-time study, depending on your academic and employment background. You can take up to 5 years to complete all requirements.

Admission requirements

Admission requirements include a baccalaureate degree in a related area or equivalent education and experience.

• See full Master of Science in Information Systems admission requirements

Required courses

Detailed information about courses in this program can be accessed using the following link:

Tuition and fees

The Master of Science in Information Systems has:

• an application fee
• a program admission fee

Tuition is then paid on a course-by-course basis. Additional fees apply for the project and thesis career tracks.

• See all Master of Science in Information Systems fees

Program learning outcomes

The many outcomes of this program will be largely dependent on the students, the nature of their commitment, and the focus of their elective coursework. Graduates will be expected to demonstrate expertise and leadership in the field of Information Systems (IS). The program enables graduates to fill key positions in the burgeoning information technology and services sector. This will include taking positions in systems management, project management, IT management, systems design, research, and production. Through its high quality of training and the focus of training on applied skills, the program enables graduates to demonstrate significant entrepreneurial activity in their chosen areas. In addition, the program will be invaluable for those wishing for careers with public and private organizations providing IT training and education. The MSc IS thesis route is designed for those who want to pursue a PhD in Information Systems in the future.

Graduates of the MSc IS program can look forward to challenging careers in academia, industry, and government. The program will prepare the graduate to:

• rigorously analyze information systems
• creatively synthesize up-to-date information systems concepts and technologies to solve real-life problems
• design, develop, manage, and maintain IT solutions that reliably and effectively meet business
• independently learn new concepts, topics, and skills in the field of information systems
• plan, execute and manage IT projects
• work effectively in teams
• act responsibly and ethically in the field of information systems
• conduct original research in the field of information systems
• communicate effectively with technical, business, and other stakeholders
• apply systematic problem-solving strategies to information systems

Application deadlines and start dates