Information Technology

Program Description: Northwestern University’s Bachelor of Science in Information Technology

Northwestern University offers a comprehensive Bachelor of Science in Information Technology designed to equip students with the essential skills, knowledge, and practical experience needed to thrive in the rapidly evolving field of information technology. This program emphasizes both technical proficiency and strategic understanding, preparing graduates to address complex technological challenges across various industries. Throughout their studies, students engage in a rigorous curriculum that covers core IT concepts such as computer programming, network management, cybersecurity, database systems, and systems analysis. Additionally, the program encourages a multidisciplinary approach, integrating principles from business, management, and communication to foster well-rounded professionals capable of leading technological innovations.

Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities and laboratories that simulate real-world environments, providing hands-on experience with current software development tools, cybersecurity defenses, data management systems, and cloud computing platforms. The program includes opportunities for internships and cooperative education (co-op) placements, partnering students with leading technology companies and organizations to gain invaluable industry exposure. This experiential learning ensures that graduates are not only proficient in technical skills but also possess the professional readiness to contribute effectively from day one.

Northwestern’s faculty comprises accomplished scholars and industry experts who bring a wealth of research and practical insights into the classroom, encouraging students to participate in cutting-edge projects and innovations. The curriculum is regularly updated to reflect the latest advancements and trends in information technology, including artificial intelligence, machine learning, big data analytics, and Internet of Things (IoT). Students are also encouraged to develop soft skills such as problem-solving, teamwork, and effective communication, which are vital for leadership roles in technology-driven environments.

The program culminates in a capstone project, where students demonstrate their ability to design, develop, and implement comprehensive IT solutions. Graduates leave Northwestern University with a robust portfolio, ready to pursue careers in software development, network administration, cybersecurity, data analysis, IT consulting, and other critical areas in the digital economy. Furthermore, the program provides a solid foundation for those interested in pursuing graduate studies in related fields. By graduating from this highly respected program, students join a global network of alumni who are making significant contributions to the advancement of technology and society.

A minimum of 12 courses is required to earn the Master of Science in Information Technology degree.

• Six courses must be MSIT courses (i.e. courses taken on Saturday with the part-time MSIT students).
• The other six courses must be graduate courses offered by the Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science or other Northwestern departments and programs. All courses must be relevant to information technology, which can be decided by your adviser and the MSIT faculty board.

The EECS courses listed below are suggestions to aid students in their course selections. Full-time MSIT students are required to meet with their MSIT academic adviser quarterly to receive approval for their MSIT/EECS course schedules.

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT (1 COURSE)

Required during the first fall quarter

• MSIT 456: Financial Management for IT Professionals (offered fall quarter only)

PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS (1 COURSE)

Required during the first fall quarter

• MSIT 431: Probability and Statistical Methods (offered fall quarter only)
• EECS 302: Probabilistic Systems and Random Signals

COMMUNICATION INFRASTRUCTURE (1 COURSE)

• MSIT 411: Fundamentals of Telecommunication Engineering (offered winter quarter only)
• MSIT 413: Wireless Technologies (offered winter quarter only)
• MSIT 432: Communication Networks
• EECS 307: Communications Systems
• EECS 333: Introduction to Comunication Networks
• EECS 340: Introduction to Networking

COMPUTING & DATA (1 COURSE)

• MSIT 421: Principles of Computer & Information Technology (offered winter quarter only)
• MSIT 458: Information Security and Assurance
• MSIT 490: Introduction to Parallel Computing (1/2 course)
• MSIT 490: Databases & Data Warehouses (1/2 course)
• EECS 317: Data Management and Information Processing
• EECS 394: Software Project Management

BUSINESS ELECTIVES (2 COURSES)

• MSIT 451: Strategic Marketing (offered winter quarter only)
• MSIT 423: Data Mining and Business Intelligence (offered spring quarter only)
• MSIT 455: Law of IT (1/2 course) (offered fall quarter only)
• MSIT 445: Managing Technology Development and Innovation (1/2 course)
• MSIT 490: IT Management (1/2 course)

TECHNICAL ELECTIVES (4 COURSES)

• Any course listed above as a computing and data or business elective and not used to satisfy another requirement
• Any EECS graduate course
• Technical courses from other Northwestern programs with adviser approval

OPEN ELECTIVE (1 COURSE)

• Any graduate level course not used to satisfy another requirement, with adviser approval

CAPSTONE COURSE (1 COURSE)

• MSIT 443: Enterprise IT Application and Integration (offered spring quarter only)

SUBSTITUTIONS

Students may petition to use a different course, such as a EECS special topics course (EECS 395/495), to fulfill a requirement. The petitioned course must be in the indicated area. A student may also petition to waive a requirement if they can demonstrate that they have suitable experience in an area. If a requirement is waived, the student must still take 12 courses to graduate including at least six MSIT courses. All petitions must be signed by the student’s advisor and approved by the MSIT faculty board.

INDEPENDENT STUDY

With approval, students may take up to two quarters of independent study as part of their 12 courses. The course taken for independent study must still satisfy the requirement area of the course it is replacing, e.g. an independent study course in networking could be taken to satisfy the communication infrastructure requirement. Independent study can not be used in lieu of the capstone course. No more than two units of independent study can be used to satisfy the degree requirements.

CAPSTONE COURSE

One of the unique features of the MSIT curriculum is the required capstone course. Taken in one of the final quarters, the capstone is intended to give students the experience of managing a business entity as its chief executive officer. In this role, students apply all the business and technology concepts learned in MSIT’s functional core courses to a case study presented by a practicing IT professional. Specifically, students learn to integrate operations management, strategic analysis, forecasting, decision making, redesign and restructuring of an enterprise. Additionally, they will demonstrate decision-making processes, report writing and presentation skills. This distinctive opportunity provides students the chance to manage the technology challenges currently facing most industries today.

STUDY GROUPS

MSIT students find study groups to be one of the most rewarding and valuable aspects of the program, not only for the academic benefits, but for the personal and professional relationships that develop as a result.

These groups are typically composed of three to four students and usually meet once a week to discuss class material and homework, prepare for tests, and work on group projects. Study groups provide opportunities for students to harness multiple points of view for handling work-related IT problems, as well as to develop skills for managing group dynamics, often a key component to successful IT work.

Requirements

Please use the following instructions to apply for the Master of Science in Information Technology program (full-time option):

1. Optional but suggested: If living locally, register for and attend an MSIT information session to learn more about the program and ask individual questions.
2. Start the MSIT online application in order to be familiar with what is required before submission.
3. Complete a 500-word personal statement addressing the questions indicated, and upload this and the latest version of your resume to the on-line application.
4. Request that two recommenders complete the required MSIT letter of recommendation form by entering the contact information of the recommenders in the on-line application. Recommenders should be individuals who can ably attest to your professional abilities (i.e. current supervisor(s), former/recent supervisors, clients or customers, team members, colleagues, etc.). An automated email/form will be sent to the recommender once this information is entered. The email will come from msit@northwestern.edu. You may wish to have each reference add this email to their contact list so that it does not get caught in a SPAM filter.
   Important: Please do not submit names and/or email addresses until you have discussed the MSIT program, the time commitment you will be making to the classes/coursework, and your candidacy with each reference.
5. Upload a scanned official copy of your undergraduate transcript(s) to the on-line application. As noted below, an official paper transcript directly from your undergraduate university is only required upon MSIT enrollment.
6. Upload a scanned copy of your ETS GRE score report to the on-line application (no alternate test scores accepted). The MSIT program requires a minimum  quantitative GRE score of 150. As noted below, an official GRE score report directly from ETS is only required upon MSIT enrollment. The MSIT ETS GRE code is 1606. 
7. Upload a scanned copy of your ETS TOEFL score report to the on-line application. Note: All applicants whose undergraduate degree was taught in a language other than English are required to submit an ETS TOEFL score report. The TOEFL requirement can be waived if undergraduate coursework was taught in English (transcript must note that English was the primary language of instruction). The MSIT program requires a minimum TOEFL score of 90/120. As noted below, an official TOEFL score report directly from ETS is only required upon MSIT enrollment. The MSIT ETS TOEFL code is 7456.
8. Pay $50 application fee.
9. Complete applicant areas of the online application and then be sure to click “submit”. Note: Applications can be submitted before recommendation forms have been received.
10. Verify with an MSIT staff member that your application and all required materials have been received either by email or by phone 847-491-5931.
11. Once your application has been reviewed by the MSIT admission committee, you may receive a request for an online Skype interview. Interview invitations are only extended to those applicants being further considered for admission. Not all applicants are invited to interview.

Please note: As mentioned above, scanned official transcript copies and scanned official GRE/TOEFL score reports will be accepted for the initial MSIT application review, and are explicitly asked for in the on-line application. However, official sealed transcripts directly from undergraduate/graduate universities or official score reports from ETS are required before an admitted MSIT applicant can be registered for classes at Northwestern University. Upon admission and enrollment, official undergraduate transcripts and test score must be sent to the MSIT program address.

The Master of Science in Information Technology at Northwestern University offers a variety of financing options to support students throughout their academic journey. Tuition fees for the program are detailed annually and are subject to change; prospective students are encouraged to consult the official university website for the most current figures. Northwestern University provides several financial aid opportunities, including scholarships, grants, and assistantships, aimed at reducing the financial burden for qualified students. Merit-based scholarships are awarded based on academic achievement, leadership qualities, and potential contributions to the university community. Eligibility criteria and application procedures for scholarships are outlined on the university’s financial aid portal. Additionally, the university offers federal and private loan programs to assist students in financing their education, with detailed information provided during the admissions process. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for federal loans and work-study programs. Northwestern University’s Office of Financial Aid provides comprehensive counseling to help students navigate their options and develop personalized financial plans. External funding sources, such as industry sponsorships or employer tuition reimbursement programs, may also be applicable, depending on the student’s circumstances. The university occasionally offers special financing campaigns or payment plans that allow students to spread out tuition payments over the duration of their studies, facilitating easier financial management. International students participating in the program may have access to specific scholarship programs and are advised to contact the international student office for tailored guidance. Overall, Northwestern University strives to provide accessible and flexible financing solutions to ensure that talented students can pursue their degrees without undue financial hardship.

The Northwestern University offers a comprehensive program in Information Technology designed to equip students with a strong foundation in computer science, software development, and technological innovation. The program emphasizes both theoretical principles and practical skills, preparing graduates for a wide range of careers in the rapidly evolving tech industry. Students in this program have the opportunity to learn about cybersecurity, data management, systems analysis, programming languages, and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. The curriculum is often structured to include coursework, laboratory work, and project-based learning, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Northwestern's state-of-the-art facilities and collaborations with industry leaders provide students with valuable hands-on experience, internships, and research opportunities. The program also encourages interdisciplinary approaches, enabling students to apply their IT knowledge in fields like finance, healthcare, media, and education. Faculty members are recognized experts in their respective fields and actively participate in research and development projects, ensuring that the curriculum remains current and relevant. Graduates of the program typically pursue careers in software development, systems analysis, cybersecurity, data analysis, or continue their education in graduate programs. The university's strong alumni network and partnerships with leading tech companies facilitate job placement and professional growth for students. Overall, Northwestern University’s Information Technology program aims to develop skilled professionals who can innovate and lead in various technological domains, contributing to advancements in society and industry.