Computer Information Systems, M.S.

(36 credits)

Program Description

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The Master of Science in Computer Information Systems is designed for students seeking to combine the development of technical competence in information systems with gaining knowledge and furthering skills in managerial and organizational areas. Graduates of this program will be able to work in a variety of fields to maximize state of the art information system tools and techniques to promote organizational success.

Learning Outcomes

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A student who successfully completes this program will have demonstrated the following fundamental outcomes associated with an information technology curriculum. 

• Analyze problems and provide appropriate coding solutions using the basic principles of object-oriented programming as applied to current programming practices in computer science, including the use of such techniques as modularity and abstraction. 
• Design and implement normalized database structures using tables, queries, reports, and forms while utilizing the SQL programming language.  
• Understand data communication networks focusing on layered network structure and basic protocol functions. Apply basic rules of network design addressing issues such as addressing, multiplexing, routing, forwarding, flow control, error control, congestion response, and reliability. 
• Design solutions that apply state-of-the-art protection against threats to hardware and software in both public and private environments. Plan security solutions using appropriate techniques of cryptography, malware identification, and physical security in web, cloud and network environments. 
• Plan for the management of complex projects in the context of overall organizational goals and strategy. Oversee team members and address issues of team building, planning, scope management, time management, and budgetary constraints. 
• Design effective and usable web pages using standardized HTML and CSS procedures. Apply responsive access techniques across a variety of web platforms. 

Concentrations

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The Masters of Science in Computer Information Systems (CIS) requires that students complete a core track of study that provides a broad overview of topics relevant to information technology and computer science. Beyond this core track, the program offers concentrations that allow students the opportunity to explore detailed and in-depth aspects of one general area of computer technology.

These concentrations provide CIS students with real-world experience in a chosen area of specialization. Currently, the CIS program offers the following concentrations:

• Data Modeling and Analytics  
• Computer Networking  
• Programming  
• Project Management  

Information on the Executive Information Technology and Cybersecurity program may be found here: Information Technology and Cybersecurity, Executive M.S. . 

Internship

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The Internship course allows students to overlay the academic and theoretical study of Computer Information Systems with practical experience in the field. Students have the means to apply academic concepts to solve real-world business problems.  Students will have a greater insight into a wide variety of operational issues that take place in professional organizations.  Students and their chosen Internship sponsor must be approved by the Program Director prior to the start of the internship. Internship courses have variable credit and are CT 5901 through CT 5904. A maximum of 8 credits of internship may be taken. Students cannot enroll in an internship until they have completed 20 credit hours of study at NEC.

• CT 5901 - Computer Information Systems On-Site Internship  

Program Pathways

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Students are encouraged to use the following program pathways to guide their degree completion strategy. There are two available recommended pathways, a standard full-time pathway and an accelerated pathway for students who wish to complete their program in one academic year.

• Computer Information Systems, M.S. Course Map  
• Computer Information Systems, M.S. Accelerated Course Map