38 credits
The master of science in information and communication sciences (ICS) is a graduate professional program that prepares students for career opportunities and leadership positions in organizational settings where information and communication technologies (ICT) are used. Graduates of ICS are prepared to understand the implications of managing information and communication opportunities discovered in the design, production, and purposing of ICT products and services. Such opportunities arise in the financial, health care, government, education, information and communication sectors and in wide variety of tech-enabled businesses. ICT now plays a central role in the success of most business, government and non-profit endeavors.
Graduates will achieve an understanding of the ICT environment, including its human, regulatory, operational and business contexts. They will understand the technological options available for the delivery and distribution of emerging technology products and services across multiple industry platforms. They will become familiar with a variety of software applications and technology methodologies to meet business needs such as Cloud computing, Big Data, security practices, storage, networking, and unified communications.
This program also provides background and experiences in project management including design, development, regulation and usability factors, important in implementing technologies intended to solve business problems. Students will explore the role and function of strategic thinking and management related to business and ICT issues, including collaborative leadership, problem-solving, competitiveness, productivity, and finance. With participation from faculty, alumni and ICT companies, students explore the broad variety of career options, projects and related skills that support the ICT industry. The ICS master’s program includes a project focus throughout the curriculum to enhance the integrative and systems thinking skills of the students.
This program assists students in learning how to become a professional in this field with an emphasis on developing resiliency and continuous improvement skills. Because the fields of information and communication are so dynamic, students must be able to identify needs and gather information to solve new problems independently and in teams and to constantly prioritize opportunities as technologies change around them.
Admission requirements
Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate School. Applicants will also submit a 1-2 page goal statement which the department will review.
Degree requirements
Students must complete a minimum of 38 credits.
Required courses
Business electives
Technology electives
At least one elective course outside CICS can be selected in consultation with the advisor and subject to the approval of the CICS director.