Master of Science in Computer Science and Information Systems

Why UM-Flint

What Sets UM-Flint's Computer Science & Information Systems (MS) Program Apart?

The Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science and Information Systems program offers concentrations in Computer Science or Information Systems, as well as a preparatory Fast Track for those without a computer science background. It prepares you to enter and excel in a career as an administrator, analyst, designer, developer, or programmer leading technology teams.

Flexible Format

Whether you live far from campus or close by, the MS in Computer Science and Information Systems is designed to accommodate your life and goals. The Cyber Classroom allows you to tailor your learning experience. Take advantage of the convenience of remote online learning, the face-to-face interaction of the classroom, or a combination of both. Our approach redefines the traditional classroom experience with a seamless blending of in-class and online learning.

The Cyber Classroom

Become immersed in the lectures captured in our unique cyber classroom experience through an advanced robotic audio-video recording system. The system processes multiple cameras, microphones, and digital input devices such as digital whiteboards and document cameras with an intelligent autonomous recording system to capture everything with clarity. As an online student, you’ll be able to interact with the faculty through our BlackBoard® online content management system. You will also have the capability to utilize the playback on-demand feature, allowing you to watch the lectures as many times as necessary to grasp concepts.

Concentration Options

Computer Science concentration – This rigorous program is designed to provide you with in-depth, state-of-the-art knowledge of critical computer-related technologies. Coursework immerses students in multiple disciplines of computer science including algorithms, architecture, artificial intelligence, databases, and networking.

Information Systems concentration – This innovative program offers two tracks: Business Information Systems and Health Information Systems. Choose the track that supports your professional goals and interests to gain specialized training necessary for your career field. Those pursuing the Business Information Systems track may supplement technology courses with business courses including Accounting, Business Economics, Entrepreneurship, Global Management, and Quantitative Analysis. Those completing the Health Information Systems track maybe complete additional courses in Financial Management, Healthcare Administration and Policy, and Legal Issues to customize their learning experience.

Dual Degrees

Students in the dual degree program have the option to complete two degrees: a Master of Science (MS) in Computer Science and Information Systems with a concentration in Information Systems and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) with a concentration in Computer Information Systems. More information for the degree is available here.

Real-World Experience

You’ll be able to apply the knowledge you gain in the classroom and research to technology at UM-Flint through meaningful technology projects with real-world applications. The program’s focus on team-based project work allows you to build the collaborative skills needed to be an effective team member and leader.

Fast Track Option

Available for students without an undergraduate degree in computer science or a related field, this option typically consists of five courses focused on the core competencies of Networking, Architecture, Algorithms, and Databases. Those who possess an undergraduate degree in liberal arts or business fields may be required to take some additional math and programming courses. All of the Fast Track pre-requisite courses are taught in the cyber-classroom format.

Thesis or Non-Thesis Track

Whichever concentration you select, you then get to choose between a thesis track or a non-thesis track. The thesis track requires students to write a research paper and conduct an oral defense in addition to the required coursework. Students completing the non-thesis track complete additional credits in elective graduate-level courses and achieve satisfactory performance on the Master’s level exit examination.

Results

The program has been graduating roughly fifty students per year. We have also had a number of students go on for their PhDs at leading regional institutions, including Michigan State University, Wayne State University, Purdue University, and Oakland University.

Opportunities to apply classroom learning, research, and new technology abound at UM-Flint. One recent example saw Computer Science faculty and students join forces with those from the Department of Nursing to create an educational video game to help nursing students learn how to deliver congruent care to patients of diverse cultural backgrounds.