Build the expertise to thrive in a fast-changing tech world—and launch a rewarding career.
The M.S. in Computer Information Systems (CIS) prepares you to design, develop and manage complex computer systems with a focus on component engineering, object-oriented design and data-driven development.
Open to students from a variety of academic backgrounds, this program is ideal for those looking to transition into technology-focused roles.
With an emphasis on real-world problem-solving, you'll gain skills in software construction, database integration and emerging technologies—across mobile, enterprise and networked platforms. Graduates are equipped to meet rising industry demand and advance in the evolving CIS field.
Florida Tech’s M.S. in Computer Information Systems stands out for its technical depth, hands-on learning and focus on emerging technologies. The program builds advanced skills in programming, database management and systems design—preparing graduates to solve real-world challenges and succeed in today’s fast-moving tech landscape.
The computer information systems degree program is distinct from business-oriented information systems programs in its emphasis on the technical aspects of computing.
Our curriculum immerses students in advanced topics such as computer programming, database management and systems design, providing a deep mastery of these areas.
The CIS degree offers hands-on experience through laboratory work, programming assignments and research, ensuring students gain high-level technical proficiency.
Students stay current with industry trends through organizations like the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Computer Society (IEEE CS), the Association for Computing Machinery (ACM) and the International Association for Computer Information Systems (IACIS).
Publishing articles, attending conferences and participating in workshops through these organizations provide valuable insights and deeper industry knowledge.
This program offers both capstone and thesis options to align with your academic and career goals.
The capstone project emphasizes practical, hands-on experience, enabling you to design and implement a significant information systems project directly applicable to industry settings. This option allows you to focus on areas that support your career aspirations.
The thesis option provides an opportunity for in-depth research under the guidance of graduate faculty, helping you develop specialized expertise. This path is ideal for those pursuing roles that prioritize deep technical knowledge and advanced problem-solving skills.
Both options prepare you to tackle complex challenges, with potential research topics including enterprise modeling, virtualized computer environments and more, equipping you with advanced skills for success in the field.
Through the capstone project or thesis, students pursuing a master’s in computer information systems gain not only advanced research skills, but also hands-on, solution-oriented experience—and a better understanding of the type of complex challenges they may face on the job.
Advanced research topics in the industry can include topics such as:
Through study and research such as this, students tackle complex challenges to become knowledgeable leaders who understand every aspect of what it means to manage systems in a business environment.
This program provides a path for professionals from a variety of fields to rapidly transition to computer information systems career paths.
A bachelor’s degree is required for admission, though it does not need to be in computer science. Your undergraduate coursework must include at least three semester credit hours in statistics or discrete mathematics.
If your academic background does not fully address the foundational knowledge needed for the program, you may be required to complete one or more preparatory courses to ensure your readiness.
GRE scores are not required for this program.
For more application information, please see our graduate admission requirements.
The M.S. in computer information systems opens the door to a range of rewarding tech careers.
Graduates are equipped with expertise in programming, database management, systems design and emerging technologies—preparing them for roles such as system administrator, network administrator, software engineer, programmer and IT project manager.
Many launch careers with top employers like L3Harris Technologies, Northrop Grumman and Collins Aerospace, often beginning with internships.
Whether you're advancing your current role or making a career shift, you’ll graduate ready to lead technical teams, manage complex projects and drive innovation across industries.
Florida Tech Career Services assists students, alumni and employers in their search for careers and employee candidates. We help students develop career plans and job-search skills. Explore our Career Toolbox to learn more about our services and access additional resources.
The Occupational Outlook Handbook, published by the United States Department of Labor, Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), provides information about specific jobs, including median annual pay, working conditions and job outlook, among other things. Check the handbook for information on the outlook for computer information systems careers.
The CIS degree provides a comprehensive foundation in programming, database systems, computer architecture and networking. You’ll gain essential programming skills, advancing from core concepts to mastery of high-level languages and sophisticated algorithms.
Emphasizing the importance of database systems, the curriculum covers data architecture, storage and SQL for information retrieval. It also explores modern computer systems architecture and functionality including operating systems, virtualization, cloud computing and networking fundamentals like protocols, topologies and security.
The curriculum allows you to tailor your studies to suit your unique interests and career goals with electives and culminates in a capstone project or thesis.
Courses include:
Check the catalog for a description of all courses.
Download the Computer Information Systems, M.S., Curriculum now!
Capstone and thesis projects in the computer information systems program focus on applied problem-solving in enterprise technology environments. Students are encouraged to explore areas that align with current industry trends, practical challenges and innovative solutions.
Example areas of focus could include:
Enterprise Modeling
Investigate how enterprise modeling supports systems integration, cloud adoption or digital transformation strategies.
Systems Performance Analysis
Evaluate system performance in virtualized or distributed computing environments.
Client-Server and Service-Oriented Architectures
Analyze, design or optimize systems based on client-server or service-oriented architecture models.
Mobile Applications Development
Explore the design and deployment of mobile applications that integrate with enterprise systems.
Configuration and Version Control
Study the impact of configuration management and version control tools in software development workflows.
Virtualized Computing Environments
Examine strategies for managing, securing or optimizing virtualized systems in business or organizational settings.
Learn more about Computer Information Systems at Florida Tech on the website.