MSIS vs. MSIT: What’s the Difference?

Plus: A look at an MSIST — the degree that combines their strengths

May 8, 2025

If you are exploring master’s programs to expand your technology skills, you have probably come across Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS) programs and Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT) programs. These degrees seem similar at first, but they actually develop unique skill sets that prepare graduates for different career paths. The core difference between these two degrees is that an MSIT teaches you how to build and maintain systems, while an MSIS teaches you how to decide which tech systems a company needs and why. Here’s a more in-depth look at those differences.

Skills Comparison of MSIS vs MSIT Degrees

Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT)

An MSIT degree focuses on the hands-on side of technology, specifically the skills needed to implement solutions and manage infrastructure. A program in this area prepares you to work directly with the hardware and software that keep businesses running. An MSIT’s curriculum will develop your practical skills: building networks, maintaining servers, strengthening security systems and troubleshooting small and large technical issues.

Network architecture and administration
Server infrastructure and cloud systems
Cybersecurity implementation
Hardware performance optimization
Programming and software development
Technical troubleshooting and support

Master of Science in Information Systems (MSIS)

An MSIS program helps you understand the full scope of how technology supports business success. Unlike the MSIT's focus on technical implementation, an information systems program connects technical capabilities with strategic business needs. You'll learn to align tech solutions with company goals, improve information flow across departments and enhance business processes through intelligent technology integration. Coursework typically covers:

Business process analysis and design
Database management and information architecture
Systems analysis and design
IT project management
Business intelligence and analytics
Strategic IT planning and governance

MSIS vs. MSIT Course Comparison

Course Name	MSIS	MSIT
Cloud Computing	❌	✅
Cybersecurity	❌	✅
Data Communications and Networking	✅	✅
Data Science Programming	✅	❌
Data Visualization	✅	❌
Database Management Systems	✅	✅
Enterprise Systems/Architecture	✅	✅
Human-Computer Interaction	❌	✅
Information Ethics and Privacy	✅	❌
Information Security	✅	✅
IT Governance	❌	✅
IT Infrastructure	❌	✅
IT Strategy and Management	✅	❌
Law and Information Technology	❌	✅
Mobile Application Development	❌	✅
Research Design and Data Analysis	✅	❌
Software Development/Object-Oriented Programming	✅	✅
Statistics for Data Science	✅	❌
Systems Analysis and Design	✅	✅

Source: Table compiled based on publicly available curriculum information from ranked MSIS and MSIT programs in the United States (2025).

How These Skills Apply to Real-World Challenges

To understand the practical differences between these degrees, let’s consider how graduates from each program might approach common workplace challenges.

Company-Wide Digital Transformation

MSIT graduates would tackle the technical side by selecting the right cloud platforms, checking network capacity, setting up security measures and handling the system migration process. MSIS graduates would look at how the business currently operates to make the transition as smooth as possible and align new systems with company goals. MSIS graduates would also help departments obtain the resources and training they need.

Data Security Breach

MSIT graduates would lead the technical response — they’d identify the source of the breach, patch vulnerabilities, restore systems from backups and implement enhanced security measures for the future. MSIS graduates would monitor the business impact — they’d assess compromised data, coordinate communication with stakeholders, analyze compliance implications and develop revised security policies.

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) Implementation

MSIT graduates would develop technical specifications, system architecture, server configurations and technical integration with existing systems. MSIS graduates would oversee business process design, change management and user training. They would also make sure that the system meets departmental requirements across the organization.

Putting It All Together With an MSIST

What if you want the best of both worlds? A master’s in information systems technology program (MSIST) combines tech know-how with business strategy skills. This program suits professionals whose careers encompass both technical and business areas. With this degree, you’ll understand how systems work and why companies need them. You’ll also learn how to communicate this with other teams and stakeholders. Strong communication skills give MSIST graduates an advantage: they can discuss technical details with an engineering team, and then explain to executives how technology affects the bottom line. This flexibility has become more valuable as technology now touches every part of how businesses run. Companies need people who can excel in both worlds. Here is how someone with an MSIST degree might approach the challenge scenarios we discussed earlier:

Digital transformation: An MSIST graduate might first analyze business needs and processes to identify transformation goals, then design technical solutions that address those specific needs. They would select the right technologies based on technical quality and business fit, and set up success metrics for both technical and business performance.
Data security breach: An MSIST graduate might use a two-part approach as they guide the technical team in stopping the breach and fixing systems, while also keeping stakeholders informed and determining the business impact. Doing both damage control and prevention for the future, they would report what happened to leadership and develop a plan that fixes the organization's technical weak points.
ERP implementation: An MSIST graduate would run the ERP project as a combined business-technology effort. They would oversee integration with existing tools while helping departments adjust their workflows. They'd handle key setup tasks and build dashboards that provide useful business insights.

Advanced Tech Skills for Tomorrow’s Challenges: GW’s MSIST

Advance your career with the GW School of Business’s Master of Science in Information Systems Technology (MSIST). The MSIST prepares you to succeed in the face of IT challenges, use data effectively and drive sustainable growth. Through ,online coursework and live lectures you’ll gain the skills you need to spearhead major technology initiatives and translate complex data into strategic business decisions. We invest in your success with industry-ready skills and with financial support: every student accepted into our summer and fall 2025 online graduate programs will receive an automatic tuition scholarship. Learn more by requesting a brochure, or start your application today! In addition to its online offerings, the GW School of Business also provides an in-person MS in Information Systems Technology. Since 1928, GW School of Business students have leveraged our global presence to pursue practical, insightful expertise in the world of business from an enviable vantage point. One of the most diverse cities in the United States, D.C. is home to leading organizations in the health care, hospitality, media, government, defense and technology sectors. Our faculty are thought leaders and educators in these areas and more, and they’re ready to provide you with the business and management expertise you need to succeed.