MS in Information Systems Technology

Grow as an IT Professional and Business Leader

The George Washington University School of Business’s online MS in Information Systems Technology (MSIST) is globally known for producing graduates with a powerful combination of technical expertise and strong management and communication skills. 

MSIST graduates are data architects who serve as the digital backbone of Fortune 500 companies, spearhead multimillion-dollar technology transformations and translate complex data into strategic business decisions that reshape industries.

For more than a decade, our online Master's in Information Systems Technology has demonstrated GW Business’s commitment to high-quality education by offering flexibility to students worldwide. Our students gain skills from a proven program — that’s why top organizations trust our graduates to drive their technology initiatives and transform business operations.

Students can pursue the MSIST program either 100% online, allowing them to complete their studies from anywhere, or complete the MSIST program on campus.

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Online MSIST Program Outcomes 

Graduates of this STEM-designated MS in Information Systems Technology program will develop critical and analytical thinking skills. Here’s what you’ll learn: 

• Critical and Analytical Thinking: Enhance your critical thinking skills so you can analyze challenges and make informed choices regarding the efficient use of information technology and decision models.
• Body of Knowledge: Apply your understanding of information systems to support successful analysis, design and implementation projects.
• Team Management and Effectiveness: Gain experience as a team leader and member through participation in group projects where you collaborate to meet shared goals.
• Project Management: Deploy project management knowledge to support successful analysis, design and implementation of IT projects.
• Oral and Written Communication: Express yourself clearly and effectively in writing and oral presentations, demonstrating a strong grasp of purpose and audience awareness.
• Ethics and Social Responsibility: Develop the ability to assess ethical implications and societal impact when making decisions.

View the Curriculum

Flexible Learning for Current and Future Tech Leaders

Our digital courses combine live sessions with self-paced online coursework, which features content such as videos, podcasts and animations.

Each online master’s in information systems course includes a weekly one-hour live classroom session for real-time interaction with faculty and peers. These sessions take place during evenings or weekends, and recordings are made available for future reference.

View the Curriculum

Why an MSIST Is a Strategic Advantage in Your Career: From IT Expert to Tech Leader

A master’s in information systems technology deepens your technical leadership capabilities, and the GW Business name opens doors across the technology industry and beyond. 

MSIST graduates will be prepared for careers where technology decisions and business priorities meet. They understand both technical minutiae and financial realities, which helps them answer the essential question: "What does this mean for the business?"

These skills become especially valuable when:

• Evaluating new technologies: Your expertise helps you distinguish worthwhile tech investments from passing trends.
• Getting projects approved: You can explain technical work in ways that make financial sense to business leaders.
• Working with tight budgets: You’ll be able to identify technology initiatives that directly impact business outcomes and improve operational efficiency.
• Setting up company-wide systems: You can adapt large software systems to fit business needs.
• Using data effectively: You’ll be able to collect, analyze and present data to support recommendations and decisions.

What Makes an MSIST from a Business School More Valuable?

Technology and business are no longer separate domains. The MSIST prepares you for roles that require both technical expertise and business knowledge.

Earning your MSIST from a business school provides additional value because you'll learn information technology and systems in the context of real business challenges. Business schools immerse you in case studies about financial decisions, market strategy, and organizational behavior, giving you perspectives that more technical programs don’t always teach.

Where Do Our Students Work?

Our graduates work in Fortune 500 companies, startups, consulting firms, government agencies and nonprofits.

Information Systems & Technology Careers

An MSIST is a versatile degree that positions you for career paths where you’ll tackle problems at the intersection of technology and business strategy. Graduates from GW’s MSIST program find themselves in roles like:

• IS Project Manager/IT Project Manager
• Business Systems Analyst
• Technology Consultant
• IT Services Architect
• Telecommunications Analyst
• Technical Program Manager
• Security Analyst
• CTO/Technology Executive

The GW Advantage

We help each student discover which areas spark their interest while building practical, broadly applicable skills. As a GW Business student, you receive exceptional career support through:

• The F. David Fowler Career Center, which connects students with employers and provides career consulting services exclusively for GW School of Business students and alumni.
• Dedicated career coaches who will build your job search strategy and amplify your professional strengths.
• The option to join the Careers360 program, where students meet one-on-one with industry mentors in consulting, finance or marketing.
• A powerful GW alumni network of tech professionals and business leaders.
• Comprehensive career planning services with proven success in placement and advancement.

Next steps: Explore the MSIST curriculum, see our admission requirements or download the program brochure.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the program include hands-on learning opportunities?

Yes, the MSIST program features hands-on online laboratory classes that allow students to gain practical experience in areas such as data analytics, cloud applications and cybersecurity.

Is the MSIST program accredited?

The MSIST program is STEM-certified, ensuring it meets rigorous standards for science, technology, engineering and mathematics education.

What’s the difference between a master’s in information technology program, a master’s in information systems program, and a master’s in information systems technology program?

• A master’s in information technology (MSIT) focuses on the technical implementation and management of technology systems. Students in these programs learn to build robust IT infrastructure and maintain critical systems security.
• A master’s in information systems (MSIS) centers on designing and managing internal systems that support a company’s operations. Students in these programs learn to design and manage systems that support decision-making and streamline operations.
• A master’s in information systems technology (MSIST) brings both areas together, combining technical expertise with knowledge of business strategy and organizational processes. MSIST students learn to analyze business needs and develop enterprise solutions that drive organizational change.

GW's MSIST program features a dual focus on technology and business processes. Students learn to analyze organizational needs and then implement information systems that support those strategic goals. Our program serves professionals at all career stages who are serious about expanding their skills.

For a more detailed look, read our article comparing MSIT, MSIS, and MSIST degrees.

In what modalities is the program offered?

In addition to the Online MSIST,  we offer an on-campus option for those seeking an in-person experience.

How to apply?

We review applications on a rolling basis and encourage early submission. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution
• Professional or academic recommendation
• Statement of purpose
• Current résumé
• College transcripts
• Application fee

No GRE/GMAT required. Learn more about application materials and the process on our admissions page.

Important Note: To apply for summer 2025, select "Fall 2025" in the Term dropdown on the application form. A temporary system limitation prevents summer 2025 from appearing, but your enrollment specialist will ensure your application is processed correctly.

Visit our FAQ page for more answers to frequently asked questions.