Frequently Asked Questions

Please refer to the main FAQ page for additional questions related to admission. If you cannot find the answers to your questions on this web site, please contact the School of Continuing Studies’ Graduate Admission Office at (312) 503-1083.

Program Information:

What are the advantages of the MSCIS degree program?
The MSCIS program combines the study of computer science methodologies — components of software engineering, telecommunications, and interactions with multimedia technologies (video and sound) — with the delivery of computer technologies over computer-based networks. Along with a sound theoretical grounding in computer technology, the program focuses on the applications and implementation of technology. Through the communication of best practices and the most current advances, students are kept abreast of trends in this rapidly changing field. Core and specialization courses focus on modern distributed applications, their design and implementation, evaluation, underlying enabling technologies, theoretical models, and the networks through which computer-based technologies travel.

What could this degree do for my career?
The credential of having taken a master’s degree or other graduate-level work at Northwestern University looks impressive on any resume. The MSCIS program is geared for today’s IT professional, who, more often than not, is put in the position of analyzing, evaluating, and implementing new technology. The hands-on approach of this program blends the conceptual technical knowledge with the applied learning necessary to operate in the current workplace. MSCIS students select an area of specialization to effectively focus their academic and professional interests. These elements combine to make this degree appealing to professionals who want to enhance their career options and expand their value to their current organizations.

When and where do classes meet?
MSCIS classes are held on our Chicago Lakefront, Chicago Loop, and Schaumburg campuses. Each class meets once a week for 10 weeks on a weeknight (Monday-Thursday) or Saturday during the day. During the summer, classes meet twice a week for five weeks.

How many credits are required to complete the program? Is a thesis required?
The program requires successful completion of an 11-unit curriculum. A unit usually is equivalent to one course. A thesis or capstone project is required and counts as the final course(s). Students pursue their final project either independently or in a team-based class environment. The program also requires students to participate in a leadership class, where students develop skills in leadership, communication, innovation, and change management that prepare them for the modern workplace.

Who teaches the courses?
MSCIS faculty brings an unparalleled combination of academic and industry experience and expertise to the classroom. Please visit the faculty biographies for detailed information on faculty.

Can I complete this degree while working full-time?
Students may pursue the MSCIS degree on a full- or part-time basis, although the program is designed primarily for part-time enrollment. International students are usually required to attend full time. However, due to the rigorous nature of Northwestern study, students who work full time are strongly encouraged to pursue the MSCIS degree part time.

How long does it take to complete the MSCIS program?
Students are allowed a maximum of five years to complete the program, although master’s degree students generally complete degree requirements in two to three years.

Can I transfer credits from another graduate program?
No course work from an institution other than Northwestern is accepted for transfer credit.

Are any online courses available?
No online courses are offered at this time.

How large are classes?
Class size typically ranges from 10 to 35 students.

Can I take just one course?
Yes. If you do not want to pursue the entire degree or feel that you need professional or academic upgrades in a certain area, you can take courses on an individual basis as a nondegree special student or pursue a Professional Graduate Series certificate program in a specific discipline.

Admissions:

How do I apply?
You must submit the following items:

• An MSCIS online application
• A nonrefundable application fee of $75. You must pay this fee online with a credit card upon submission of the application.
• One sealed copy of official transcripts from all previous colleges you have attended. THIS SHOULD INCLUDE BOTH CREDIT AND NONCREDIT COURSE WORK. Note: Students submitting transcripts from foreign institutions that are not in English must also present a course-by-course evaluation of their previous academic work.
• One copy of your résumé or curriculum vitae including relevant work or research experience
• Two letters of recommendation focusing on your academic and/or professional achievement and ability
• One copy of a 300-word statement of purpose indicating your preparedness for graduate study and future career interests

How are applications evaluated?
Applications are evaluated by the MSCIS Admissions Committee. The following considerations guide the committee in reviewing applications:

• Your résumé or curriculum vitae provides evidence of your commitment to and/or understanding of the computer information and technology field. While we prefer candidates to possess three to five years of work and/or research experience in a related area, recent college graduates and career changers are also encouraged to apply.
• Letters of Recommendation underscore your commitment to graduate education and ability to succeed in graduate-level work.
• The Statement of Purpose demonstrates whether or not your academic and vocational goals are appropriate to this program. This statement also helps the committee to determine whether you possess the necessary intellectual maturity to succeed in this program.

What is “preadmission”?
All applicants are required to earn a “B” average or better in CIS 212 and 313 or demonstrate equivalency before they can be formally admitted into the MSCIS program. Being “preadmitted” allows successful applicants to enroll in these courses at Northwestern during the 10-week term at the lower undergraduate-level tuition and guarantees formal admission into the MSCIS degree upon successful completion of the course work.

What if I completed the prerequisite courses elsewhere?
Students who have completed the equivalent of CIS 212 or 313 at another institution within the last three years and with a grade of “B” or higher may place out of the prerequisite course work. To do so, the applicant must submit a course description of classes previously taken along with the application.

What are the proficiency exams?
In some cases students have acquired the information taught in CIS 212 and 313 through practical experience. For these students, SCS offers proficiency exams. Passing the proficiency exam allows students to place out of the related course. Proficiency exams must be taken at least one week before registration. Exams are available at the SCS office in Evanston and at the Shaffner Library in Wieboldt Hall in Chicago. No appointment is necessary. Exams are a combination of short answer and multiple choice questions. Students have two hours to complete each exam.

What is meant by “formal admission”?
Once you have applied and been accepted and have completed (or placed out of) CIS 212 and 313k, you are formally admitted into the MSCIS program. This allows you to register for graduate-level course work.