Reviewed by: Earle Charles, Lecturer and Director of the MSIT Program
If you’re an IT professional, or aspiring IT professional, looking to:
- Enhance your readiness for higher level roles
- Better understand IT and related considerations
- Demonstrate your ability to complete senior-level tasks
You’re probably considering a Master of Science in Information Technology (MSIT). A master’s program in information technology is a strong pathway for technology professionals seeking advanced skills and knowledge that is customized to their career.
But the truth is that graduate-level education is an investment in your time, money and energy, so you may be wondering if an MSIT is worth it. For many professionals, a master’s in IT is a valuable investment that has allowed them to pursue their career goals, enrich their abilities and strengthen their skills and knowledge in key IT domains.
Is a Master’s in Information Technology Worth the Investment?
Whether a master’s program is worthwhile to you will depend on what you’re looking to get out of your program. Students might seek:
- Expanded understanding of advanced topics, like cybersecurity and artificial intelligence
- New and strengthened skills in complex IT areas, including software planning, program development, data communications and network architecture
- Career advancement opportunities
- Networking opportunities with fellow IT professionals
The ROI of an MSIT in Today’s Job Market
IT roles remain in high demand across nearly every sector, with the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicting much faster than average job growth for all computer and information technology roles through 2033. As technology continues to rapidly evolve, driven by innovation across industries, organizations need ways to leverage it competitively, utilize it effectively and adopt it seamlessly.
IT professionals are in demand because of their crucial role in technology development and adoption, with their primary responsibilities relating to the implementation and delivery of technology-related software, strategies and processes.
In today’s tech market, professionals are serious about ensuring that they prepare not only for these types of responsibility, but also that they have the skills for continued career advancement.
An MSIT’s curriculum enhances both technical and leadership skills. This enables IT professionals to position themselves not only as qualified contenders for in-demand roles, but also for a wider range of opportunities in the future, which can help support career stability and earning potential.
Challenges and Considerations
Pursuing a graduate program comes with its own fair share of challenges, so it’s important to consider the full picture of what earning a degree might look like for you. Make sure you consider:
- Cost
- Time commitment
- Work-life balance
Many universities provide significant support to students who face challenges related to these considerations.
How Do Online and Part-Time Programs Help Working Professionals Succeed?
While these challenges are important to understand, they don’t mean that pursuing a graduate degree as a busy professional is impossible. Many universities offer online and/or part-time master’s degree programs, which are more accessible to students who are balancing school with work and other obligations.
In addition, these programs tend to be lower cost options. So, if you’re able to find a university with affordable tuition rates and an online, part-time Master of Science in Information Technology, the challenges we’ve discussed won’t seem so daunting.
Who Benefits Most From an MSIT?
Anyone who is interested in earning a Master of Science in Information Technology is welcome to pursue one, but there are certain professionals who have a stronger potential return on investment than others. These may include:
- Professionals seeking advancement or leadership: A master’s in IT prepares you to solve complex problems within technology teams, but it also allows aspiring IT managers and leaders to solve overarching business problems through data and technology.
- Career changers: For professionals with a career in another field, a master’s program can provide valuable specialized knowledge and skills that allow them to transition into mid- to senior-level IT roles without entry-level experience.
- Professionals and leaders in specialized areas: Individuals working with cutting-edge technology like AI or machine learning will benefit greatly from advanced education. Some MSIT programs offer specialized tracks in areas like cybersecurity and data analytics, positioning students for in-demand roles.
- Managers solving cross-departmental problems: Managers and leaders need deeper technical expertise geared to organizational solutions. A master’s in information technology provides the practical expertise to implement meaningful solutions in any organization.
Salary Growth and Career Outlook for MSIT Graduates
Overall, master’s in information technology graduates are in a very strong position in the job market. With master’s degree holders outpacing bachelor’s program graduates in both employment rate and average annual salary, it’s clear that the job market is moving toward preferring (or even requiring) a master’s degree.
This is especially true for advanced roles, where companies don’t want to waste time training new hires on complex tasks. By hiring master’s program graduates, these organizations ensure that new hires can hit the ground running with the skills and advanced expertise they already have.
| Job Title* | Median Salary* | Expected Job Growth Rate (2023–2033)* |
|---|---|---|
| IT Manager | $171,200 | 17% |
| Cloud Architect* | $130,390 | 13% |
| Cybersecurity Specialist* | $124,910 | 33% |
Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
*These roles are not captured by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Data from comparable roles has been included.
How To Decide if an MSIT Is Right for You?
A Master of Science in Information Technology can be a great way to prepare for your IT career, whether you’re an aspiring leader, want to handle the most difficult tasks or pursue a very complex role. But it’s important to consider all the factors that go into pursuing a graduate program before you decide to apply.
- Your career stage: Are you just getting started with your career or are you ready for a more advanced role? While recent graduates can benefit from an MSIT, professionals with a few years of experience may find a master’s program more applicable.
- The industry you work in: Are you already working in the technology sector? If so, an MSIT could help you prepare for cross-functional success in the industry. However, individuals working in tech roles in other industries, such as business or finance, could also benefit from a master’s in IT.
- Your short- and long-term goals: What are you hoping to do in two, five and ten years? If the answer involves transitioning into advanced roles that require strong technical and leadership skills, an MS in Information Technology might be for you.
Earn Your MS in Information Technology from the Cal Lutheran School of Management
Get the skills you need to stay ahead in the ever-evolving world of IT. With online and hybrid courses designed for working professionals, Cal Lutheran’s MSIT program offers the essential knowledge to stay ahead and the flexibility you need to manage other responsibilities.
The School of Management at Cal Lutheran is dedicated to producing graduates who are well prepared to succeed in their personal and professional lives — who lead, think, communicate and follow through with sustained excellence. As a Cal Lutheran School of Management student, you’ll learn from experienced faculty and benefit from personalized attention in small class sizes.
Download a program brochure or start your application to the MS in Information Technology.
