Academic Programs
College of Engineering
Master of Science in Information Systems
Master’s Degree
In the Master of Science in Information Systems program, you will embark on an IT leadership pathway as a more evolved, dynamic software engineer. You will design groundbreaking software solutions that fit within the complexities of the business world and solve the humanistic needs of the people who use them.
Location
Arlington, VA
Commitment
Full-Time/Part-Time
Duration
2 Years
f-1 visa ELIGIBLE
Yes
Type
Hybrid/Classroom
Program Overview
In Northeastern’s Master of Science in Information Systems (MS-IS) program, you will embark on an IT leadership pathway as a more evolved, dynamic software engineer. Through an innovative curriculum and a rigorous academic program that is both broad and deep, you’ll become a problem-solver who designs groundbreaking software solutions that fit within the complexities of the business world and solve the humanistic needs of the people who use them.
This flexible degree program puts software at the forefront of the engineering paradigm to address the socio-technical needs of contemporary society. You’ll be prepared to go beyond simple programming to become a leader in information technology, delivering systems that are safe, secure, and help solve the world’s grand challenges.
Your degree will involve a deep level of applied learning with project-based case studies in every course and you will have the opportunity to apply for a co-op experience in an industry of your choosing.
Unique Features
- Technology is a major driver of employment and innovation in the Washington, D.C., metro area. The city and its suburbs account for 31,000 tech jobs, a figure that underestimates the influence of the industry.
- Cybersecurity jobs are plentiful as other companies shift to remote work options and the U.S. government continues to need to secure its virtual properties.
- AI is a tech niche to watch in D.C., expect big future growth here.
- Software developers and technical/digital solutions are strong job market segments.
- Amazon’s HQ2 project in Pentagon City will add jobs.
- Companies providing these services will also compete for government contracts. If you are looking to land a tech position in D.C., prospects look good. As we move toward a “new normal,” it is anticipated jobs in the region will continue to be added.
- Arlington is home to world-leading companies and organizations such as Accenture, Boeing, Lockheed Martin, and Microsoft.
- Academic Partnerships
Program Objective
Northeastern’s MS in Information Systems program is dedicated to preparing you with the complex skills you need—programming, design, and architecture alongside strong communication and interpersonal abilities—to succeed in today’s rapidly changing technological and interconnected business world, both today and into the future.
Career Outlook
The MS in Information Systems program at Northeastern has had 100% success in job placement: Our graduates are hired by industry leaders, such as IBM, Oracle, Microsoft, and more, as well as by companies large and small in industries all over the globe. Recent graduates are working in the following roles:
- Functional engineers and architects
- Project managers
- Business design and process architects
- Data architects
- IT managers
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics*, the median annual wage for software developers is around $100,000, with employment projected to grow 24 percent from 2016 to 2026, which is much faster than the average for all occupations because of society’s increasing reliance on technology in all fields.
*Source: Bureau of Labor Statistics, U.S. Department of Labor, Occupational Outlook Handbook, Software Developers
Tuition and Aid
Domestic
$46.3K
International
$61.7K
The domestic tuition price is inclusive of a scholarship of up to 25% for all domestic students beginning their graduate studies in the 2026 academic year. This scholarship is not transferable to alternative programs of study, terms or campuses outside of Arlington, VA.
This is an estimate based on the tuition rates for Academic Year 2025–2026 and does not include any fees or other expenses. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Tuition and fees are subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Find detailed information on tuition and fees from Student Financial Services.
Finance Your Education
We offer a variety of resources, including scholarships and assistantships. Learn more from the College of Engineering’s Graduate Tuition & Financial Aid.
Curriculum
For 100+ years, we’ve designed our programs with one thing in mind—your success. Explore the current program requirements and course descriptions, all designed to meet today’s industry needs and must-have skills.
Experiential Learning
Northeastern combines rigorous academics with experiential learning and research to prepare students for real-world engineering challenges. The cooperative education program, also known as co-op, is one of the largest and most innovative in the world, and Northeastern is one of only a few that offers a co-op program for graduate students. Through this program, students gain up to eight months of professional experience employed in their field of interest as part of the academic curriculum, giving them a competitive edge upon graduation.
The College of Engineering has more than 2,000 co-op employer partners globally. Our dedicated team of co-op coordinators prepare students for the co-op experience through resumé building, developing interview skills, and guiding professional development.
Admission Dates
Applicants must submit the online application and all required admission materials no later than the stated deadlines to be considered for admission. Admissions decisions are made on a rolling basis.
Fall
| Early Action | December 1 |
| International student deadline outside the US: | June 1 |
| International student deadline inside the US: | July 1 |
| Domestic student deadline: | August 1 |
Spring
| International student deadline outside the US: | October 1 |
| International student deadline inside the US: | December 1 |
| Domestic student deadline: | December 1 |
Additional information for international applicants can be found at the Office of Global Services (OGS). OGS is an active resource to over 20,000 international students and scholars from 147 different nations across the world. They provide the professional expertise and support you need to maintain compliance through immigration, academic, and your employment experiences—helping you remain a valuable member of the Northeastern community.
How to Apply
Learn more about the College of Engineering’s admissions process and required materials.
Request Information
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